We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Iris Harvey. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Iris below.

Iris, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

I love being an artist. It gives me freedom, expression, and purpose—but I’d be lying if I said I never think about going back to a regular job. Some days, the pressure of doing everything—creating, promoting, managing, delivering—gets heavy. And when things slow down or feel uncertain, that little voice of doubt creeps in.

The last time I had that thought, I was in my studio late at night, surrounded by deadlines, half-finished jackets, and messages I hadn’t replied to. I was exhausted. And for a second, I wondered if I’d made a mistake choosing this path.

But then I remembered how it feels when someone lights up during a class because they didn’t know they could paint. Or when a client cries happy tears over a portrait I made. Those moments ground me.

It’s not easy—but it’s fulfilling. I don’t just make art. I create moments, memories, and meaning—for myself and others. That’s not something I ever found in a regular job. So when those doubts come up, I let them pass—because even on the hardest days, I know I’m doing what I’m meant to do.

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

Hey! I’m Iris, the artist behind IMH.arts here in San Diego. Before diving full-time into art, I worked as a veterinary technician—caring for animals by day and painting during every spare moment I had. Eventually, I realized that while I loved helping animals, my heart was fully in creating. So I took a leap, trusted my talent, and turned my side passion into a full-time art business

Now, I focus on murals, portraits, custom-painted denim, and hosting paint & sip events. I love working closely with clients to bring their ideas to life—whether that’s transforming a space, creating meaningful art, or teaching a group how to paint and create!
What makes IMH.arts special is how personal the work is. It’s not just about making something pretty—it’s about creating pieces that reflect people, stories, and style. I’m proud to be doing what I love and grateful for every project that lets me share that with others.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Sometimes the biggest support is simply showing appreciation—sharing our work, showing up to events, or choosing to invest in local art. Giving artists space, opportunities, and encouragement helps us keep doing what we love while creating for the community around us. It truly goes a long way.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My mission is to make art that connects—whether it’s through a mural that brightens a space, a portrait that captures a memory, or a paint night that brings people together. I want to create work that makes people feel something, feel seen, or simply feel joy. At the core, it’s about building community through creativity and staying true to who I am while helping others express themselves too.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imh.arts
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imh.arts
• Other: https://pin.it/dE2e6mNHC