Ayesha Simmons is an artist and founder of AyestheticsArt, a portrait service dedicated to creating timeless, expressive works that celebrate the essence of each subject. Whether it’s a cherished family member, a beloved pet, or a personal milestone, she crafts portraits that go beyond appearances—capturing personality, emotion, and presence. With a deep appreciation for detail and a passion for storytelling through art, she creates custom portrait services that turn special moments into lasting heirlooms. We learn more about this creative talent and her business journey…

Ayesha, you are an artist and owner of AyestheticsArt. Tell us more about how you developed your passion for art.

I’ve always loved art since I was little! When I was a child, I used to create drawings for my mum all the time. Everything from magical underwater worlds full of mermaids to forests filled with butterflies and fairies. That early love for creativity, especially drawing, stayed with me as I grew up. During school, I lost touch with art for a while, forgetting about the joy it brought me when I was little. During school, I lost touch with art for a while and forgot how much joy it once brought me. It wasn’t until my GCSEs, when I had the chance to experiment more in class, that I rediscovered my passion, particularly for artwork that involved people. I found myself drawn to capturing human expression and individuality and naturally gravitated towards portraiture. Because the school curriculum required exploring a variety of mediums and styles, meaning I couldn’t focus solely on my portraiture art, I started drawing at home again, just like I did when I was younger. I’d rush home from school, sit on the floor of my bedroom with my sketchbook, and choose a celebrity or someone I looked up to as my next subject. Drawing became my escape, especially during a time when I didn’t feel like I fit in at school. It gave me a sense of purpose, belonging and an escape. From there, I continued teaching myself through trial and error, enjoying the challenge of bringing my subjects to life on paper. For me, it’s always been about more than just drawing; it’s about capturing the likeness, emotion, and spirit of the people I portray.

AyestheticsArt started out as a side hustle; how did it become a business generating a healthy sales revenue?

I initially began doing art commissions as a side hustle when I was in Year 13 at Sixth Form. At the time, I didn’t expect it to become anything more than a small creative outlet. But as time went on, I started dabbling in different things. I began experimenting with new styles, and one I particularly enjoyed was acrylic pour painting. Whenever I needed a break from drawing, I’d create these abstract pours, photograph them, and digitally draw silhouetted symbols or figures on top.

Eventually, I turned these into prints, alongside some of my original pencil drawings. Around this time, I enquired about running a pop-up stall at my university, the University of Sussex, and to my delight, I was allowed to. I became the first student in the university’s history to hold a solo pop-up, which actually started a new trend on campus! I received such great feedback, made a couple of sales, and got around 20 email list signups. That experience validated my decision to start selling prints!

While still at university, I discovered a “Creativity for Wellness” week happening in Brighton and saw they were inviting local creatives to run workshops, performances, and talks. I’d always considered running drawing workshops but lacked the confidence; I was incredibly shy, and the thought of teaching others felt extremely overwhelming. Still, I applied, not expecting to be chosen… But a week later, I was invited to host a session! I ended up running a free online workshop for around 30 people, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. That gave me the push to start running my own workshops, and it soon became a new income stream.

Later on, I pitched my business for a Santander grant for student entrepreneurs and was selected as a winner, receiving £1.5k. I used the grant to invest in a professional art printer (so I could make prints at home), apply for more stalls, and upgrade my art materials. That marked a turning point: what started as a simple side hustle was now a multi-stream business.

From that point on, I began treating it seriously , not just as a passion but as a real business. Since graduating from university and having more time to dedicate to my business, I’ve joined several business accelerators and entrepreneurship programmes, which have helped me grow in confidence and strategy. Most recently, I’ve also decided to start creating resources for other artists who want to monetise their own work, just like I have. That’s now another income stream I’ve added to AyestheticsArt — and it feels amazing to help others do the same.

What were the challenges of going from a hobby and passion to a business?

One of the biggest challenges for me was truly recognising that what I do is a business. When I first started attending business programmes and accelerators, I constantly felt out of place. My inner critic would say things like, “What are you doing here?” or “You don’t even have a real business; you just draw.” I’d look at people launching tech start-ups or inventing innovative products, and I felt silly in comparison. That mindset, those limiting beliefs, really held me back. It stopped me from taking my work seriously and from treating it with the structure and respect a business deserves.

