Meet Stephanie Fazekas | Children’s Author (S.F. Hardy), Mixed Media Artist, and Librarian

We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephanie Fazekas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stephanie, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
Creating makes me happy! Whether it is writing stories, painting, designing candles or crocheting, I’m most at peace when I am able to bring my visions to life. I find creating cathartic, but it also gives me the opportunity to share with others, albeit gifting my crafts, teaching someone else or displaying for others to enjoy.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art manifest in many forms. I’m fortunate to have an imagination that pours out in my children’s stories, digital drawings, paintings and textile art. My biggest challenge has always been believing in myself. I’ve just recently overcome the nagging voice in my head by throwing caution to the wind and accepting the fact that there is an audience for everyone. I’ve stop comparing myself to those I admire, while allowing my artistry to flow and appreciate my gifts.

I want the world to know that internal peace is found with confidence. Do what you love for self and the rest will fall into place. As my mom would often say, “Nothing beats a failure but a try.”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My best friend can expect to visit the Main Library, before heading over to the African American Museum and the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA). We will traverse The Avenue of Fashion for shopping and gallery hopping. What’s a visit without great food and maybe some spirits? We will definitely find ourselves at Petty Cash, IVY Kitchen, One Eyed Betty’s and Demi’s Bar and Grill for mouth water delights. Bakers Keyboard Lounge is where will find ourselves for live music. My bestie and I have to stop by They Say for Open Mind Mic Series–laughter is the signal booster for the soul. One of us may be brave enough to get on stage and recite a poem or two. DANCE! We must head over to AXIS lounge to partake in hustles and ballroom dancing.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Many people have contributed to my success, due to their unyielding support, encouragement and tutelage. My son (Tory “TXRY Customs’ Johnson Jr.) and my best friends (Ladonna Neal), and (Tracye) have been extremely influential in my life.

Website: sfhardybooks.com and stephaniefazekas.com

Instagram: @shenomenalink

Linkedin: Stephanie (S.F. Hardy) Fazekas

Facebook: Stephanie Y Fazekas

Youtube: @SFHardy