Meet Aldrena Hicks | Artist, Maker, Designer, Creative Entrepreneur

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

Hi Aldrena, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
What a wonderful question to reflect on. One of the most important things I’ve done as a parent is to create a safe space for my son and daughter where they can truly express themselves. I want them to feel free to share their opinions, ask questions, and engage in real conversations about the things that weigh on their hearts and minds or excite them. It’s important for me that they know they are both seen and heard, especially given the many challenges kids face today. I want them to feel comfortable coming to me or another close family member whenever they need to.

I stress that their mental and emotional well-being is just as crucial as their physical health. I don’t always get it right—believe me, they’re quick to let me know! There are moments when I think, “What have I done?” But even when it’s tough, I wouldn’t trade our dynamic for anything.

Another thing I continue to do is encourage them to explore their interests, whether it is in the arts, sports, writing, dance, music, or so on. The world is overflowing with possibilities, and I truly believe their imagination and belief in themselves can take them far. As an artist, I understand the strength that comes from building and creating from within. It’s important to nurture that inner voice, even when fear creeps in. And have pride in and celebrate their Blackness and cultural heritage.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is rooted in my personal experiences as a Black woman living in the South. I weave my past, present, and even my hopes for the future into every piece. My work isn’t “polished” in the sense of being flawless or perfect—you’ll see textures layered, stitches crossing, threads overlapping, collages built from cloth, ink, yarn, paper, and photos. Figures aren’t drawn realistically; sometimes they’re exaggerated, and sometimes abstract. What I’m most proud of is that I’ve given myself permission to explore, to show the messy process, and to let the piece itself guide me as it evolves. I get to play, and I get to create with purpose that’s deeply personal.

I’ve always been a maker. As a kid, I made clothes for my Barbies and designed book reports like they were mini art projects—I didn’t have the words “graphic design” or “creative direction” back then, I just knew it was how I wanted to tell stories. I even got into fashion school, but ultimately chose Columbia College SC, which was an all-women’s college at the time. I majored in studio art and discovered graphic design. Later, I earned my MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts, and that thesis work—Little Brown Girl: The Influence of Black Womanhood on Visual Communication—changed how I saw myself and my place in this world. It opened the door for me to self-publish my book, <i>You Are A Queen,</i> and has led to opportunities to present, speak, and lead workshops about art, design, and identity. Those moments have been powerful reminders that my story, and the stories of Black women, matter and deserve space in both art and everyday conversation.

The path hasn’t been easy—or straight. And truthfully, it’s still being forged. But one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that every experience prepares you. Staying silent, dimming your light, hiding in the shadows—it doesn’t serve you or anyone else. We as women, especially Black women, are taught to put ourselves on the back burner, if we’re even on the stove at all. I’m learning and evolving into someone who will not shrink to make others comfortable.

Through my personal art, I explore both the joy and the challenges of Black womanhood—just being, in all its fullness. And through my brand, Only Lovely, I bring that same energy and intention to the way we celebrate life’s milestones. Weddings, birthdays, graduations, retirements—all of it is worthy of joy and recognition. Especially now, when so much in the world tries to rob us of joy, I see celebration as a necessity. My work isn’t just about making things “pretty” or following what’s trending. It’s about weaving heritage, cultural meaning, family stories, and heirlooms into designs that become keepsakes and legacies.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Full disclosure: I don’t actually live in Atlanta, but I love visiting and soaking in what the city has to offer.

If my best friend came to visit, I’d want them to leave feeling full—full of art, full of laughter, and probably full of good food. First stop would be the High Museum, especially right now with the Faith Ringgold exhibition. Her work is iconic, and seeing it in person feels like both a history lesson and a masterclass in storytelling and craft.

Then I’d take them to the Center for Puppetry Arts. Don’t let the name fool you—it’s not just for kids. The permanent Jim Henson Collection, with pieces from “The Muppets” and “The Dark Crystal,” had me absolutely swooning. It solidified my love of making by hand and the way stories get told through so many different forms.

Since I’m a spa lover, a visit wouldn’t be complete without some serious relaxation time. I’ve got my eye on The Wellness Spot, a Black-owned luxury day spa, and that would definitely be on our list.

And of course, no trip to Atlanta would be complete without visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site—it’s powerful, grounding, and a must-see. For a lighter note, I’d also throw in the World of Coca-Cola—it’s classic Atlanta fun and worth experiencing at least once.

All week, we’d sprinkle in good food, southern flavors, maybe a rooftop or two for a great view. But really, the heart of the trip would be a mix of culture, creativity, history, and care. Art to spark us, puppets to make us smile, a spa day to remind us to breathe, and those Atlanta landmarks to keep us connected to place. That’s my idea of a perfect visit.

I’m happy to share some great spots in South Carolina, too.

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?
Yikes. So many! Not enough space here for the shout-out for everyone! But I’ll start with my parents, Henry and Angela. They are the definition of tenacity, creativity, and drive. Their determination for themselves and us is not just to live, but to thrive.

They are the most resilient people I know, raising seven of us in a small home and with humble earnings. My dad is the very definition of hustle and ingenuity. I often call Daddy the jack AND master of all trades. He uses his skills as a mechanic, carpenter, brick mason, cook, plumber (the list goes on), and street smarts to provide and care for us. My mom embodies faith and humanity, wonder and care. After we all graduated high school, she enrolled in college and earned her degree in early childhood education, focusing on special education. Watching my parents throughout the years shift, adapt, and evolve to become what they needed to be for our family and for themselves has been truly inspiring.

They are not just parents to us; they love and care for those beyond our family—cousins, friends, neighbors—exuding fierce and protective love. As grandparents, they show up more like a second set of parents, offering unmatched support to my own kiddos. They truly deserve all the flowers and more.

Website: www.onlylovelycreative.com (wedding design site) and www.Aldrena.com (art and design)

Instagram: OnlyLovelyCreative

Linkedin: LinkedIn.com/in/Aldrena-hicks

Facebook: Facebook.com/OnlyLovelyCreative

Other: You are a Queen can be found on Amazon

Image Credits
Kanani Koster B..Rich Photography