Cynthia Deis is an artist, writer and educator based out of Raleigh, North Carolina. She’s a creative that ‘gets’ business, but she’s decided to use her powers for good. With experience ranging from old-fashioned retail, to ecommerce, to pop-up shops and monthly art markets, her focus has always been on creating durable, financially-sustainable businesses with artists and creatives.  

experience

A graduate of The Ohio State University, Cynthia began her career in classrooms in Austin, TX. Teaching art to all ages, she also produced jewelry and decorative art. A move to Raleigh, NC led to a shift to selling that work. Clients ranged from independent boutiques, to catalogs and major retailers such as Anthropologie and Nordstrom. As her personal work took off, she discovered that her interactions with store owners and retail buyers always led to ideas about their store processes and design. This interest led her to open Ornamentea, a Raleigh-based bead and craft supply store, and to co-found Pop-Up Raleigh, an innovative local pop-up market for artists. After 17 years of creating the most engaging, creative business possible, it was time for a lifestyle shift. A year off, travel and lots of time with family was the refresh she needed, and Cynthia's work focus shifted to creating retail events for venues and helping artists and creative retailers keep their businesses fresh and exciting. She consults and travels to work with artists, craftspeople, events, and retailers around the U.S. and Canada.

speaking and presenting

Cynthia is an engaging speaker with a friendly, light-hearted style. She is not afraid to go deep with groups, and listeners leave motivated and encouraged. With years of classroom teaching experience, she is ready to enlighten and entertain your group. Her favorite topics include pricing, marketing and creating sustainable art and handmade businesses. Her current price list is here.

Training certifications include REAL Entrepreneurship and REAL Craft Entrepreneur certifications.

service

Cynthia is the Education Director of Triangle ArtWorks, an organization focused on providing business and legal support for artists and arts organizations in the central North Carolina region. Learn more about Triangle ArtWorks here.

Cynthia happily serves on selection committees and juries for art shows, craft markets, county fairs and artist grants throughout the southeastern US and considers it an honor to be asked.

follow Cynthia on most social media @cynthiadeis