My Art Journey and What I’ve Learned along the way

My Art Journey and What I’ve Learned Along the Way

I’ve been on a creative journey for as long as I can remember. Both of my parents were artists in their own ways, so art was always part of my life. My mom is a writer and poet, but she’s also done sewing art, painting, oil pastels, and mixed media. She always kept me stocked with art supplies and encouraged me to create—whether it was painting Easter eggs or making Christmas ornaments every year. My dad was a craftsman who built furniture, houses, and outdoor spaces. He used to take his work to art fairs under the name Connors Designs—a name I’ve now revived for my own art business.

Growing up, I’d work for him in his workshop—a remodeled barn—helping him clean, do tasks and pack up furniture and supplies before he left for shows around Madison, Wisconsin. Having parents who valued creativity gave me a solid foundation to build my artistic skill set and mindset.

The Struggle Between Passion and Practicality

Pursuing art as a career is something a lot of people talk themselves out of. It’s often seen as risky, unstable, or more of a hobby than a real job. I almost went to school for computer graphic design, but during my senior year of high school, I switched gears and chose nursing instead.

I don’t regret that decision—I’ve learned so much through that path—but I’ve never stopped creating. Art has always been a part of me, and I feel like the passions you have as a kid are worth holding onto. Too many people let those early interests fade away as life gets busier. They stop painting, drawing, or making music and think they’ve lost the ability. But the truth is, it’s still there—you just have to pick it back up.

I think reconnecting with what inspired you as a kid can reignite something powerful. It’s a way to tap back into the creative energy you forgot you had.

Exploring New Mediums and Styles

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned—not just in art but in life—is to keep exploring. Even though I’ve been focused on pyrography and acrylic painting over the past few years, I’m always looking for the next medium or style to dive into.

When I was younger, I mainly stuck to pencil sketching because it was simple and easy to access. Black and white art was my thing—I wasn’t big on using color. Over time, I experimented with oil pastels, charcoal, markers, spray paint, and eventually pen sketching because I was into tattoos and limited by my environment. Every time I tried something new, I learned a new skill or technique that added to my toolbox.

Pushing myself into unfamiliar territory has always been a way to grow creatively and mentally. Art has taught me to stay curious and never get too comfortable.

The Challenge of Sharing Your Work

Putting your art out into the world can feel vulnerable, especially when it’s personal. Early on, it felt risky to share my work, but I learned that the raw honesty in art is what connects people to it. If your work is real, people will see pieces of themselves in it—and that’s powerful.

Not everything I’ve made has turned out how I wanted, and not every idea has worked out. But I’ve learned that failure isn’t the end—it’s feedback. Every mistake is a lesson, and each one has helped me improve and sharpen my vision.

Art Is a Reflection of Growth

For me, art isn’t just about making things—it’s about becoming something. It’s a mirror that reflects where I’ve been, what I’ve struggled through, and how far I’ve come. Looking back at my older pieces always reminds me that growth is real. It’s easy to forget your progress until you see how much your work has evolved.

Through art, I’ve learned patience, discipline, and the importance of trusting the process. It’s shown me how to embrace failure, how to keep moving forward, and how to turn ideas into something tangible. And as I keep creating, I know there’s always more to uncover—about myself, my art, and the world around me.

Final Thoughts

This journey has taught me that art isn’t just something you do—it’s something you live. It’s a way to express yourself, connect with others, and keep growing.

I hope my work inspires you to reconnect with your own creative side. Whether it’s art, music, writing, or something completely different—don’t let it fade away. The things that sparked your passion as a kid still have value now. Stay curious. Keep creating. And most importantly—enjoy the process.