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

Hi Latoya, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued an artistic or creative career because it aligns with my passion and allows me to express myself in a unique and meaningful way. From a young age, I have always been drawn to the arts and creative endeavors. I found immense joy and fulfillment in painting & writing.

Creativity is at the core of who I am, and I believe that pursuing an artistic career not only allows me to follow my passion but also enables me to make a positive impact on the world. Art has the power to inspire, provoke thought, and evoke emotions in ways that few other things can. It serves as a powerful medium for communication and storytelling, transcending language and cultural barriers.

The creative process itself is incredibly fulfilling for me. It challenges me to think outside the box, problem-solve, and constantly evolve as an artist. It’s a journey of self-discovery and growth, which I find incredibly rewarding.

I am also motivated by the idea of contributing to the cultural enrichment of society. Art has the ability to shape and reflect the values, beliefs, and aspirations of a community or even an entire generation. By pursuing a creative career, I hope to play a part in creating art that resonates with people, brings joy, raises important questions, and encourages dialogue.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is my baby. I hold it near and dear to my heart. In the words of Erykah Badu, “I’m an artist and I’m sensitive about my ish!” I am most proud of my coloring book, Bold and Beautiful: A Coloring Adventure for Plus-Size Kids, which is now available on Amazon. I have always been fluffy/plus size, even as a child. I never saw coloring books that had images of children that looked like me. I wanted to create something for those children. To show them they are not alone and they are seen in this world.

How did I get here? Alot of late nights, hard work, missed time with family & friends, and being able to pivot. It was not easy at all, it is hard. Wanting to quit but staying the course because you know greater is coming…is hard!

I have learned that being self taught is great but in order to grow it will take training & education. You have to invest in yourself and your craft. Networking, networking, networking – I have always been big on getting to know people in different creative spaces but Covid turned me into bit of an introvert. I am currently working to get back out there to network more. You have to remember that people that do not know you will support you more than people that have known you all your life.

What do I want the world to know about me and my brand…. I am a country girl born and raised in High Point, NC. Self taught in every aspect of business that I have pursed (chocolate creation, jewelry making, and now graphic design). I believe in being authentic and true to myself. My brand and story are rooted in authenticity, and I want the world to know that I am genuine in my actions and intentions. I value transparency and honesty in all my endeavors. My journey is fueled by a deep passion for what I do. I want the world to understand that my brand and story are a result of unwavering dedication and hard work. I am committed to my craft and constantly strive for excellence.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My Entire Family (I have a family of entrepreneurs – My maternal grandmother, Dorothy, ran a liquor house, my paternal grandmother, Catherine, was a florist, my father, Douglas, is a mechanic, my mother, Shirlon, is an interior designer & caterer, my sister, Misty, is a photographer, my oldest daughter, LaDawn, is a cosmetologist and nail tech, my husband, Kori, is a caterer, and my youngest daughter, Qori is my assistant). These people have pushed me to purse all of my dreams.

My Immediate Family (Kori, LaDawn & Qori) – they have been my biggest cheerleaders in everything I have done in life and business.

Zeta Amicae & Zeta Amicae of Greensboro, NC – Adult women’s auxiliary to Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. – because of these ladies I really stepped my graphics & graphic design game up.

My Accountability Table Sisters – they have held my feet to the fire on moving my business forward.

My Sister Circles – they have held my hand and been there through some of the toughest times.

Website: https://bit.ly/butterfly-graphix & https://bit.ly/silersensations

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/butterfly.graphix & https://www.instagram.com/silerbiz

Facebook: https://bit.ly/ButterflyGraphixFB & https://bit.ly/SilerSensationsonFB

Other: https://bit.ly/BGonEtsy

Image Credits
Professional photo with coloring book: Photographer – Rashida Renee

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