We had the good fortune of connecting with Fiyabomb and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Fiyabomb, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I believe that without risks being made, it is very true to what they say – there is no reward. Betting on myself along with believing and standing in confidence of what I do and bring has came with the most beautiful blessings and successes of my life and career. Being comfortable (in form of stagnancy) and playing things safe, yes of course has its own rewards, but you’ll never achieve more than what you would like if you stay there. Without taking risks, you’ll never be able to see the potential you’re capable of every single day. It’s almost robbing yourself of opportunities.
If I did not quit the job I had 10 years ago, I would never see the days that are before me now. I live my life to the fullest, traveling as I please, being financially free, and inspiring and spreading the messages of women’s mental health, empowerment, and self-care through my artwork. It is still surreal to know that my works have changed several lives.
No risks, no rewards and if there are no rewards, learning points ARE the rewards. You never lose in any of it.
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 life works speak what we are afraid to say out loud. It’s a moment of vulnerability not only for myself but for many when read out loud or seen in person. Almost like music lyrics from your favorite artist and what you may be dealing with at that moment in your life. Very raw and truthful.
I am very proud that I was able to become the artist I’ve seen in TV, growing up. The gallery artist that are emotionally torn from their work when they sell it, but selling successfully for thousands of dollars. It feels like this lifestyle was only for certain people, but I am happy that I have made a career out of it. One that sets me financially free, giving me the opportunity to live well and share my stories and inner thoughts.
I was blessed to be able to be here today and stand in what I do because of social media. I was a quiet person in college and I always wanted more friends. I was exiting a domestic violent relationship and had expressed a lot of my emotions through my paintings. People knew me for my Art so I decided to share it on instagram. My artwork went viral on social media capturing the eyes of celebrities which increased my following, allowing me to have a stable career taking on commissions.
I feel that the life of being a creative is not easy for anyone starting out because it does come with a lot of self-doubt. Believing in yourself is key along with staying consistent. Consistency is the other component that is hard for many to keep. I’ve stayed consistent with my art for 10 years and am still continuously going. There are times when you even fall out of love with what you do and it’s honestly normal. You might just need a break from it and come back to it when you’re ready.
Some of the greatest lessons I’ve learned was to protect my works. Copyright them. Trademark them. Protect your babies. Another important lesson was to stand by the worth of my works. Stand by your pricing and do not fold. Do not even bend. If people cannot afford your work, those are not your clients, simple as that. Last lesson is to always stay true to what you do. Not every opportunity is a good opportunity and not all money is good money. Stay true to yourself and the message that you’re trying to spread. The right people and blessings will follow and find you. Trust that.
I would love for the world to know that this kind of career is obtainable. Thats first.
I would also love for everyone, especially for women to know the importance of self-independence, empowerment, and mental health awareness. I believe that if we normalize difficult conversations, we can exercise the stability of having them. We can grow to accept ourselves and all who are around us, all while being kind and loving to one another.
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?
I would meet up with my best friend Brittany McAllister in Stamford.
Connecticut! Not too far from New York City, but away enough from a lot of car and people traffic. We would probably go grab amazing and super delicious brick oven pizzas from the new Sally’s they located here. Pizza has always been our go-to and our joy to eat. We would probably also grab some ginger-whiskeys to end the night off, something to give us a slight buzz but nothing you will see us hurling over in the Stamford harbor. It’s always a great time to swing on the giant swing and see everyone walk their all different kinds of dogs on the boardwalk near the water, all while enjoying everyday girl-gossip with your best friend. I also love our late night runs to the grocery store to stack up on junk food before we prepare for our slumber on the couch to watch 2-3 movies til we knock out.
There’s honestly nothing better than to chill with your best friend, have great laughing conversations over amazing food, ending it off with a movie night. ALWAYS a good time. I love my girl!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would absolutely love to shoutout my support system. They deserve it all. The world and more. I am blessed that this lifetime has granted me wonderful friends and beautiful people in my life that have stood by me from the very beginnings of my career. I wish family and friends like these special souls for everyone.
To my beautiful sister and brothers Vivian, Herry and Andrea – I thank you for always wanting what’s best for me and guiding me through this life with your support. Our family is a mountain and I feel forever blessed to have you all.
To my golden girls, Brittany, Molly, Chelsea and Vannie, I don’t know how I would maneuver through life without the most wonderful girlfriends ever. Thank you for our talks, our cries, our hugs and our laughs. My loyalty will never budge when it comes to you ladies.
Last, to my beautiful and loving partner Dionel. You are my heart that came to me in human form. I will always be appreciative of your unmatched support along with your unconditional love. My life feels like a full stomach with you in it.
I love you mi Rey.
Website: www.fiyabomb.com
Instagram: @fiyab0mb
Twitter: @fiyab0mb
Facebook: Olivia Be’ Nguyen
Other: TikTok : @fiyabomb
Image Credits
Photography by Dionel Hernandez