Today we’d like to introduce you to Ayza-Andriana Churina
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I came to the United States from Moldova in March of 2000 and obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Art and Performing Arts from Edgewood College in Madison, WI. I started teaching while still in college, and I now have over 10 years of experience teaching the arts to all ages, from kids to adults, and working as a freelance artist/graphic designer.
When I decided to create AyzARTia, in spring of 2016, it was just an art tutoring business. I quickly expanded to teaching other forms of art to kids, such as dance and theater. I want to create awareness of how the arts can help our society by posting articles on my website about the many health benefits they offer. As a teacher, I talk about it directly to/with my students.
As an artist, I am also trying to connect with people through my art by painting surrealistic images that represent different stages of our lives, along with problems and solutions. Through my paintings, I endeavor to give people hope and purpose in life. People often take art for granted without being aware of the important role it plays in our society. After all, it is us artists who create the world that the rest of people live in.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It was not easy at all. I had just moved from Madison to Chicago in February of 2016, and I had to start all over. Building new connections, gaining the trust and respect of my clients, dealing with family drama, working whenever I had free time from my kids, researching, and doing everything else that comes with owning a small business, and doing it all on my own with pretty much no support.
Please tell us about AyzARTia.
AyzARTia! is a small and very young company that specializes in teaching the arts to all ages, as well as selling fine art, souvenirs, wearable art and handmade jewelry. Future goals include expanding the company and staff into an Art School Gallery with a permanent location that can cover most forms of art such as visual and performing arts (dance and theater) under one roof.
AyzARTia is proud to receive positive feedback and satisfaction from its clients. What sets it apart is that it is a place that truly cares about the art world and its clients, getting to know people on a personal level by treating them as friends rather than money-generating customers.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Art is not an exact science – it’s an individual journey; and as such, it’s the result of countless small and big decisions… but overall, I am enjoying the journey and the process.
Pricing:
- Private Art Lessons – $40/h
- Portraits – starting at $185
- Book cover and illustrations – starting at $50 per 1/2 page
(Visit the website for more information on pricing.)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ayzartia.com
- Phone: (608) 501-1744
- Email: ayzartia@gmail.com
Image Credit:
Alex Goykhman, Ray Smith, Kevan Works
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