Meet Tatiana Figari | the owner and founder of “chickARTdee” paint parties for adults and kids

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

Hi Tatiana, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My journey into teaching art parties for adults and kids began during a challenging and unexpected chapter of my life. What began as a life path to build a family and future suddenly dramatically shifted and I found myself alone with my 2-year-old child, navigating a new country with no job, no friends and family nearby, limited financial resources and very little stability. I came into this chapter with a strong foundation: I hold two bachelor’s degrees – B.A. and degree in criminal law, had travel widely and always been financially independent, but nothing prepared me for the emotional and financial challenges of starting over from scratch – especially with a child depending on me. I knew I needed to provide for my child, and I turned inward, asking: “What do I have that I can build from?” That’s when I turned to what had always been part of me – art. From early age, I found joy in painting, crafting, dancing. Creativity was my way of understanding the world – and expressing my place in it. Starting out was tough, especially because it happened during the hardest time – global pandemic and isolation, when people were just beginning to reconnect and no one knew who I was – felt almost impossible. I began to dream of sharing creativity with others, hosting small art classes and painting events for kids and adults. On my very first classes, many attendees still wore masks, and the uncertainty made it difficult to build connections and grow my business. The social life was minimal and people were still cautious about gathering. At first, I reached out to local businesses hoping to collaborate and for a chance to get started, but most doors were closed. I faced rejections that were discouraging and painful. With no prior business experience, no support network, and facing so many obstacles, I had to learn everything on the go. It was difficult, but my determination kept me moving forward. It was one of the hardest moments of my life, but it sparked a new beginning rooted in creativity, resilience, and hope. Today, my small business is known as chickARTdee – a name close to my heart. Chickadee – a small, lively bird – is the English translation of my maiden name, and I added “art” to reflect the creative soul of what I do. I offer public art classes in San Pedro, California, as well as private art parties for both kids and adults – brought right to your home for birthdays, special events, or simply a fun creative day. What’s been built so far is just the foundation – yet it’s only the beginning. I dream of opening my own art studio – a welcoming space, where people of all ages and backgrounds can come to express themselves, heal, and connect through the power of creativity.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As I was slowly building and growing my little art community, it wasn’t easy. When no one knows you, you have to earn trust from people who don’t owe you anything and may not care who you are at first. It took time – and patience – to earn that trust. But little by little, people began returning to my classes regularly, bringing their friends, their families, booking me for their own home art parties and recommending me to others. I am so deeply grateful for them. Their support made me realize that something I started simply as a way to survive was becoming something much more meaningful. People come not only for art but for experience, the energy, and the heart behind it, I put into every class, and I deeply believe that’s what keeps them coming back, whether they are adults or children. That tells me I’m moving in the right direction. Because in the end, trust, respect, and genuine care will always matter more than profit. This small business is more than just work – it’s my healing, my passion, and the way I have rebuilt my life.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Our days would filled with exploration: relaxing at Cabrillo Beach, marveling at marine life at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, and enjoying the panoramic views from the Korean Bell of Friendship. We would delved into local history at the Los Angeles Maritime Museum and the Point Fermin Lighthouse, each offering unique insights into the area’s rich past.

Evenings would be for indulging in local flavors—craft beers at San Pedro Brewing Company and delightful treats from The Corner Store. We also would experience the vibrant First Thursday Art Walk, immersing ourselves in the local art scene and live music.

Throughout the week, we would discover that San Pedro isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. A blend of history, culture, and community that leaves a lasting impression.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Just when I was about to give up, after facing numerous rejections from local businesses, I met Kim, a local business owner and Kickboxing Instructor of Harbor Fitness in San Pedro, California. An amazing person with a kind heart who offered help without charging rent or asking for anything in return. She didn’t hesitate to support me when I needed it most, just because she believed in helping others and giving someone a chance. Her generosity and belief in me gave me a crucial start. Thanks to her, I held my very first class. I still can’t find the right words to thank her because she is truly a key part of what I have now. That single opportunity sparked everything. Since then, I’ve hosted countless creative workshops – from kids’ art parties to mindful painting sessions for adults. My goal is simple: to create joyful, safe, and inspiring spaces where people can explore their creativity, relax, and connect.
I would also like to express my gratitude to Lindsay Sochar – an art director at Crafted at the Port of LA for giving me an opportunity to host my classes in a unique and well-known marketplace in San Pedro, where visitors can explore a vibrant patchwork of shop spaces and enjoy regular events, classes and workshops. And I’m sincerely grateful to ShoutoutLA for the opportunity to share my story. It means a lot to be seen and supported as I continue growing this artful journey.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chickartdee_paintparty?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chickartdee?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Image Credits
Tatiana Figari, Narkova Adelia, Anna Pakhomenko