Meet Kenya Nelson: Graphic Designer & Artist

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

Hi Kenya, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Art and creativity has always been a part of my life. Ever since I was young, I’ve been creative whether it was making making clothes for my dolls or painting. It’s honestly the only thing I know. I could see myself doing anything else.

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.
My art and my graphic design aesthetics are very different from each other. My art is more expressive and imaginative. I don’t have a set art style because I like to explore different mediums and styles. I’ve never been one to categorize my art and it shows. That’s what makes me different; I have range. I’m starting to get involved in animation which is intimidating but exciting. As for my graphic design work, I do have a certain aesthetic I like to use, but, of course, it shifts a bit from client to client. I have to release my creative bias in order to produce work that best suits the client’s brand.

I’m proud of how far I’ve come in both of my careers. It definitely was not easy to get to where I am. I still struggle with acknowledging my skills without brushing it off as something anyone can do. I’m still learning to not compare my achievements to others. It’s hard, especially seeing everyone post their wins on social media. I just have to reassure myself that I’m on the right path and I don’t know what their journey looked like.

I want people to know that my art and brand are a reflection of me, from how I perceive and interpret information around me. I don’t make art for other people. If you enjoy it great, I appreciate it. If not, that’s fine too. I’m not here to produce entertainment for human consumption, I’m here to share who I am with the world.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m a nature freak. My birthday is on Earth day, so naturally I love the earth and everything it produces. I would take them to the Botanical Gardens in Atlanta, Arabia Mountain, Roswell Mill Waterfall and some parks around the city. I absolutely love trying new food places. The first stop would have to be Supremoguey on Memorial Dr. Their Choriqueso is godly and their churros are to live for, truly a hidden gem. Right across the street from them is Grindhouse Killer Burgers, one of the BEST burger joints in ATL.

The best places in Atlanta to visit are the ones that really make you feel like family and are chill, not the overpriced overhyped tourist traps. This may not be very interesting but my favorite thing to do here is to just drive through the city at night. ATL nightlife is so beautiful and makes me love my city. 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 dedicate this shoutout to my boyfriend and my mom. My mom has always encouraged my creativity and made sure I had the necessary tools and resources to push my career. My boyfriend, Kyle, is my #1 supporter no doubt. He’s always there to motivate and to tell me that my work is amazing and inspiring. Whenever I’m having imposter syndrome or hit an artists block, he’s there to snap me out of it and reassure me that I’m on the right path.

I would also like to shoutout my best friend, Jasmine. She inspired me to finally put myself and my art out there. Honestly, if it wasn’t for her, I would still be hiding my art and skills from the world. I’m very thankful for these incredibly supportive people in my life.

Website: bleumeraki.com

Instagram: Bleu.creative

Twitter: theBleucreative