I’d like to say a big hello to any readers via HGTV’s Design Happens blog. I’m so very honored to be mentioned in its Black History Month  feature “Trailblazers, Movers, and Shakers.” A big thank you goes out to Anna Millman for writing the article.

I Love My Hair prints – designer Andrea Pippins

 After reading the post, I thought back to an interview last year when I was asked the following questions:

As an African-American interior designer, do you feel that African-Americans are under-represented in the design industry? What do you think should be done to encourage more African-Americans to become interior designers?
Yes.  I think the disparity comes from youth not having much exposure to the field. Due to tight state budgets, art programs in our school systems have been either drastically cut or eliminated. Once of my favorite vocational education classes was industrial arts. My high school also offered drafting for a short time, but was eliminated before I had a chance to sign up. It may be time for the design community to rally together to volunteer their time and money to offer relevant art programs to our youth.

What advice do you have for other African-American interior designers reading this interview?
My advice would be the same to all artists. Get out there are interact with ALL artists, not just a particular group of people. We are all united by a common thread, our God given artistic talents. EVERYONE has a place in the design community. Success is not reserved for a chosen few. Believe that.
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I HAVE A QUESTION FOR YOU.

As always I appreciate your thoughtful comments and feedback here on BluLabel Bungalow! I would like to know your opinion.  

Do you feel that African-Americans are under-represented in the design industry?

I’m not sure if many will comment given the sensitivity on topics of race, but here you have an open forum. All comments will be published.