Meet Brittany J. Kirby: Self Taught Artist, Painter & Aspiring Illustrator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brittany J. Kirby and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brittany J., what makes you happy? Why?
I would say nature makes me the happiest being from Tennessee I’ve always been surrounded by it. When I was a kid I was an avid rock collector and still am I just upgraded to crystals lol. Nature always feels familiar & is a great way to uplift my mood when I’m feeling down. It’s something about the warmth of the sun on my skin and looking up to see the clear blue sky just makes me feel worry free.

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.
I do a few different types of art. I do digital illustrations, greek paddles, acrylic paintings & mixed media. The paintings I create are heavily influenced by the music I listen to. It ranges from old school hip hop to alternative r&b music. I also paint cardboard and tissue paper to add texture and dimension to my pieces. I’m the most proud of how my art has changed and involved just in the past year. I’m really starting to make my own lane.

I would say it took me a while to get to this point and it wasn’t easy. I’ve been able to do many pieces of art in the few years since I’ve started. The hardest part for me has been putting myself out there especially as an introvert. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone before the pandemic and showcased my art for the first time along side other local artists in Nashville, Tennessee. I’m glad I did it because it gave me the opportunity to meet other young artists, give my art some exposure & gain some tips from more seasoned artists.

I’ve learned that as an artist I cannot compare myself to others. Every artist has their own unique flare. As an artist you have to come into your style. It doesn’t always just happen. You have to see what you like & what feels natural which takes a lot of practice. I’ve also learned the best way to learn is to observe others. I can get a better idea of how things are done by watching people and later giving it a try.

I want the world to know the art I create is a reflection of things make me feel. I like pieces to be vibrant, fun & cater to the imagination. Keeping things fun allows me to escape reality and continue to enjoy creating. I also want the world to know everyone outside is saying no but there’s something inside is sayin yes listen to it. Not everyone will see your vision and that’s okay.

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?
If my best friend was in town for a week I would definitely show her the art scene! To start off our day I would take her to this place downtown called The Arcade. It’s filled with small businesses and places to eat on the lower floor. Upstairs there are this beautiful art studios of all shapes and sizes. You can look in and see all the art and decor in each space. We could even walk through a big gallery towards the back. After that, we’d go across the street to have brunch at The Frothy Monkey. They have really great pancakes and even better sangrias!

The following day we’d grab breakfast at Monell’s that has a fabulous southern cuisine. After that we’d get cupcakes from The Cupcake Collection which is Black owned bakery. We’d walk the neighborhood and admire the architecture in the historic Germantown neighborhood located in North Nashville.

The next day we’d probably get an early start and drive across town to Cheekwood Botanical Gardens. We can just enjoy the outdoors and marvel in the beautiful architectural structures scattered throughout the garden. Once we finish up there we’ll head to this wonderful brunch spot called City Fire. They have an amazing menu that combine sweet and savory.

Towards the end of our week, we’re going to hit up 5th and Board way located in downtown Nashville. This location is a beautiful space filled with shopping centers & eateries. We’ll grab a bite to eat at a Black owned pizza shop called Slim & Husky’s. After that we’ll walk around and explore the shops and check out the Swipe Art Gallery. On our way out we’ll grab ice cream from Jeni’s and call it a night.

On the last day we’re going to start by having Breakfast at First Watch. Their brunch and drinks are immaculate! Their trip-fecta meal is amazing, especially with a Belgian waffle! Once we finish breakfast we’ll head across town to the life sized replica of the Greek Parthenon. The size is mind-blowing! To my surprise there is also an art gallery inside along with a colossal statue of the Greek goddess Athena.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to give a huge shoutout to my dad, Robert Kirby Jr. I feel like he was the reason I started drawing. He would always draw Homer Simpson or Garfield from memory when I was a kid. Even when I was doing art just for fun he always gave me the encourage I needed to perfect my craft. He used to say “if you don’t use it , you’ll lose it”. I’ve always kept that with me. When I began to take my art seriously I feel like he was one of my biggest supporters. Needless to say I’m a daddy’s girl and always will be.

Website: https://infernoart.bigcartel.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inferno_art96

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-j-kirby-5840b911b/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Luv_u_fa_lyfe

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