Today we’d like to introduce you to Kyle Harris.
Kyle, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
As a result of the various art classes I took in high school, I couldn’t decide on a career, but I thought enrolling in a small college with a good art program would help with my decision – but it didn’t.
I landed a job at a local TV station in New England which developed into a 22 year career with limitless creativity in television production. In 2003 my family moved to South Florida where I was adjusting to year round sunshine, however, creativity was limited to pre-school projects.
Fast forward to 2011 and a few part time jobs in the “arts industry”, I attended a wine and paint party – after all, I used to be an artist. It was like I never skipped a beat. I knew what I was doing and I was pretty good at it.
I quit my day job and began painting for family, friends, and fun! I was at the right place at the right time and within a year I started my business, Harris Art Studio, LLC. I taught art classes, hosted my own wine and paint parties and sold artwork. In less than two years, I moved from a shared space to my own studio, giving me a great place to teach and create.
I teach children and adults painting, drawing, mixed media, and crafting.
I get excited when I talk about art and what it does for me as well as for my students.
Every day is a new discovery and there is nothing else I’d rather be doing.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I have been blessed with the skills of an artists as well as a business person. I refer to my struggles as a challenge… the business of running a business can sometimes be a challenge. Social media and technology is often a challenge. Intricate paintings are a challenge and sometimes students (adults and children) can be a challenge.
I face each day with a positive attitude knowing if this is what I want to do, I can do it.
Failure is not an option and there is no Plan B.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Harris Art Studio – what should we know?
At Harris Art Studio, we offer classes in painting, drawing, mixed media and crafts to children and adults. We host art parties for children and adults and offer summer camps and workshops for kids.
What sets us apart from other art studios is quality – not quantity. My classes are small in order to provide individual attention to each person. Everyone has their own unique way of creating and we are here to help develop their skills.
Our mission is: To provide a fun, safe, comfortable environment where people with an interest, a passion an appreciation or just a curiosity for Art, can explore creativity and express creatively.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I took on this venture with support from my family and friends in an unconventional sort of way. I did not have a business plan or money saved up to start a business. I just decided to “give it a try” and as time went on, I let everyone know what I was doing. It’s good to have friends in different areas to guide you in the right directions, from accountants, lawyers, business people and those who like art and have kids that like art. I have many students that have been with me since day one and I hope they continue to spread the word about Harris Art Studio.
Contact Info:
- Address: 6629 Taft Street,
Hollywood, FL 33024 - Website: harrisartstudio.com
- Phone: 781-308-1379
- Email: kyle@harrisartstudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harrisartstudio
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/harrisartstudio
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/harrisartstudio
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/harris-art-studio-hollywood
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