artist to watch

Art & Chat with Katie Meek!

I have teamed up with a beautiful creative, Katie Meek, of Meekly Yours! Seriously how awesome is the name of her business!? Thanks to Rising Tide Society, Katie and I have collaborated to showcase some of her stunning pieces and give fellow creatives/girlbosses some insight on business and taking risks! Meekly Yours (www.meeklyyours.com) is a design, hand lettering, and illustration studio owned and operated by Katie Meek. Meekly Yours creates unique products using hand drawn lettering and illustrations and positive messages, including laser cut word signs, greeting cards, and art prints, that bring joy and whimsy to customers and clients. Meekly Yours also offers custom services for all products to make your special moments unique and personal. Make sure to check Katie out on Facebook (www.facebook.com/meeklyyours); Instagram & Twitter (@meeklyyours) and show her some love!


How did you get started doing your business?

 After graduating from college, with a B.A. in graphic design, I worked in print production as a project manager. As a creative outlet, I started sketching and doodling more and decided creating my own cards and prints, featuring my designs, to share them with the world.

How long have you been creating these pieces?

 I started creating designs at the end of 2014 and officially formed my business in January 2015. I have been in business just over two years. 

What inspires your work? 

I'm inspired by everything around me, but a lot of my inspiration comes from seeing the work of other creatives, being in nature, and spending time with my friends and family. 

What is your goal for your business? 

Hand lettering is a unique, expressive approach to design that I'm drawn to and bring me joy. I strive to create designs that are bright, positive, and help bring joy and personality to my customers and clients—whether it's brightening their home and office decor or celebrating a special event in their lives.

What would you suggest to other creatives and girl bosses that want to grow their business? 

There are two main things I would recommend when starting and growing your business. First, be willing to take a leap of faith sometimes. Planning and troubleshooting is great, but at some point you have to take the jump and do what your planning to do—whether you're opening your business, adding a new product, or starting a new avenue of your business. There is no “right time.” Second, you don't have to and shouldn't do everything. Trends, business philosophies, and social media platforms come and go, but some may not be right for your business. Look at what makes the most sense for your business, your life, and your customers and it will all work out.

What is your favorite piece? 

My favorite piece changes a lot as I add new designs. I love the “Oh the Places You'll Go" wood sign (https://www.etsy.com/listing/509951652/oh-the-places-youll-go-laser-cut-wood?ref=shop_home_feat_1) and the “Mocha” cupcake print (https://www.etsy.com/listing/509359428/cupcake-hand-illustrated-5x7in-mini?ref=listing-shop-header-3). The “Monstrous Salutations” card (https://www.etsy.com/listing/218562336/monstrous-salutations-card-hand-lettered?ref=shop_home_active_4) was one of my very first cards and is still a top favorite. 

Orlando Artists To Watch!

Art...what do you think when I say that word? I have always loved art and studied art in school, granted I don't have much talent when it comes to painting or drawing. My art is photography, but I have always been super inspired by artists, whether it be a painter, a photographer, or a writer, in a way everyone is there own artist right? Well I am very inspired by two awesome artists in particular that I want to share with you, Genna Sweetnam and Peterson Guerrier. I want to thank these two fabulous souls for opening up their studios and allowing me to capture their art and them at work! You both are SUPER AWESOME!


Genna

Genna and I met in a drawing class in college and we were instant friends! This girl loves everything art and everything art loves her....she is so talented in all art forms! It's inspiring to know someone that doesn't want to limit themselves to just one art form but do their very best at every art form they try! She is a fabulous painter and creator, her pieces have a great sense of adventure and whimsy that bring such joy to everyone that sees them! Make sure to check out her IG @giggerbug and show her some love!


Peterson

Peterson and I met at my first job out of college at an art gallery. He quickly became one of my favorite people at work and another inspiring artist! Peterson is also super talented at all art forms! Not only is he a great photographer but painter as well! I love that he blends these forms together capturing his subjects through his lens as well as his paint brush! Probably my favorite thing about Peterson's work is that it is expressive and takes you to a place with true emotions. Peterson is super fun to be around and watch take on the art scene, truly inspiring! Make sure to check out his IG @mr_guerrier and his website HERE