Meet Kristen Harper | Artist & Event Curator

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

Hi Kristen, what was your thought process behind starting your own business? 
My motivation for starting my business, Paint & Positivity Studio, originated from a hobby. Initially, painting and creating art served as a way for me to unwind, cope with depression, and find solace. Eight years ago, I began by selling family portraits and abstract paintings, which evolved into illustrating my first book, painting murals, and eventually opening my first art studio and gallery, Paint & Positivity Studio & Art Gallery.
My journey began with a vision to establish an art studio where individuals could gather to create. Following the guidance from Habakkuk 2:2, I outlined my vision, detailing everything required – from goals to equipment and supplies. What started as a dream has now become my reality.

How Your Business Makes a Difference in the Community and Beyond
My business is dedicated to making a positive impact through various initiatives. Among the significant projects I’ve led are my first art and music festival and the city’s first Juneteenth parade that I named The Family Reunion. These events were organized to show gratitude and love to the community, attracting nearly 30 vendors, some traveling from as far as Savannah and Atlanta, Georgia, to participate and add to the success of the celebrations. The events were iinclusive, with no fees for parade participants or vendors. The aim of these events was to introduce innovative and enriching experiences to our community.

Furthermore, I hosted a complimentary all-girls art camp, where local artists came together to introduce the girls to new creative ideas and entrepreneurial opportunities. The camp featured a range of activities such as trap art sessions, crochet workshops, guidance on using a Cricut machine. Although a dancer and cake decorator that were scheduled to participate couldn’t make it, the art camp was a success. I plan to revive both events with the backing of our community. Previous projects have been self-funded, presenting challenges while managing a physical store and life. Nonetheless, I am determined to relaunch these impactful initiatives in the near future.

What Readers Should Know About Your Work?
Kristen, the entrepreneur, prioritizes being a mother of three, an artist, and a business owner. Paint & Positivity Studio & Art Gallery offers a range of paint parties and DIY events suitable for all age groups. Our studio is the go-to place for DIY projects, art sessions, mobile and in-studio paint parties, and DIY paint kits. Each canvas is uniquely hand-drawn to match your creative vision.

As a business owner, I play multiple roles. Many of my customers are unaware that I manage everything on my own. I proudly own a business that is both woman-owned and black-owned, serving the entire community. Paint & Positivity’s motto is where community and creativity meet. Every sketch is meticulously crafted by me, from pencil outline to marker detailing, all done by my hands. I personally assemble every paint kit with love and fill each paint pot with joy, as I am highly detail-oriented and find it challenging to delegate tasks. Currently, I operate as a one-woman team, but I aspire to expand and hire employees in the future . I am currently training my daughters to host parties to help with the workload. My vision is for my business to flourish for generations to come, with the hope of passing it down to one of my three children eventually.

What readers should know about Kristen the artist? In my artistry, I draw inspiration from the world around me. As a self-taught multimedia artist, I do not limit myself to a specific style; I create based on whatever sparks my creativity. One day, I may paint with oils, and the next with acrylics. My canvas could be a wooden pallet or a piece of cardboard – the world is my canvas. When I create, I allow myself to be a vessel for divine inspiration.

If a friend popped by unexpectedly, where would your inner tour guide take them?
To kick things off, a visit to the Paint & Positivity Studio is a must of course. It’s the perfect blend of creativity, positive vibes, and a touch of musical magic for a memorable evening.

For the foodies out there, such as myself I would suggest a whirlwind culinary journey through downtown Brunswick. We’d indulge in a mix of American classics with Caribbean and Mexican influences at Indigo Coastal Shanty, a personal favorite spot that promises not just a meal but an experience.

Then We’d Prepare our taste buds for a burst of flavors at Basil Thai and Sushi! Their Thai rice with succulent chicken and sweet pineapple is a culinary delight that might tempt you to thank the chef with a kiss!

We’d finish the tour with a leisurely walk on St. Simons Island pier, basking in the sun and ocean breeze. Perhaps take a side trip to the lighthouse before enjoying a satisfying meatloaf dinner at Barbara Jean’s.

For those who enjoy the nightlife, I must admit have no suggestions – my foodie instincts take the lead!

Shoutout is about recognizing and highlighting individuals who deserve extra acknowledgment and visibility. Who do you think should receive a shoutout?

First and foremost, I want to give a shoutout to my family and friends who supported my art when I doubted myself and was too shy and timid to share it with the world. Being a reserved person, I usually prefer to “hide” behind my canvas, but the encouragement from my loved ones and community motivated me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace new opportunities. You know who you are! Thank you!!!

I also want to express my gratitude to A Better Glynn, a community outreach program in Glynn County. This organization is dedicated to fostering a community where everyone can thrive, setting an example for rural communities by promoting equity through civic engagement, social justice, advocacy, and leadership development. Their ongoing support, including recently ordering a large portrait from me for their upcoming Our Legacy Gala, has been invaluable to my business. And is greatly appreciated.

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to several Ministries that have graciously supported my business endeavors. These Ministries have entrusted my studio to host paint parties, engaged my services for special occasions, and procured paint kits for their events or members. Notable among them are Greater Works Ministries, Beloved Ministries, and Empowerment City Church.

Moreover, I am thankful to local businesses that have boosted my business by booking paint parties for their special events or corporate retreats. Entities like Georgia CASA, Coastal Area Action Authority, Safe Harbor Center, The Star Foundation, and the Brunswick Police Department have played a vital role in my entrepreneurial journey.

I also appreciate the local chapters of Jack & Jill, Delta Sigma Theta, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc for their consistent support of my woman-owned and black-owned business. Choosing Paint and Positivity Studio for their gatherings has been a significant show of solidarity.

To all those who have supported me over the years, your encouragement has been truly invaluable. Thank you wholeheartedly for your continuous support.

Lastly, I want to thank each and every person who has supported my growing business. Whether you bought a waist beads, a painting, or a ticket to a paint party, your support means the world to me. Special thanks to those who have liked, shared, or spread the word about my work and my business. Your support is truly appreciated, and I am grateful for each one of you. My business’s success and growth are all thanks to your support. Thank you.

Instagram: @paintandpositivitystudio

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555450783156&mibextid=ZbWKwL

Image Credits
Ariel Rooks