Today we’d like to introduce you to Sylvine Maliko.
Hi Sylvine, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always loved to create — I’m an artist at heart. I started drawing when I was just a kid, around two or three years old. Traditional art was my first love; it’s where I learned how to express myself and connect with people through visuals.
As I got older, I discovered digital art, and that changed everything for me. It accelerated my process and opened doors I didn’t even know existed. The same thing happened with social media — it gave me a platform to share my work, build community, and grow my brand in ways that completely transformed my life.
At one point, I decided to take a full leap of faith and drop out of university to focus entirely on my art. It was risky, but I knew I was building something real. Over time, that passion turned into a full business — and eventually, multiple companies.
I’ve been blessed to make millions doing what I love, but the real reward is seeing how my art impacts people. For me, it’s never just been about the visuals — it’s about purpose, faith, culture, and creating pieces that carry presence wherever they’re placed.
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 definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Choosing the path of entrepreneurship is already tough — but doing it in the art world, especially coming from where I come from, adds another layer of challenge.
You learn a lot along the way, and not all of it is easy. I had to accept that people won’t always understand your vision, and you won’t always get the support you expect. There are times when you put in everything — the late nights, the work, the heart — and it still doesn’t reach people the way you hoped. Sometimes things don’t sell, or plans fall apart completely.
But through all of that, I’ve learned the importance of staying adaptable and grounded. You have to keep going, even when it feels like no one’s watching. Every obstacle has taught me something, and looking back, all those challenges shaped me into the artist and business owner I am today.
My faith in God has helped me a lot!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m known as the founder of Smard Art — one of the best Black art brands out there. My specialty is art in all its forms — traditional and digital. I’ve always been focused on representation and storytelling, especially within the Black community and through the lens of faith and culture. My work is meant to make people feel something — strength, peace, or purpose.
I’m also deeply involved in the business side of what I do. I’ve learned how to use social media to build a brand, grow a community, and create something that truly connects with people. I take pride in understanding both the creative and strategic sides of the journey.
What I’m most proud of is what I’ve been able to build and create for people who look like me and share my values. Seeing how my art inspires others, represents our culture, and brings faith and meaning into people’s homes — that’s what it’s all about for me.
What sets me apart is that I create from a real place. Every piece, every move, every design comes from heart and purpose — and I think that’s what people connect to.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I definitely wouldn’t be where I am without the people God placed around me. My family has always been supportive — especially my siblings. They’ve helped and encouraged me on so many levels, even when they were worried that what I was doing was too risky. Their love and support have meant everything.
My small circle of friends also believed in me from the start — they know who they are. They’ve always been in my corner, cheering me on through every stage of this journey.
I also have to give major credit to my community online. I truly wouldn’t be here without them. The people who follow, support, and share my work have played a huge role in helping me grow and reach the level I’m at now.
And a special mention goes to my business partner, who I met about a year and a half after my business took off. He’s been an incredible mentor and played a big part in helping me scale everything to a whole new level. I’ll always be grateful for that.
But above all, all glory goes to God. None of this would be possible without Him. Every step, every win, every door that opened — it all comes from Him.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Smard.art
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.artiiist?igsh=MTVhcmQ5aTdqOWUxbQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Twitter: https://x.com/sylvinemlk?s=21
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/smard.art?igsh=MXJoMmRpbXRtYTh3OA==
