Daily Inspiration: Meet Shantel Haynes

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shantel Haynes.

Hi Shantel, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born into a creative family—artists, singers, dancers, entrepreneurs—all extremely gifted individuals. Looking back, it only seems natural that I, too, would find a path of expression through art.

In school, art was always my preferred subject. But it wasn’t until around middle school, and specifically high school, that I discovered how free and uninhibited it made me feel. I realized I was good at it—maybe even great, based on how people responded to my work. That’s when it hit me: art isn’t something everyone can do, and creativity is truly priceless.

I’m still on the artist’s path today—forever a student. I’m learning to listen more closely to my innermost thoughts, letting them guide my creative process. I try to stay spontaneous and open to inspiration, allowing my work to remain authentic, free, and alive.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When people set out to achieve a goal, the biggest obstacle is often ourselves. Whether it’s imposter syndrome, procrastination, lack of business knowledge, or the fear of taking necessary risks—we often block our own paths. I had to get out of my own way. I had to force myself to just show up—to sit in front of the canvas, even if I had no real intention of actually painting at that moment. Sometimes sitting with your art is just as necessary and powerful.

It began with quieting the noise—literally. The distractions of the world: phones, television, endless scrolling—I had to disconnect from all of it. Only then could my mind, body, and spirit fully connect to my work.

Art is a spiritual process, no matter how ‘simple’ or ‘complex’ it may appear. Once you truly surrender to it and allow yourself to connect on a deeper level—you begin creating from a place you didn’t even know existed. You’ll paint things you never imagined you were capable of.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a painter and illustrator specializing in surrealism. My work blends bold colors with elements of both surrealism and cartoon art. What I’m most proud of is how my painting style has grown alongside the stories I tell through my art. Art has always been my way of claiming the freedom to express myself fearlessly—a passion that began in childhood.

I believe the most important thing any artist can do, regardless of their medium, is to stay true to their unique style. If you haven’t found yours yet, the journey to discovering it is essential—because that’s what sets you apart. The artists who inspire me most have a distinct visual voice, something unmistakably theirs, and they remain rooted in it as they grow. That personal style becomes both a compass and a constant reference point throughout the creative journey.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can contact me through my Tiktok account or email me directly through my Instagram.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shantel1506.crevado.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shantelhaynesart/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@shantelhaynesart