Today we’d like to introduce you to Akki Brathwaite.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
When I moved to Austin in the summer of 2015, I was forced into freelancing after having trouble finding a job. I started making art and sewing in the times I wasn’t working. In 2017, I decided to start selling my work at markets and on Etsy. I’ve made and sold hundreds of mini-paintings, stuffed animals, doodles, hoods, and other small items since then. In the process, I met other incredible artists, makers, community builders, and multi-faceted creatives. It taught me the importance of community, and I am very grateful for the friends I’ve made through art. I took a short hiatus while juggling multiple jobs over the last two years, but am now focusing on creating again.
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?
It’s been a winding road, with a few smooth patches sprinkled in. The first couple years, I was averaging showing at one to three markets a week, going to networking events, learning as much as I could with the added benefit of socializing in the process, and barely making ends meet. I built a strong network and community, which helped with finding more opportunities. I wasn’t financially stable, but I was very happy to be able to do what I loved and meet such interesting and creative people!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I mostly paint and draw, but also sew goods such as hoods, coffee cup sleeves, and stuffed animals, and make large doodle props for photo pop-ups/photobooths. I’m mostly known for my llama and blob paintings, the Akkitato (a self-portrait), and my hoods. I’m most proud of my community! I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to have a group of people whose values align and that support each other. I wouldn’t be where I am without them. My work is fun and doesn’t have deep meaning, but I hope it inspires others to create – everyone should! I also like to share resources – we’re all busy people, and research takes time that some of us don’t have. Knowledge is power and it’s important that everyone can have access to resources that will help them succeed.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
When I first moved to Austin, the first thing that stood out was how willing people were to help each other. One of the first jobs I applied to wasn’t a good fit, but the owner invited me to visit the office and have a chat. He helped point out how to improve my resume and portfolio and sent me on my way. On multiple other occasions, people connected me with job opportunities or someone they knew in town who I could reach out to. Those seemingly small actions helped shape what I valued in this city. Over the years, Austin’s landscape, demographic, and culture has changed drastically. It saddens me to see so many new houses being built over what used to be long-standing family homes. The increase in tech companies and housing prices are pushing out families, culture, and a lot of what I found dear to Austin. There is a lack of resources and momentum geared toward creating accessible spaces and funding for creatives in a city that claims to be a creative hub.
Contact Info:
- Email: madebyakki@gmail.com
- Website: madebyakki.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/by_akki/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MadeByAkki/
Image Credits
Group photo by Wake Up and Love, Kamishia Blease
