Today we’d like to introduce you to Shadae Tompkins.
Hi Shadae, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started with a love for creativity and expression, but over time I realized my real strength was in vision, being able to see how different pieces, people, and ideas could come together to create something bigger. That’s what led me into curating. I’ve grown from simply appreciating art to intentionally creating spaces where artists can be seen, valued, and experienced in a way that feels elevated and cohesive. Every step of my journey has been about trusting my eye, building community, and turning ideas into something tangible and my recent curated show “The Kitchen” is a reflection of that.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but I think that’s what made the journey meaningful. I’ve had to navigate things like limited resources, doing a lot on my own, and pushing through moments where things didn’t come together as easily as I envisioned. There were also personal shifts happening at the same time, so I was learning how to stay grounded while still building something I believed in. But those challenges sharpened my vision, strengthened my discipline, and made me more confident in the spaces I create today.
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?
I work full-time in digital marketing, so I have a strong foundation in strategy, branding, and understanding what resonates with people. At the same time, I consistently create and curate, which allows me to bring those ideas to life in a more tangible, artistic way. I specialize in building experiences that feel cohesive, elevated, and intentional. From the visual details to the overall energy of a space.
I’m known for my eye and my vision of being able to see how everything connects and turning that into something real. What I’m most proud of is my consistency and my ability to create opportunities for myself and others, even while balancing a full-time career.
What sets me apart is that I bridge both worlds. I don’t just think creatively, I execute strategically. I understand how to make something not only look good, but feel aligned, impactful, and memorable.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love the creative spirit here! There’s a lot of raw talent and people who are really passionate about what they do. I also like that it feels connected; once you tap into the community, you start to recognize familiar faces and collaborations happen naturally.
The challenge is that it can sometimes feel like there aren’t enough structured opportunities for artists and creatives to consistently grow or showcase their work. That’s part of what inspired me to start curating more intentionally.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shadaelapreill
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1E7o2rTzXD/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shadae-tompkins-a992b9167
