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

Hi Erikan, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
Success is defined by the joy derived from what you are doing. It is the freedom that you have in what you are doing. Success to me is when my paintings are not only appreciated and admired from afar, but also when it is time to earn a sale. Success is not all about the money aspect, but it does play a key part. Knowing the quality and time it took for me to complete each unique piece, when it’s time for a consumer to purchase my paintings, we both walk away feeling good about the price. Many times, consumers want what they believe is the best deal for them and selfishly, most times it’s one-sided in the interest of the buyer. Art is my livelihood. Being in this creative space is how I provide for myself and family. This is the gift that I have been given by God and it’s my assignment and what I’ve been called to do. There is no Plan B. My paintings are great and the value that I have priced for each painting, is what I am given.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart from others is my creative process. My style is unique all on its own. How I implement the elements in my paintings; my inspiration is different. The way I get my inspiration is that I visualize it and then materialize it. It’s a thinking process. I paint what I see.

I’m excited each time I complete a piece and I’m proud when my paintings are sold. It confirms that I’m doing what makes people happy when consumers purchase my paintings.

Getting to where I am professionally is a combination of persistence, resilience, long-suffering, commitment and not giving up along the way. I have to be focused. So, I do not waiver. I will not quit. I do not give up hope. I keep pressing on. As much as it was rough with many ups and downs, I still remain in my craft. Hope and faith are the same. So whether I choose to hope or have faith, I have to believe that each day will get better. There are no failures, only lessons to learn and obstacles to overcome.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way is to be my authentic self as uniquely as I know how. I’ve learned not to be somebody else and focus on my craft. It takes too much work and effort not to be you. It’s like attempting to fit a circle in a square; if either one of those objects are big enough, theoretically it will work, but at what cost. I’ve learned not to take other people for granted. I’ve learned not to take other talents for granted. I appreciate nature and other creative people. I have a positive energy towards nature and I see everything around me as an opportunity to explore.

What I want the world to know of my brand is the uniqueness of getting a one of a kind art piece that nobody else has. My brand is a masterpiece. No duplicates, no print. I want everyone to know that this is my brand and this is what I’m known for. When others mention Erikan Ekefrey in art conversations, I want them to say he doesn’t duplicate or repeat, he just keeps dropping masterpieces.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m an easy person in what I like. So with that, I would take them to the High Museum in Atlanta to see beautiful art from other talented artists. For food, I would take them to Nations café. I go there a lot and I know they have good food there.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to give a shoutout to my father, Emmanuel Ekefrey. He is my mentor and inspiration. He is the one that taught me everything that I know about art and why I am excelling. I also want to thank my friend, Alfred Addo. His encouragement and wisdom in how I promote and sell my paintings independently of galleries and art houses has made such an impact on me taking control of my business. He is a good friend and loving. I appreciate him greatly.

Website: www.ErikanArtwork.com

Instagram: instagram.com/ErikanArt

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/erikan-ekefrey

Facebook: facebook.com/ErikanArtwork

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