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

Hi Shaleen, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My work life balance has changed drastically, especially since I’ve gone back to school. Between working full-time and taking classes, it’s essential that I spend time to creating and spending some much needed time with my loved ones. It can get overwhelming, but everything has some sort of balance that’s required.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve wanted to be an artist from a young age. My earliest memory of wanting to create was in a little autobiography that I made in the third grade. One of the questions asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, and I wrote “artist”. Thankfully, I found it when I was really doubting myself as an artist in art school. It helped me realize that was doing exactly what I always wanted to do. It helped make my purpose clear. Sometimes those childhood reminders are needed even almost 30 years later.

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’d take my bestie to a few places based on themes. First the High Museum, the ABV Gallery to enjoy local, contemporary art, and visit some of the murals around the city. Thankfully, Atlanta is a city that has some amazing restaurants! It’s difficult to choose only a few but Breakfast at Barney’s 24 Karate Gold Pancakes, Bar Vegan and Boti Walls at Ponce City Market are just delicious. I missed so many other places, but these are just a few gems.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband, Chris is such an enormous supporter of my art. He gives me the room to create into the late hours until my heart is content. He fosters a sense of emotional well-being and encouragement for me to express myself on the canvas. I’m able to pursue my passion with much dedication because I know my husband values and believes in me. And as a bonus, Chris enjoys art museums as much as I do. I’m so thankful for him! I had the privilege to grow up in a creative family and I must recognize them for love and genuine encouragement   they continue to give. As a child, they allowed me to flourish through their nurturing support and engagement. I have a fantastic support system around me and I value them greatly.

Website: https://www.shaleenart.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaleen.art/

Image Credits
Jasmine Tindell Crystal Anne Downs

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