Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Rubich Paul.
Alyssa, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve been drawing since I could hold a pencil. My grandmother was a painter and she really instilled in me the importance and wonder of art. I participated in drawing and painting contests through middle school and high school and then went on to study Graphic Design at Sam Houston State University. I worked as a makeup artist for CHANEL for a few years afterward, and last year my husband and I decided to start our own company. I had posted some artwork I made on Twitter and had tons of people asking if they could buy it or commission custom pieces. So I started up the creative side of our business, BAP Technology, and BAP Creative was born! I make all kinds of art in several different media: digital art, charcoal, graphite, and acrylic paint.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Art has always been a way for me to express myself, but like a lot of artistic endeavors, creative blocks are more than inevitable. It’s difficult to push through those times and keep creating when you feel uninspired. My friends and family have been incredibly supportive. I’ve had my detractors along the way, people who haven’t liked my styles or even some who have tried to bring me down out of pettiness, but I always find my way back to my creative center.
Let’s about talk business. Tell us about BAP Creative – what should we know?
I make drawings, paintings, all different kinds of art, especially by the commission. I’ve done portraits of family members, pets, celebrities, athletes, and more. Being able to memorialize someone’s grandparents or loved ones lost has been such a huge honor for me. When people feel touched by my work, it’s the most rewarding feeling. I’ve done commissions for people all over the country, even a few baseball players—sports inspired me to start creating again after I took a break while working as a makeup artist. I think my wide range of styles and techniques as well as subject matter set me apart in this art community.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My husband, Ben, first and foremost, for believing in me and wanting me to embark on a fulfilling career path. Not only does he provide physical support, i.e. setting up for shows, helping with framing and packing, etc., he is always encouraging me and giving me new ideas when I feel blocked. He deals with the technology side of our business which allows me to do what I love.
Jennifer Prothow, owner of Erma Rose Winery, reached out to me on Twitter last year and invited me to join her and Tresheca Zachary for an art and wine show. It was a big launch for all three of us and I wouldn’t be where I am without either! Jennifer especially is always looking for opportunities to collaborate and grow our businesses, and she is one of the most patient and uplifting people I’ve ever met. She is truly a godsend.
It seems silly but my Twitter followers have had my back since day one, have provided me with free publicity and exposure, have continued to commission art from me and I owe so much to each and every one of them. They believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself, they showed me that I have a gift that people highly value and I’m so grateful.
Pricing:
- -custom digital art starts at $150
- -custom acrylic art starts at $250
- -custom charcoal art starts at $200
Contact Info:
- Address: BAP Creative
11683 Hwy 105 E, Cut and Shoot, TX 77306 - Website: BAP-creative.com
- Phone: (713) 554-2191
- Email: apaul@baptechllc.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/BAPcreative
- Facebook: Facebook.com/BAPcreative
- Twitter: Twitter.com/alyssarubich
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
