Today we’d like to introduce you to Rae Pleasant.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Rae. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I studied art history and dance performance in university, then moved overseas to New Zealand for new experiences and to further my education. Working in major arts institutions was eye opening and eventually I wanted to try my own projects. In 2016, I self-published a picture book I wrote and illustrated called ‘Adventures in Tea Time’, which led me to take things to the next step. I founded a limited liability company, through the law firm Thomas Maddrey PLLC, to professionalize my personal projects. In many ways, I am an independent arts professional.
Has it been a smooth road?
The road has been slow and steady. In the age of the internet, it is easy to feel left behind with folks becoming internet stars seemingly overnight. I’m not looking to be famous, so I took a slow approach using more traditional methods of marketing and growth. I think of my business as a small town gem in the middle of a big city. Having a day job and taking night classes towards a part-time PhD means that I stay up late drawing or sewing and squeeze outreach events into my busy schedule. Taking on one project at a time and seeing it through to the end has been more effective than bouncing from task to task, although I hardly take my own advice.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Pleasant Folk LLC – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
My sole-proprietor business is called PLEASANT FOLK LLC and I specialize in art and heritage, projects and goods. I develop community outreach, conduct historical research, and create original artwork or publications. Selling vintage is like the gift shop that rounds out an eclectic venture. Recently, I developed a community quilt workshop with the Kimbell Art Museum for their family day and teacher training summer program. One week, I might have a booth at a community event. The next week, I am installing my newest art piece at a local exhibition. The following month, I might self-publish an essay or start a new draft for a picture book. I focus most of my projects on African American heritage and I am committed to charitable efforts. My new website has updates on my projects and their progress.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I have lived, worked, or gone to university in Dallas for most of my adult life, but sometimes I feel the City doesn’t appreciate me as much as I try to love being here. It can be very frustrating to give your best effort and still feel left out or disrespected. I have felt more appreciated in neighboring cities.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.pleasantfolk.com
Image Credit:
FleaStyle Houston 2018, Leather pouch, Patti (in pink) and Kitta (in yellow) from Adventures in Tea Time, Custom round sunnies, Flight from Baltimore to Dallas 2015. All images credit PLEASANT FOLK LLC
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