Because of that, I overlooked a lot of key business elements, things like strategic planning and setting financial goals. I felt overwhelmed, stuck, and unsure how to move forward. It wasn’t until I shifted my mindset and embraced the fact that my art could be a legitimate, impactful business that things started to change.

Another challenge was keeping my passion alive. Turning your creative passion into a business can blur the lines between joy and obligation. There have been moments where I’ve felt creatively burnt out, or like I’d lost the love I once had for drawing. I had to learn how to reconnect with my creativity by carving out time to create just for me – not for a client, not for profit, but simply for the joy of it. That’s been essential to maintaining balance and staying grounded in why I started.

Lastly, wearing all the hats – from marketing and finances to client management – was a huge adjustment. Running a creative business requires so much more than just being good at your craft. But every challenge has taught me something new, and I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything.

You are experienced in social media marketing; how did your expertise develop your business audience?

My background in social media marketing, developed through years of working with clients in both agency and freelance roles, has played a huge part in growing my business audience. This experience has made me deeply familiar with how different platforms work, what kinds of content perform best, and the importance of consistent engagement for growth. I’ve been able to apply this knowledge to my own business by using social media channels like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and LinkedIn strategically – not just to showcase my work, but to actively build a community.

By creating content that offers value, whether that’s art inspiration, drawing tips, business advice, or trend-based posts, I’ve positioned my platforms as spaces where people can learn, connect, and stay inspired. I regularly talk about the different services I offer, which means that anyone landing on my page immediately knows how they can work with me. This has helped turn followers into paying customers and workshop attendees.

Social media has also allowed me to connect directly with other artists and art business owners, creating a supportive network that continues to boost my visibility and expand my reach. Many of my commission clients and workshop participants have found me through social media content, and I’ve successfully used my platforms to convert followers into email subscribers, helping to grow other parts of my business too. Overall, my marketing skills have been key to building an engaged audience and creating long-term opportunities from online visibility.

What advice would you give anyone exploring the idea of launching a side hustle business?

My biggest piece of advice is simple: just start.

It’s so easy to get caught up in overthinking, planning, or worrying about what others might think. I know because I did. I was 17 when I first started monetising my art, and I remember feeling embarrassed about people at school finding out. I didn’t have any formal business knowledge, but by starting despite that, I gave myself the opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow. You don’t need to have it all figured out before you begin. Self-doubt is normal, but waiting for the “perfect moment” can hold you back indefinitely. The truth is, taking that first step is what opens the door to growth and confidence.

Surround yourself with supportive influences.

Whether that’s friends, family, or new connections who share similar goals, being around people who “get it” makes a huge difference. For me, joining entrepreneurship programmes and networking with other creatives helped me realise I wasn’t alone, and it made the journey feel far less daunting.

If in-person events aren’t accessible due to time, energy, or other commitments, remember that social media is a powerful tool. You can connect with like-minded people, join online communities, and build a network that motivates and uplifts you all from your phone.

Be realistic and consistent with your time.

If your side hustle is alongside studies, work, or parenting, don’t pressure yourself to hustle 24/7. Instead, carve out manageable pockets of time, whether it’s an hour a day or a few hours each week. Progress is still progress, and consistency matters more than intensity.

Another important piece of advice is to identify your ‘why’.

Knowing your motivation for starting your side hustle will help you stay grounded, especially when things feel tough. Whether it’s something like financial freedom, creative expression, flexibility, or long-term goals, your why  becomes the reason you keep going when self-doubt or burnout creeps in.

And don’t lose the joy of creating.

Make time for your creative practice that isn’t tied to money, clients, or goals, just pure expression. It helps you stay connected to the love of what you do and reminds you why you started in the first place.

 

Where do you find your creative sources for inspiration?

A lot of my inspiration, especially for my realism portraiture, comes from people. I’m really drawn to the uniqueness of individuals — their features, their expressions, and especially their stories. Whether it’s a public figure or someone I know personally, I find people endlessly fascinating. When I’m working on a commission, knowing the story behind the subject makes such a difference. It helps me connect to the work on a deeper level and allows me to really bring that person’s essence into the drawing.

