Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiara Donald.
Tiara, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am a visual artist and designer. I was always a very creative kid and loved art, patterns, fabrics and decor. After losing my father to pancreatic cancer in college, I decided to pursue Studio art as my minor studies, which for me, was a form of therapy and also gave me an opportunity to explore different mediums of visual arts.
I spent a few years after college teaching k-5 arts programs in southwest Atlanta. Working in these schools made me realize that art instruction and art resources weren’t as readily available to students in those underserved communities that needed them most. As a working artist and instructor, I pride myself on the representation of black culture in contemporary art. I live to illustrate familiar faces and relatable stories in my growing portfolio. Those stories are most authentic and to kids that look like me, most inspiring.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Being an artist isn’t easy, just like any craft you have to work at it. I wasn’t a BFA student my skill was always writing, art was just something I enjoyed and had an eye for. People criticized my work and said I wasn’t versed enough to be an artist or I hadn’t been in enough major shows or galleries for my work to be seriously considered.
I used that as motivation to grow my skills and really develop a style that would define who I am as an artist and what my work represents. The past three consecutive years, I was able to curate solo exhibits showcasing my work.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into The Hazel Designs story. Tell us more about your art.
My artist tag is Hazel (the name comes from the color of my eyes) and The Hazel Designs is my independent art and design company. Most of my designs consist of colorful, embellished compositions to express my love for patterns and palettes. My more conceptual works illustrate the dialogue between Pop culture and African American realities.
Although Inspired by Art history and some Western artists, my work salvages African American traditions and ideas that narrate the lives of my peers and my community.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I don’t believe that luck has played any role in the growth and development of my career. I believe that what is for me I have and will continue to attract. As long as preparation and opportunity have met the possibilities in life are endless.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thehazeldesigns.com
- Email: hazel.art.ga@gmail.com
- Instagram: Thehazeldesigns
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/thehazeldesigns/
Image Credit:
Divie Moss – Photographer of personal photo
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