Meet Shaomin Kee | Business Owner, Climate Activist, & Artist

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

Hi Shaomin, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic and creative career because I believe that art is an incredibly powerful tool for raising awareness and driving change, especially in the context of climate change. While climate science and STEM fields are vital in addressing this global crisis, art offers a unique and often underestimated way to connect with people’s emotions and convey the urgency of the issue.

Throughout my life, I’ve been passionate about art and its ability to communicate complex ideas and emotions. This passion led me to establish my business, Keewi Creations, which is centered around creating climate awareness comics and related merchandise. Through this venture, I aim to harness the emotional impact of art to engage not only those already affected by climate change but also those who are yet to feel its consequences.

Overall, my decision to pursue an artistic and creative career stems from my belief in the potential of art to serve as a catalyst for change, particularly in the fight against climate change. Through Keewi Creations, I strive to use art as a medium to connect with people’s emotions, raise awareness, and drive positive environmental action.

What should our readers know about your business?
Keewi Creations, operating as an art account on Instagram (@keewicreations), uses digitally drawn comics and art to convey important messages about climate change, as well as showcase cute animals to the world. In addition to online content, we offer merchandise like tote bags and t-shirts to further spread our core message. Collaborating with organizations such as Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Programs, we’ve expanded our reach by sharing our comics on their official social media accounts, reaching a wider audience.

In terms of special projects we’re working on, we’re working with a Wusasa community member in Nigeria by conducting sensitization groups and seminars with local schoolchildren in the community, educating them about climate change and its consequences. Together, we’re also in the process of publishing a children’s book on the same subject.

Overall, my journey with starting and leading Keewi Creations has been immensely enriching and educational. This project has not only bolstered my artistic confidence through sharing my work online, but it has also provided me with the unique opportunity to collaborate with remarkable organizations, broaden my horizons, and make a positive difference in the world. Keewi Creations was never about personal gain; it’s been a vehicle for change, a testament to the potency of art as a way to inspire action in communities all over the world. Through this project, I’ve come to appreciate the profound impact that art can have in shaping a better future for our planet and its inhabitants, and I hope others can realize the same.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of my all-time favorite spots in Atlanta has to be the Georgia Aquarium. The aquarium is a true treasure, a place where captivating wildlife and environmental awareness seamlessly merge. From its coastal birds exhibit, which I can’t wait to explore on my next visit, to the myriad of other fascinating creatures, including jellyfish, penguins, tortoises, seahorses, and many more, it’s an oceanic wonderland that never fails to keep my interest. What makes the experience even more enriching is the educational component – each exhibit is accompanied by informative descriptions that provide a deeper understanding of the diverse species and their habitats. Whether you’re visiting with friends or family, the Georgia Aquarium offers an exceptional opportunity not only to be entertained but also to stay informed about the incredible biodiversity that thrives on our planet.

Beyond the mesmerizing aquatic world of the Georgia Aquarium, I also cherish my visits to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. As you wander through its carefully cultivated gardens, you’ll encounter an array of flowers that paint the landscape with vibrant colors. And when you’ve worked up an appetite, there are delightful dining options available to satisfy your hunger. This place is an absolute paradise for photography enthusiasts, and I’ve personally taken countless photos there to capture the natural splendor. I wholeheartedly recommend the Atlanta Botanical Gardens as a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and find inspiration in its ever-changing landscapes. Atlanta truly offers a wealth of experiences, and these two gems, the Georgia Aquarium and the Atlanta Botanical Gardens are among my absolute favorites.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The climate organization, Bow Seat, has had a profound impact on my personal and professional development, shaping me into a more effective climate activist and a capable leader. My involvement in one of the nonprofit’s programs, the International Future Blue Youth Council, along with the support and collaboration of its members, has been instrumental in my growth both as an individual and as an advocate for environmental causes. I am greatly appreciative to each and every person listed below – for being amazing team members, mentors, and friends.

Staff:
Linda Cabot
Anne Chan Leslie
Eric Carstens
Jeremy Pivor
Ajay Sawant

Future Blue Youth Council Members:
Sunook Yoon
Malika Gizzat
Aarushi Ammavajjala
Emily Xing
Satvika Iyer
Sarah Robison
Dhruv Bhatt
Ariana Piscoya
Ishan Kapur
Jayashabari Shankar
Yuzuna Kudo
Riya Sharma
Elizabeth Akomolafe
Shaomin Kee

Website: https://bowseat.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fromthebowseat/ and https://www.instagram.com/future.blue.youth.council/

Website: https://keewicreations.carrd.co/

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