We had the good fortune of connecting with Chenay Barnes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chenay, we’d love to hear about a book that’s had an impact on you.
The Alchemist.

I would consider “The Alchemist” my favorite book of all time. It tops every book including my beloved childhood favorite “Holes”.

In undergrad of college I was introduced to “The Alchemist”. Not sure who recommended it, but I read it in four days. Because of my busy schedule it takes some time to digest a book; however I love reading. Immediately, “The Alchemist” intrigued me with its mystical storytelling. Through escapism the book takes you into another world. What makes this book so special is that every character mirrors our reality. Santiago; the main character, is a young Shepard who has vivid dreams. He dreams of one day finding treasure and living a life of wealth. But his dreams are so outlandish that no one quite understands him. Just like all of us; we have big dreams, but only a few follow their hearts. Santiago had vision. In a world full of obstacles, he kept his faith and spun gold from out of nothing. He followed his soul and that is the real reward.

The impact of “The Alchemist” shifted the trajectory of my life. It taught me how to follow my intuition and ways to listen God’s voice. This book isn’t a biblical piece literature, but instead a book of life lessons. “The Alchemist” found me. I believe this book finds its readers. “The teacher shows up when the student is ready”. It speaks to the unorthodox, the rebels, and the gifted. I often say “The Alchemist” is a book that grows with you. As life progress, new parables arrives and makes impact on its readers. It’s literature that speaks to your soul. It’s a rarity and a must have for every individual who needs guidance in their journey of life.

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.

I am a Creative Director with an extensive background in film. At a young age, my creative development started as a professional dancer and model which led me into the life of entertainment. I felt that it was my purpose in life. Upon my transition into undergrad, learning more about film production peaked my interest and a career came from that curiosity. I love the entire process of an idea or thought being birthed into the physical realm. From planning, to location scouting, to filming and distribution; creating art that will be consumed from the mass audiences transcends any short term achievement. Having this foundation has propelled my career into different branches of media including creative marketing.
Ten years later after the completion of undergrad, I am proud of my accomplishments and experiences. I have had opportunities to work on major feature films and more; however these days I am looking to add value and opportunity to others. As a young girl, telling stories was a silent gift I nurtured. Being able to apply that to films and creative marketing has been the glue in my discipline. I didn’t realize that telling stories was my purpose and that’s how I came into this career path today. Moreover, most recently I have been sharing breakdowns of my creative process and tools learned in my profession on social media. I really enjoy this aspect of teaching and spreading knowledge into the mass media. My hope is that this inspires more black women to launch careers in film and television development.
What sets my art apart from others is my life experience. My artistic lens is unique because of my foundation and exposure. At a young age, I knew exactly what I was meant to do and the areas I wanted to explore. As I developed personally, the art followed suit. Exposing yourself to life delicacies is what molds the evolution of your palate. As an artist you are allowed to change. Art is the most mutable discipline in my opinion. For me, if I’m bored of it, I will simply change. I need to consistently be excited about the work I’m creating or I will pivot. That’s my advice to anyone interested in pursuing an art career: always keep the art fresh and everything else will align itself with you.
Being an artist are the doors that opened for me. When something is meant for you, nothing can stop it. Your purpose will continue to knock until you answer it. There are always challenges and obstacles for personal development. The test is continuing through despite the pressures of life.  The most constant thing we can expect is change and staying true to yourself through it is how you are able to build a stable foundation in the art world. There is no real goal to obtain, just destiny. The sooner you realize that, the easier to master your journey through it all. Remember that your purpose is your compass in reaching your destiny. Moreover, what I am most excited about is where my art will take me. I’m excited to branch into other forms of art outside of film. I’ve been really into more of the beauty and fashion realm. There is no limit to what I may try. You may see a jewelry line from me one day. You never know. I enjoy all forms of creativity and being a jack of all trades and that is what makes this artistic career one worth living.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Naturally I am a traveler so if my friend comes to visit, we’re going on a trip. There are so many places that I love so I decided to go on a tour. First, I will take them to my hometown of Memphis, TN. There we will visit the Brooks Museum, go to the river and grab lunch at Bala’s Bistro. After that we’re going to New Orleans to enjoy beignets on Bourbon Street and have cocktails at Cure. To finish the trip we’ll go to Los Angeles to enjoy oysters by the beach. Can’t visit the beach without having sushi at Nobu and ending the night overlooking the city skyline.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate this article to my source, God! Without God, I am nothing. Throughout my life, God has remained the most consistent. As my relationship with Christ developed over the years, I’ve been granted a beautiful life of success; however there is more to life than achievements. God has poured meaningful friendships and experiences into me. I’ve been nurtured through all seasons of life. Because I seek the kingdom of God, I have been provided everything I have and will ever need. I dedicate this article to that relationship first foremost.

Instagram: @madamechenay

Twitter: www.linkedin.com/in/chenayb

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