Today we’d like to introduce you to Candous Creates.
Hi Candous Creates, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Learning firsthand in a Deaf household, I realized that majority of language is mainly about expression. Drawing/painting is literally an unspoken language that began as an outlet, a hobby. I eventually blended my skills with tattooing, after working several jobs that didn’t serve me. Within my evolution I’ve done live paintings in small lounges, local murals, and hosted several sip & paint classes. Paying homage to the Deaf community has also allowed me to extend my range of talent by co-hosting painting classes using Sign Language, “Sign and Paint”. Creating accessibility for the Deaf community, which challenges the communication barriers between the hearing and Deaf world. Bringing about a perfect marriage of both my identities.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Trying not to get discouraged is a forever battle that keeps me motivated. Back when I was working two 9-5 jobs I knew I couldn’t keep sleeping on my talent. During the time I turned one of my mom’s bedrooms into my studio decorated with all my paintings. By me being a female I couldn’t have just anyone coming over so I later went mobile. That was a hassle too because I’m burning gas, charging low prices, and adjusting to these different houses. I pulled up to one where they didn’t have any chairs and the lights were cut off. I’m thinking a tattoo should be the last thing they need to worry about lol. It wasn’t much profit in this. I was focused on just building a portfolio to get into a shop. I ended up dropping one of my 9-5 jobs to work in this street shop that offered me a spot. It was exciting but it really hit me that this industry was male dominated. So now I’m dealing with building clientele from 0 while not being a pushover. The respect was handled differently towards female artists back then compared to now. Female artists are way more respected today.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Tattooing is my main full time however if there’s a gig for me to paint something, I’m snatching it up. As far as what I specialize in, I keep myself rounded so I don’t just fall into one category. I really enjoy doing colorful tattoos however in my paintings, I prefer black & white with a splash of color. Im really most proud of the huge murals I’ve done. They are a lot of work and it takes such a toll on my body yet it’s still rewarding. Hmm, what sets me apart? Being a creative that’s a part of the hearing world and deaf world.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
You get what you focus on, so focus on what you want! My determination is what got me here. I use to have a bad habit of comparing others successes to mine, because I’ve worked so hard & remained consistent. Then I realized that in divine timing everything will play out when it’s suppose to. Staying uplifted even when I didn’t feel that way really played a major role in my success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.elevatedinkgallery.com
- Instagram: @candouscreates
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@candouscreates
