Today we’d like to introduce you to Cabrina McLain
Hi Cabrina, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I have painted and sketched all my life but never considered myself an artist. My brother and spouse told me I was talented but not ready to own it. Just four years ago, during the pandemic, I wanted to keep my mind at ease, so I painted a mural on the wall of my garage. My neighbor walked by and said, “I didn’t know you that you’re an artist” I replied with an awkward laugh, “No, I’m not. I’m doing this for my mental health.” He insisted that I was an artist and asked me to create a painting of a landscape for him. That gave me the courage to share my work with my other neighbors. 6 weeks passed and I sold 40 paintings! I learned a lot along the way. I didn’t know how much to price my work, I learned how to create frames from YouTube, and I gained the courage to start a website. In 2023, I was a vendor at a festival when the director of the Harford Artists Association, Artkina, told me she loved my work and to consider joining the gallery. She told me it was in Belair, MD, and invited me to stop by with my artwork. I was excited and terrified. I worked on a few pieces and walked into the gallery. They were very welcoming and gave me feedback about pricing, preparing for gallery events, etc. Fast forward to this year, I was one of the top sellers of the gallery in the first quarter, and I have sold artwork to former Baltimore Ravens, Jameel Mcclain, and his wife Keisha. I have pending contracts to create work for MLB players as well. A few months later, the president of the gallery, Kim Bender, asked me to take the role of the Publicity Director. Fast forward to today, I can call myself an artist and the feeling is unbelievable. I think that it’s never too late to follow your dreams. My life as an artist is a dream come true.
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?
When I am under pressure during my day job, it impacts my creativity. When I’m not creating, I’m not happy. I have learned that I have to take a walk to decompress or listen to music to help me reset. This helps me clear my mind and gives me the ability to start painting my next project.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a leadership coach. I teach people how to use emotional intelligence to strengthen relationships, gain confidence, and manage stress in their lives. On the weekends, I create 2d and 3d wall art. I love using plaster, gesso, and acrylic paint to create artwork. I’m most proud of my painting, “Sand and Saprolite” I was told that it’s worth $5k. I should share it with a future client, but I can’t let it go. If someone asked me what sets me apart from others, I would say that my ability to use emotional intelligence to create genuine connections gives me the ability to gain trust. Whether it’s a coaching session or a commission for artwork, I treat every interaction differently. I use the platinum rule. I treat people the way THEY WANT TO BE TREATED.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memory was being chosen to be a cohost on a local TV show, “Bob Turk and the Sunshine Kids Show.” I still remember the bell-bottom pants I loved wearing. I remember the brightness of the lights from the stage and making people laugh. I think it kickstarted my speaking career and creativity.
Pricing:
- Emotional Intelligence Assessment for Professionals and Higher Education Students and 1hr Debrief Coaching Session $395 Take it here http://s.mhs.com/Gt5q8M4
- Commissioned work 11×17 Abstract Painting $89-$150
- Commissioned work 36×24 Abstract Painting $300-$800
- Commissioned work Paintings 48″ and more $1000-$5000
Contact Info:
- Website: www.btlartstudiobycabrina.com (my art website) and www.artinharford.org (Harford Artists Gallery Events and Workshops)
- Instagram: @btlartstudio
- Facebook: Harford Artists Association
- Youtube: Cabrina McLain HAA Publicity Direcor
- Other: www.coachcabrinamclain.com (My Coaching Website)
