We had the good fortune of connecting with Brianna Sealey and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Brianna, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
As a black millennial working as a creative, I take risks every day. I feel that I have to take some risks to get where I want to be in life. I know it doesn’t make sense to my family, who chose a more traditional lifestyle or rode to success. The road I chose is and has been a long and emotional one, with lots of ups and downs. The risks I’ve taken so far have gotten me where I am. It was a risk to leave my family and move across the country to attend art school. It is a risk to hold out for jobs and gigs that are creative or artistic instead of working a regular 9-5. It’s a risk to start a business and invest in equipment and materials. It’s a risk to cover costs for productions or create productions for free for exposure. Some risks were successful and some of them were not. That’s the point, though. Because even when the risk isn’t successful, the successful ones are so much sweeter.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is portrayed in my designs. With every production, piece of furniture, and concept, I try to put my unique spin on things by using natural materials in my designs. What helps me stand out from other creative designers is that I know how to build the things I design. I save time by thinking about how things will be built while designing amazing pieces.
I am most proud of myself for not giving up on myself. There are so many times when I want to throw in the towel, but I always get a sign to keep fighting. I got to where I am today by maintaining good relationships wherever I go and doing my best at every job or gig I am a part of.
Working as a creative and entrepreneur is not an easy road at all. The emotional challenges alone are a crazy battle to fight. Having my family and friends being there for me as well as the creative circle around me helped me to keep going. It helps to be around people who are on a similar artistic path. The lesson is infinite. Some of the most important lessons are what not to do. My goal is to have my own production design studio working in the television and theatre industry. I want the world to know my creations.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
So many people have helped me get to this stepping stone in my career. First, my family. They may not always get it but they help me keep going. Second, my Newark family. Way too many people to name! Mitch, Drea, David, Reis, Nadus, Kaishon, and the whole Akin family. And lastly, the production companies that gave me a chance, Dunbar Repertory Co., Tribal Innovations, and Reel Film Media to name a few. Thank you all for the support, mentorship, love and encouragement.
Website: www.briannasdesigns.com
Instagram: @briannas.designs
Image Credits
Malaika Mundi, Orchid Clay, David Orrell-Chester,