Conversations with Chenay Barnes

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chenay Barnes.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always been involved in entertainment from a young age. With a background in dance and years of studying the arts, I eventually became interested in learning more about production and everything that happens behind the scenes. When I broke into the Los Angeles entertainment industry, I made it a point to learn from every experience and every person I encountered. I attended panels, continued studying, asked questions, and paid attention to the people and environments around me. I believe being intentional about learning, staying observant, and remaining open to new experiences have all played a role in getting me to where I am today.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely not! It has not been an easy road. Being in this business takes tenacity, especially if you want to build something successful and sustain it. You have to want it. It has to be your passion, and ultimately, you have to do it for the love of it. Because you will be told no, redirected, and have moments when you want to give up.

I’ve experienced all of those things many times. I’ve taken jobs I never imagined myself doing, sometimes just to sustain myself, but I’ve also learned something valuable from those experiences. I’ve come to realize that everything you encounter along the way is preparing you for what you once dreamed of.

Your dream isn’t out of reach. It’s not just some distant destination you’re waiting to arrive at. It’s in every step you’re taking, every lesson you’re learning, and wherever you are right now on your journey.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a multidisciplinary artist with a specialization in creative direction. My background is in professional dance, but over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work across the spectrum of film and television. Those experiences eventually led me into creative direction, where I now manage marketing efforts and develop branding for both artists and businesses. I really enjoy this chapter of my career. I’ve also transitioned into live production, working on live shows and events, and it’s been exciting to apply my production experience in an entirely different space.

When it comes to what I’m most proud of, honestly, it’s everything I’ve experienced throughout my career. I don’t necessarily believe one chapter is better than the next because every experience has contributed to the person and artist I am today. I’m proud of every chapter, even the ones that challenged me.

What sets me apart is my life experience. No one has walked in my shoes, and because of that, no one else can tell a story from my perspective. I think that’s true for every artist. Our experiences, our journeys, and the way we see the world are what make our work uniquely ours. For me, that’s what makes being an artist so special.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my favorite childhood memories is watching my favorite animated films. They really fueled my imagination. I would play Cinderella over and over again with my Barbie dolls, acting out my own version of the film and creating my own little worlds. Looking back, it’s so interesting to see how those moments of imagination carried into my career. Who would have known that one day, I’d actually be creating my own films and bringing my own stories to life?

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.MadameChenay.com
• Instagram: @MadameChenay

Image Credits
Chenay Barnes
Clyde Sims
Kam Bell