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

Hi Kiah, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The year I graduated, 2012 it was rare for someone to work in the field of their M=major. It was even more rare to actually use a Fine Art major – rarely did you hear of a full time fine artist “making it”. This scared the heck out of me but it also challenged and motivated me to try! I remember my dad telling me to save up and give myself and my business 6 months of everything I had- to go all in for 6 months and if I failed… well, I was only out 6 months and at least I could say I tried. Thanks to the Lord above who was watching out for me, a ton of emotional support from my folks, and a lot of hard work I’m thankful to say seven years later it was the best decision I ever made.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a mixed media abstract landscape painter. I grew up on the east coast immersed in blues and greens, as you can see reflected in my work. I was born out west and have a lot of family I go visit in beautiful parts of the country – this is where some of the desert colors emerge in my work. I am really inspired by the natural world around me, the landscape, being outside and most of all the water! I love the water! You can see this is the fluid portions of my work.

I am really excited and proud to look back at the past seven years and see my large portfolio. Painting deadline to deadline for shows, gallery exhibits, or individual commission work has really pushed me to make work. It is mind blowing to see how my work has evolved – but I’m not there yet, there is still so much I want to accomplish! I love working large and feel like the sky is the limit!

How did I get here today? Tiny baby step by tiny baby step!

I began painting and working in a local gallery as a gallery associate full time – this helped me learn the business side of art and eventually transitioned out to paint full time as I got busier. For about 5 years I worked 6 to 7 full days a week. I actually had two side jobs as well so I could afford my own apartment/ studio. It was scary, but at some point I just had to bet on myself, go all in and trust the work would come. I am thankful to say it did and I just tried to take it one day, one project at at time. It consisted of a lot of late nights and early mornings. A big lesson I have learned is if you can make hard work fun and learn to love it – you will fly! And when I fall down or make a mistake (as this will continue to happen as long as I’m living) don’t be afraid to get right back up. Always be willing to learn! It is not easy, and it is not always pretty, but that’s where the magic happens. When a client feels connected to my work there is nothing more gratifying. If I can bring joy or peace & happiness to their home then I feel I have completed my job 🙂 !

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As a big lover of the outdoors I would take them for a bike ride on the Swamp Rabbit Trail. We have the best trail that runs through the heart of downtown greenville out to Travelers Rest. Of course we would need to stop at some of the multiple breweries along the way and Swamp Rabbit Cafe!

A new favorite Restaurant of mine is Oak Hill Cafe – thats a must! They offer farm to table plates from their on campus garden with amazing wine parings and extensive cocktail menu – you cant go wrong if you’re going for brunch or dinner!

My husband and I also love to rent from Sunrift Adventures in Travelers Rest go paddle boarding or kayaking at Lake Jocassee! It’s a beautiful freshwater lake just under an hour from Greenville.

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?
My Parents! They encouraged and motivated me from the start, they believed in me and my work when I didn’t believe in myself- they are my biggest Cheerleaders and support group! When I was just starting out and could not afford a studio of my own they let me paint in their guest bedroom, I put a tarp down on the hardwood floors, cranked the music up and went for it.

Also, my husband Jacob. He is always there by my side at Art openings, helping me transport large paintings in his truck, or if I need to work late in the studio – just being there and available is huge and I’m so thankful for him!

Website: https://www.kiahannbellows.com

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kiah-A-Bellows-Art-691770707533121

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAyCLKBMAFpEYzpSU7UtEJQ

Image Credits
Emily Bolt Photo Eli Warren Photo

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