Life and Work with Kayla Carr

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayla Carr.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have been making art since I was in the 1st grade, however, it wasn’t until my junior year of high school that I actually considered making a career out of it. I was burnt out on sports and was finally tapping into art as a means of expression. By my senior year of high school, I had decided I wanted to go to SCAD for an animation to make cartoons. However, my bank account didn’t align with that decision, so I ended up at Georgia State majoring in Graphic Design. I ended up loving it way more than I ever thought I would, and now, I combine graphic design and traditional art to create most of my work.

Great, 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?
Anything worth doing never comes easily. Along the way, I’ve dealt with a lot of anxiety and depression, and just general disbelief in what I can achieve. However, with each year, I grow exponentially more confident in my work. For me, a lot of that confidence had to do with finding my purpose through art, and now that I have, it’s easier to not get distracted by what everyone else around me is doing. If I could give anyone just starting their journey, a piece of advice it would be feel the fear, but do it anyways.

Please tell us about your work.
I am a graphic designer, illustrator, painter, curator, and most recently a musician. I don’t really like to apply limits to what I say I can do, because only God knows what I could be doing ten years down the road. I am primarily known for my paintings and illustrations, however, I have also worked with a lot of startup companies doing their branding and advertising. I am probably most proud of the art show I am currently curating because I love contributing to Atlanta’s art community and providing a platform for artist of all kind to come together and positively express themselves. It also took a lot for me to overcome that fear, so now I feel like there are no boundaries on what I can accomplish moving forward. What sets me apart from others is the message behind my art. I focus on revealing the truth and healing others through my work, rather than expanding the darkness that currently prevails in our world.

Who have you been inspired by?
The women that have inspired me the most in life would have to be my mom and my grandma. They are both incredibly kind to everyone they meet no matter where they come from, and always do things out of a place of love, which is how I aspire to live my life. They never meet a stranger and are constantly working to be of service to others, rather than adopting a selfish mentality. I am also inspired by my boss Nina at metafour. She has an unmatched work ethic, and doesn’t hesitate to encourage others, and let them know that they’re appreciated. Lastly, I am inspired by my peers. I’ve met so many women along my journey, and by getting to know each of them and hearing their stories I am constantly motivated to grow by stepping outside of my comfort zone.

Contact Info:

• Email: kaylacarrdesign@gmail.com
• Instagram: kay_carr

                Image Credit:
Lamar Media, Danielle Gordon

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