Pinterest is another key tool for me; I use it to explore references and find visual inspiration, particularly when planning out compositions or studying certain poses and lighting.

Music also plays a big part in my creative process. It helps put me in the right mindset to create, whether that’s while focusing closely on the details of a realism drawing, or when I’m making my acrylic pour silhouette art, which is more abstract and expressive. That side of my work is also inspired by mindfulness and spirituality. I see it as a chance to explore emotion and energy in a different way, beyond facial expression or realism.

So overall, I’d say my creativity is sparked by people, stories, emotions, and the different ways I can channel all of that through my art.

Tell us more about sustainable art…

When I talk about helping artists build sustainable art businesses, I’m referring to creating something that’s long-lasting, adaptable, and financially viable over time. Many artists struggle to turn their creative skills into consistent income and often feel unsure about how to position themselves professionally, market their work, or manage the business side of things.

Through the resources I create, whether it’s eBooks, workbooks, or digital templates, I aim to help artists develop a solid foundation for a business that aligns with their values and lifestyle and that they can grow at their own pace. It’s also about mindset: helping artists see their practice as a real, valuable business and giving artists the tools to keep going, confidently and consistently, for the long term.

What are your thoughts on the rise and fall of the NFT market?

The rise of the NFT market was interesting to watch, especially as it created new ways for digital artists to earn money and claim ownership over their work. I appreciated that it opened conversations around the value of digital art, something many artists have struggled to have taken seriously in traditional art spaces.

However, I’ve always been a bit sceptical of anything that moves too fast and becomes too hype-driven, especially when it comes to artists’ livelihoods. Many creatives were encouraged to jump into NFTs without fully understanding the tech or the market, and unfortunately, some were left disappointed or even exploited. It often felt like the focus shifted away from the art and more toward fast money, which rarely ends well, and that’s exactly what happened when the market crashed.

Another big issue was the sheer number of scams. During the NFT boom, I was constantly flooded with suspicious messages from people claiming to want to buy my art as NFTs. It posed a real risk for artists, especially those who were young or just starting out in the business side of art. The volume of these messages made the whole space feel quite sketchy and off-putting.

I think the fall of the NFT market was a reminder that long-term value comes from building genuine community, consistent income, and creative integrity, not just from chasing trends.

Do you think the trend will emerge again? Is this the future for displaying artwork?

I think trends like NFTs might re-emerge in some form, especially as technology evolves and people explore new ways to experience and collect art. However, I don’t expect the hype and rapid boom we saw before to return in the same way. The initial NFT surge was very much driven by speculation and trends rather than the art itself, so now there’s an opportunity for a more thoughtful and sustainable approach if it’s based on real value and trust. For me, the cultural and personal connections that come from physical art are really important and fulfilling, and so I don’t think NFTs will ever overtake this and become the predominant way to display art.

Do you plan to digitise your creative talent?

Yes, and in some ways, I already have! I recently launched my first eBook and workbook, Art Commissions 101, which is a practical guide for artists who want to start or grow a commission-based art business. It covers everything from pricing and client communication to building an online presence, with worksheets and digital ready-to-use templates included, plus access to my private online community of artists! I can’t wait to see how this resource helps people.

I’ve also been thinking about expanding the digital side of my creative work further. For example, I’ve considered offering my realism portrait commissions in digital form. I’ve been practising on Procreate here and there, and while I still have a lot to learn, I’ve really enjoyed the process so far. Once I feel more confident with my digital drawing skills, I’d love to offer digital portrait commissions as another option.

With my art prints, I’ve explored the idea of selling some as digital downloads too, giving people the flexibility to print and frame my work in their own space, on their own terms.

On the business side, I definitely plan to create more digital resources for fellow artists, such as ready-to-use templates, guides, and digital workbooks – practical tools to support creatives in building sustainable art businesses.

Looking ahead, I’m also open to the idea of offering online courses, whether that’s teaching drawing techniques, helping artists build their business foundations, or even blending both. I think there’s so much potential in using digital platforms to share knowledge, support others, and reach a wider creative community.

