Today we’d like to introduce you to Leslie Kuluva.
Hi Leslie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve been into making art since childhood. I was lucky to have parents that encouraged it. I focused on art throughout my school years and at the University of Kansas. When I found printmaking, I knew it was for me. I was already a printmaker even though I didn’t know it. I had been making spray paint stencils and doing some simple screen printing in my living room. It’s a challenge the keep the cats off of drying prints! I started making merch for my friends’ bands and then some other folks. When I was done with school, I rounded up some roommates that were also into printing and found a house where we could print in the garage. I got more projects and more clients, and after awhile it felt strange to have people come to my home. I had enough going on that I was ready to rent a small storefront. And here I’ve been ever since. I love my shop and being part of a community. I’m grateful for where I am.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Learning to run a small business is challenging. There are so many parts to it beside the aspects that you especially like. If you start small like me, you may be doing all the parts yourself. It’s a lot. Bookkeeping, emails, social media, errands, ordering supplies, staying on top of inventory, and so much more. Then there’s the actual work to do. If you love it, then it’s worth it, and the goal is to get where you can afford some help.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a printmaker by trade, and I run LFK Press, a boutique printmaking studio in Lawrence, Kansas. I print my own line of products and fine art, which I sell at my shop and at several other small local business. I work with clients on all kinds of projects, including paper products, garments, and merch made to order. I’m most know for coining the “LFK” moniker. I’m most proud of my roots in the community.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I always loved art and animals. I was shy and independent.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lfkhq.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lfk_press/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LFKpress
