Epiphany August Issue No. 3

Epiphany AUGUST 2022

Editors Note First and foremost, the creatives and artists in Sacramento are undeniably the heart and soul of all the colorful creative energy throughout Sacramento—thank you for giving our community fresh life, during these trying and unpredictable times—you all are truly appreciated.

As a new face in the creative arts community in Sacramento, CA— two things instantly caught my attention. First, these creative starseeds are the most eccentric and extraordinary individuals I’ve been blessed to connect with.

Second, Sacramento creatives and artists all have their own unique

swag, they march to the beat of their own drum—but even more interesting—these artists all have a radiating sense of self that is liberating. They are 100% free spirited—never waiting and always creating.

I am not gifted with a paint brush, but I am gifted with a camera and pen. So as an addition to the creative community—I aim to use my skills and this digital magazine, to effectively introduce 916 arts to broader markets across the US and vice versa. You too can help support our local creatives — and be a part of this expansion mission.

Subscribe for future issues at https:// studiolab.tech.

e i d d E Eddie Walker Founder

Table of Contents

01

Classy Hippie

03

Elizabeth Davis

06

5 Decades of Mural Evolution

08

ERSE the Muralist

11

Do NFTs have a future in arts and business world

12

Shawntay Gorman

16

Did you know?

CLASSY HIPPIE

I

n 2012, Classy Hippie was introduced to Sacramento, CA. Shortly After, Classy Hippie found its home in the reputable neighborhood of Oak Park. The man behind this groovy establishment is New Jersey native, Leo Hickman.

Classy Hippie is amongst the finest tea houses and cafes in the Sacramento region.

They serve a marvelous array of custom blended tea, from herbaceous teas to therapeutic teas.

Classy Hippie also sales specialty coffees, herbs, spices, tea infused cosmetics, organic chocolates, pastries, soups, salads, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and much more!

The Epic Entrepreneur: Leo Hickman In 2000, Leo enlisted in the US Air Force. While serving in the Air Force Leo had the luxury of traveling the world. In visiting

multiple countries across the globe with his genuine love for medical, health, and wellness — Leo had an epiphany.

CLASSY HIPPIE IS AMONGST THE FINEST TEA HOUSES AND CAFES IN THE SACRAMENTO REGION. THEY SERVE A MARVELOUS After serving in the US Air ARRAY OF CUSTOM Force and then working serval years as a Bio Medical BLENDED TEA, FROM Engineer, Leo intuitively knew HERBACEOUS TEAS what his life’s calling was — to serve people holistically — and TO THERAPEUTIC TEAS. herbal tea was bridge that Leo realized that in nearly every country he visited, the cultures there shared a special relationship with tea. Not only was tea the drink of choice, but tea promoted health and wellness, Leo’s passion.

would connect him to his life’s path. So, Leo left his Bio Medical Engineering career to pursue the tea industry.

To gain a comprehensive knowledge of tea, Leo began with learning about soil, earth cycles, rain cycles, herbs, botany, nutrition, brewing techniques, and the list goes on.

While acquiring the knowledge of tea, Leo

reflected with gratitude for his ancestor’s deep knowledge for cultivating these special teas and herbs. It’s something that made him proud and grateful to be in alignment with his destined path.

To a Classier Hippier Future It’s been 10 years since Classy Hippie first opened its doors to serve the Sacramento community. Since then,

T he Classy Hippie Himself: Leo Hickman

Leo has weathered all the storms of entrepreneurship, as a result Leo is a stronger and wiser entrepreneur. Leo contributes a large part of Classy Hippie’s success to the community for supporting his establishment over the past decade.

The future of Classy Hippie is

looking grand. When asked “What’s the overall mission for Classy Hippie?” Leo responded by saying, “To create a member-based community, locally and worldwide, that is able to provide medical care at an affordable cost, and lastly have it readily accessible no matter where you in the world.”

