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

Alright, Liz thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

Painting/drawing has always been in my life. My father is an artist, and he gave me some of my first drawing/painting lessons. Throughout high school, I couldn’t get enough of art class. I continued my education at University of North Florida, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Drawing/Painting, minor in Education.

Even knowing what I know now, I wouldn’t want to speed up my learning process. I learn/live through the experience of my painting process. If I sped it up, I may miss something.

I think the most essential skills in order to learn this craft well are, focus and patience. Learning how to draw and paint can feel extremely frustrating. Focusing on your end goal, while keeping love and patience towards yourself and the craft while you work is essential.

I, like many others, am no stranger to a few obstacles over the years that got in the way of me learning more. From financial struggles in college, to time management and family balancing acts, as a current homeschooling mother of three. As I get older though, I try not to see obstacles as much as I see opportunities to absorb and rise through.

Liz , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I have always felt the support towards living an artistic and creative lifestyle. The love for God, nature and the arts were very strong for me as a child, and continued to mature with me. I came into the drawing/painting world with a simple discipline to grow in the craft. Over the last couple decades, I have loved being a small part of the art community and feel it is a big part of my art story. Local farmer’s markets, to fine art shows, local plein air painting groups and contests, and live painting events. My father and I have also painted large scale murals in homes around town here in Naples, FL.
Growing up here on the serene beaches of SW Florida, has flooded my mind with water scenes. It organically lead to a large portion of my work dedicated to water, and color surrounding sunsets and rises. My work captures the essence of the world around us and the overall beauty of the ocean and nature.

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

There was a time that I did have to pivot my business and career goals. I was searching for a way to help provide income for our family, while staying at home with our daughter. (At that time, I didn’t see my art as my next step, so I set it aside.) Instead, I created cute hair bows and started an Etsy shop. Shortly after, I realized with more love, it could be lucrative. I taught myslef how to sew clothing, bought a serger, and I created a handmade children’s clothing line named, Blu Monet. Through this 8 year workspace, I created and designed hundreds of handmade pieces, and I learned many invaluable lessons.

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 reflection time. In my experience, the time spent creating a painting gives us a chance to reflect. That time can feel invaluable to a busy mother like me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lizdavidsonart.com
• Instagram: @lizdavidson_art