Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ana Beij. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Ana, appreciate you joining 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?

One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was completely shifting the direction of my career. Before, I was working hosting artsy team-building events for companies in the Bay Area. It was rewarding, but I realized that I wasn’t truly dedicating myself to my own art. I was helping others create, but my personal creativity was sitting on the sidelines.

That realization hit me hard while I was traveling the world for a year and a half. That time gave me a new perspective: it reawakened my passion and gave me space to reflect on what truly matters to me. I returned to the U.S. and relocated to Austin, and that’s when I took a leap. I decided to focus solely on building my own creative career, leaving behind the steady work I had been doing.

It was a daunting move. I’ve had to start from scratch in a new city, building a network, and figuring out how to make my art sustainable. But it’s also been liberating because, for the first time, I was all in on my passion. The risk has been paying off, as I’ve been able to grow my practice, find my artistic voice, and connect with a community that values creativity. That leap of faith reshaped my life in ways I couldn’t have anticipated, and I’m proud of the journey I’ve taken so far.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m an artist who specializes in nature-inspired paintings that highlight the beauty of the natural world.

My work focuses on organic forms, such as flora and fauna. Much of my inspiration comes from my world travels, where I get to experience a variety of landscapes and ecosystems.

I love working with texture in my art, as it adds a tangible dimension that pulls the viewer into the piece, creating a deeper connection with the natural elements represented.

One of the unique services I offer is the opportunity for collectors to commission a piece that’s inspired by a special place of their choosing. Whether it’s a memorable travel destination, a cherished local spot, or a place that holds personal significance, I bring that location to life through my artistic style. It’s a way for my clients to own a personalized work of art that resonates with their experiences.

What sets my work apart is the emphasis on texture and the immersive quality of the pieces, but also the personal connection to nature that I aim to capture in each painting. My goal is to create pieces that invite people to slow down and bring more appreciation to the natural world around them.

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

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the freedom that comes with creating something out of nothing. There’s something almost miraculous about turning a blank canvas into a work of art that didn’t exist before. I create the things I wish to see in the world, and in that process, I get to shape my own reality.

The act of creating isn’t just about the final product, it’s a journey of self-discovery. With each piece, I learn more about myself and the world around me. It’s a process of invention and exploration, one that has led me to embrace both my strengths and my imperfections.

Art has taught me resilience and self-acceptance because, with each new work, I’m pushing past boundaries, facing challenges, and trusting my own vision.

That freedom to express myself, to bring my ideas to life, and to continually grow through my art; that’s what makes being a creative so rewarding.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

One thing that non-creatives might not fully understand about the creative journey is that growth isn’t always a straight line. It’s a process with highs and lows, moments of inspiration, and times when things don’t come together as easily. But that’s part of what makes creativity so rich and fulfilling; it takes time to flourish. There are days when the ideas flow effortlessly, and others when they don’t, but each moment contributes to the bigger picture.

It’s about trusting the ebb and flow of the creative process. Every challenge is an opportunity to refine, rethink, and grow. It’s a long-term commitment to your craft, where patience and persistence lead to real, meaningful breakthroughs.

Understanding that creative growth comes in waves can help people appreciate that the final work they see is the result of not just talent, but also resilience and dedication over time.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.anabeij.com
• Instagram: @anabeij.art