Daily Inspiration: Meet Frankie Berryman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Frankie Berryman.

Hi Frankie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
As crazy as it sounds, my professional journey really took off when the pandemic hit. I’m pursuing dual degrees in psychology and art, and before the pandemic, I was putting myself through school as a barista. By May of 2020, I lost my job and was on unemployment. I had tried to find a new gig as a barista, but nothing really stuck. I was realizing that between the pay, early hours, and the whole “customer service during a pandemic” situation, I couldn’t really commit to any of the jobs I got. It took me about a year, but by summer of 2021 I had a summer camp job teaching art. I was falling in love with teaching and sharing my passion for art with the kids. That summer was such a catalyst for me—I just knew that this was the next move for me, and I dove in. I bought a domain (peachykeeneverything.com) and took on the title of “artist” in its most relatable form: doing a little bit of everything to pay the bills through my art. Now I teach year-round with Cobb County Parks, I take commissions through my website and sell at markets and festivals. It was definitely slow going at first, and I’m sure we all know how easy it is to pass up opportunities to invest in ourselves because of time or money, this or that. Losing my job during the pandemic forced me to lean into my network of friends and supporters, and luckily, they’re always there to push me towards the next thing.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It was definitely one of the strangest things I’ve experienced, calling up my friends and telling them I’m becoming a self-employed artist in the middle of a pandemic. I didn’t take the leap because it was more financially secure, that’s for sure! The thing is, I was already unemployed and doom scrolling the news like most others. I was looking for an inkling of hope, and art has always been that for me. I saw creative organizations and artists in Atlanta coming together in a huge way to survive, and I wanted more than anything to be a part of that. Today I think this obstacle of financial security, for me and for Atlanta creatives in general, has morphed into one of our greatest strengths. I don’t think I know a single creative who doesn’t put in dozens of hours of free labor to support others or bring hope and art to their communities. I have mentors who share their skills and business savvy, and I try to invest back into others with the same amount of support I’ve had.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As an artist, I love working big and bold! One of my favorite projects was painting flats for the Cobb County Parks Fall Festival last year of the Mystery Machine and a couple of monsters from Scooby Doo (ranging from 5-7 feet tall). While big and bold are my trademarks, I also want to make art that’s accessible. You can catch me at markets and festivals selling stickers and prints that still bring the bright and fun colors! I think the same thing goes for the classes I teach. My goal is to make art accessible to everyone, no matter what your experience level is. Before we even pick up a pencil, we’re talking about building confidence. How do we talk about art and where do we fit in? It’s important to know that from day one, you belong in the classroom and you get to call yourself an artist. I like to think I specialize in combining technical skills with the confidence to continue pursuing your creative journey, whatever that looks like for you.

We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I’m a person in long-term recovery from substance use disorder. My boldness and inclusiveness as an artist are built on the foundations of my recovery. I’m alive and thriving today because of the love and support of my recovery network, and I think it’s important to share everything I’ve gained. My style as an artist is an extension of the connection and love I’ve found. I don’t buy into the stereotypes of depressed artists. Artists deserve to know that they can be healing and healthy and still make art worth sharing.

Pricing:

• You can find prints and stickers on my website for under 20$ (peachykeeneverything.com)
• I offer basic portrait commissions starting around 30$

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: PeachyKeenEverything.com
• Instagram: @PeachyKeenWorkshop

Image Credits:
Primary photo (myself next to purple gallery portrait) – Jordyn Hebert Portrait of myself (in gallery with red overalls) – Simone Smith Portrait of myself working with model – Andy Dockman All others are by me.