With the purest intentions gleaming from Leo’s ethos, I couldn’t help but sit back think, if anyone can do it, Leo Hickman can.

SOCIALS @classyhippietea classyhippieteaco.com

ELIZABETH DAVIS

I

n 2020, Elizabeth’s world was completely shattered — within that year alone Elizabeth lost two very close friends and her uncle.

Elizabeth recently lost two more family members this year, one being her beloved grandmother. With the so many cherished friends and loved ones passing away, Elizabeth’s other half recommended she try painting as a method to transmute all the pain and loss that she had endured.

Because art is effectively therapeutic, Elizabeth began to pour out her heart into her art “My art is my legacy, my story, my culture, my trauma, my struggles, and my healing.

Art has helped me cope with my mental health and the grieving of losing loved ones.” Recalls Elizabeth.

DON’T LET NEGATIVE EXPERIENCES DEFINE YOU, THESE EXPERIENCES ARE GOING TO MAKE YOU STRONGER. NOT EVERYTHING IS GOING TO GO YOUR WAY, SOMETIMES YOU TO HAVE TO BE FLEXIBLE AND SEEK A NEW PERSPECTIVE.

E lizabeth’s mellow mood at Just for Fun Art Gallery in Natomas, CA. The Rastafarian colors and name are inspired By Bob Marley.

Elizabeth’s style of art is abstract pour art. Nowadays her art has evolved, and she pours with the intention to convey ideas, beliefs, feelings, emotions, and visions.

still painting and creating whether she’s sad, happy, or just feeling creative — as a result she is always creating a special piece of art, while grounding herself in positivity and love.

Two years have gone since those trying times in 2020, and Elizabeth is

Share with the readers a little insight about yourself:

Hi, I’m Liz aka art by lizzbuns. I’m an Indigenous (Navajo and Colombian) fluid abstract artist, I’m 30 years old, born and raised in the Bay Area.

I’ve been in sac since 2015. My hobbies include yoga, meditation, working out, singing, dancing, hiking, and listening to my favorite songs. A huge accomplishment would be graduating Sac State with a bachelor’s in child development. I also recently started singing my late grandma’s song by the Chinle valley singers. I’m an early childhood educator and I love my job.

What or who influenced you to become an artist?

O ne of Elizabeth’s most cherished paintings “Pours of Jesus”

I started my art journey during the pandemic. 2020 was a rough year, I lost my best friend Kaylin from a serious medical condition, my friend Daniel passed away from a drug overdose, and my cousins wife Viki passed away from Covid. I also lost my uncle Randy recently, and my grandma this year. I was grieving and needed a way to express my pain. My boyfriend Andre suggested I start painting, so I took his advice. My supporters, family, and friends have been a big inspiration and influence to continue creating new pieces.

What is your style of art and how did you become drawn to your current style of art?

I n Elizabeth’s hands is a photo of her and her best friend Kaylin. The painting to her right is called “Kaylin’s Legacy” it will be given to her son, in memory of Kaylin who passed away in 2020.

My genre of art is acrylic pour painting. I am drawn to abstract art because it can be interpreted in various

How do you know when a piece is complete?

I know when my piece is finished once I really like the flow of the piece and it’s evoking that particular emotion I’m feeling or the story I’m trying to tell.

Sometimes my work can take anywhere from half an hour to two hours to complete depending on the size. At times I can get carried away with trying to “fix” a piece. I have to remind myself that my art doesn’t need to look a certain way, that it’s abstract and even if I’m not digging it someone else will appreciate it.

Other than your current form of art are you interested in any other forms or mediums of art?

The vibrant and elegant Butterfly’s wing.

ways. I started pouring because I love when the colors mix and create a fluid art form; it’s organic and fun to tilt the canvas and watch the paint drip. I love how it can be so messy! It feels therapeutic to watch the paint create different forms.

I love when people interpret my art and it tells a new story. My supporters have been the biggest blessing, they always inspire me to keep creating new pieces.

