Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Slaton.
Hi Crystal, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have always loved art and creating since I was a child. I would watch my mom craft all the time and learned how to do many things just from watching her, but her sketch book was what impressed me the most as a child. I took as many art classes throughout school as possible, and wasn’t the best in the class, but was passionate about it. I was very involved in my church youth group and was used creatively quite often. I was often asked to paint or create stage pieces that pushed what I believed I was capable of. Often times it would turn out great and this is what build confidence in me to be able to do more with my artistic abilities. In my early 20’s my uncle asked me to do a mural for him. He owned a property that a Publix was being built on and had a large, empty wall that needed art. Up until this point I was yet to do a large scale mural so I avoided answering him for probably a month or so, out of sheer doubt in my capability. Eventually I said yes, still terrified I would ruin his wall, but it actually turned out pretty great. I’ve learned from this, never say no to a good opportunity, even if you’re unsure if you can do it, what’s the worst that can happen. I have gotten to do many murals now. Last year a friend of mine was opening a Jeremiah’s Italian ice and needed artwork in his store. Do to time issued he asked if I could make it digitally to be printed on vinyl and installed. This is another thing I wasn’t super familiar with doing, but said yes! They were very happy with it and I was asked to join the Jeremiah’s team creating artwork for their stores all around the country. I love it and thank God all the time that I get to create.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has not always been a smooth, easy road. Though I have always loved doing art, it’s hard to get yourself noticed. I’ve gone through seasons where art has had to take the back seat, for different reasons like becoming a mom, having to have a job that actually pays money, or just not having the time. A few years ago I felt I needed to devote more time and effort to my art, but I wasn’t seeing much fruit from my labor. I started part time teaching art in that process, and it just wasn’t the same as doing art yourself. I kept at it and it was worth it because now I get to do art as my job.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Currently I am mostly doing digital art mostly. I create pieces of art that are printed out on huge vinyls and installed as murals. I also paint murals. That was what I originally did and it has evolved. My art is very illustrative. I love Bright colors and bold lines. If you were to tell me my artwork makes your feel happy when you look at it, that’s probably the best compliment you could give me.
About 8 years back I moved to Miami and visited Wynwood, which is covered in all kinds of beautiful art. I told myself I was going to do a mural there one day. Shortly after, I got that opportunity to paint a mural there and it was one of the coolest opportunities I have had.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I can be contacted through my email, crystalleeartt@gmail. I also have a Etsy shop that I am trying to build up with digital artwork. https://crystalleeprints.etsy.com/ Following me on my instagram @crystalleeartist is a huge support also.
Pricing:
- Murals $ 25 – $35 per sqft
- Artwork for Digital murals range from $750 – $100
Contact Info:
- Website: https://crystalleeprints.etsy.com/
- Instagram: @crystalleeartist
Image Credits
Kimdavi Photos
