Meet Teyjhana B. | Student, Artist, Curator, Body Art Specialist

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

Hi Teyjhana, how do you think about risk?
I think the obvious answer for someone who likes to take risk is no risk, no reward. While that is true, I think that there are many variations to that philosophy that make it harder for most people to take risks. For me, risking anything is as easy as it it’s unsettling. I was wondering for a while why I was always so indecisive, some have told me it has to do with my astrology chart! 🙂 However, I like to weigh my options. When I get to the point where the pros outweigh the cons so much, the risk seems worth taking. When it comes to starting my creative career, as a tattoo artist, it’s kind of…on brand to be a rebel and a risk-taker. Anyway, I think the biggest risk is not the initial decision itself, but staying consistent with that decision. To keep going even though things aren’t necessarily going the way you wanted to, is risky. To continue to peruse a dying dream or an idea that your community has downplayed, is risky. To follow your heart is a risk, but one cannot see what they are capable of without risk. That being said, because I want to continually evolve, I will continue to take as many risks necessary to be the person I am meant to be.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Honestly, I’m young. I think that’s hard to remember at times, when the society we live in forces most of my generation to grow up faster than they are ready to. Constantly being overloaded on social media by other people’s wins and successes, it can be hard not to compare yourself. My biggest challenge was seeing in myself what others saw in me. I used to hate my work, my style, my process. Not to the point of trying to make it like anyone else’s, but to the point of quitting. I think that’s where it goes back to the question of why taking risks is important, and staying consistent with that choice of risk is even more dire. It was not easy at all, I mean I go to a school…a college center, really, filled with creative minds from all over the world. Atlanta is booming with creatives, so I thought why would anything I make even matter? What could my work possibly have to contribute that someone else’s doesn’t. I recently came to the conclusion that what makes it different is the mere fact that it’s mine. Being a creative, or being any type of professional, you have to be a little…a tiny bit.. conceded. You have to know that there’s no one like you, no one that can do it like you. There may be runner ups, but even a clone couldn’t replace you. That’s kind of how I think, I have moments where the thoughts of inadequacy plague my mind, however just having that affirmation in my reminders or in the back of my mind can cure those negative thoughts. It’s a training process, to train your mind to love yourself and appreciate your gifts. But I think with the right environment, it’s possible to never think you’re not enough again.

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.
I don’t go out in the city much, I personally prefer to do more nature-based activities such as hiking or sitting in the park. So, most of the things I like to do are outside the city. I would definitely take someone day camping at Sweet Water Creek. There, we can set up camp, go swimming and hike. I just like to just be, sometimes. Literally just exist in the world, little to no electronic stimulation and just vibes. I would want my best friend to see moments like that with me, moments of quiet.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are many organizations and individuals that have deeply poured into my growth over the course of my life. Some of them are no longer with me, to even see where I’ve gone or to hear my gratitude. However, I think one person who poured into was my college counselor from high school, who is now Dr. Shaw. She poured into me not only as a student, but a young black girl. She saw I had my differences from the rest, but she also saw that my dreams were big and supported them, often with brutal honesty! She showed me that anything is possible, no matter who you are or what people think of you. She is the reason why I will graduate from Spelman College, and even though she doesn’t know it, she is further inspiring me to get my PhD. She is a woman who has conquered life more than anyone I know so far; she is my inspiration, a leader in my life. For her, I am eternally grateful that God has crossed our paths.

Website: teyjhana.com

Instagram: teyjhana and teyjhanainks

Image Credits
These photos were taken on my iphone.