“AMAZED BY GRACE” UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL INTERVIEW WITH KIANA GRACE HARRIS

In June 2023, I had the absolute thrill of encountering the exceptional Grace Harris., a dazzling artistic talent, in the charming locale of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Our serendipitous meeting unfolded in the ambient setting of a church lobby, during an event that felt almost fated. The magnetic pull was undeniable. I found myself irresistibly drawn towards her, captivated not only by the awe-inspiring art she created but also by the vibrant aura surrounding her.

This wasn’t just another artist; this was a visionary. A woman whose creations are deeply interwoven with spiritual conviction, guided steadfastly by her unyielding faith in God. I couldn’t help but ask her, “Grace, would you be honored to grace the September 2023 issue of LEGACY eMagazine? Your story is a beacon that needs to shine far and wide!”

What struck me most about Grace was her sheer dedication and conviction towards her artistry. It resonated on such a visceral level, mirroring the complexities and triumphs of my own life journey. Her art was not just visually arresting; it spoke of challenges faced, chaos navigated, and a sublime beauty arising from it all.

I am wholly exhilarated to share this exclusive interview with you all! Brace yourselves for a riveting dialogue that unveils the heart and soul of a young woman shaping her legacy one artistic stroke at a time.

So, please join me in celebrating the extraordinarily talented Ms. Grace Harris!

First and foremost, a hearty thanks to Grace for carving time out of her jet-setting life, dedicated to pursuing her art and broadening her horizons.

Grace, your story has intrigued us, and your art has captivated our senses. I have some burning questions that I believe will illuminate not just the artist in you, but also the fearless pioneer who is setting the stage for an enduring legacy. Viewers, buckle up! You’re in for an extraordinary ride as we delve deeper into the creative cosmos of Grace Harris.

Christine: Grace, could you share a glimpse into your personal journey and the influences that have shaped who you are today?

Grace Harris: Certainly! I hail from the vibrant city of Atlanta, Georgia and am currently in the beautiful phase of being 27. As the eldest among three siblings, my childhood presented its own set of unique challenges. Constant relocations made it a tad tricky to lay down roots and find stable friendships. Pair that with my inherent shyness and living with ADHD, life was often a whirlwind of emotions and experiences. But it’s this very chaos, this roller-coaster of emotions and memories, that paints the canvas of my artwork. I embarked on my artistic journey merely two years ago, and the experience has been profoundly transformative. Expressing my emotions through art, without any constraints, has provided me with insights and growth in dimensions I continue to explore.

Christine: In what ways have your childhood and personal experiences molded your journey and expressions in art?

Grace Harris: I grew up in a loving household with an amazing family and was deeply rooted in the church. My dad has been a pastor for many years, so I had strong values instilled in me from birth. However, I was also extremely shy. Because of this, many of my childhood memories are just fleeting glimpses. My introspective nature, combined with my struggle against social anxiety and pervasive fears, made my youth particularly challenging. The unknown was always a source of dread for me. As a child, navigating these feelings was tough, and my mind was a constant whirlwind of thoughts. I couldn’t find a way to calm down or pause them. This constant internal chaos is reflected in my artwork. While it appears chaotic, there’s an inherent beauty to it – a reflection of my mind’s landscape. My unique upbringing and personal struggles have been crucial in shaping the profound impact of my art.

Christine: How would you describe yourself as an artist? What sets you apart or makes your work unique?

Grace Harris: I would describe myself as the type of artist who eats, sleeps, and breathes art; it’s deeply ingrained in every fiber of my being, and I cannot help but create. Not doing so would be a disservice to myself and to those around me who seek understanding and solace in my work. What distinguishes me is my distinctive style, the chaotic essence, and the colors I select. The lettering and the way I express things captivate the viewer, making it hard for them to divert their gaze — that has always been my intent. I’ve never aimed to be an artist whose work can be understood at a mere glance. I want viewers to take a moment, to delve deeper, as what I present is essentially a window into my mind. It’s not something to be casually observed; it demands thorough introspection.

Christine: When did you recognize your passion for art, and what compelled you to pursue it professionally?

Grace: I’ve always had an affinity for art since my childhood. However, it wasn’t until 2021 that I began to truly believe in my own creative potential and voice in the art world. I began experimenting with paint, realizing my skill level surpassed that of an average individual. This realization drew me closer to considering art as a professional path. My mother and brother often remarked on my creativity, but its depth became apparent to me in May 2021. From that point on, I committed to painting and creating daily. For me, the essence of being an artist lies in dedication and consistent practice, and I embraced that ethos wholeheartedly, propelling my growth in the art world.

Christine: What initially sparked your interest in art, and how did you begin your artistic journey?

