Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayin Knighton.
Hi Kayin, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was an only child who kept myself busy by making things. The arts weren’t just a pastime; they were the way I learned to think and feel—customizing denim, singing with my mom, mixing music with my dad, dancing, painting. By high school, I was everywhere creativity lived—clubs, shows, collaborations. At the same time, athletics ran in my family. My father is an Olympian hurdler, and as training intensified my coach gave me a hard choice: arts or sports. No more floating. I chose sports and earned a college scholarship in track and field.
That decision taught me the backbone of my practice today—discipline, iteration, recovery, focus over time. But I never stopped making. Between practices and classes, I kept sketching concepts, dancing, and finding ways to collaborate. I realized the arts and athletics weren’t opposites; one trained my body and mindset, the other trained my intuition and voice.
After college, those worlds converged. I founded IKONIK as the creative home I was always searching for: a space where artists from diverse backgrounds—especially those without access to traditional funding or formal training—can develop, collaborate, and be seen. We center community, low-barrier programs, and artist-led projects. What sets us apart is care and consistency: we show up for artists as they are, and we help them build what’s next.
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?
The road to artistry and community engagement is rarely smooth, and I’m grateful for the character it built in me. Being independent meant relying on my own finances and stamina to transform a vision into something real. I’ve also learned how often visibility and opportunities favor established names or social media metrics. That’s why I believe it truly takes a village—not only to raise children, but to raise visions and aspirations. Investing in local artists matters just as much as backing talent from prominent agencies. Through IKONIK Movements Arts Collaborative, I’ve met passionate artists who remind me why this work is worth every bump in the road.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
IKMAC is the creative home I was always looking for—so I built it. We exist to level the playing field for artists from diverse backgrounds, especially those without access to traditional funding, formal training, or the networks that open doors. We create a safe, supportive space for artists to grow, collaborate, and get seen—rooted in community and built on care.
What we do: we design inclusive programs and public events, prioritize collaborations with local artists, and bring the arts to where people actually are. We highlight artists of all calibers—pre‑professional, emerging, and established. We’re known for raising awareness of the incredible artists in Florida’s communities, centering their voices, uplifting underrepresented talent, and turning ideas into opportunities. What sets us apart is our artist‑first approach—no gatekeeping, no guesswork, just real pathways, practical guidance, and culturally informed support.
What I’m most proud of is the way IKMAC changes trajectories. Artists leave with tools, confidence, and a network that lasts. If you’re an artist or ally, we’d love to see you at our next event, partner on a program, or help amplify and support the work of our creative community.
Any big plans?
In the future, we’re doubling down on collaboration and craft. We’re curating our third annual Collaborative Art Festival on January 3, expanding the artistic experience with immersive visual art stations and a Short Film Showcase. Our aim is to connect with sponsors who reflect our mission. Keep discovering new artistry through bold partnerships and to elevate emerging voices across disciplines. Every event we host brings the community closer to its artist. Join us and spread the word!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Ikmartscollabs.org
- Instagram: Ikonik.mvmnts
Image Credits
Photographer CREDITS
(ExhibtA)
@Exhibit.A_Freelance
