We recently connected with Sarah Connor and have shared our conversation below.

Sarah, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

When I left my creative job to pursue full-time freelance work, it was a significant and challenging decision. I was approaching my three-year anniversary at the company and found myself increasingly burnt out. My mental health was suffering, and I realized that continuing in the same environment wasn’t sustainable.
Rather than seeking another job, I decided to follow my passion for the various projects that were constantly inspiring me. I initially thought working part-time would allow me to balance everything, but it quickly became clear that I needed to fully commit to freelancing to truly thrive.
After discussing my options with friends and family, I decided to take the plunge into freelancing, despite the lack of savings and the inherent risks. This transition has been anything but easy. I gave up the stability of a traditional job, where daily routines and clear reporting lines provided a sense of security. Instead, I had to adapt to a new reality where I am responsible for every aspect of my work and income.
Despite the stress and challenges, freelancing has proven to be incredibly rewarding. I have the freedom to merge my passions into each project and collaborate with others in the local community who share my dedication to supporting one another’s lifework endeavors. The hours spent on research, administrative tasks, and other responsibilities beyond just creating art have been worthwhile. This journey has allowed me to heal, challenge myself, learn, and connect with wonderful people in the Myrtle Beach community. Taking this risk has been one of the best decisions of my life.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I have always been a creative individual, learning best through hands-on experiences. Throughout each phase of my life, the only constant has been my intimate practice of various creative mediums. This practice has been a way for me to regain control and find a sense of stability, regardless of the environment or challenges I faced. Creating art has always been a source of solace for me.
In grade school, I struggled academically and found it difficult to communicate my needs. I often felt disconnected and labeled myself as “stupid” before even trying. However, the art room and computer labs were different. There, I wasn’t judged or limited to one way of achieving my goals. I was encouraged to explore new solutions, and for the first time, I felt seen and heard. This early encouragement fueled my passion for the arts.
I pursued this passion further at Plymouth State University, where I graduated with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, concentrating in art and sociology. During my time there, I gained valuable experience as a gallery assistant and student assistant curator, which enriched my understanding and practice of art.
As an interdisciplinary artist, my work is deeply rooted in exploring and combining various mediums such as photography, painting, graphic design, and drawing. I aim to create vibrant compositions that convey themes of healing, self-love, and radiant femininity. Each piece is crafted to evoke emotions and establish personal connections with viewers, inviting them to experience the transformative power of art.
My services span several disciplines, including:
Illustration and Design: I create custom illustrations and comprehensive design solutions for a variety of projects, such as editorial content, book covers, advertising, branding, and web design. I help businesses and individuals develop cohesive visual identities that resonate with their target audiences, ensuring compelling and effective branding.
Photography: I offer photography services, uniquely capturing everything from portraits and events to product photography and artistic projects. My photography tells a story and evokes emotions, making each image memorable and impactful.
Social Media: I provide social media management and content creation services. This includes creating visually engaging content and managing social media accounts to help clients build and maintain a strong online presence.
Painting: I create original paintings and commissioned works, using various techniques and styles to suit different tastes and spaces.
Fiber Art (Upcycled Apparel): I design and create unique, upcycled apparel using sustainable practices. This involves repurposing and transforming existing garments into one-of-a-kind pieces that are both stylish and environmentally friendly.
What sets me apart is my holistic and innovative approach to every project. By integrating these diverse disciplines, I collaborate with clients to bring their visions to life through creative and meaningful artistic expression. I am proud of the connections I make through my art and the impact it has on others. I want potential clients and followers to know that my work is a reflection of my passion and dedication to fostering creativity, healing, and connection.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Society’s best support for artists and creativity comes through multifaceted efforts. This includes investing in arts education, providing financial resources and grants, and making art spaces accessible. Moreover, supporting local art communities and collaborations, ensuring fair compensation, and fostering partnerships with businesses and institutions are crucial steps. Embracing diversity in the arts and prioritizing artists’ mental health also play pivotal roles.

By investing in these areas, society cultivates a thriving creative ecosystem with widespread benefits. Arts education not only nurtures creativity but also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills vital across various fields. Financial support and accessible art spaces allow artists to enrich cultural experiences and foster community cohesion. Additionally, supporting local art communities drives economic growth and community engagement.

Fair compensation and partnerships acknowledge the value of creative work in society, while embracing diversity promotes inclusivity and understanding. Prioritizing artists’ mental health ensures a sustainable and vibrant creative culture for generations to come.

Furthermore, the discipline honed through artistic practice, including attention to detail, problem-solving, and adaptability, holds immense value in diverse professional realms. Creativity is a catalyst for innovation, applicable in business, marketing, technology, and healthcare sectors. Artists’ communication and collaboration skills are assets in teamwork and leadership roles across industries. Moreover, the resilience developed in pursuing an artistic career equips individuals to navigate challenges in any field.

In essence, by supporting artists and nurturing creativity, society not only enriches its cultural landscape but also fosters a dynamic and skilled workforce, driving progress and innovation.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative extends beyond self-discovery; it’s also about the invaluable guidance and support I receive from my community members. Engaging with fellow artists and creatives not only provides inspiration but also offers valuable insights and feedback that contribute to my growth as an individual and an artist. The collaborative nature of the artistic community fosters a spirit of learning and exchange, where each interaction becomes an opportunity for mutual enrichment. As I navigate my creative journey, the collective wisdom and encouragement of my peers serve as a guiding light, propelling me forward and enriching the creative process in profound ways.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://iamsasah.com
• Instagram: https://sasah.art
• Facebook: Sasah Art
• Other: shop my art locally at All 4 Art in market commons all4artstudio.com