Grace: Throughout my life, I’ve dabbled in various artistic pursuits. However, it was a 15-minute YouTube video on Jean-Michel Basquiat that truly captivated me. I was struck by the chaotic nature of his work and the meticulous intent behind each stroke, making it appear random yet purposeful. I realized that, much like him, everything he did had a deeper meaning, even if it seemed arbitrary. It was profoundly beautiful to witness how he could express such raw emotion in such a bold manner, yet the end result had a calming effect. This made me reflect on my own artistry: how could I capture life’s chaos in a painting in a way that was unique and yet relatable? True creativity, I believe, lies in being unique. While anyone can paint, not everyone is an artist. There’s a marked difference between those who merely dabble in art and genuine artists. My aspiration to be an authentic artist stems from a conviction that God designed me to be singularly creative. Blessed with an intricately crafted mindset, He has allowed me to articulate my vision in remarkable ways. That video was the catalyst; it ignited a passion in me that was too strong to ignore or let fade.

Christine: What does your work aim to convey?

Grace Harris: My work seeks to communicate that beauty can be found even amidst complete chaos. It also underscores the sentiment, “you’re not alone.” The emotions I portray are ones that many, if not all, have felt or are currently feeling. Thus, everyone can find some point of relation in my creations. Despite some individuals feeling misunderstood or isolated, the truth is we all resonate with each other’s experiences on a profound level. By translating my raw emotions onto canvas, viewers can see how universally relatable these sentiments are. Recognizing this shared understanding paves the way for healing, fostering open discussions, and ensuring individuals feel heard and comforted.

Christine: What motivates you to create art?

Grace Harris: I believe what motivates me to create art is that it’s a gift from God. It would honestly be a disservice to Him if I didn’t harness this gift and follow the path, He has laid out for me. Creating is essentially my purpose. While it might sound cliché, art serves as my therapy. It’s my way of painting my feelings and experiences onto a canvas daily. As I incorporate various facets of my current life into my work, I get to witness it evolve in front of me, making the entire process beautifully enriching.

8. Christine: How do you handle criticism or negative feedback on your work?

Grace Harris: It’s almost as if my spirit knows when to accept criticism and when not to, so I generally don’t mind it. I believe that all feedback can be constructive in some way, so I take it as it comes.

Christine: What do you hope viewers take away from your art?

Grace Harris: I believe the most beautiful aspect of art is its subjectivity: everyone interprets it in their own unique way. I hope that when viewers engage with my work, they take away whatever resonates with them. However, a central message I hope to convey is that no one is truly alone. The emotions and experiences reflected in my art are universal. While the intensity may vary from one individual to another, everyone can relate to the raw emotions of the human experience.

Christine: What is your dream project?

Grace Harris: I haven’t deeply contemplated my “dream project” because I’ve only been painting for two years. Yet, in this short span, I’ve accomplished what many haven’t. It feels as though I’m rapidly approaching my maximum potential. What might be my dream today may not be the same a year from now. I continually evolve, so with each project that I conceptualize as a dream, I work to make it a reality, only to dream bigger thereafter.

Christine: Can you walk us through your creative process from start to finish?

Grace Harris: My creative process is something that must be captured on video because it’s challenging to put into words. It’s not that I can’t describe it, but I believe one wouldn’t truly grasp it until they see me in action.

Christine: What role do you believe art plays in society and your legacy as an artist?

Grace Harris: I believe art plays an immensely significant role in society. To me, art is the act of creating one’s own personal universe. By mastering a specific talent and sharing it, we can connect with others, making the vast world feel a little more intimate. Without art, our world would lack vibrancy and depth. Art is a universal language, resonating with people of all ages and backgrounds. As for my legacy, it remains uncertain. What I do know is that I’ve been blessed with a unique talent that I trust God will use for His purposes. Whatever legacy I leave behind, I believe it will be far beyond my current comprehension – it’s much larger than just me.

Christine: Can you share a specific project or artwork that you are particularly proud of? What makes it special to you?

Grace Harris: My painting, ‘Out of Order,’ is probably the one I’m most proud of right now. I vividly recall the mindset I was in while creating it. I had been working on it for such a long time that it didn’t seem to match my vision. It was my first deviation from my usual style, and I felt I was going in the wrong direction. I set it aside for a few months, and when I revisited it, I realized it was exactly what I had intended. The title ‘Out of Order’ perfectly reflected a chaotic phase in my life — a time that was confusing and overwhelming. Yet, looking back, everything in that period was intricately orchestrated in a way that, in the end, it didn’t feel out of order at all.

Christine: How do you approach the balance between creative expression and meeting the expectations of your audience?

Grace Harris: It may sound blunt, but I don’t primarily focus on meeting other people’s expectations in my art. I set my own standards, and those are the ones that truly matter to me. Trying to conform to external expectations can be challenging, especially with such a unique talent. So, I tend to veer away from that and concentrate on executing what I believe God wants me to create.

Christine: How has your faith influenced your artistic style and the themes you choose to explore in your work?

