Today we’d like to introduce you to Kyla Phakhailathavong.
Hi Kyla, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I attended art school at Nossi College of Art for Commercial Illustration and graduated in 2015. In my senior year, my art started to take a spookier vibe, which was a huge difference in theme and changed the course of my future artwork and business. After a short break post-graduation until 2017, I started preparing to sell at markets and conventions. In my senior year, my school helped me dip my toes in that field by sponsoring my table at my first anime convention, so I knew what to expect. Being a huge anime fan and not wishing to pursue any studio job, it felt like the best move for my goals.
I grew up watching and helping my mother with her small business, and after I had my first child, I wanted to give them something to look up to as well and show them what they are capable of. My husband has also been a huge supporter of my dreams; I wouldn’t have been able to achieve what I have without him. At its core, this is a family business.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I feel like anything worth the work doesn’t have a completely smooth road. I have definitely had some trials in this journey. For about 8 years, I worked full-time in a variety of jobs, from warehouse work to graphic design. Putting in 40 hours every week and then attended markets and conventions on the weekends, while also raising a family. Back in 2023, I did 26 shows while working at an office doing graphic design, driving about 2-2.5 hours (depending on traffic) every day to get there and back. I remember being very tired that year.
Every year, things got better though. I learned what practices worked for my business and how to correct my mistakes in the new year. Now I’m doing this full-time, with the support of my husband, and I’m able to make a good living from this thus far. While also being able to be there for my family as needed.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
K.Vong is short for Kyla Phakhailathavong, of course. Just made it a little easier to say. Haha.
I make anime-style artwork with Dark Fantasy, Horror, and Folklore themes. I also dabble in some 3D work, sculpting and mask-making. I’m mostly known for my witchy themes, folklore creatures, niche anime/horror fandoms, Pokémon, and cats. Honestly, I just draw things I love. I have a lot of little random inspirations ranging from movies to music. I like being very versatile and accommodating to my fellow spooky nerds. Usually, after geeking out with the fellow attendees if they have recommendations, I deliver. It’s a community, really.
It’s all about making new friends and connections, creating safe places.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
My adaptability year to year, and taking every show and experience as a learning opportunity. Studying the data and finding where improvement can be made.
As well as building connections with my audience, finding common ground, and discovering new interests through those connections.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kvongart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kvong_art/
- Other: https://www.patreon.com/c/KVong_Art
