Today we’d like to introduce you to Raye’vn Harper.
Hi Raye’vn, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a multidisciplinary, multi-medium, self-taught artist, designer, and jeweler originally from Columbus, Oh; born and raised relocating to Austin in 2020 to work in the museum community & falling in love with the weird creative energy of the city birthing Raye’vns Nest.
Over the past decade, I’ve fused design, education, and curation to create engaging art experiences, manage creative projects, and support educational programs in museums, universities, and community spaces. Rooted in multidimensional, mixed-media creation, my career includes exhibiting work as well as curating showcases and markets across diverse venues. When I’m not coordinating, exhibiting, designing or creating; I mentor, document stories through photography and writing, and explore new ways to blend art with community impact.
I’m excited to continue growing in roles that bridge creativity, service, and education.
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?
Has it been a smooth road? Not even close. Building a creative career has meant constantly developing, rebuilding, and reimagining—not just my work, but my brand and myself as an entrepreneur. Navigating a conformist & increasingly competitive creative landscape can be overwhelming, especially when you’re balancing artistic integrity with the realities of sustainability, visibility, and growth.
My journey as a creative has been lifelong, rooted in a persistent curiosity: Is there another way to create? To use these materials? To approach this situation? That mindset has carried me through moments of uncertainty and reinvention. I’ve learned how to push through and bounce back by trusting that there was something beyond the challenges I was facing—another side, a deeper purpose, and more possibility than what was immediately visible.
Over time, adaptability, courage, fortitude, and resilience stopped being survival tools and became my greatest strengths. Those struggles didn’t just shape my work—they shaped how I show up, how I build, and how I continue to move forward with intention.
We’ve been impressed with Raye’vns Nest; Bring Back The Weird, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Rooted in sustainability and creative experimentation, my work centers on using reclaimed, antique, and natural materials to create bold, graphic-driven art. Influenced by street art and striking contrasts, I integrate unconventional methods and materials to transform paper, canvas, skateboards, and even physical spaces into immersive visual experiences. What sets my practice apart is this fusion of intentional sustainability with fearless design—each piece balances grit, story, and craft.
My creative practice spans graphite, acrylic paint, ink, embroidery, and digital platforms. I specialize in 2D illustration, digital art, business branding, character design, skateboard graphics, book and music covers, and fashion-based artwork. In addition to ready-to-wear pieces and custom commissions, I offer creative consultation and produce art, design, and fabrication for fashion, cosplay, and prop work. Community collaboration is central to my brand—I regularly work with local businesses, organizations, and creatives to build meaningful, place-based projects.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the connections my work creates. Whether collaborating with fellow artists, community groups, or venues, my goal is always to bring ideas to life in ways that feel accessible, expressive, and rooted in shared experience.
I’m also one of four creatives behind Bring Back The Weird, a collective dedicated to reviving and sustaining Austin’s original quirky spirit. We amplify the makers and dreamers who keep the city’s creative pulse alive through community building, sustainable event-making, resourceful creativity, and radical authenticity. From our creative home, Vibe Haus, we welcome the community to connect—whether to support, vend, volunteer, showcase work, or host events. There’s space here for everyone who wants to help the weird, the wild, and the conscious thrive together.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
When it comes to finding mentors and building meaningful networks, I believe it starts with investing in yourself—especially in areas where you feel less confident or are stepping into something new. That willingness to grow creates a broader, more open mindset and naturally attracts the right people along the way.
Curiosity has been one of the most valuable tools in my journey. Staying genuinely curious makes you accessible to people from all walks of life and helps you discover communities that align with who you are, both personally and professionally. At the same time, discernment is essential. Pairing curiosity with clarity protects your energy and helps you recognize when certain spaces or relationships may be draining or driven by self-serving intentions rather than mutual growth.
Being open-minded and receptive has also been key. Inspiration can come from anywhere—conversations, shared experiences, peers, or unexpected opportunities. Allowing yourself to receive what comes your way creates space for learning and connection. One of the most powerful reminders during challenging moments is connecting with people who recognize your gifts even when you’re struggling to see them yourself.
The mentors and communities that have impacted me most lead with authenticity and true reciprocity. They focus on helping others identify their strengths, encouraging growth, and building together rather than competing. That kind of connection is where real mentorship—and lasting creative community—lives.
Pricing:
- Ready-wear accessories – $30+
- Custom accessories – $60+
- Skateboards – $250+
- Costume/ Coplay Commissions – $300+
- Tattoo Commissions- $35+
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bringbacktheweird.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rayevnsnest/
- Other: https://www.lamesk8collection.com/products/skate-art-gift-set-art-by-rayevnsnest