How do you get In zone before working on a project?

I get in the he zone by putting my favorite songs on such as “These days” by the Black Keys, or “AIM song” by Blackfire, “or “Mellow mood” by Bob Marley. Sometimes when I’m having a stressful or a bad mental health day, I will choose some colors that match my mood/ energy, and just dive right in. My music sets the mood.

However, sometimes I like to paint in silence and just start pouring with my raw emotions, I try to be mindful while creating. I also listen to my grandma’s song and sing/dance while I paint.

I’m interested in pursuing more abstract art forms. I would love to experiment with heavy textured acrylic and sculpting. I’ve always loved photography, I would love to do more nature shots. I’d love to be a part of a community mural as well.

I’ve always loved dancing so learning to dance in my traditional culture would be a blessing. I’ve always wanted to learn fancy shawl and jingle dress dancing.

I’m also interested in other styles of dancing. I’m open for new art experiences in all forms and mediums.

Describe your dream project?

My dream project would be working on a large-scale pour, go big or go home!

The challenge excites me. Stepping out of my

comfort zone would be an interesting experience. I’d love to do a huge resin finish on a piece too, I love the glossy effect. I’d be open to collaborating with another artist to do something big and bad! Another dream project of mine would be having multiple artists of various mediums coming together to create a masterpiece. I’m going to be working on a huge northern sky inspired pour soon!

What does your art mean to you?

My art is my legacy, my story, my culture, my trauma, my struggles, and my healing. Art has helped me cope with my mental health and the grieving of losing loved ones. My art is the way I express my deepest inner feelings. My art has helped me heal in a time where I felt my worst and so broken.

What do you do to ensure you continue to grow and develop as an artist?

I grow and develop as an artist by meeting new people in the art community and networking to find new opportunities to showcase my art. I love to sell my art at Native American events and meeting other Indigenous creators. I use my social media as a platform to keep in contact with other local artists. I always support POC, black, and indigenous businesses. I love watching them grow and seeing their creative endeavors. I recommend other creatives when I can and support their businesses! We can all thrive together.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from being an artist that translates to everyday life?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that you need to be patient with yourself, Art isn’t meant to be perfect. It’s a creative process where you are constantly learning and growing. There are always opportunities to learn a new skill and to practice it. Art is something that is sacred, it shares a part of who you are.

Never throw away a piece because I promise you that someone will be drawn to what you create, art is in the eyes of the beholder. Lastly, chase your dreams don’t wait for things to come to you!

What advice would you give to a new artist just starting out?

I want them to know that their support means the world to me. I would not be where I’m at today without the support and love from my friends, family, and other artist/small businesses. Supporting POC, black, and Indigenous owned businesses is so important for healing inter-generational trauma.

Our ancestors sacrificed so much for us to be here today. All creatives are hustling and making big moves. We all need to support and uplift one another and be there for each other. If you know of an opportunity share it!

What impact do you want your art to have on the world?

I want my art to bring healing to people who need

it, who are struggling with their mental health. I want my art to be in the intimacy of people’s homes, galleries, and shared amongst community centers that embrace abstract art. I want my art to be part of my personal legacy, a tradition carried onto future generations. I want my art to continue to evoke emotions and bring a little light into this world. I want my art to inspire others, and to take that big leap of putting your work out there!

Anything else you would like to add?

Don’t let negative experiences define you, these experiences are going to make you stronger. Not everything is going to go your way, sometimes you to have to be flexible and seek a new perspective.

Even if your art doesn’t sell, it doesn’t mean it’s not unique or special.

You have to leave your comfort zone, always trust your instincts! People can support me by sharing my work and word of mouth.

I have future plans to do more art and community events to showcase my work! I always support people who appreciate my art. I’m currently open for commissions on pour paintings where you chose the size and color combinations, I deliver paintings for free locally.

