Life & Work with Tempestt Kirby

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tempestt Kirby.

Hi Tempestt, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am a self-taught artist who was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. My nomadic upbringing put me in the position to interact with many different types of people and personalities as I grew up. After attending college for business management and working several 9-5 jobs, I found myself unfulfilled with what my life had become. Unsure of my next move, I was gifted with some paint and canvases from my sister, who had taken an art class but was no longer in need of the supplies. I painted my first acrylic painting in two days and felt truly fulfilled doing so. Although I have always sketched at different times in my life, nothing compared to the feeling I felt completing a painting from a blank canvas. Although it has been a long and unsure road I have traveled, I finally feel that I am right where I’m supposed to be.

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?
It has definitely been a bumpy road, but I have learned so much and continue to learn so much along the way. I have struggled, like many artists, to find my creative voice. In a world filled with so much noise, it is sometimes hard to hear your own thoughts so it is important for me to make time to meditate regularly to connect with myself and my own voice so that I can create what God has put in me to create. I am also a bit of an introvert so it’s really hard for me to put myself front and center when it comes to selling my art. Fighting my fear of being seen is my goal for 2024, and this interview is definitely helping with that, so thank you.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a multi-media artist with a focus on portraying the experiences of people of color, emphasizing their bravery, pain, resilience, and humanity. Using a combination of books, paintings, and collages, my goal is to craft moments that are both personal and universally relatable. Through my work, I aim to offer insight into the challenges faced by people of color in America, fostering understanding and recognizing our shared humanity. The most fulfilling aspect for me is witnessing others connect with my creations, either seeing themselves or people they know reflected in the art, fostering a sense of shared identity and the belief that we are all deserving of love and acceptance.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Yes! I love Spotify. Most of the time, I am either listening to music or an audiobook. I’m also currently reading and loving The Creative Act by Rick Rubin. It is full of amazing insights that I relate to as a creative soul.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tempesttkart.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tempesttk/