Meet Evan Mercer of Richmond Heights

Today we’d like to introduce you to Evan Mercer.

Hi Evan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always been wired a little differently—drawn to color, texture, and the offbeat beauty in things most people overlook. Creativity wasn’t just a hobby for me—it was how I processed the world. After earning my BFA from The Ohio State University, I took that creative spark and ran with it. I built my own photo studio from the ground up, learned how to market myself with personality (and a dash of humor), and kept evolving my craft across mediums.

Now, I channel it all through The Creative Shaman—my personal brand and creative playground. It’s where intuition meets design, where weird is wonderful, and where I help others see their ideas come to life in unexpected ways. Under that umbrella, I run Brev Creative, a collection of passion-fueled businesses that reflect who I am as an artist, a person, and an unapologetic creative spirit. For me, it’s not just about making things—it’s about making meaning.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not really, but I think that’s part of it. As an introvert, there were moments I doubted if I could keep up—let alone stand out. I’ve had to find my own way of doing things, and sometimes that meant going slower or working a little harder behind the scenes.

But I’ve also come to see those things as part of what makes my work mine. They taught me to pay attention, to solve problems creatively, and to stay true to how I process the world. It’s still a work in progress (in my mid 50’s and still working at it) —but honestly, I wouldn’t trade the journey.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I create in layers. Some days, I’m designing digital products and POD goods for Etsy, or working on my YouTube Shorts channel. Other days, I’m sketching branding ideas for fellow creatives chasing their own magic—or finally carving out time to brand myself. I don’t fit into just one box—and honestly, I never wanted to.

I’m proud that I’ve kept going, even as the creative world has transformed again and again. I started my college years when Adobe first came on the scene, and I’ve been learning and evolving ever since. From using early Photoshop and film scanners to AI tools, I’ve adapted by staying curious, flexible, and open to what’s next. What sets me apart? I never stop. Even in stillness, I’m dreaming, reworking, imagining. Creating isn’t just what I do—it’s how I move through the world.

How do you think about happiness?
Not to sound like a broken record, but honestly—creating. Outside of time with my family, my happy place is a laptop or iPad on my lap, or a pen in my hand. It keeps my mind sharp, my hands moving, and gives me direction. It’s the spark that makes everything else in life better.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecreativeshaman/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBlissfulBuh
• Other: https://brevcreative.etsy.com