transcript: Celebrating 10 Years of 58 Creativity ✨ Hi! I wanted to take a moment to reflect— It’s been 10 years since 58 Creativity was born. Q: How did it all start? It began with one piece of art called “Inspiration.” I created it in 2013, right before officially launching my business in 2014. At the time, I was living in DC and thinking deeply about how to create more art rooted in Deaf culture and sign language. The sign for “inspiration” reminded me of splashing paint—it felt visual, alive, and powerful. That’s when I knew I wanted to share that vision through art. I held onto that piece for a while, feeling like it wasn’t perfect. Back then, I was still working as a graphic designer for clients—creating logos, flyers, and websites for organizations like Aspen Camp and Wawa. Later, after moving to Washington State, I learned I could use Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) to support my business. With their help, I started growing beyond client work. I even created an iPhone app called Deafinitely Magazine—a bilingual platform with ASL videos and English transcripts. It ran for two years. But writing wasn’t really me. I’m an artist at heart. So I pivoted again—VR gave me a Cricut machine, and I started designing stickers. That’s when I realized how much I loved creating physical products I could sell online. It fit me better than face-to-face client work. Since then, I’ve fully shifted toward creating and selling art that celebrates the Deaf experience. People often ask me: How did you get started? What inspired you? What resources are out there? The truth is, I saw a gap. Most ASL art resources were made by hearing people—and often full of errors. So I became more focused on being accurate and culturally aware. I developed a “Deaf eye”—noticing when signs are off, and making sure the handshapes, facial expressions, and meaning are true to our language. That’s what makes 58 Creativity different. This business isn’t just art—it’s about representing our culture right. And I owe so much to my parents. Both are hearing, and my dad is a CODA—so I grew up surrounded by sign language. My twin sister and I are both Deaf. My parents signed with us from day one. My mom even learned ASL before I was born. Later, I graduated from Gallaudet University with degrees in graphic design and photography. Eventually, I moved back to Maryland—I missed the strong Deaf community here. Along the way, I’ve always stayed involved. I volunteered constantly at CSDR and Gallaudet. I received awards, and stayed rooted in service. Because for me, this business was never just about selling. It’s about giving back to the Deaf community—about making people feel seen, important, and inspired. Thank you to everyone who has supported this journey. Here’s to 10 years—and more to come 💛