Today we’d like to introduce you to Maya Ratcliff.
Hi Maya, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
Maya Ratcliff is the founder and CEO of Hawaii Fluid Art, the Top Emerging Franchise of 2022. Hawaii Fluid Art is an art studio experience perfect for all ages and every skill level, where every guest leaves with a piece of art they are proud to put on display. What started as a hobby in her garage quickly grew into an incredible company with locations opening up all over the United States. From juggling motherhood and corporate America to putting everything on the line to pursue a new passion, Ratliff knows what it takes to find true success and happiness.
In 2020, Ratcliff discovered fluid art by pouring water down a canvas and quickly became hooked! She began posting her artwork on Facebook, and they started selling like crazy. In an unexpected turn, people started asking Ratcliff to teach them how to create this style of artwork. So, she opened up her home to hundreds of people, rapidly outgrowing that space. She quickly opened her first location and from day one, was completely booked. A week after opening her flagship studio, Ratcliff was on the phone with a franchise attorney explaining her concept.
Now, less than four years after discovering her passion for fluid art and less than a year since going public with her franchise, Ratcliff has sold over 175 units, with over 30 studios opening in the next six months. You may be wondering what sets Hawaii Fluid Art apart from the rest? Well, the answer is simple. At the core of the company is Ratcliff’s mission to make each community Hawaii Fluid Art is in a better place. From linking arms with local non-profits, to strategically partnering with national organizations, helping people is at the heart of the company.
Alright, 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?
Hawaii Fluid Art began at the height of COVID, so as you can imagine, navigating a new business venture during unprecedented times was tricky. That being said, our business still grew rapidly. People were searching for something to do that was safe, fun, and provided them with a beautiful piece of art and a beautiful memory.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Maya Ratcliff, founder of Hawaii Fluid Art, began her art career helping people with brain injuries delve into their artistic talents as art therapy. She eventually developed her proprietary method of fluid art using acrylic paints and a special pouring medium while working from her home and area resorts. As word spread by students thrilled at seeing what they could create, the demand for her classes grew. Ratcliff opened the first Hawaii Fluid Art studio in Waikoloa, HI, and now has eight studios open and has sold 175 units.
This is not your typical painting class. Hawaii Fluid Art created a fluid art style all its own. “I feel that everyone can be an artist, and I love helping inspire people and bringing joy to people through art,” Ratcliff explains. “Fluid art is a fun way to bring people together for a unique experience focused on self-expression. Together, we make feel-good art.” In addition, our instructors go through a certified training process that teaches color theory, design, process, and our proprietary fluid art techniques. Hawaii Fluid Art’s professional instructors help students achieve beautiful results every time.
Explore your inner artist while creating beautiful one-of-a-kind masterpieces. Unique and fun art is what Hawaii Fluid Art is known for.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
People are the MOST important part of the journey. Treating every person who walks into our studio with love, grace, and respect is key. When people walk into one of our studios carrying a heavy load, we want to help them lighten that load. Providing them with a safe space to feel creative, empowered, accepted, and important is the most valuable thing we can give customers.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hawaiifluidart.com
- Instagram: @hawaiifluidart
- Facebook: @hawaiifluidart
Image Credits
Aireal Hartz
