Today we’d like to introduce you to Whitney Warren.
Hi Whitney, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I’m a self-taught artist from the small yet growing town of Marshall, Texas. Growing up, I was surrounded by strong, creative, and influential woman. Both of my grandmothers and mother were skillful seamstresses. My grandmothers took pride in working for Levi for several years.
My art journey started when I didn’t have money to pay my bills in my mid-20s. I took the little money I had left and invested it into art supplies. I went home, turned on some music, and let my emotions flow through the paintbrush onto the canvas. The one-of-a-kind pieces that I created, I sold out of my car for extra money.
People got excited about my art. I grew support quickly from those who appreciated my talent and pushed me to sign up for my first art festival at the Red River Revel in Shreveport Louisiana. The Red River Revel became a turning point as more people were drawn to my art, and other artists encouraged me to share more of my creativity with the world.
I was moved by people’s faith in me and decided to enroll in school. The only thing I could not teach myself to do was to make clothes, so I enrolled at the Art Institute of Dallas. I received my Fine Arts Undergrad Degree in fashion design. This degree took my art to the next level as I started adding textiles.
As years went on and my art continued to elevate, I gained more confidence. I signed up for more art festivals. This year, I decided that I would become a full-time artist. I am grateful for all the amazing artist that have shared their knowledge with me and people who believe in me. I am excited to travel this year to different shows across the US and sharing my inner world with the world.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has been by far a smooth road. I am now currently feeling the struggles of being a full-time artist. Before, I have always had another income. Now that I am following my dreams, I solely rely on art selling to pay my bills. Sometimes, I have great shows, and other times, I lose money on shows. Regardless on the success of a show, I am always learning, and knowledge is one of the post powerful tools that can bring me to the next level. I have maxed out credit cards, and the unknown can really be stressful at times, but I believe in myself. I will continue to invest into me and my business. I know that my art will reach its audience, and I’ll be forever grateful that I am doing what I love for a living.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an artist that finds immense joy and inspiration in exploring the depths of mixed media art. With every brushstroke, I bring together various materials, textures, and colors to create captivating pieces that tell stories and evoke emotions. Through my art, I aim to ignite imaginations, ignite conversations, and transport viewers into a realm of beauty and wonder. Join me on this artistic journey as we explore the endless possibilities of mixed media and embrace the magic that comes with it.
I am known for my fiber art. I am most proud of my continuous journey of growth.
What sets me apart from others is that I take constructive criticism well and allow it to help me push to new levels of creativity.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Over the next 5 years, I would love to build a strong online presence, collaborating with other artist, designers, or businesses that align with my artistic style and values, partnerships for unique projects, diversifying my income streams, and participating in more exhibitions and art fairs to increase my visibility.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Charamea Pollock
