PORTRAIT OF AN ARTIST

APRIL GRAVES is an award-winning photographic portrait artist, storyteller, and inspirational speaker who uses her talents for good. In addition to creating artistic portraits through Light Drawn Studios, she has championed such philanthropic projects as Beautiful Things with Wings, an ongoing initiative that has raised more than $750,000 for WINGS Program Inc., which supports survivors of domestic violence. An artist and entrepreneur at heart, she incorporated her first business at age 13 and has been self-employed since the age of 23. “I began my career as a children’s fashion designer, selling my collection all over the world,” explains Graves, a wife and mother of two. “Eventually I turned to photography and oil painting as my mediums of choice.” With a huge philanthropic heart and more than 20 years of experience as a professional photographer, she is truly an expert at her craft—sharing her gifts of intertwining art and emotion, all while giving back to her community. “I built my portrait studio upon a foundation of charitable giving,” says Graves, adding that she has raised more than $1 million for local charities.

Most rewarding part of what you do? Being able to create portraits that remind children that they are beautiful, magical, and loved. Empowering them to see their true potential and giving them a constant reminder that they are worthy.

How do you inspire others? My hope is that I inspire others to see the best versions of themselves and to be the creator of their own story. My intention is to inspire kindness and generosity, to be a beacon of positivity. Through my speaking and mentoring, I inspire people to pursue excellence and to write their own narratives—to reframe the past and to create from a blank canvas full of possibilities.

For more information, visit lightdrawnstudios.com, follow Light Drawn Studios-Beautiful Things with Wings on Facebook, and @lightdrawnstudios on Instagram.