Conversations with Chloe Beckford

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chloe Beckford

Chloe, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Hi! My name is Chloe. I’m from Brooklyn, New York and I’m currently in Michigan to pursue a degree in Art and Design. I grew up in a West Indian household and was immersed in Caribbean culture along with the broader culture in NYC. This upbringing inspired and encouraged me to pursue a creative career since I got to see firsthand the importance creatives have in shaping innovation and culture. I was originally planning to stay in the city for college but I got the opportunity to attend the University of Michigan’s art school, Penny W Stamps, and I was excited to explore what Michigan’s creative scene had to offer.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I think one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced so far was finding my footing in Michigan and putting myself out there. Since I’m still fairly new to living in Michigan, there’s a lot of exploring I need to do in terms of trying to find the right communities and spaces to nurture my talent and career. It was hard at first trying to find where I fit in and trying to be authentic to myself to attract the right people. So far, I’ve been able meet so many talented, extraordinary, like-minded people both within and outside of my campus that continually inspire me and encourage me to pursue my dreams. I’m still working on putting myself out there but I’m glad to have the connections and relationships with the people I’ve met so far.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a visual artist that specializes in graphic and web design. i’m also heavily interested in fashion and want to eventually pursue a career in creative direction. I think what sets a lot of my work apart is that I draw a lot of inspiration from Caribbean heritage and upbringing in NYC and try to channel these influences in my art and design work. A lot of my work is very colorful and vibrant and pays homage to Brooklyn and the Black diasporic culture both in. and outside of the city. Although I’m more design focused, I’m most proud of my portrait work. I find it really important as a designer to keep up with my fine art skills and experimentation. My portrait work is a testament to that philosophy.

Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I think the biggest risk I’ve taken here is remaining persevering and persistent when it comes to staying focused on my dreams and finding people who are willing to support me. As I said before, it’s been challenging getting fully acclimated to Michigan and I often times feel homesick and disconnected from the change of environment here. But still, I continue to be authentically me and put my best foot forward. I’m happy that I continually take that risk everyday because it has opened up so many opportunities that i don’t think I’d have if i just stayed with what I already know and am comfortable with.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://chloebec.myportfolio.com/
• Instagram: @chlo3_beck
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloe-beckford-b85821287/