Today we’d like to introduce you to Aja Washington.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Aja. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve always had a passion for creative arts; whether it be drawing, painting dancing or fashion design. One of the most beautiful things about my artistic journey is that it has gifted me the freedom to express myself fiercely and unequivocally. As a child, I remember receiving art supplies for holidays and birthdays. From there, my artistic journey began to bloom. I loved visiting the library and checking out all of the “How to draw” books. My love for art quickly turned into aspirations. As a teen, I aspired to be a fashion designer, I wanted to make a statement in the world of fashion. I would paint and design cheer bags, t-shirts, shoes, jackets, and jeans for my peers. I’ve always managed to keep some form of artistic expression in my life.
Fast forward December 3, 2018, I woke up that morning with the desire to paint. One painting leads to another. Soon, I found myself staying up all night just to paint. My passion for art had been reignited. A couple of days later; while at work a customer came in with paint all over his clothes. Out of curiosity, I asked him what he had been painting. From there, he told me that he was a full-time artist. I was so excited about the paintings that I had been working on. I asked him if I could share a picture of my artwork with him. When I showed him the pictures of my paintings, he proceeds to ask me where I sell my artwork. I had no ambitions towards selling art. I just knew that I absolutely loved creating. It was then that Mr. Cecil Jackson encouraged me to continue to create and express myself artistically. From that day forward, I decided to strive towards becoming a full-time artist. I strive to perfect my craft! I want to be more than good! I want to be the best, the greatest!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
My artistic journey has been absolutely beautiful. Like a roller coaster, my artistic journey has had its share of ups and its downs. But what is life without the challenges? Challenges are the seeds in the garden of change which help to produce growth. One of the biggest challenges that I faced/facing throughout my artistic journey would be the battle of time. As an artist, my mind is a blank canvas, constantly being painted by my thoughts. I’m always thinking of new concepts and ideas for future projects; however, I feel like time isn’t always my friend. I’ve learned that anything that you want out of life requires sacrifice. So with that being said, I’ve learned to set aside time for my creative expression aside from my daily commitments. Life itself is an inspiration to art. I strive, I live, I learn and I continue to bloom into my best self. Some of my daily affirmations are; “Remember that life is what you create. Continue to be bold, be beautiful and stand out!”
If I had to start all over again, I wouldn’t change anything. That’s the beauty found in living and learning.I’m enjoying my artistic journey and I’m so very thankful for the steppingstones of my past. I will continue to dedicate myself to learning and giving back to others through my artistic gifts. To all of my fellow creators remember that you can rise up from anything. You can recreate yourself over and over again. Continue to find the beauty and positivity in your journey. “You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress simultaneously”- Sophia Bush
Please tell us about Art of Aja – what should we know?
Art of Aja (Asia) is a representation of the woman that I am and aspire to become. I created the Art of Aja brand with the intentions of inspiring others to pursue their passion and do what they love. I’m all about originality, self-love, self-care, self-growth and blooming into your best self. I know that sounds a little self(ish) however; what can you truly give to others if you haven’t taken the time to give to yourself? In creating my pieces I aspire to bring joy, light, and love to those who see them. I specialize in abstract art, most of my pieces are created using acrylic paint and gold leaf. I’m not one who likes to be in the spotlight but I know that there’s someone out there who needs to hear my story. And as Maya Angelou so eloquently said, “Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.” I consider myself to be set apart because instead of blending in with the crowd I dare to be the difference.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My husband has been one of my biggest supporters. I’m sooo very thankful to have him by my side. My late mom has also stood to be one of my biggest inspirations and supporters. She was such a beautiful woman both inside and out. She was a poet and her way with words have always left a beautiful impression in the same way that I want my paintings to do. I would also like to give credit to my family as a whole! They have invested in my business financially without hesitation. They have given me words of encouragement and given me the extra push to continue to pursue my artistic journey. I would also like to thank my friends, my co-workers, my customers, and my social media supporters. All of you have been such a blessing to me during this time in my life. Thank you to all of those who continue to support me, believe in me and shower me with love. I appreciate every single last one of you soooo very much. And most importantly I would like to thank God for blessing me with such an amazing gift and allowing me to share it with others. Because of him all of this is possible.
Contact Info:
- Website: artofaja.bigcartel.com
- Phone: 6785057985
- Email: artofaja@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art_of_aja/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artofaja/
Image Credit:
Photographer: Keith Jackson (KoolestKeith)
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