Digitising parts of my practice is something I see as a way to expand, not replace, what I love about traditional art while creating more accessible and meaningful touchpoints with others along the way.

Do you feel there is enough support for artists and creative industries?

I think support for artists and the creative industries definitely exists, but it’s not always easy to find or access, especially for emerging artists, young creatives, or those without an existing network. When I was starting out, I found it quite isolating. I had to figure a lot out on my own through trial and error, especially when it came to the business side of things.

There are grants, mentorship schemes, creative programmes and communities out there, which I’ve found super helpful and lucky to have been a part of, but they’re often not widely publicised. A lot of artists don’t even realise they’re eligible for support. I also find that a lot of free programmes have specific requirements in terms of age, with many I’ve come across/been a part of catering to under-30s only. I feel there is less accessible support for people above these ages. I do think there’s a gap in accessible, practical guidance for creatives who want to turn their creativity into a sustainable business; that’s one of the reasons I created Art Commissions 101 and continue to share tips and resources on my social media.

On the flip side, I’ve been really encouraged by the growth of online spaces, especially platforms like Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn, which have helped creatives build audiences, connect with one another, and access opportunities they might not have found otherwise. A lot of the opportunities/support I’ve come across I’ve found through social media.

So while I don’t think there’s enough support yet, especially in terms of accessible business education and funding, I also think there’s a growing movement of creatives supporting creatives, which is powerful. I’d love to see more investment in that kind of peer-led support, creative education, and resources that are genuinely built with creatives in mind.

How would you improve the support to nurture new, creative talent?

I’d love to see more support systems that are inclusive of all ages and learning experiences, whether someone is a complete beginner, a young creative, or someone rediscovering their creativity later in life. Creativity doesn’t have an age limit, and the support available shouldn’t assume that everyone learns the same way.

One key thing I’d change is the balance between theory and practice. While learning through listening or watching is useful, I think many creatives benefit more from hands-on, practical support, the kind that helps them apply what they’re learning in real time. That could be through workshops, guided exercises, real-life case studies, templates, or even challenges that help people gradually build skills and confidence as they go.

I’d also focus on creating safe and encouraging spaces for experimentation, where people feel supported to make mistakes and grow from them. That’s often missing in more traditional or formal learning environments, but it’s essential for nurturing creative talent.

Ultimately, I’d want to make support feel less intimidating and more empowering, breaking things down into actionable steps, providing access to peer mentorship or feedback, and helping people not only build skills but also believe in their potential.

Which creative entrepreneurs do you most admire and why?

I’m incredibly inspired by Artbyoums and her extraordinary talent in hyperrealistic portrait art. Her skill level is something I genuinely aspire to achieve, and what makes her even more admirable is that she’s completely self-taught, just as I am and continue to be in my own artistic journey. She’s developed a brand that truly resonates with both art enthusiasts and aspiring artists, creating a community around her work that feels genuine and inspiring!

Kelsey Rodriguez Art is my absolute number one person to watch on YouTube for practical art business advice. What I admire most about her is how she’s successfully positioned herself as both a visual artist and content creator, which perfectly aligns with my own goals. She’s built a multifaceted art business similar to what I’m growing, offering diverse products and services while actively helping other artists develop their businesses. Her content is incredibly tailored and helpful; she’s mastered the art of diversifying income streams while maintaining authenticity in everything she does.

Dean Graziosi has also been a tremendous influence on my entrepreneurial mindset. He’s a master at storytelling and communication, running multiple successful businesses with impressive innovation. I participated in one of his programmes a few years ago, and it was incredibly insightful, particularly regarding how to use storytelling in business and offer genuine value to people while developing the right mindset. What made it even more special was that during one of his weekly livestreams, he called out a post I’d made in the group chat and gave me a direct, dedicated message telling me how amazing my work was and to never give up despite anyone’s thoughts or opinions. I was only 19 at the time, and that moment was absolutely incredible. I still have the recording and watch it whenever I need encouragement!

