ComfiArt is a Black woman-owned art studio dedicated to helping racial minority groups expand their business reach and monetize their art.
This studio, created to help artists thrive, is determined to change the oppressive narrative for those who are black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC).
Founded in 2016, ComfiArt prides itself as a successful visual arts incubator, one-stop resource hub and advocacy source for people of color. The Atlanta-based company is at the nexus of emerging trends and the people who set them.
Originally born in Boston, Massachusetts, founder and CEO Dionna Collins has always considered herself a creative person. Like many creatives eager to carve out a space of their own, Collins grew burnt out from freelance digital design work and her unfulfilling full-time job. This sowed the seed for what is now recognized as ComfiArt.
Determined to break free from traditional channels which do not cater to BIPOC culture, the company “provides artists with the support, visibility and financial opportunities that they typically would be shut out of or would have difficulty acquiring on their own,” Collins said.
ComfiArt offers free membership and introduction to its network through ComfiCommunity, in which members have access to a myriad of resources like exclusive content, virtual networking sessions, Q&A and early access to ComfiArt events. In addition to supporting the artists via development, Collins advocates for pay equity.
“Many talented artists simply can’t afford to rent a one-bedroom apartment. We must lay to rest the notion of starving artists,” she said. “Artist advocacy is a socio-economic empowerment tool, and our local creatives add layers to the fabric of Atlanta’s cultural community.”
In an interview with xoNecole, Collins credited its ongoing success to Atlanta’s relentless support stating, “We create exclusive pieces while collaborating with artists and brands around the Atlanta area. The collaborations we have with Atlanta artists help them find other alternatives to creating financial wealth for themselves.”
“Our approach is to ensure artists in every one of our programs are set up for sustainable success and exposure to opportunities beyond gallery walls,” Collins said.
In an interview with Northside Neighbors Collins expressed her concern for the lack of recognition Black and POC creatives received not because of their lack of talent, but lack of access.
“Any artist could be the next Kara Walker, Amy Sherald or Victoria Villasana,” Collins said. “However, the affordability of management, legal support, corporate partnerships, e-commerce integration, studio space and community visibility remain obstacles for Black and POC artists.”
In the years to come, Collins has intentions to expand her brand’s identity by collaborating with beloved cooperate brands like the Nation Basketball Association (NBA), the Hawks, Nike, Amazon and Coca-Cola.
More content can be viewed on the company’s website ComfiArt.com or through their Instagram platform.
