BEHIND THE ART

Hi, I’m Yvette — the artist behind YME Artwork. Drawing and painting have been part of my life for as long as I can remember, a way to find peace, serve others and celebrate their stories.

At 13, my dad — a Navy veteran and my biggest supporter — built me my first art studio. Though he lost the cancer battle when I was 16, his encouragement and words of wisdom still inspire every piece I create.

For years, I balanced a traditional career in marketing with my art, but it left me exhausted and unfulfilled. When I finally stepped out in faith to pursue art full time, my life changed. The journey isn’t always easy, but the joy and purpose I’ve found make it worth every step.

Today, I’m grateful to create live caricatures, lead painting classes, and craft custom portraits and illustrations for clients nationwide. When I’m not making art, I enjoy traveling, exploring cultures, and spending time with my Pom-chi sidekick, Iggy.

I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my gift — and I look forward to creating something beautiful with you. Why me? Because art is my God-given assignment — and it’s right there in my name: Yvette Michelle Elam.