SOCIALS /elizabeth.c.davis.9 @art_by_lizzbuns @lizzbuns

5 DECADES OF

Mural Evolution

BY JONATHAN CLARK

T

he mural is an artform that dates back tens of thousands of years. Parts of the Chauvet cave paintings in France are at least 30,000 years old, and a hand stencil on the wall of Maltravieso cave in Cáceres, Spain — was made by a Neanderthal 64,000 years ago.

That grand history has led to our world of contemporary mural art. Beginning in the 1970s, new artists were taking up this public form of art. Rather than turning to canvases, they were turning to walls. And with that very public stance, they were communicating all kinds of new ideas and exploring new approaches.

Even after all that time, humans were still finding new ways to make murals.

To get an appreciation of just how much murals have grown in our era, let’s look at some of the major developments that have happened in the form over the last five decades.

Artist Keith Haring at work on a mural in 1984. (Photo by Stuart William Macgladrie/ Fairfax Media via Getty Images)

Murals in the 1970’s and 80’s The 1970s saw a dramatic rise in abstract murals that brought color and vibrancy into the urban environment — think curving rainbow lines and you get the idea. Many of these works might be considered closer to design than fine art, but the approach had an enormous effect on mural art going forward.

Two members of Las Mujeres Muralistas painting a mural in San Francisco, CA.

It was also an era of political protest. The all-Latin artist collective Las Mujeres Muralistas, founded in 1973 in San Francisco, created murals to fight against the marginalization of people based on the sex, race, and class. They used bright colors, elating imagery, and positive images to support social

and political upheaval.

By the 1980’s, muralists like Rainer Maria Latzke were experimenting with trompe-l’œil techniques. These were meant to “trick the eye” into thinking the images were three dimensional.

At the same time, a vast amount of experimentation was going on in the form. Growing postmodern approaches to architecture in general and public spaces in particular meant that artists were free to try all kinds of exciting styles.

Abstract designs, doodles, as well as revivals of schools like Cubism — everything was free game.

Major names in murals like Keith Haring began exploding on the New York scene throughout the 80’s. And many other young artists were bringing a graffiti ethos to their commissioned murals.

Murals in the 2010’s and Today Into the 2010’s, many cities launched public art initiatives to revive neighborhoods and redefine areas as cultural centers. That push has meant an enormous tide of murals that are supported and protected by local governments.

Invader tile mural influenced by 80’s arcade games.

Murals in the 1990’s and 00’s The 1970s saw a dramatic rise in abstract murals that brought color and vibrancy into the urban environment — think curving rainbow lines and you get the idea.

Many of these works might be considered closer to design than fine art, but the approach had an enormous effect on mural art going forward.

It was also an era of political protest. The all-Latin artist collective Las Mujeres Muralistas, founded in 1973 in San Francisco, created murals to fight against the marginalization of people based on the sex, race, and class. They used bright colors, elating imagery, and positive images to support social and political upheaval.

Due to this influx of resources, a much broader number of artists have been able to work in the form. We’ve seen an explosion of diversity in the kinds of styles and viewpoints being expressed thanks to this public support.

And that’s why, for a little over a decade, we’ve seen the rise of a golden age in murals.

The talented Farid Rueda completing a mural.

Banksy’s Girl with Balloon.

Famous works like Banksy’s Girl with Balloon (2002, London) began a long fascination with the crossover of graffiti and murals, something that started in the 80’s but was finding mainstream success by the 00’s.

From the working class lament of Vhils’ Factory Worker (2013, Hong Kong) to the psychedelic verve of Farid Rueda’s Balam (2015, Playa Del Carmen) to the stunning confidence of Amy Sherald’s Untitled portrait (2019, Philadelphia), the world of mural art is on fire.

What’s even better, image sharing platforms have allowed murals to be shared quickly around the globe.

We are living in the best time for mural art, and if the support and public enthusiasm continues, this could just be the beginning.

