Today we’d like to introduce you to Applez Stovall.
Applez, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve been a visual artist since childhood. As I got older, and took more interest into sports I put art on the back burner. A few years ago, I wanted to get back into doing things that brought me joy. Suddenly, it all came back to me that creating art and crafts is what I really enjoy. I’d put my kids to bed and started creating again with watercolors, and then acrylic paint. Fast forward to now, I have my own studio space, which has inspired me together my own art showcase. I’m so thankful to have a gift to be able to express myself freely. I focus on women. From experiences to special moments, to just accepting parts of your body to encourage self love.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I am so proud of my work now. It hasn’t always been this easy for me to accept how far I’ve come. I remember not showing anyone my work in fear of negative feedback or judgment. I realized I didn’t value self-love like I do now. I felt very trapped inside my own feelings and desires and just feeling like I didn’t have anyone to talk to. Every piece I created then helped me get to where I am today mentally. Every piece made me a stronger artist. There’s no growth without obstacles and lows. I am now open to challenges, as I know once I get through it, I will be a much stronger woman. My advice is to believe in yourself, get into what makes you happy, be kind to yourself every day. Recite things that you’re grateful for that make you, you! Don’t expect it from others because you will be disappointed.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of. What sets you apart from others?
My work is for women of all ages. I encourage self-love and feel my artwork speaks exactly that. I’d like young ladies/ women to understand that they don’t need anything else outside of themselves, to know their worth, and embrace the parts of themselves that they adore. I specialize in women of color, as I am one of mixed ethnicities. I’m proud to be able to contribute to brown skin girls’ representation. I truly believe it’s needed. As there are always younger generations who need that message to make them feel worthy of their beauty.
Who have you been inspired by?
Her name is Ann. I met her at summer camp when I was around 12 years old. She was in law enforcement and volunteered at the camp. She was the first person to really support me and my love for art. She would take me to museums, buy me quality art supplies, encouraged me to create and practice my craft. Had it not been for her, I would have given up as a creator.
Contact Info:
- Email: appie.steaux@gmail.com
- Instagram: appie.steaux
Image Credit:
Applez Stovall
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