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

Natalie , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

The Story Behind The Gnat’s Mission

The Story Behind The Gnat’s Mission

The Gnat began as more than just a creative outlet—it started as a heartfelt mission to connect people through art and storytelling. For Natalie Sorrentino, art was always a way to bridge the gaps when words didn’t come easily. From the first brushstroke, her work has been about more than color and form; it’s about creating something that resonates, sparks joy, and helps people feel seen.

Growing up around individuals who struggled with mental illness and addiction, Natalie witnessed how challenging communication could be. She found solace and expression in art, a space where emotions could flow without boundaries. This upbringing shaped her unique perspective on the power of creativity—not only as a tool for healing but also as a way to build meaningful connections. It’s a belief she carries into everything The Gnat creates today.

At its core, The Gnat’s mission is simple yet profound: to spark connection, joy, and healing through art that tells stories and brings people together. Whether it’s a whimsical greeting card, a collaboration with like-minded brands, or a charming pattern that lights up a product, every piece is crafted with intention. Natalie believes that art has the ability to communicate what words sometimes can’t, and through The Gnat, she hopes to inspire that same sense of wonder and connection in others.

Every design, from playful illustrations to heartfelt watercolors, is a celebration of creativity’s power to uplift, unite, and make people feel just a little less alone. For The Gnat, art isn’t just what she creates—it’s why she creates.

Natalie , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

A little about the heart behind my work.

Since I can remember, I’ve turned to painting as a way to capture the emotions and stories that words couldn’t quite express. My journey led me to earn a BA in Art Therapy, and I’ve spent over 15 years helping people of all ages connect with their own stories through creative expression. That background has become the heartbeat of everything I create—art that’s colorful, playful, and deeply meaningful.

My whimsical watercolors have found their way onto greeting cards, children’s books, and even the tiniest of treasures, all with the goal of creating connection and spreading a little light in the world. Each piece is an invitation to pause, smile, and remember that even the smallest gestures, like sending a card, can spark something truly special.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

My journey hasn’t been a straight path, but it’s been one filled with creativity, collaboration, and transformation. At a pivotal moment in my business, I partnered with a writer to co-create the beloved brand Gnat & Corky. Together, we poured our hearts into creating books inspired by the spirit of real kids—stories that celebrated individuality, resilience, and connection. Touring schools, partnering with nonprofits, and sharing these stories with young minds was a truly transformative experience. The work was more than beautiful; it was deeply impactful, touching lives and sparking meaningful conversations.

However, life has a way of shifting our paths, and for personal reasons, Gnat & Corky had to come to an end. While it was a bittersweet decision, it also marked a turning point for my business. The experience served as a recalibration—one that brought me back to my roots, my authentic self, and my original love for illustration and greeting cards. Through this transition, I rediscovered my voice and my mission, using art to connect, inspire, and communicate when words fall short.

The lessons learned during this chapter were countless, and the growth was immeasurable. It wasn’t the end of something but rather the beginning of a deeper, truer version of my brand. Today, my work is infused with the spirit of connection, storytelling, and the belief that art has the power to transform both the maker and the receiver.

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

The most rewarding part of being an artist, creative and art therapist? It’s the connections. There’s nothing like seeing a piece of art spark something in someone—joy, nostalgia, comfort, even the courage to share their own story. Whether it’s creating a whimsical illustration that feels like a little piece of magic on paper or guiding someone to express what words just can’t capture, it’s all about those moments where art bridges the gap. Knowing that something I’ve created can make someone feel seen or understood–that’s the heart of it all.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://nataliesorrentino.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliesorrentino/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegnatart
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-sorrentino-633141b/

Image Credits

Katie Soyka with Elevate Brand Photography: elevatebrandphotography.com

Michael Stocke: www.michaelstocke.com