Meet Kei Castillo | Creative encourager, mentor, and passionate enthusiast

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

Hi Kei, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Actually, haha, art has ALWAYS been my passion, but it’s more as if art chose me–I’ve always hated traditional office jobs, while simultaneously thriving at any position that had art at its core. I’ve worked in a pottery studio, as an artistic mentor/assistant, as a paint and sip instructor (which definitely inspired this canna-spin-off!), and many more. I’ve always had a passion for art and am a very firm believer that we ALL can make beautiful art that we’re proud of–this is actually a core tenant of my business and a HUGE reason why I do what I do. I love seeing people’s self-recognition of their own artistic ability! It happens so often that I hear “I can’t even draw a stick figure,” only to have that person create something beautiful and internally-generated that shows them so clearly that they CAN create art and are artistic! It’s genuinely my most favorite part of this whole shebang–that and the moment when all of the paintings are done and you can see the clear theme while simultaneously seeing each individual person’s personality and style in each painting! It’s honestly a transformative moment–when we’re all finished and realize that we all made a painting with the same goal in mind, but ended up with uniquely US pieces 🙂 There really is nothing like it. I’ve never worked a day of this business because it’s always been so fulfilling in all respects. I genuinely love and appreciate all the goofy (and serious) stoners that come paint with us because each person individually contributes so much to each event. If anyone has been wanting to check out a canna-art event, but wasn’t sure that it was for you, then feel free to use the promo Shoutout on Eventbrite to save $15 with the exclusive Shoutout-only promo! I promise you will have a blast AND leave with a piece of art that you’re proud of! 🙂 -Kei (“Kay”)

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I guess the biggest part of my art that sets me apart is the forgiving way in which i create–I don’t inherently assume that a “mistake” must be erased or covered up. Most of my would-be “mistakes” actually turn out to be shining details or subtle, unplanned focal points–much like the serendipitous way life itself seems to unfold 🙂

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?
Denver has one of the most vibrant music scenes of anywhere I’ve ever lived. If you’re into live music, any of the numerous open mics is a great choice for quality sound, as they are pretty quick to fill up and with diverse talent! I can confidently suggest Goosetown Tavern (great BBQ sammy too!) if you like some spirits with your sound or The Corner Beet (great wholesome food) if kava and ‘cados are more your tune. If you want some art off of the beaten, well-trodden path, I highly suggest taking a quick jaunt in the alleyways behind and around Larimer Lounge as there are some of the better street art AND commissioned pieces in this area. If you like someone’s art, though, snag a picture as this is a highly re-tagged space since most in the community encourage the artistic expression. Finally, if DIY is more your thing, I’d suggest checking out Create Cooking School in the Stanley Marketplace where patrons are walked through cooking a gourmet meal that is both tasty AND beautiful! Afterwards, you can take a stroll–and bring your drink with you–as you stroll through the Stanley Marketplace which boasts some great, one-of-a-kind shops, including Zero Market which has everything in the way of eco-friendly and zero waste products that any hipster or planetary do-gooder could possibly want (including in-house-made detergents, soaps, and toothpastes)!

If you’re up for a hike to Boulder, Pearl St is always a great choice (but be aware it is now a 100% smoke-free street), featuring my personal favorite, The Yellow Deli–a psychedelic cult-run restaurant that has a menu where you literally can’t go wrong. Press Play Barcade, also on Pearl St is a good time, though they did away with most if not all of their classic pinball machines, opting for newer era ones instead. Beautiful Boulder Creek should appease any water-loving outdoorsmen, but if less H20-inclined, be sure to make the uphill journey to peer down into Dream Canyon–a picturesque gorge of dizzying depths

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My biggest and most helpful mentor, without question, has been Dawn Blackman of the Women’s Cannabis Chamber of Commerce–I wouldn’t have ever made it this far without her beautiful brain’s insight and encouragement during the more difficult times, both professionally and personally. She’s an unabashed badass with the ganja-knowledge to back it up! She’s always willing to help a fellow canna-sis and is so passionate about the cannabis community in general, that one can’t help but get excited themselves. A beautiful soul who blessed me with her camaraderie for reasons I might never understand, but will be eternally grateful for.

Website: .www.creativelycannabis.com

Instagram: @creativelycannabis

Facebook: www.facebook.com/creativelydenver

Other: Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/creatively-cannabis-19762276314