We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Michelle Curran a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Michelle , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.

Being an Artist is and of itself a risk. You create something from idea to execution, then put a piece of yourself out publicly for all to critique. Recently I’ve started doing pieces that embody and encapsulate a feminine energy, with a moody and sultry feel; the risks associated with bringing that style to the public square are many. However I am unbothered by that fact. I paint for pleasure, not for profit.

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

I stepped away from corporate Journalism 8 years ago to stay home with my young sons. I naturally fell into a creative role while at home and I picked up a paintbrush. Truth be told, being a “stay-at-home-Mom” can often times feel like you’re alone on a island, and I found solace in art, it was the way I could still be Michelle.

My passion came quickly and has stayed red hot for Abstract Art. Using non-trending schemes, numerous mediums and bold color palettes is the perfect segue into authenticity. I paint or sketch daily, to hone my skill and to fulfill my creative outlet. This tactic to escape boredom has proven to be quite lucrative, as I have since sold over 250 pieces of Art and I also book commission work regularly.

One of my biggest accomplishments is when the world stopped turning a few years ago, I decided to create my own Artisan candle line. I tested and perfected the craft for nearly a year and launched the line in early 2022. “Aromatic Art” in its niche market was yet another way I could put my Art into homes across the country and stay busy. The Swanky Candle Collection, a unique and eco-friendly luxe candle line, has shipped to over half of the U.S. states and counting! A major accomplishment of which I’m immensely proud of.

My main goal every time I create a piece, whether it is on canvas or by way of candle, is to put something beautiful out into the world that wasn’t there before. I run my “business” with that same mindset. There is enough drama, disinformation and division out there, I make things pretty. I sell a good vibe. It’s really that simple.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

In the beginning of my journey I was met with the, “You have to paint for the people” “Keep it subtle and normal or no one will buy it” Incorrect.
You have to paint for YOURSELF. I have found, by way of trial & error, that when I paint freely with no restraints or rules, no “what will people think of this?” running through my mind, that I do my best work.

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

This is a great question and I’m glad you asked. My pivot came in a metaphorical way. My entire mindset changed, that was my pivot. A revelation of sorts.

Being a self-taught Artist with zero financial backing or family to support me, it took me longer than most to realize that I was actually an Artist, a good one. It takes a certain amount of confidence to be an Artist, which is essentially selling yourself. I didn’t naturally have that air about me, for numerous reasons….which is an entirely different subject article! I treated the entire thing like it was a hobby, just something to pass the time; while simultaneously being recognized for my talent in numerous different spaces. I have had one of the best and truly amazing support systems through absolute strangers, whom have become not only collectors, but friends. I cannot say enough good things about the people who have been my hype section, cheering me on every step of the way. I truly would not be where I am today without them.

All of this to say; in 2023 I have been met with some serious life changes and with that came serious life decisions. I considered, momentarily, going back to work for corporate. Because even after 5 years of successfully selling my Art, I had not yet recognized that I was actually doing full-time Artist work. It’s a mental game more than people realize.
I’ve only recently come to terms with and really embraced the fact that I have accomplished more than I ever set out to do.
I’m capable, my work means something, I’m making more money from my tiny in-home studio than I ever did in corporate, I’m evoking emotion through Art. The dream came to fruition.
That was it. That was the shift. The pivot.
A level was unlocked when I let myself acknowledge this and today I sit with ZERO paintings for sale, my entire collection and series have recently sold. A blank canvas set before me, literally and figuratively. With this new mindset I am poised with paintbrushes and palette knives in hand ready to accomplish even more. I’m inspired beyond measure. I’m grateful for the love I’ve been shown and I will continue to put beautiful and bold pieces of Art into the world.
And I raise my glass to every person brave enough to do the same.
The world needs Artists, now get to work.

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me about my Artistic journey, I’m hoping it inspires other creatives as well

Contact Info:

• Website: www.michellecurranart.com
• Instagram: @michellecurranart
• Facebook: @ Michelle Curran – Art
• Candle website: www.swankycandlecollection.com