Today we’d like to introduce you to Kendra “Dro” Tate
Hi Kendra “Dro”, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have been creating visual art for as long as I could remember, It’s my destiny. When I was a young child, my mother said I used a Sharpie marker to draw an entire scene of a city. She was upset, but knew I had talent. My father is also talented in drawing and my uncle, Chicago based artist Marvin Tate, is a well renown multi-genre artist who I also have been inspired by. Since then, my parents nurtured my gift in visual arts by placing me in art programs at institutions like SAIC, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where I as a pre-teen studied fashion and performing arts during the summer and on weekend classes.
My elementary school teacher from kindergarten to 8th grade, Ms. Looney, always signed me up for numerous art contests throughout my time in school. The first contest I won was with the former gas corporation Amoco’s student art contest. This resulted in my piece, a family portrait, being showcased in Michael Jordan’s restaurant.
When I was a high school student, I worked with Gallery 37, an art program for teens based in my hometown Chicago, IL. I engaged in fashion illustration and design, studio painting, and furniture painting. Finally in 2014, I created my own art brand and business KLT Art.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has been the exact way way it’s supposed to be. The best things in life are not supposed to be easy, but that’s how God works and that’s how the journey is supposed to go. I never thought my art would lead me to Miami as the art culture and community is so vivid. It’s also growing, which is an amazing thing to see and be apart of. I never knew there was a whole community of artists in places like Wynwoood, huge events like Art Basel and so much more amazing things coming from the art scene.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am the owner and artist of KLT Art and I do everything from painting to creating illustrations to creating handmade jewelry to making stickers. I poured all of the visual artistry I learned throughout the years into my business.
I’m known for my art being bold, creative, unique, something people have honestly never seen before. Take my handmade earrings for example. You won’t see anything like it. They make a statement, but they’re also lightweight to the ears.
My out of the box ideas and visions I bring to life set me apart from others. I also enjoy incorporating my other passions, fashion and history, into my art. I’m proud of my creativity, never giving up, trusting God’s plan and the next steps I will take in this journey!
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I was very similar to who I am today; colorful, funny, creative, and always standing out. That little girl helped me be who I am now.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lovekltart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kltart
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kltart
- Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/kltart
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@lovekltart
Image Credits
KLT Art