Grace Harris: I don’t believe my faith directly influences my artistic style, but it does play a crucial role in how I create. I experience a unique connection with the Holy Spirit while painting, which is somewhat challenging to put into words. I’m aware that I’m not solely relying on my own skills or abilities; I recognize the Holy Spirit working through me. The themes in my art originate from my life experiences and the current phase I’m going through. It’s essential to note that each day when I paint, I never know what I’ll create. I physically ask the Holy Spirit to guide me and assist me in bringing forth what needs to be expressed on that day.

Christine: Are there any specific Bible verses or stories that inspire your art? If so, could you elaborate on how they have impacted your creative process?

Grace Harris: One Bible verse that resonates with me the most is Ecclesiastes 3:11, which states that God makes everything beautiful in its time. This perspective shapes how I view my creative process. While the process itself can be challenging, frustrating, and even annoying at times, I remind myself that the finished product will ultimately be beautiful. This mindset helps me navigate difficult moments when I struggle to draw something or bring a particular piece up to my standards. I have to trust that everything will unfold beautifully in its own time.

Christine: What role do you believe your art plays in spreading the message of Christianity and connecting with others?

Grace Harris: I’m not entirely sure if my artwork directly spreads the message of Christianity, but my testimony of how I became an artist certainly does. My talent is undeniably a gift from God, and He deserves all the glory for everything I create. This fact makes it easy for people to see the uniqueness of my artistry, often attributing it to the divine. Many are curious about how I create, and I always emphasize that it’s through Him.

Christine: Can you share any memorable experiences or encounters that have reinforced your faith or artistic calling?

Grace Harris: The entire journey of becoming an artist reinforces my faith daily. God has bestowed upon me a unique talent and has rapidly advanced my skills, indicating His divine guidance. Every day I paint and create, I offer thanks to the Lord because I know He has been with me every step of the way. The opportunities and people He has placed in my path, opportunities that most artists may not encounter throughout their entire careers, all within two years of picking up a paintbrush, serve as constant reaffirmation.

Christine: Have you faced any challenges as a Christian artist, and how have you overcome them?

Grace Harris: Most of the challenges I encounter involve balancing my Christian faith with the rawness of my art. I understand that, as a Christian, I can’t necessarily express myself in the same way others might. This has been the most significant challenge for me. However, when I mention that the Holy Spirit guides my creations, I genuinely mean it. I create exactly what I need to create without second-guessing anything I put on canvas.

Christine: Have you received any noteworthy feedback or responses to your Christian art? If so, how did these responses make you feel?

Grace Harris: Much of the feedback I receive revolves around people expressing that they’ve never seen art quite like mine. However, one response that stood out to me is when people inquire about my mental well-be- ing based on how I create. It’s interesting because I’m more mentally stable than ever before in my life. I understand that, without personally knowing me, some of the words and elements in my artwork may be misinterpreted as cries for help. They’re a form of relief and even therapy for me.

Christine: How do you continue to grow and develop as an artist while staying rooted in your faith?

Grace Harris: I don’t view my artistic development and faith as separate entities; they are intertwined in my eyes. Because my talent is a God-given gift, the deeper I delve into my relationship with Jesus Christ, the more I discover and enhance my creative abilities. On days when I feel I might be neglecting myself, which is a common human experience, my art serves as a reminder of God’s presence, guidance, and the purpose He has placed upon my life. It keeps me grounded and continually growing in both my artistry and my faith.

Christine: How do you envision your art evolving or changing in the future?

Grace Harris: Predicting the exact direction of my art’s evolution is a challenging task. While I have some ideas about how it may evolve, I recognize that my current capabilities may not fully encompass what I’ll achieve in the future. Nonetheless, I am committed to a perpetual process of change and evolution in my artistic style. I aim to maintain an ever-evolving, intriguing, and captivating style that continually captures the attention of viewers.

As we bring our conversation to a close, I want to thank you once again for this illuminating discussion, Grace. Your insights into the fusion of faith and art have been invaluable.

To our young and aspiring artists out there, Grace leaves us with this wisdom: “Pray about what you’re going to paint, ask the Holy Spirit to lead you and guide you, and He will. It makes it easier not to rely solely on yourself and your skill when you know that the Holy Spirit is leading you. When you’re letting the Holy Spirit use you, it becomes much easier to express your artistry. Moreover, it simplifies the process of homing in on your gifts, as you’re no longer preoccupied with self-doubt and concerns about whether you can achieve your artistic goals. With the Holy Spirit, you always will.”

Thank you once more, Grace, for sharing your journey and wisdom with us. Your art and your faith are truly inspirational, and we look forward to witnessing the continued evolution of your remarkable work.

To connect with the talented artist Kiana Grace Harris, you can follow her Instagram account, which is @graeareaart. Additionally, you can visit her website at GraeArea. art to explore more of her incredible artwork and stay updated on her latest creations. While she plans to expand her social media presence soon, these online platforms are currently the best ways to connect with her and explore her artistic journey. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with her inspiring work and creative process!