Today we’d like to introduce you to Flo Marie.
Hi Flo, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I am a self-taught visual artist from Kansas City, MO specializing in Digital Illustrations & Acrylic Paintings.
I discovered the blessing of art in January of 2015.
I always loved art but never drew anything more than a flower or a simple character.
But after staring at a framed sketch that I received from my late father’s friend at his funeral, I suddenly felt compelled to paint.
I took a trip to the Arts & Crafts store; grabbed books, markers, paints and whatever medium I could get my hands on and I practiced & studied daily for over a year straight to enhance my skill level.
From there, I started networking within the local art community, hosting my own art showcases, and being the featured artist at major events across the city; this really helped me make my mark within the Kansas City art community.
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; in fact there are many bumps in the road, many detours, many moments where you have to hit the breaks abruptly and change your whole course… I’ve learned that obstacles allow us to reassess our journey and to take inventory of how we are showing up or not showing up for ourselves and our goals.
I learned that I lacked discipline and organization which are key essentials to any endeavor… I realized that if I worked towards mastering discipline that I would also find the map to a smoother road on my journey.
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I’ve widely been known for either my portrait art or vibrant illustrations depicting women of color.
Although I can create/draw an array of subjects, I am specifically drawn to highlight & create the beauty & allure of femininity & womanhood.
What I’m most proud of is releasing my passion project, “Grow With the Flow” which is a coloring journal I designed & illustrated centered around personal growth & wellness.
It started as a mere vision in 2019 to being produced in the Fall of 2020, to now being in over five local stores in 2021.
That’s definitely something to be proud of!
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Things have changed a bit with COVID where I haven’t been able to collaborate as much as I’d REALLY like, however I am always looking for opportunities to connect with other artists & creatives across the city.
I am currently building my community & it’s important to keep those connections driving.
So, if anyone is willing to network and share business resources or perhaps collaborate on creating more avenues for artists like myself, I’d love to connect.
If anyone would like to support me, you can purchase my books/coloring journals at lovepeaceandflo.com or visit any Made In KC store across the metro.
If anyone would like to purchase art prints visit fmarieart.com.
Lastly, what makes me stand out or makes me different…
I honestly can’t put my finger on it… but if I had to identify, I would most definitely say that I am innovative.
I’ve pioneered many creative ideas and I still have a plethora of them brewing.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.fmarieart.com
- Instagram: Instragram.com/LovePeaceAndFlo
- Facebook: Facebook.com/LovePeaceandFlo
- Other: www.lovepeaceandflo.com