E levation R equires S acrifice E veryday What puts Erse in a league of his own?

Erse the Muralist is well known, respected, and loved by fellow artists and virtually everyone in the creative community.

But beyond his warm and welcoming aura — Erse is a crystal-clear reflection of a “Man on a Mission.”

With a high level of devotion and commitment to art — Erse’s passion to create and leave a positive footprint on the community is what makes his murals such a beloved contribution to the surrounding neighborhoods.

From the beginning of his career, Erse innerstood that to obtain the level of excellence he desired, he would have to constantly keep developing skills, but even more importantly his mind — in his own words he mentions “ERSE stands for Elevation, Requires, Sacrifice, Everyday... A continuous loop I replay to myself, to remind my subconscious there is no turning back. I chose this, and to see it through I must leave behind the things that no longer serve me.”

As a result of this conscious level up, Erse is now living and creating as a Full-time artist,

ERSE the Muralists (right) and Crystiana (left) Hi-five after the completion of the stunning CrossFit Communitas gym mural.

he has forged his own path by accomplishing goal after goal, and never seeking rewards or validation — & that’s what puts Erse the Muralist in a league of his own.

Who is ERSE the muralist?

Hey, my Name is ERSE, the muralist, a.k.a ERASER. Ima graffiti muralist from Sacramento, CA. I enjoy long walks on the beach, and a good Marvel movie. However, the Green Arrow is my favorite DC super hero. Before I became a full-time artist and had time to watch tv, I was obsessed with

the Ozark series on Netflix.

Is Erse your real name?

Does it have any special significance/meaning?

ERSE: Elevation, Requires, Sacrifice, Everyday.

A continues loop I replay to myself to remind my subconscious there is no turning back. I chose this, and to see it through I must leave behind the things that no longer serve me. Furthermore, ERSE is short for my grade school graffiti name ERASER given to me by my friends because I’d draw on my desk

COMPETITION KILLS CREATIVITY, WE ARE ALL MEANT TO SHINE AND LIVE FREELY IN OUR OWN UNIQUE WAY. I WANT MY ART TO MAKE OTHERS WANT TO EXPLORE THEIR UNIQUE POWERS. Erse pointing at the camera

everyday at school until my teacher eventually snapped my pencil in half. Which allotted me more practice with the eraser end of my pencil in class.

What inspired you to become an artist?

I am continuously inspired by anyone at the top of their craft. Kobe, Jordan, Tom, Steff, Kiptoe, Ten Hundred, Smoe Nova, Kanye, Chris Brown, David Garibaldi. So many greats have blessed the creative space before me. I Just want to continue to add to the game and forever grow in ways that are authentic to my highest self. Encouraging others to do the same because none of us are free, until we all are.

What is your genre of art?

How did you become drawn to that style of art?

I like to think of myself as a Chameleon artist, I pride myself on having a style that is forever growing and changing depending on the task at hand.

Ultimately, being able to create on all sides of the creative spectrum. From Art Deco,

surrealism to picture realism, graffiti, and furthermore to hyper Realism, and fine arts.

Because nobody is just one thing, and it is the random gifts, talents, and interests coming together that make us individually special.

What motivates you to pursue your endeavors year after year?

Providing a life for my mother, brothers and family that is full of all the beautiful things life has to offer. Also, then establishing a system and sanctuary in my hometown for aspired graffiti artists, and creatives to come, learn, create, and ultimately get up! In a way that pushes the culture forward.

Has your career unfolded as you imagined in the beginning? Or has taken on a completely different path? Was it for the worse or better?

To be honest, this is the hardest thing I’ve ever attempted.

Continuing to stay focused and consistent, without any

mentorship, or proper training.

I realized really quickly, that nobody was going to give me anything. That being said the biggest surprise I encountered was having to volunteer myself to do murals for free or dirt cheap in the very beginning. However, usually after completing the mural, the client would open up and be overly generous in payment, due to their overwhelming excitement.

