We had the good fortune of connecting with Dafina Tucker and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Dafina, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I chose to make art my business because creativity has always been an integral part of who I am. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to activities that allow me to express myself creatively. My passion for painting truly blossomed during my college years while studying Art, and that experience solidified my love for the craft. As I transitioned into adulthood, I often received encouragement from others to sell my artwork. Although I initially lacked confidence, I decided to take the plunge—and to my surprise, others appreciated my work as much as I did. This positive reception inspired me to expand my artistic pursuits into a traveling paint party business, Artful Affair, and to establish Dafina Tucker Art. Both ventures are a true reflection of who I am at my core—a creative individual—and they fuel my desire to continue on my entrepreneurial path as an artist.
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.
My artwork encompasses a variety of styles, including commissioned pieces, allowing me to cater to diverse client needs. Through my traveling paint parties, I create unique, customized experiences by tailoring each painting to the theme of the event, ensuring every party has a one-of-a-kind feel. One of the biggest challenges I faced was keeping my business afloat during the pandemic when the world was essentially shut down. However, I was able to adapt by offering affordable paint parties that could be set up at clients’ homes or in local parks, which became an appealing option for many.
Now, I’m excited to be expanding my art business beyond paint parties and creating my art program Beyond the Art, which will be partnering with community organizations to create art-forward spaces. These initiatives will provide opportunities for individuals who may not have the chance to express themselves creatively in their current environments. This expansion allows me to connect with my community on a deeper level and gives me the opportunity to give back in a meaningful way.
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?
If my best friend were visiting, it would likely be during Black Arts Festival weekend. We’d kick off the week by dining at one of our favorite spots and then head to Spangalang Brewery to enjoy some live music. A visit to Welton St. Cafe would be a must, as we’d indulge in their delicious Southern cuisine. I’d also make sure they experience the Art District on Santa Fe, where we could explore a variety of fun and inspiring galleries. Staying true to the art theme, we’d attend the Black Arts Festival and immerse ourselves in the vibrant festivities. We’d end the night with a karaoke session at a friend’s house. The rest of the trip would be spent relaxing, barbecuing in the backyard, and enjoying some quality family time.
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?
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to my mom, my number one fan, for her unwavering support in every venture I’ve pursued. I’m also incredibly grateful to my family, friends, and my SPIN sisters, who were among the first to experience my traveling paint party. Their feedback and encouragement were instrumental in shaping the foundation of my business.”
Website: https://www.DafinaTuckerArt.com
Instagram: @Dafina_Tucker_Art @ArtfulAffair_
Linkedin: Dafina Tucker Art; Dafina Tucker
Facebook: Art by Dafina Tucker; Arftul Affair