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Rising Stars: Meet Sha’kiya Cook of Mobile business in SC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sha’kiya Cook

Hi Sha’Kiya, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My interest in being an artist started in 2021. Finding myself in a depression, dealing with anxiety everyday I needed something to clear my thoughts and help me relax. During a trip to dollar tree, I came across paint supplies and thought I would give it a try. From there I’ve painted in my free time with the intention to someday become a full time artist. Christmas 2021 I had no job, no money to buy gifts for my family so I decided to purchase a $20 kit from Amazon with beads for jewelry making. I designed my family members bracelets & art canvas to show & express my love to them. I fell in love with creating what feels special to my heart. Since then I’ve hosted 2 sip & paint events, attended many pop up shops as a vendor to sale my beaded designs and also was a vendor at a store in my hometown Great Falls, SC called “Market on Dearborn”.

Tapping into my creativity saved my life! My mission is to bring others closer together and help them connect with their creativity within.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been a smooth or easy road. Deciding to focus on my journey as an artist did not come with tons of support. Not really much genuine support from those around me which use to be discouraging. Dealing with mental health issues made it hard for me to work a full time job. So I’ve wanted to bet on myself and build a brand that’s dedicated to my journey. Financially being a full time artist in a small town doesn’t bring in much revenue. And also being told by your own family that your dreams are unrealistic and too big has been a huge let down. But I’m really big on being led by spirit and including my spirituality in my journey as well… Which helps me keep a positive mindset and have faith that I will always be connected to what’s meant for me.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Beaded Jewelry & Accessories
Sip & Paint Parties
Digital Art & Digital Marketing

Im most proud of my beaded accessories. It warms my heart to see others light up & get excited about my designs. Seeing others wear my designs proudly gives me more courage and confidence to keep creating because my target audience is out there and I will continue to work hard to connect and attract them. Also having a Pinterest account that gets over 300K views per month. Which includes affirmation art, and many other inspiring content.

What sets me apart is I love working with bright and bold colors. My creations are all one of a kind. No matter what medium Im working in I try my best to be authentic to me and to create from a place of love and uniqueness. I create with the intention to bring more happiness and joy to this planet. You may find similar but nothing tops the creativity , designs and ideas within my mind.

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success to me looks like waking up everyday being able to do what my heart desires. Getting paid to be me, be free & create authentically. Inspiring others younger & older to express themselves freely. Motivating others & encouraging them to follow their dreams!! Success also looks like building a life that allows me to be hands on in my motherhood journey and building an empire and brand that helps create a better life for me and my kid now and in the future.

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