Meet Ariana Hartman | Ingenious

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

Hi Ariana, why did you pursue a creative career?
I have always been interested in art. Starting at age 5 I would paint, draw, and create things out of nothing. Out of my friend group I’d say I was the artsy one. After school you could find me in the art room finishing a project or starting anew. I’ve had my art displayed a few times at the Arlington art exhibit. I feel it’s a way of expression that I have found to be relaxing. In 2015 I realized makeup is another form of art. I did not want to need to rely on someone else to do my makeup, so I learned to do my own. I realized I could apply the same principles I learned in art class to the face. For example, using colors from light to dark and blending. I have now been practicing makeup for 7 years and have grown a newfound love. There’s always something new to try and something to perfect with makeup.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m currently an HR Generalist. My job consists of being handed a task and coming up with a solution. Whether it’s information needed, a problem, or guidance I am that helping hand. I feel what sets me apart from others is my drive to get a task completed. If someone is not able to help I will go to someone else I will even research the issue if I need to. Throughout my years of working I have been in retail, fast food, college bookstore, and administrative positions. All these settings required me to have patience and to brainstorm different ways to get the job done. I’ve learned many lessons during my career which includes how to interact with an array of people. I honestly could call myself a chameleon because of my ability to adapt. My goal when coming into an organization is to improve it and leave my mark. Getting to where I am now professionally was not easy. I heard so many no’s before I got a yes. Trying to get into HR is hard without experience. My first position in this field was very much trial and error. I was able to figure out what’s appropriate and what isn’t. I got to a breaking point in 2021 because of my current position and where I knew I wanted to be. The job search can be discouraging but I knew my break through was coming. I am a single child that comes from a single parent household. I’m built different.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my friend came to visit for a week we would hit up Six Flags for sure on one of the days. One of my favorite places to eat would be Red Claw or BFFs. For night life we would head out to Dallas. Noble Bar Lounge is one of my spots I love.

There’s always a DJ and the music is jumping. There’s a dark theme in there so it’s very comfy. I would honestly be more interested in trying new places that I have not been because there’s so much out here to explore.

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?
My backbone is compiled of my mother (Artrese), aunt (Regina), grandmother (Ruth), mema (Lesia), and best friends. My mother has never let up on me and has always pushed me to my fullest potential. My mom allowed me to have a whole closet dedicated to arts and crafts. She has always been there every step of the way investing in me and pushing me to be a better person. I would indulge every weekend with my mema in her craft room creating scrapbook pages, cards, distressing items, and pushing my creative potential. My best friends Kadaja, Kelsey, Melody, and Kali also keep their foot on my neck when it comes to makeup. I do not think I would have pursued makeup if it wasn’t for them. It’s important to have a strong support system that believes in everything you do. Coming from a group of such powerful black women inspired me to go harder.

Website: https://square.site/book/L7YVKB5PKKC6F/aribeatyaface

Instagram: aj__hartman/aribeatyaface

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariana-hartman

Image Credits
@Brenshotya _ (instagram) /Jeremy Anderson