Meet Solely Tonia: Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Solely Tonia and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Solely, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I started my business in the beginning of 2020, which was a hard year for everyone. The pandemic effected everyone differently, but for me it definitely pushed me to bet on myself and my talents. I’ve always wanted to make money off of my art but was too scared to put myself out there because i’m sensitive about my work. But when covid hit, I felt it was the perfect time to show the world my talent, no matter how scary or intimidating it might be.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve loved drawing since I was a child, but didn’t take it seriously until 2018. Now, about 3 years into my art journey i’ve fell even more in love with it. It took a lot for me to make my art public because i was scared of the feedback i’d get from it. Social media is a scary, judgmental place but it’s also a great place to promote yourself & your talents. So as simple as it may sound, I’m proud of myself for taking that leap of faith. Since i’ve posted my art I’ve gotten more support than I thought I would. I’m improving more and more everyday on my craft. It hasn’t been easy learning how to draw things i’m not used to & figuring out my art style, but it’s definitely been worth it. Staying persistent is the key. That and having the confidence to know that I can do whatever I want in my career, as long as I work hard for it. What sets me & my brand apart from others is the light hearted feel I try to bring to everything I do. Although I am very serious about my art, I try not to take myself too seriously & I try to bring a humorous/fun element to my art if at all possible.
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.
My best friend & I have lived in Georgia pretty much all our lives. Our favorite thing to do is eat! Our favorite restaurant is Fish Thyme in Acworth, we usually have our weekly fix of that or pretty much anywhere where there’s good food & drinks I’m there!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family are definitely my biggest support system. But surprisingly enough, other than my family, the friends that i’ve made through the internet over the years have shows me an immense amount of support. It’s crazy how the people you’ve never met in person can support you more than your friends from home do.
Instagram: SolelyArt_
Twitter: @SolelyTonia
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdTmvoSJF9IS42hZDcSrwfA