I also deeply admire the entrepreneurs in my immediate circle, particularly my friend Annette, who is working on an innovative friendship app for women alongside her best friend. The app is launching soon, and I’m constantly inspired by her hard work, dedication, and genuine passion for helping women find meaningful friendships both through the app and at in-person events. Watching her commitment to making a real difference in people’s lives reminds me why entrepreneurship can be such a powerful force for good.

How do you keep a work-life balance?

I try to set dedicated “business work” time, although I’ll be honest, it’s still a struggle sometimes. I’ve caught myself working late into the night on occasion, so I’m working on creating clearer boundaries between work time and personal time. I also do freelancing currently, which adds another layer to manage, so I make sure to schedule time for that as well.

Planning my days ahead has really helped; I write to-do lists that include both business and personal tasks. I’ve gotten better at prioritising, which means I’m learning to move less urgent tasks to another day instead of trying to do everything at once. This way, I reduce overwhelm and make progress without burnout.

I’ve also started making self-care a non-negotiable part of my routine, whether that’s spending time being active, relaxing with music, or enjoying a long bath. While I’m not perfect at balancing work and life yet, I’m getting there and learning what works for me.

Some other ways I try to keep that balance are:

  • Setting clear start and stop times for work, to help separate business hours from personal time
  • Using tools like timers or calendar blocks to keep focused but avoid working for too long without breaks
  • Staying mindful of how I’m feeling and adjusting my workload when needed

What do you do to unwind after a busy day of creativity?

One of my favourite ways to relax is by watching a show I love, The Vampire Diaries is my all-time favourite and my absolute comfort show, so you’ll often catch me rewatching it!

Lately, I’ve also been getting more active, which has made a big difference. Whether that be doing a home workout, going to the gym or going for a walk with my dog(s), it helps me switch off mentally and reconnect with my body. It’s a simple but really grounding way to end the day.

If I’ve spent the day focused on admin or non-art-related work, I’ll often wind down by drawing just for myself. Creating without pressure or a specific outcome in mind is something I really enjoy.

Music is another big thing that helps me unwind; I love putting my earphones in and shutting the rest of the world out for a bit! And because working solo can sometimes feel a bit isolating, I really value spending time with my mum or meeting up with a friend. A bit of real-life interaction and laughter always helps me reset.

Does the cost of living crisis affect your business model with art seen as a luxury purchase?

Yes, it definitely does, especially when it comes to my art commissions, which are priced at a higher price point. Art is often seen as a luxury, and unlike essentials like food or electricity, it’s something many people understandably can’t prioritise during financial hardship.

To make my work more accessible, I offer payment plans for my commissions so clients don’t have to pay the full amount upfront. This allows them to invest in meaningful, personalised art in a more manageable way. I also offer a variety of products across different price points, from smaller commissions to art prints, so there’s something available for different budgets.

Navigating this economic climate has made me more intentional about creating flexible options while still valuing the time and effort that goes into each piece.

How have you developed the e-commerce side of your business?

I’ve gradually built up the e-commerce side of my business over time, starting with selling physical products like my commissions and art prints through platforms like Etsy and eBay. As well as getting orders through social media. I’ve learnt a lot through trial and error, understanding things like product photography, SEO, and how to write descriptions that connect with potential buyers.

More recently, I’ve started exploring digital products, which has been a big shift for me. I launched my first ebook and workbook, Art Commissions 101, which helps artists learn how to start and grow their own commission-based art business. That was a huge milestone, and it’s opened up a new side to my business that I want to keep expanding, offering more digital resources and tools for artists.

There’s still a lot I’m learning, but I’ve made progress by investing time into understanding what my audience wants and how I can offer value in different ways, whether it’s through physical artwork, workshops, or helpful business tools for creatives.

How do you plan to develop your business over the next 5 years?

I’m still figuring out the full shape of my long-term plan, but I do have a strong vision for how I’d love to grow. Over the next 5 years, one of my main goals is to expand my online presence and continue building my identity as both an artist and a content creator. I want to consistently share not just my artwork and behind the scenes of my life and business but also valuable insights and content around running a creative business, especially for fellow artists.

