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My first time performing at SXSW was in 2012. Every artist should have a goal of attending and performing there if the opportunity comes along. We ended up performing with beanie sigel and getting an exclusive interview with havoc of mobb deep all within a few hours of each other.

Peace, Everyone! For my first B.A.N.N.E.D. spotlight artist of 2017 I decided to go inside the mind of a very inspiring woman in art and life. As the first woman feature of this segment, I proudly introduce Aleisha Tunstall. I found Aleisha through social media and I noticed that her style was very unique. I researched a little about her and I decided to reach out to find out more about her. Especially with her being a self taught artist, who decided to follow her passion to becoming an artist in Jaunuary 2015. "I have always had belief in myself and a healthy amount of confidence. When I decided to become an Artist, I knew that I could find a way to teach myself how to be a great painter. So initially, my ambition surpassed my talent. I just kept painting and painting. When I saw the continuous progress I was making, I knew I would be okay." So, what sets her apart from other artist, you may ask. She's very business and financial savvy " I'm very business savvy. As artists, we must take on various roles as creators, entrepreneurs, and marketers. We must take control over our careers. After we create our work, we must figure out how to share it with the public. We must manage your social media platforms, update our websites, participate in shows, and attend networking events. We also must be financially savvy, and take on the role as salesmen. I read somewhere that being a Professional Artist is 20% of the time creating art and 80% of the time promoting art. So, I spend a lot of time making sure I take care of all the behind-the-scenes work to make sure as many people are exposed to my art as possible." While some artist may have 1 or 2 favorite paintings they may have done, Aleisha feels that every new painting she does becomes her favorite painting! "I learn so much from each painting that I do. When I look at my new work, I see tremendous growth. Then I look at my previous pieces, and think to myself "I mean that was good, but this new piece is great!" What are your inspirations and what motivates you? "I am most sure of myself when I am painting. It makes me feel powerful. The feeling that I get after finishing a piece is addicting. It drives me to create more art." Aleisha has worked very hard to accomplish her goals and become an artist. Sometimes, like everyone in life, we may have to fight through a few challenges. I asked her, what were some of the challenges that she's had to face on her path. "Making art is cool, but as an artist, you also must pay the bills. So, I have worked full-time, attended school, and worked as a full-time artist all at the same time. When you first start out, the money isn't flowing in as fast as you hope it would. A lot of times you must do free work for exposure and experience. But again, you still must pay your bills and the cost of your art supplies. It can be tough at times. But eventually people notice your work, and see the time you put in it. That's when the commissions and opportunities start rolling in." Finally, what would you like to accomplish with your artwork? "My goal is to inspire other people to follow their dreams and pursue their own passions in life. My art journey literally started with a choice. I decided to become an artist, and then I put in the work. It's as simple as it sounds." Find Aleisha Tunstall on Instagram @aleisha_art and through her website at www.AleishaArt.com to view her portfolio of artwork and show your generosity to support this talented artist!

Jeezy rank his own mixtapes with The FADER

For any inquiries, contact him through email at [email protected] and follow his IG @stainislike

Can't believe it's been 5 years since I did this track with Scolla!This was a well respected, dope track for anyone trying to create better opportunities in life. Dejabluu on the hook sounded real soulful. I'm sure alot of you never heard it so check it out when you can. "Progression" https://m.soundcloud.com/mecca336gnc/progression-feat-young-scolla

Take out a few minutes and revisit my exclusive interviews with artist Miya Bailey, FunnyTummy and more.

#StayInFaith