Featuring: Philece Otherwise known as That Artista

1. How did you choose the name “that Artista?”
During a time of transition, what started as a username on Twitter, evolved into so much more. “Artista” encompasses the artist, the woman and the art. I have been immersed in the arts since the age of four, from being a dancer, to drama and visual art. My focus has changed over the years but the love remains the same. I added the word “that” because it speaks to what is unique to me, my specific style and personality.

2. Tell us about you, what are three unique attributes and 1 unique hobby that you have?
I’m not sure how unique it is but I do enjoy knitting. Yes good old school, curled up on the couch with my needles and yarn, with a cup of tea close by lol. Strangely enough this is a seasonal hobby for me, every fall and winter until spring rolls around then I pack everything away until the cold returns!

I am a risk taker, extremely curious about everything and sometimes overwhelmingly detail oriented.

3. In your own words what is your purpose in life? and at what age did you realize this?
I think it was in my early twenties when I realized that being of service to others was a part of my purpose. May it be through sharing my experiences, the good and the bad, maintaining a positive outlook and transferring that energy to someone in need and even through my art. It doesn’t matter how bad my day is, there is something within me that innately gives with everything I have. I say a part of my purpose because I am still learning and still growing as my journey continues. I look forward to seeing just how much my purpose evolves.

4. How did you start your business and what is a piece of advice you wish you would have known while getting started?
My design company, The Creative Truth started as a result of my freelance work as a Graphic Designer. Prior to this I found my way back to painting and drawing, but as it had always been, it was all for the love. Throughout the years I did make money from my art, however it was never my focus to generate money and I rarely shared my art publicly. Interestingly enough, those who knew me during the earlier years of my life, know me as a dancer and only in recent years are becoming familiar with Philece the artist. Both businesses just kind of happened, in that way that some things are just meant to be. I felt the need to give each discipline it’s own space, the decision was made to separate the Design from the Fine Art and thatArtista evolved from a username to a brand. Passion met business savvy and the rest is history!

5. How can we as women help your business to be more successful?
As my work reflects, I am heavily influenced by women, their beauty and their stories. Much of my success is a direct result of the amazing women who appreciate and relate in some way to my artwork and design. I am grateful for that and helping me is as simple as keeping my inspiration flowing!

6. Your hair is AMAZING, BIG and BEAUTIFUL. How does your hair communicate your personality?
Thank you! I am very much a free spirit and so is my hair! One of my favorite quotes is by Brigitte Bardot, “My wild and free side unsettled some, and unwedged others.” You either love it or you don’t, either way I am unapologetically me, and so is my hair!

7. What are some things you have learned along the way of caring for your naturally curly hair?
The most important things that I have learned would be to be gentle with your hair and maintain an optimum level of moisture. My hair in it’s naturally curly state has a tendency to become dry easily. Dry hair leads to knots and breakage so keeping it well moisturized is important for healthy hair and length retention. I am talking about moisture from the inside out. What you put “on” your hair to me is not nearly as important as what you put into your body. Trust me when I say your diet and drinking lots of water has everything to do with healthy hair. Healthy food choices and don’t forget to get that water in, your hair and body will thank you for it!

8. What is your ethnic background and what are you most proud about your culture?
I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Nassau in The Bahamas. The importance of family within in my culture is not only something I am proud of but is the foundation of the woman I am today. My family is my everything.

9. In your culture is natural hair readily accepted and is your artistic background praised in your culture?
As with anywhere I have lived and travel it is embraced well, however I still experience stares especially on a big hair day and the occasional unnecessary comment. So I would not say it is readily accepted but the progression I have seen with so many more women embracing their natural hair is wonderful and it’s just a matter of time.

I remember when to many art was but a hobby not seen as a career. The appreciation for the arts has grown substantially in recent years and so has the praise. The beauty of it art is that regardless of what is accepted or isn’t, it is difficult to deny talent. May it be a writer, dancer, filmmaker, or painter like myself, the art will always speak without the artist ever having to say a word. The impact is inevitable!

10. What are your goals for the future?
In whatever I do and wherever the future meets me, I hope to be stronger, wiser, evolving and forever learning. Creating and maintaining happiness within and all around me!

11. Finally, what is your hair regiment?
Once a week I detangle with organic coconut oil on dry hair, prior to co washing with Suave Naturals Conditioner. I deep condition with Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque or their Anti Breakage Masque. Sometimes I get lazy and end up deep conditioning every other week. I apply my leave in, Shea Moisture’s Restorative Conditioner, seal with either coconut oil or aloe vera depending on my hair’s needs and let air dry. I pineapple at night and sleep on a satin pillow case. I’m a wash and go girl, I keep it pretty simple!

Love & Light!
xo
Philece. R

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Philece. R
www.thatArtista.com
678.744.6607

Isn’t she amazing.  Find her on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @thatartista.

Spread Love,

Janelle