How do you overcome creative blocks?

I really enjoy my creative blocks because they are typically followed by a significant breakthrough. Most creative blocks start with me staring at a blank canvas. Then to get the creative juices flowing, I start by tagging up the canvas with either my name or names form my “tag my name” series on TikTok. Next explode a couple half empty cans on the end of a metal nail. By the Time I’m completely covered in paint I get a stroke of genius.

Describe your dream project?

Full mural located at Communitas CrossFit gym, downtown Sacramento.

My dream project is building an organization centered on transforming graffiti and spray paint art from an outlawed creative outlet. To more of a cherished sport, activity or hobby. Eventually being intergraded into singular and team competitive competition, social events, and general public leisure. Consequently, providing a safe place and community for inspired graffiti artists and creatives to flourish.

How do you manage your work-life balance as an artist?

I am an artist full time, there is NO balance. From painting, marketing, sales, production process, pricing, social media, posting, branding, events, bids, vehicle maintenance, inventory, filming, photography, and videography, the list is endless. All hats I must wear simultaneously in order to keep the business running smoothly. All skills I acquired and developed out of necessity for advancement. I eat, sleep, and poop art.

What are you doing to ensure you continue to grow and develop as an artist?

With every mural I touch I make it a point to try something new or reach outside of my previous scope of practice. To ensure I’m stretching myself creatively and becoming more technically sound with every piece. Also, the particular method I use when finding the proper proportions and defining lines in my murals, forces my imagination to create simultaneously, whilst also painting what I see. Further enhancing my abilities to create from pure imagination every time I complete a mural.

What advice would you give to a new artist?

Separate yourself from all of life’s distractions, negative people, and limiting beliefs.

Next begin to take note of the things you say, do, and think about when no one or anything is influencing you. Then work to become more and more like that individual everyday. The journey to success starts with

understanding and loving who you are, unconditionally.

What impact do you want your art to have on the world?

I want the world to know that we are all connected, we are one, working together, sharing ideas in a collaborative effort to push the culture forward makes way for future breakthroughs.

Competition kills creativity, we are all meant to shine and live freely in our own unique way.

I want my art to make others want to explore their unique superpowers.

Anything else you would like to add?

“Sometimes you have to create the box first, to then think out of it.” If you like creative art follow me on social media, if interested in a residential or commercial mural feel free to call or text my cell of leave a DM on any of my social medias.

Also, for anyone interested in learning how to master spray paint ask me about the upcoming graffiti workshops, and 1 on 1 private lessons.

Do NFTs have a future in the art and business world.

By Eddie Walker Disclaimer: I am not a financial advisor, and this is not financial advice. This is a speculative opinion. Always do your research before investing in any assets and speak with a licensed professional before making any financial decisions.

I

f you are an artist or entrepreneur and you haven’t taken the time to learn the basics of NFTs, you could be missing out on this peculiar moment in time.

Why’s that you ask?

NFTs and blockchain technology are granting artists full power and control over their art by allowing artists to set the terms and receive a profit on secondary sales through smart contract royalties.

According to Bloomberg, the global NFT market reached an alltime high worth 41 billion dollars in 2021, it is expected to grow by 147 billion from 2021 to 2026.

Currently, the NFT market, cryptocurrency market, and stock market are all in the red. This can be contributed by the rise of inflation, hiked interest rates, and soaring gas prices to name a few, but it appears as if things are beginning to turn around for the better.

And as the old age adage goes “what goes up must come down.”

In short, that’s currently what we are seeing. Inevitably, the market will correct in due time — and when it does, will NFTs create countless millionaires once again?

That last statement is not farfetched. On March 11, 2021, NFT artist Mike Winkelmann aka Beeple sold an NFT for 69 million dollars!

With many more digital artists making life-changing money, simply by setting the royalty terms of their art, and selling it on popular NFT marketplaces like Opensea, Rariable, and Magic Eden.

