Meet Karissa Matthews | Artist and model

We had the good fortune of connecting with Karissa Matthews and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Karissa, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I believe that what brings real success is doing what you love, and sticking true to your inspirations. Despite the trends or fads, if you’re constantly creating things that you love and vibe with, everything else will fall into place.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is whimsical & ethereal. I love pen and ink, it’s probably my favorite medium. Though I have fun with a lot of different mediums and don’t tie myself down to one style. I’m still working at being a creator as my career professionally. It’s not easy! I have overcome so many challenges, it really is a side hustle. I learned that any chance you have to get your art out there, do it. I’ve learned that it’s important to be social and build friendships/connections. I’ve learned that you need to put yourself out there as much as you can, most of all being an artist means stepping outside of your comfort zone.
I go by “Living to bring the subconscious to the surface.” This means everything to me, especially when it comes to my art.
Wether it’s me not knowing what the outcome will be of a piece, but then my subconscious bringing out things I didn’t imagine. Or wether the final piece is up and hung, and I get to see what other people’s subconscious is bringing to the surface when they look at the piece. It’s beautiful how art can make someone see things from a complete different perspective than others. Everyone has their own translation.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love oceanside, and north county San Diego in general. So I would expect a lot of laid back beach days. Definitely would hit up my favorite skate parks like prince and Linda vista in SD. I would probably take them to the village in carlsbad to hang out, and go to pipes in Encinitas. Just keep things chill 🙂

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Anyone who has supported and purchased my art along the way deserves recognition in my journey. I really loved working with the non profit organization wildcoast. I was so proud to have my art be representing a brand, a group of people, who are here to make real change in our oceans and in our world.

Website: https://www.karissakaye.art/

Instagram: Karissakaye.art

Youtube: Karissa Kaye

Image Credits
@kiorileecreative for last picture @pepe_vision for skating picture