How did you get to where you are now?

My background in art began with a high school photography class, which first introduced me to visual storytelling and composition. From there, the rest of my creative journey has been self-taught. Over time, I moved beyond photography and developed my own mixed media practice through experimentation, curiosity, and a hands-on approach to making. My work has grown naturally through personal exploration, allowing me to find my own voice and style as an artist.

Before becoming involved in the gallery world, I was already organizing and putting on small local art shows in my hometown of Honolulu, which gave me early experience in building creative spaces and connecting with artists and the community. My path into the gallery world later grew through helping my family run their gallery in San Francisco, where I gained firsthand experience in exhibitions, artist support, and the day-to-day work of running a gallery. After years of being part of that environment, I eventually stepped into doing my own thing and continuing to build my own place within the arts.

I have also worked many other jobs to support myself through this time, including retail, cafes, bars, and the only college I've attended is culinary school. I got a degree in patisserie and worked many years as a baker, at various levels in the restaurant industry.   

The Hard Truth

Being in the arts sector can be very hard and has long hours. I do have another job as a PR consultant for a non-profit's art department. Within my gallery, KnK Contemporary, we do offer multiple different types of classes, along with art sales. I also have my own art sales.

Each of my previous jobs has prepared me for having my own gallery and art practice. Many of those jobs required working with the public, which can be challenging and rewarding at the same time. Working long hours on your feet and managing teams have all helped when working with artists now.

Worst Jobs?

The worst jobs have been early morning baking or cafes. I tend to be a night owl and work on my own art at night.

Resources

Check your local arts grant pages. They have a lot of resources.

Advice?

Just keep trying. It's going to be hard to balance everything at times but if this is your passion, you'll find a way......Also don't take everything personally. Some people will love your work, others will not. Not every opportunity is a good one, be selective and choose ones right for yourself and practice. You'll hear a lot of no's but that okay. When the right opportunity comes up, it will be that much sweeter. 

Links

www.knkcontemporary.com

@knkcontemporary 

@kcapadona