The NFT space isn’t filled absolute with success stories, there has been countless rug pulls (developers that steal all the project money) associated with scammers who launch fake NFT projects — and NFT traders that screen shot authentic purchased NFT’s and traded them as originals.

Simply put the NFT market is extremely volatile and there is a surplus of scammers. However, that issue is being resolved and many scammers now facing prison time and hefty charges for rug pulling projects. Nonetheless, the NFT space is revolutionary, and once all the kinks are worked out this market may prove to be worth the risk.

NFTs are being adopted on a massive scale.

Check out the recent news in the NFT space to gain further insight into how popular NFTs have become and see how quickly Fortune 500 companies are adopting NFTs in their business models.

Mastercard now allows users to buy NFTs without crypto.

Facebook and Instagram will test NFTs on the platform.

Platforms such as Sandbox, Nifty Gateway, MoonPay, and immutable x now accept credit cards and debits avoiding the complications of cryptocurrency.

This summer Nickelodeon will launch an exclusive NFT collection.

The Netflix series Stranger things is set to launch an NFT collection.

Big-time toy company Matel the owner of Barbee, Hot wheels, and Uno. Will be launching an NFT collection.

Mc Donald’s is gearing up to launch their own NFT collection.

The adoption rate of NFTs in corporate America is spreading like wildfire. It appears as if it’s safe to say, that NFTs will have a future in business and especially art.

The complicated in-depth process and learning curve that was once involved with selling, trading, collecting NFTs is virtually slim to none — so as an artist selling your art as NFTs maybe more beneficial and lucrative — but make no mistake there is still a major risk when trading NFTs, so do your own research before trading and investing.

SHAWNTAY GORMAN

D

ating back to her youth Shawntay has always been a natural creative. It didn’t take Shawntay long to realize that painting was something that brought her joy, and still does till this day.

In 2013, Shawntay launched Taysty Art and has been growing the brand ever since.

I’ve been painting and creating my whole life. From drawing, making my own games as a child, dancing, drawing, clothing design, etc. being creative is just in me.

But to take art seriously; I was pushed and motivated by friends.

How did you become drawn to your current style of art?

I haven’t really placed my “genre” of art. A lot of people have described my art to me as pop-art, realism, portraiture and the awfully dreaded “Paint by numbers.” I am inspired a lot by Andy Warhol,

Shawntay’s passion doesn’t end with art, as a matter fact it’s only the beginning.

Shawntay is also a loving mother that has set a powerful example and crucial foundation for her son to build upon.

Along with her unconditional love for her son and art, Shawntay is a passionate about giving back to the community, by painting homage to iconic black leaders that have left a lasting impact on the world —even hosting paint parties for the local youth.

Even at the level of brilliance Shawntay has reached in her career, she is still hungry to develop and learn new skills and styles to further her experience as an artist! Stay tuned to see Shawntay reach a new pinnacle of success in her art career.

Tell the readers a little about yourself: My name is Shawntay and my art brand is Taysty Art. I am a single mother from Sacramento, CA. What or who motivated you to pick a up a paint brush?

S hawntay painting Nelson Mandela at the Kultivate Sac Art | Fashion & Music event 7/17/2022.

I WANT TO MAKE PEOPLE LOOK AT MY ART AND RECIEVE A MESSAGE. WHETHER IT’S WHAT I INTENDED TO CONVEY OR WHAT THEY HAVE PERCEIVED ON THEIR OWN. I WANT PEOPLE TO REALLY THINK. Tupac Shakur painted by Shawntay Gorman.

Hip-hop , street art and The Black Revolution. Most of my art is a mixture of all of that.

How do you get in the zone before creating a piece?

You know… I don’t know lol I really kind of just jump into a piece when creating, sometimes I listen to music, sometimes I watch Netflix, and sometimes I like silence.

