Conversations with Stephanie Santiago

Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Santiago. 

Stephanie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Absalom is a Women-owned, Latina-owned, and Family operated business. I am super proud of where we are now, where we started, and the places we will go! The idea of Absalom all started with a deep seeded desire to help others and make a difference within our community. 

We started during the COVID pandemic with our premium CBD product line. Our mission was to educate people about its benefits and help people feel better. As we grew, we were able to secure a studio where we expanded the mission exponentially. Since I have my Master’s in Fine Arts, I started to offer paint parties and invite local artists to perform in our Open Mics, Comedy Shows, Poetry Slams, Music Competitions, and more. 

Since the goal of the studio is to heal the whole person, we expanded our wellness aspect. We are proud to offer Massage Therapy, Yoga, Doula Services, and Acupuncture. For us, it is all about the experience a client has with us. That is why we call Absalom an Experience Studio. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Unfortunately, it has not been a smooth road. However, looking on the bright side, it is what makes this journey even more exciting. The rough patches help us appreciate the good times and grow as individuals. All the best things take the most effort. 

My Grandmother, who has since passed away, taught me, “Life is thorns and rose petals. There will be many many more thorns than rose petals. However, when you step on the rose petals, you will feel such happiness and appreciation. Those are the moments we all live for.” 

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 am an Artist. I have my Master’s in Fine Arts with a concentration in the Studio Arts. I love to draw and paint. I paint on anything I can, but I specialize in murals. My art is Neo-Expressionism, and my influences include Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Leon Golub, Trenton Doyle Hancock, Picasso, Salvador Dali, Peter Saul, and more! I really LOVE art. I would say that my unique and expressively grotesque drawing style, combined with vividly contrasting colors, distinguishes me from the crowd. Come check it out at Absalom! 

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
I have learned to take life one day at a time. It’s great to plan and have goals but there are some things you cannot control no matter how hard you try. Therefore, what I do is prepare myself the best I can and take challenges head-on without fear. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.AbsalomStudios.com
• Instagram: AbsalomStudios
• Facebook: Absalom
• Twitter: AbsalomxArt
• Youtube: Absalom Studio
• Yelp: Absalom