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

Hi Abby, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Originally, I didn’t think I would become an artist, but all my past mentors encouraged me to follow an artistic path and I trusted what they saw in me. Although I was reluctant, I eventually discovered my creative strengths and how I could combine my love of art and storytelling with community development. As an artist, I have the tools necessary to show others how to express themselves through a creative medium, and as a nonprofit worker, I can bring different areas of the community together to bolster and support our creative culture.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a cartoonist and illustrator. I didn’t always know that this was the creative route I would pursue, but as a kid, I always loved cartoons, reading, and comic books. I used to write my own stories and comics, but as I got older I didn’t see myself as someone who would continue to make those things. After going to art school, I rediscovered my love of character art and wild illustrations. My love of music and shows also inspires my work today. The biggest lesson I’ve learned along the way is to keep drawing, even if you think your drawings aren’t good, you just have to keep at it and learn from those who inspire you.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For Atlanta, I would take friends to check out some music & comics at Criminal Records followed by dinner and drinks at Gaja and a punk show at The EARL.

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?
I want to shoutout all of my artist friends in my creative network for supporting my efforts & my work and Nuçi’s Space in Athens, Georgia for helping me further develop and grow my skills.

Website: https://www.keepitweird.art

Instagram: @mild_pain

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