Actually my answer was a little different as a child.
When I was asked what I wanted my life occupation to be, I answered “Walmart” yes indeed : ) but I never did end up working there. It only seems like it’s my life occupation to shop there!
I became interested in art at 11 yrs old. I sketched endlessly in a large art pad, then when I was 14 my parents enrolled me in oil painting classes at Painters Corner in Republic, MO.
The first time I sat down in front of a blank canvas I was so intimidated, but the teachers were excellent and I quickly realized what I could do with a little bit of paint.
I was forced to slow down & appreciate fine details.
After high school.. I became a graphic designer, mural painter, and photographer.
Once I learned the basics of art, it was easy to transfer one set of skills to another.
In many ways, I feel like my artistic journey is just beginning. It takes time to discover your own voice & style.
The process of creating is gratifying. exciting. exhilarating. frustrating. rewarding. overwhelming. consuming. energizing. & exhausting… ok, you get the picture. : )
I am trying to learn how to balance my passion for art with the rest of my life and the special people in it.
It’s so good to have the love & support of people around me, and the skills & ability that enable me to live my dream.
I decided to include in this post a few examples of what I have been doing the last 10 yrs… faux/mural wall treatments & canvas pieces.
One of my favorite projects was for Principe de Paz.. a girls home in Guatemala. I had the privilege to make some very worthy little girls home a bit more cheery!
The girls helped me paint the flowers on their Mary Englebreit mural.
by mandy
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