Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Yearby.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Stephanie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I have always desired to be an artist. Since the age of four, I loved drawing. I was introduced to painting in high school and that became my passion. I went on to college and pursued a degree in art. My college art experience was a tough time for me because I was told by an art instructor that I didn’t have the talent or skill to have a career as an artist. It devastated me. This was my first personal experience facing racism. However, I graduated with a B.A. in Fine Arts. After that, I was determined to prove this instructor wrong. I went on to be an art educator in inner city Dallas so that I could give minority, underprivileged children an artistic experience that would prepare them to be creative and see their worth in their creativity.
During my career, I continued to paint and create a multitude of art needs for schools. Businesses, Organizations, and individuals. Since retiring from teaching, I focus on my painting full time. I enjoy painting from my travel experiences, childhood memories, and vintage photos.
Has it been a smooth road?
My toughest obstacle was trying to regain my confidence within myself after graduating from a college that made me feel like it was useless for me to become an artist. At this point in my art quest, I questioned if I had the talent and skills necessary to be an artist. I struggled through this setback with the determination to become a professional artist. However, I didn’t quit. Quitting wasn’t an option and I continued to paint. I never stopped doing what I love.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Rephidim Art Studio & Gallery story. Tell us more about your work.
My art business caters to individuals, businesses, and organizations who seek art for their custom, creative needs. I do commission paintings, wall murals, banners, signs and logo concepts.
What I am most proud of is that I have the ability to provide creative services that range from art lessons for all ages, paint parties, face painting, airbrushing, customizing a mancave to designing an invitation. I consider myself a jack of all trades when it comes to art. I do a little of everything.
I offer affordable services to my clients and I try to bring their visions to life. My proud moments are the satisfaction and compliments I receive from my artworks.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I want to continue perfecting my art and painting.
I enjoy painting African American people and everyday life of yesteryears. I want to have an art studio in New Orleans and Jamaica so that I can capture the culture and traditions of the people. It is my mission to have a body of artwork that is celebrated in the African American community. I am working on an HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) series that celebrates the black college experience. These are just a few goals on my list of things to paint.
Contact Info:
- Address: Rephidim Art Studio & Gallery
3639 Colonial Ave
Dallas, TX 75215 - Website: www.stephanieyearby.com
- Phone: 2148815663
- Email: syearby14@att.net
- Facebook: Rephidim art studio
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