Meet Priyanka McKinnes | Artist

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

Hi Priyanka, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’ve always wanted to start my own business, but math was never my strong point in school, and growing up in India, there weren’t many options to do so. I didn’t want to depend on my husband for financial support and I wanted to be financially independent. In February 2020, only a month before the COVID lockdown started, I moved to the US. I began painting as a hobby when the lockdown started. I instantly became enamored with the technique because it gave me the opportunity to combine the distinctive designs and hues of my culture with those of my new home in the US. I was able to do so in a way that was expressive and vibrant, introducing the two cultures to one another. My reason for starting my business was to spread the message that your grades do not define you. Skills can be acquired through work and trial and failure. If you have a dream, pursue it to create opportunities for yourself. I take care of my company’s financial operations, which I never imagined I would be able to do. Let your passion and enthusiasm help you reach your goals.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have two jobs and I love both so much. These two jobs encapsulate who I am, where I came from, and where I am going as an artist and individual.

My first job is working for a non-profit which is very close to my heart because I was raised within the organization in India. As an adult, I now can give back to the organization that raised me by working for it within the US. I love being able to help children in need just as I was helped so many years ago.

My second job is my art. My art represents me, my culture, and my faith. Before I knew Christ as my savior, my life was dark. I was lonely and afraid. Now God has filled my life with color. He has placed friends, family, loved ones, and blessings all around me to brighten the life He has blessed me with. The colors in my paintings reflect the joy God has placed in my heart, and I create them out of gratitude for all He has done. My art is a form of praise to God for bringing me out of the darkness and into a colorful life. While I have no formal training in art, I have been developing my skills as an artist in a way that reflects my own unique style.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

If I had a friend visit, I would take them camping, hiking, or whitewater rafting in north Georgia. Also, we could spend some time at Lake Lanier enjoying the sunsets. Take a trip to the charming mountain town of Blue Ridge to do outdoor activities, visit local shops, and art galleries, and enjoy a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. We will go to Amicalola Falls and Dahlonega. I love going to new restaurants, trying new coffees and desserts, and just learning about the history of the place.

Make lots of memories because the same time will never come back.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

I extend my gratitude and appreciation to all the people who have helped me along the way and cheered me on.

I would like to recognize both my biological and adoptive parents. Their support and love have helped me take risks and succeed in ways I did not know were possible.

I must give most of the credit to my wonderful husband Paul who helped me to start my small business and has been by my side through each step. I also must give a shout-out to my amazing sister Jyoti who encouraged me and I was inspired by her to make Mandala.

Website: https://www.priyankamckinnespaintings.com/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PriyankaMckinnes/

Image Credits
I take photos of my paintings