Today we’d like to introduce you to Derrick William.
Derrick, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Born and raised in fort worth Texas, middle school is where I found my passion for art. I’m a self-taught artist that began to develop my skills in the early 90’s were I started experimenting with acrylic pens and paint. I studied various artists with a few favorites being Ernie Barnes and Williams H Johnson just to name a few.
I worked in the cable industry for over 20 years where I was then laid off in 2015. I then realized I didn’t want to invest that many years again working for someone else so I opened up my own studio in 2016 called Let’s Paint With Kinfolks!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The road has been somewhat easy. My biggest struggle has been finding consistent staffing and believing and trusting in myself and talent as a black business owner.
Tell us more about your art.
My paintings focus on the bold nature of art, aiming to depict and capture life moments in the colors that are relatable to all families and available for the world to see and enjoy. My passion for black art and connection with people over the years evolved into my local business called “Lets Paint With Kinfolks Studio” located in Arlington, TX in 2016. We mix music, art and culture together to create a lively atmosphere that cultivates ingenuity and togetherness. We are well known for bringing strangers and families together for a unique experience and sending them home with an original and customized piece of art. We are not your average Paint and Sip company I am most proud that we are able to create experiences and memories with our customers that keep them coming back for more. The one thing that sets me apart from others is no one paints the same thing and the unique twist I give at the end.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I wouldn’t say it was luck. I would say blessings and the man upstairs played a role in my life and business. I’m so thankful that I was chosen to be able to share my gift with the world.
Pricing:
- $35pp for Adults
- $25pp for Kids, Seniors, & Corporate Parties
- $40pp for Speciality & Offsitr Parties
Contact Info:
- Address: 824 Secretary Dr Arlington TX 76015
- Phone: 8175426414
- Email: letspaintwithkinfolkstudio@gmail.com
- Instagram: Letspaintwithkinfolkstudio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kinfolksartstudio/
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