I have always been driven to create art. I don’t remember a time when I wasn’t curious about the “how to do it”. Early on I learned about rejection in the art world. Rejection just fueled my desire to figure it out. I taught myself from copying other artists, reading books, taking classes; which all kept my curiosity and drive alive. I earned a degree in art education. I learned early on that the drive; the desire; is key. It isn’t about talent – that comes with practice. I’ve also learned that inspiration is a way to give back. I have a deep desire to inspire others; thus my affinity for my first “career” was to teach. I started out in the public school system and have since moved to teaching art in workshops and classes when the opportunity arises.
I have grown through many different phases as an artist; I call them growth spurts. I believe all artists with the desire to create go through this. I’ve never been about being famous or recognized. For me it was about learning and growing as an artist. My competition has always been with myself. I’ve won awards, been in galleries and sold a lot of work, and I’ve been published in a magazine and a book (when I was going through my paper making and wax collage growth spurt). That’s all great, and fun, but I’d be hard pressed to locate any of those ribbons or publications. For me it’s about being inspired and creating and that is what I am blessed to do.
If I could give any advice (that’s the teacher in me) it would be to find your inspiration; keep your desire alive and then DO.
Saundra has been very generous to Chrysalis, and we are grateful. She has donated two of her beautiful art pieces to our golf tournaments! Thank you, Saundra, for your support!