Meet Anya Boekestein | Artist and Maker

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

Hi Anya, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
A big part of my success was traveling, experiencing western and eastern culture, embracing adventure, and something bigger than myself.
A big part of my success is my support system of family, friends and relationships that encouraged me to create.
A big part of my success was hardships of life, that took me from creating art that sells, to creating art to say.

But the MOST important factor, would be grace, God’s grace. It is the thread that has woven everything together. My journey from Russia to Michigan, through adoption. It is through His guidance that my art has found its way here, and it’s His strength that has enabled me to create.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

Outside of my art, l also work as a member service representative for Lake Michigan Credit Union. I have been there for about 2 years, and I absolutely love it. I also have been busy with photography. It all started about 10 years ago when I picked up my brother’s camera for a small backyard wedding. I fell in love with capturing the emotion: love. l also put together workshops and classes with local businesses, like Holland Area Art Council, and a past market with Full Circle Coffee.

Some of you noticed that I’ve been a little quiet for about 2 years, and wondering if have anything exciting coming, the answer is, YES! I have a dream that’s unfolding with my friend Esther that includes our two favorite things in the world, coffee and art. So, follow my socials to see this dream unfold. In the meantime, I continuing building my brand, painting, and finding inspiration, and enjoying life.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would start with grabbing a cup of coffee from Full Circle in Byron Center, then take them to Lake Michigan.
I would have to take them to Hilliards Corner Lounge, where I serve on Saturdays, a bar/restaurant in the middle of a corn field, but has amazing food.
I would take them to a small beach town, a night out on the town of GR, I would take them horse riding, and up north to Irons to go ride on quads.
We would visit all the local breweries, because ya know, GR brews:)
I would take them thrifting, and really just have them hang out with all the people I love.

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?
There are 3 people who have been close to my heart through this art journey.

Chelsea Garter, my friend, hair stylist, my penpal when I was 10. A family friend. A mother, a creator, and a healer. She allowed me to bring my messy, and create it into something beautiful, She is an artist herself, and through the years, helped me become the artist I am today. @chelseamichalart.
Cassie Kieda, through her gentle friendship, she has helped me heal, and think, and love others. She is my creative inspiration for photography and art. Check her out @cassie.kieda.artwork.
Esther Heethuis, our mutual love for coffee brought us together, her creative soul made her stay. She was the friend I needed and want. She has a successful coffee page called @michigancoffeeguide.

I guess one more, my mama. She is my rock.

Website: https://www.inanyasstudio.com

Instagram: @in_anyas_studio

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inanyasstudio/

Image Credits
@cassie_kieda