In an exclusive interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, we had the privilege of speaking with Sylvine, the visionary founder of SMARD ART, a Black art brand dedicated to celebrating and amplifying Black culture through powerful, inspiring artwork. Originally from the Central African Republic and now based in Canada, Sylvine has transformed her passion for art into a movement that extends beyond online sales—her pieces are now available in major retailers like T.J. Maxx, HomeGoods, and HomeSense. Through her journey, Sylvine has remained steadfast in her mission: to make Black art more accessible, celebrated, and valued.
Sylvine is the founder of SMARD ART, a Black art brand that celebrates Black culture through meaningful and inspiring artwork. Originally from the Central African Republic and now based in Canada, she (and her team) has expanded SMARD ART beyond online sales, with artwork now available in major retailers like T.J. Maxx, HomeGoods, and Home Sense. Committed to making Black art more accessible, Sylvine envisions opening physical stores in the future to further inspire and connect communities through creativity and culture.
Your journey from the Central African Republic to founding SMARD ART in Canada is inspiring. How has your background influenced your artistic vision and business approach?
I’m incredibly proud of where I come from, but my artistic vision isn’t just tied to one place – it’s rooted in Black culture as a whole. Everything about Blackness inspires me, the richness, the resilience, the beauty, and the depth of our history. From the way we express ourselves through fashion, music, and art to the way we tell our stories, that cultural essence has always been the foundation of my work.
Coming to Canada gave me the opportunity to explore Black culture on a global scale, to see how it connects us beyond borders. That perspective shaped both my art and my business. I didn’t just want to create visually striking pieces; I wanted to build something bigger – a brand that amplifies Black excellence, representation, and pride. My approach to business reflects that same passion: making sure Black art is accessible, celebrated, and seen as valuable in every space.
For me, SMARD ART isn’t just about selling art – it’s about creating something that speaks to our people, honors our experiences, and leaves a lasting impact.
SMARD ART has experienced remarkable growth and is now available in major retailers. What strategies have been key to scaling your business while maintaining your brand’s authenticity?
Scaling while staying true to our core values has always been a priority. One of the biggest strategies has been building a strong brand identity from the start – one that is deeply rooted in celebrating Black culture, excellence, and artistry. That clarity has helped us make strategic decisions without losing sight of our mission.
Collaboration has also been key. We’ve worked with incredible creatives, influencers, and brands that align with our vision, allowing us to expand our reach without compromising authenticity. Social media, especially TikTok, has played a huge role in our growth, allowing us to connect with our audience directly and build a loyal community.
From a business perspective, being intentional about retail partnerships has made a difference. We didn’t just aim to be in big stores -we wanted to be in the right spaces that value our work and audience. Balancing e-commerce with retail has helped us scale sustainably while keeping our creative integrity intact.
TikTok has been a significant contributor to your success. Can you share how you’ve used the platform to connect with your audience and grow your brand?
TikTok completely changed my life. When I first started, it wasn’t about building a business -it was just me, sharing my craft with the world. I wasn’t too focused on views, likes, or sales ; I just wanted to put my work out there. Then, my posts started going viral, and people connected with what I was creating. That was the turning point.
At first, it was just me as SMARD ART, but as the brand grew, I had to transition from an individual creator to running a full-scale business with a team. That shift changed everything in a positive way. Now, people don’t just see it as “my page” – they see SMARD ART as a brand, a movement, and something bigger than me.
But beyond the business, the most valuable thing TikTok gave me was community. A brand without a community is nothing, and I’m so grateful for the people who have supported, shared, and engaged with my work from the start. That connection is what truly pushed SMARD ART forward.
Once I embraced TikTok, stayed consistent, and used it as a tool rather than chasing numbers, it became a game-changer. It didn’t just help me grow a business – it helped me build a movement, connect with people, and create something meaningful.
Being named as part of the #BlackTikTok Voices to Watch in 2025 is a notable achievement. How do you see this recognition impacting your future goals for SMARD ART?
Being recognized as a #BlackTikTok Voice to Watch in 2025 is truly an honor. It’s a reminder that our work is making an impact, and it’s also motivation to keep pushing forward. This recognition puts a spotlight on SMARD ART, not just as a brand but as part of a larger movement of Black creatives shaping culture and business.
Looking ahead, I see this as an opportunity to expand our reach, collaborate with more creatives, and continue elevating Black art on a global scale. I want to use this platform to inspire and uplift, not just through our products but through mentorship and community-building. We’re also looking at expanding into new creative projects, from limited-edition collaborations to new product lines that further celebrate our essence.
Ultimately, this recognition reinforces our mission – to make Black art accessible, powerful, and unforgettable.
As we conclude, what advice would you offer to other Black entrepreneurs and artists looking to make their mark in the business world while staying true to their cultural roots?
The biggest piece of advice I can give is to own your story and your vision – fully and unapologetically. Your background, your culture, your experiences – those are your strengths. The more you lean into what makes you unique, the more powerful your brand will be.
Also, don’t be afraid to take up space. As Black entrepreneurs and artists/creatives, we often feel like we have to prove ourselves more, but the truth is, we belong in every room we step into. Find your community, connect with people who align with your values, and build something that speaks to who you are.
Most importantly, prepare your mindset. This journey will challenge you. You will have moments of doubt, moments where you feel like you’re not enough for where you’re going – but you have to keep going. Success requires patience, persistence, and an unshakable faith. I truly believe in God, and I believe that if He placed this vision in your heart, it’s for a reason. You have to hold onto that faith- even when it feels delusional. Keep pushing, even when it’s hard. Because at the end of the day, this is bigger than just a business – it’s a legacy.
