Kaffeehaus’ “Meet the Artist” series showcases the work of local artists like Trenita Finney, and offers a meet-and-greet space for community members to ask questions.

By Donnie Mangino

Photos courtesy of Trenita Finney

Bright illustrations of powerful, confident women provide a glaring contrast to the white walls of Kaffeehaus Cafe. Their mystical, anime-inspired eyes demand attention. The artist behind the creations, Trenita Finney, is surrounded by curious guests, discussing her work and at the cafe’s “Meet the Artist” event on Saturday, Feb. 9 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The meet-and-greet was the closing event of her month-long art show.

“My friend shared a post directly through Facebook to me about openings at Kaffeehaus and I sent them a message immediately,” Trenita says of the opportunity she was given to display her artwork. “I had driven past the coffee shop for a year, and when I started taking a different route to work, I had forgotten all about them. It was great that everything came back full circle.”

Each piece of Finney’s work tells a unique story of raw individuality and realism. In her piece “Black Girl Magic,” a quartet of women stand in solidarity, arm in arm with half smiles and differing hairstyles, each with their own unique fashion sense. “My art is a visual representation of my growth as a person. It changes and evolves the way I do,” says Finney. “I’ve drawn and created things my whole life, so [my art] is definitely an extension of myself. So many things inspire it, but the main components are music, pop culture, myself, hair, and the people I meet.” Finney says many of her original paintings include subtle references to her friends and family members.

“I try to highlight features that I don’t see every day, like a punk rock girl with sandy red hair, freckles, green eyes and a caramel macchiato skin tone. I want to see the beauty I see every day more often.”

Finney hopes her art inspires those who come across it. Her self-assured and laid back personality are reflected in her work.

“I want to be a freelance artist and build a foundation for myself, but sometimes I get caught up in self-doubt,” she says. “Doing this event helped shift my perspective and motivate me to show my artwork more.”

Finney’s plans for the year ahead include expanding her online store and completing a tattoo apprenticeship.

“I know that if I put my focus there, it will help me expand my artwork to a level where it’s my full-time income. I would love to do more art shows at shops like this in the future.”

Check out Finney’s Etsy store and website. For inquiries and opportunities, reach the artist at hello@trenitamadeit.com.

“Meet the Artist” is an recurring event at Kaffeehaus Cafe, located at 1022 Chestnut St., 15212. For more information, visit the Kaffeehaus Facebook page.