Meet Ginger Batton | Graphic Designer & Illustrator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ginger Batton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ginger, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My business started as a way for me to contribute to raising awareness about social injustices against the Black community in America. During the height of the Black Lives Matter movement in June of 2020, I was experiencing a variety of feelings; hurt, fear, and a longing to help. I have always felt compelled to create, and I knew that I could use this strength to create a positive impact. I thought critically about accessible ways for people to spread this message, and how I could use my abilities to support this movement. I created 3 stickers that were directly related to the Black Lives Matter movement, and the fight against systemic racism. I donated a portion of these proceeds to Black organizations and Black folks in need. The foundation of my business is that of love and kindness, and I’m so grateful that I had access to the resources to make that happen.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What drives me about my art, is how I can use it to bring joy to others. I love to create things that make people smile. Maybe it makes them think of a friend, a family member, or it resonates with them personally, but being able to use art to speak to the feelings people have inside them, gives me an immeasurable amount of joy. What makes me the most proud is when people recognize that what I create, comes straight from my heart. It allows people to connect with me, without even having met me, and that is pretty cool. It wasn’t easy to get to where I am today. It’s constant research, and trial and error, but I’ve come to appreciate the process and allowing myself to grow in new ways. I want the world to know that love is all around if you’re looking for it, and kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. Keep sharing the love!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’ve lived in Peoria, Illinois my whole life, so I’d like to say I know it pretty well, but it’s one of those cities that always surprises you in unexpected ways. One of my most favorite places is Zion Coffee. It’s coffee shop with the most inviting, come-as-you-are atmosphere, with THE best avocado toast on the planet. I know you’re thinking, “it’s just avocado and toast”, but you’ve gotta trust me on this one. So we would definitely have to go there. For lunch, we’d need to visit Peoria Heights for some gorgeous views on Grandview Drive that overlooks the river, and then we’d grab some bacon blue cheese fries at the Publik House. If we want to go find some thrifty items, we’d have to go to Two Sisters and a Warehouse, for the most fun and unique finds. We’d also visit the Peoria Riverfront Museum to check out their beautiful and ever changing exhibits. And then to close out the evening, maybe we’d see a Broadway show or a concert at the Peoria Civic Center.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are number of people in my story that deserve recognition for the support and encouragement they’ve given me. The two people who brought me into the world, my parents, are key pieces to the puzzle of my life. They are go-getters, dreamers, leaders, and my heroes. I would not be who I am without them. Mom & Dad, thank you for helping me grow and showing me who I am. I love you always.

Website: gingerbatton.com / gingerbaystudios.etsy.com

Instagram: gingerbaystudios

Linkedin: Ginger Batton

Other: etsy: gingerbaystudios.etsy.com