I plan to continue offering commissions while also exploring opportunities to work on larger-scale, high-impact projects like creating custom artwork for organisations, campaigns, or community initiatives.

A big focus for me will be growing the educational and support side of my business. I want to create more digital resources for artists, things like eBooks, ready-to-use templates, guides, and potentially online courses or mentorship programmes. I’d love to build a strong community of students and artists who are turning their creativity into sustainable businesses and feel supported throughout that journey.

In-person connection is also important to me. I want to start hosting and curating events, whether they’re workshops, creative networking opportunities, or exhibitions that give emerging artists a chance to showcase their work and connect with others in the field.

I also plan to launch a podcast focused on art and creative entrepreneurship. It’ll be a space for me to share insights and lessons I’ve learnt but also to bring in other artists and entrepreneurs for honest, inspiring conversations.

Collaborating with creative brands or platforms is something I’d love to explore, especially as a way to bring more visibility to my work and reach wider audiences who align with my values. I’m also really interested in getting my art prints and related products stocked in physical shops one day; it would be amazing to see my work in stores where people can engage with it in person.

Ultimately, I want to grow everything I’m doing now, just bigger, better, and more impactful. I also want to stay flexible, because I know my path may shift as new opportunities or ideas come up. But the core of it will always be creating art, helping other artists grow, and building a community around creativity and business.

If you could paint anyone at any point in history, who would it be?

I would love to draw Cleopatra. I’ve always loved history, and as a child I was especially fascinated by Ancient Egypt – its symbolism, culture, and the mystery surrounding it still captivate me. What intrigues me a lot is that we don’t truly know what many historical figures looked like, and Cleopatra is a perfect example. She’s such an iconic and layered figure, often remembered for her beauty but also admired for her intelligence, leadership, and strength! As an artist, I’d love to bring her to life through my own lens, not just to celebrate her political power and resilience as a female ruler in a male-dominated world, which I absolutely love, but also to explore the rich visual elements of the time. The fashion, jewellery, and makeup styles of Ancient Egypt are so striking and expressive! I love the bold eyeliner, elaborate headdresses, and intricate gold accessories; they’re so beautiful and carry so much meaning and symbolism. Capturing that in a portrait would be an amazing way to blend history, beauty, and storytelling through art.

Cleopatra represents power, femininity, and legacy, all things I find inspiring and would love to express through a powerful portrait. It would be both a creative and personal challenge and such a rewarding piece to bring to life.

Lastly, what advice would you give anyone in the process of starting up a business from your experiences?

If you’re already in the process of starting your business, my biggest advice would be: don’t try to do everything at once. When I started, I didn’t properly lay down any foundations; I was just going with the flow and trying to keep up. But after a while, I realised I hadn’t even figured out the key things, like who I was really helping or what made my business unique. I had to pause and go right back to basics. So take the time to get clear on your foundations early; it will give you so much more clarity and confidence as you grow.

That said, it’s important to remember you don’t need to have everything figured out from day one. While having a solid foundation helps guide you, it’s perfectly normal to keep experimenting, learning, and evolving as your business grows. Focus on progress, not perfection, and give yourself grace along the way. Most of us are still figuring things out as we go, and that’s okay.

Another piece of advice is: put yourself out there, even when it feels uncomfortable. Whether that’s posting online, talking about your business in person, or reaching out to someone you admire, it’s going to feel scary at first. But trust me, push through the discomfort; it gets easier, and you grow so much from it. Confidence doesn’t just appear; it’s built through action. The more you show up, the more you prove to yourself that you can do hard things.

Price your work fairly. Especially in creative fields, it can feel awkward charging for what you do, but you deserve to be paid for your skill and expertise. Respecting your time and talent by pricing properly is a crucial part of building a sustainable business.

And lastly, feel the discomfort or fear, and do it anyway. Don’t let self-doubt hold you back. It will try to creep in, but it doesn’t have to control you. Do what you need to do to grow your confidence, whether that’s mindset work, talking to supportive people, or reflecting on how far you’ve already come. The belief in yourself might not be strong yet, but it will grow the more you nurture it.

Keep going. You’re far more capable than you think, and your vision is worth pursuing!