Growing up with an artistic mother has greatly influenced me. My Mother, Cindy Wallace, considers most things in life to be “art.” She dressed me and my two younger brothers to the nines! She thought of us as her three little “masterpieces.” We never left home without colorful, sometimes matching, stylish outfits. I could have done without the big bows in my hair! She decorated, and re-decorated, and re-decorated our home to perfection! Now, I have three little boys and enjoy continuing this tradition. The art in my heart has made me successful with my children’s store, 529 Kids Consign because I want my little customers to love what they’re wearing and be happy and proud. Picasso once said, “every child is an artist.”

Cindy Wallace, aka Mom, over the years, painted everything in sight from walls to clothes, to our school projects, etc. She formed a company, Sweats, Inc., which became another avenue to express herself. She is always inspired, but her greatest inspiration is the happiness and well-being of all her children. Her spiritual side blessed her with her first granddaughter, Ruby, born on Halloween, one of her favorite holidays! One day she decided to try her hand on canvas, and the rest is history! My Mom liked to share her success stories with our friends and encourage them to get in touch with their creative side. After establishing a full art career in her hometown of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, she began exhibiting her art at some of the finest galleries. Andy Warhol Museum of Art, Jj Gillespie Gallery (The oldest Art Gallery in our nation), and Mendelson Gallery, just to name a few. She received stellar critical reviews on her painting, “Faces of Freedom” (which is now part of a corporate collection of Crown American Enterprises). Mom moved to Virginia to be with her family in 2015. In 2017, she was commissioned to paint a mural in the West End of Alexandria, which is considered the largest in the DMV. You can read more about My Mom in her Street Style here. Myself and my sister-in-law, Katie, are proud to display and market Mom’s art at our new store, Mint Collective.

My Mom is a firm believer in appreciating the wonderful things in life, never taking things for granted, and “giving back.” When she met Kelly Grant, owner of ALX Community of Old Town, that very premise bonded these two women forever. To quote my Mom, “I have the greatest respect for Kelly; not only is she successful, but so very down to earth!” Mom is Kelly’s art coordinator for her beautifully decorated ALX Community properties. She is in charge of installing works of art by herself and other local artists. Cindy Wallace, original paintings will be available for sale. My Mom is an inspiration to us all!

“I am so blessed to have three amazing children, six adorable grandchildren, and (if I had to pick them myself), two beautiful daughters-in-law, and a very handsome son-in-law!"

"I was thrilled to have sung the National Anthem and God Bless America at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, PA, but an even bigger thrill is singing to my grandchildren!”

“Art is music, and music is art.” - Cindy Wallace