Are you interested in any other forms or mediums of art?

Hip-hop is another one of my passions. I love Hip-hop. I ran

my own promotions company for about 6 years. I also was heavy in the battle rap scene.

I would definitely say Hip-hop has influenced my art. I love painting my favorite artists. I think I do at least two Tupac paintings a year lol.

If you could collab on a piece with anyone who would that be?

I have already been able to collab with one of my favorite artists, Mammxth. We did an amazing Kanye piece! But if I had to choose another it would be Kara Walker. I love her style of silhouette art. I can see how our art would

flow together.

How do you manage your work-life balance as an artist?

It’s been a struggle! But honestly, time management!

I make sure my weekdays are for my son and family. The weekends are for me and art.

I also have a great support system that is understanding, and they insert themselves into my life via events and what not wherever they want lol.

What’s one thing art has taught you that translates to everyday life?

Shawntay(Left), Brent Trayce(Center) Yelly (Right) Showcasing Shawntay’s painting of the beloved DJ Gio. Rest in peace.

Everyone has an opinion. .

If you could go back in time and give your 18-year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?

YOU DO NOT KNOW EVERYTHING. But you do know YOU! What does your artwork represent?

My art represents community.

I work within my community with non-profits hosting paint parties. I paint a lot of women empowerment

pieces. I love to paint black fathers. I also love to paint things going on within society and from my activism.

All those things to me, are ways I am able to give back to and represent my community.

What’s been the most influential resource for your art career?

Networking. I noticed once I spoke to people more at events that more opportunities opened up for me.

What impact do you want your art to have on the world?

I want people to look at my art and receive a message.

Whether it’s what I intended to convey or what they have perceived on their own. I want people to really think.

SOCIALS shawntay__ TaystyArt.com

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These 7 celebrities not only act, dance, and sing — but are involved the visual arts.

Quarantine Seth Rogan took up pottery, soon after he began making ashtrays for his cannabis company “Houseplant.” Seth makes ashtrays, vases, and light containers. Part of Seth’s love for pottery comes from his passion of Ashtray collecting.

Chris Brown

Johnny Depp Did you know? Depp recently released a collection called “Friends and Hero’s” which dropped July 2022. It signifies important people Johnny Depp has known and have had a positive impact on his life. The portraits are of Elizabeth Taylor, Bob Dylan, Al Pacino, and Keith Richards. The collection contained 780 prints to be sold for $3,973 apiece. The collection earned 3.6 million dollars selling from Castle Gallery.

Did you know? Not only does Chris Brown sing and dance, but he also does graffiti art!

Chris Brown learned graffiti several years ago from popular Australian graffiti artist, Zoom Kid. Other popular artists have mentioned Chris Brown to be a really talented artist. Till this day Chris Brown does murals on his home walls.

Seth Rogan Did you know? During

Gugu Mbatha-Raw Did you know? Before becoming an Actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw was an avid artist.

When quarantine was in effect, acting was rather slow for Gugu, so she decided to pick back up with painting. She paints iconic black men and women. The sales from her portraits are often donated to organizations that are fighting racial inequality.

Pierce Brosnan Did you know? Before acting Pierce Brosnan was a graphic designer. His best work sold was a portrait of Bob Dylan that sold for 1.1 million dollars. Must be nice right?!

Halsey Did you know? American Singer Halsey is also an artist, she tends to dabble in the NFT space.

Last year, she released a collection titled “People Disappear Here.” A percentage of the proceeds were donated to the organization,“My Friends Place”, which is dedicated to helping the homeless youth of Los Angeles.

Jim Carey Did you know? Jim Carey

has been painting since he was a kid. Currently, his art is often geared towards making political statements. When Carey is not acting, he is in his New York studio creating.

Jim Carey’s art can be viewed and found at Wyland Galleries Beachwalk - Waikiki, Hawaii and Wyland Galleries Lake Tahoe, California.