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Young Entrepreneur: Artsman (3AL Productions)

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What inspired you to start your own business, and how did you first become interested in graphic design?

Anthony Cheltenham Jr. AKA Artsman

Artsman: I attended Joyce Samuel Primary School, and that’s where I first found my love for drawing, particularly vehicles like heavy equipment. In my first few years at ESHS, I majored in music instead of art, but in 10th grade, my passion for visual arts returned, and I joined a graphic design and drawing class. Although I initially struggled to get into the visual arts program, I eventually made it. Growing up, I was inspired by my family and neighbors, many of whom owned their own businesses. My dad owned a towing company, my cousin is a caterer, and most people around me had their own hustle. I wanted mine too.

Can you tell us a bit about your business, 3AL Productions?

Artsman: My business is called 3AL Productions, where we create stunning graphics for any occasion. We design logos, flyers, cartoons, t-shirt designs, book covers, business cards, and even bike, car, and boat deals. Printing is outsourced locally. In addition to graphic design, I was encouraged to start selling t-shirts. Now, 3AL Productions also sells t-shirts. My brand’s name is ArtDept. (Art Department), and I have various designs that cater to everyone.

What have been some of the challenges you’ve faced in starting your business?

Artsman: One major challenge was getting the right equipment, especially the computer. As a graphic designer, you need strong software and hardware to handle the work. I had to find alternatives, but now I have the proper equipment. Another challenge has been payments—sometimes even after taking a deposit, customers don’t return to complete the work, even after multiple attempts to reach them.

How did you fund your business in the early stages?

Artsman: I saved money to ensure I had everything I needed to keep the business going. My family has supported me throughout this venture, which has been very helpful.

How do you balance running your business with your full-time studies?

Artsman: As a full-time college student, it’s a bit challenging, but I balance customer requests, attending classes, and taking care of myself by staying organized and prioritizing my time.

What strategies do you use to market your business?

Artsman: I keep my social media updated and try to post at least once a month. Over the years, I’ve acquired a lot of customers from the BVI, regionally, and even internationally.

How do you measure the success of your business?

Artsman: I measure success by the number of new customers I acquire over time and by the feedback I get on the work I’ve done for both clients and my brand.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

Artsman: The most rewarding thing has been inspiring young people to start their own businesses, especially in graphic design. Another rewarding moment was when I posted a specific design on my social media, and it was shared and talked about throughout the entire Virgin Islands.

What advice do you have for young people who want to start their own business?

Artsman: My advice would be to keep grinding. Never give up on your dreams, and don’t let anyone detour you from your goals. You can only go as far as you take yourself; no one is going to do it for you. Also, research is key—make sure you understand the field you want to enter and how you can generate income from it.

Where do you see your business in the next 5 years?

Artsman: In the next five years, I see my business being well-known and trusted worldwide. I have many new projects in the pipeline, and I also plan to open a storefront here on Tortola.

Who are some of the people who have inspired you in your business journey?

Artsman: People like Mullah Gwop and KJ from Nova Vita really inspired me when I was starting out. I looked up to them because they were successful in graphic design, and I saw them doing great things.

What motivates you to keep going with your business?

Artsman: I stay motivated by continuing to create unique designs and by the advice I get from my closest friends and family, like Jayden Fahie of Amateur X Studios.

How does your business contribute to the local community?

Artsman: My business contributes by sponsoring designs for contestants in various 2024 BVI Pageants, including Miss BVI, Miss Junior BVI, Mr. and Miss HLSCC 2024, and Prince and Princess. I also partnered with Amateur X Studios to give awards to young entrepreneurs in the 2023 and 2024 graduating classes. I’m also part of the Virgin Islands Icon Awards as one of the young graphic designers.

How can people get in touch with you?

Artsman: You can find me on social media at @graphicswith3al and @artsmannnn. You can also contact me at (284) 440-0564 or (284) 343-ARTS.

What are some of the exciting projects you have coming up?

Artsman: Some major upcoming projects for 3AL Productions include designing for Graduation 2025 and the 71st Emancipation Festival Fits & Activities.

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