Today we’d like to introduce you to Francene Breakfield.
Francene, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
As far back as I can remember, I have loved reading and writing poetry. I am not sure if it was the simplicity of the message, the creativity of its structure, or the rhyme and rhythm of each verse. My mother, a former APS teacher, fostered my love of writing and encouraged me to be creative however her validation of my writing skills was not taken seriously. Of course, your parent is going to say your words are powerful, but it was not until middle and high school that my teachers and peers complimented my work and boosted my confidence.
Eventhough, I loved writing when I arrived at UGA in the fall of 91, I did not pursue writing, or journalism nor did I pursue a career in the field. For the past 22 years, I have been a school counselor however writing has always been my favorite pastime. In 2012, I published my first book of poetry, I co-edited and published a second work in 2013. Last year, I published my first children’s book and this year during the pandemic I was able to complete a project that I have been working on for the last three years, my coffee table book, black@lanta.
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?
To me, the biggest challenge about writing and self-publishing your work is finding the time to write in between your work schedule and life. black@lanta was an additional challenge because I wanted to paint my experience of growing up and living in Atlanta through pictures and photographs. I am not professional photographer but I felt compelled to show the world my hometown through my eyes. It made it more personal but was more work than I imagined.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Sure. I am a creative. I am an educator, pianist, choreographer, stepmaster, visual artist, model, actress, coach, mentor, clothing designer, editor, writer, and poet. In a nutshell, I am an educator by trade who has a passion for the arts. I think what sets me apart is my love of encouraging others and the pursuit to be original. Many say its impossible to create something new I beg to differ. Every artist has their own swag and flavor. So I am very supportive of others reaching their goals and continuously trying to come up with the next Frantabulus idea.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
Being quarantined actually helped me to slow down and focus. Pre-Covid-19, I was always in the streets hustling and bustling enjoying socializing with my friends and hosting parties. Being forced to stay at home made me prioritize and set attainable goals of projects that I had set for myself years ago. I also feel more confident in my technology skills. I have reshaped my paint party business to accommodate virtual customers and developed and improved upon my social media platforms and website.
Pricing:
- black@lanta $26 on Amazon
Contact Info:
- Email: nike2dst@gmail.com
- Website: www.frantabulus.com
- Instagram: black_atlanta
- Facebook: Docta Frantabulus
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJ2GLQKjOQM
Image Credits:
Profile picture courtesy Kendrallynn Edwards
Book Cover courtesy Fatima Michon
Studios Ga Red Clay Keds courtesy Francene Breakfield
Mays HS Pic courtesy Charles Marable of DeCatur Chawz
Management Yeek Pic courtesy of Calvin Thomas
Last two photos courtesy Katlyne Hill Photography
