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

Veronica, appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I was not sure how I was going to move forward after the tragic loss of my oldest daughter. My world was derailed, and I did not want to live. Words can’t explain the immense pain I live with to this day. I found that I was not alone, so I decided to create my, “Life After Loss,” collection to promote healing and love.

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

My journey began when I received a call that no parent could ever imagine. I lost my oldest daughter to addiction. I still do not have the words to describe it to this day.

I initially started to paint and sketch. From there, I created a t-shirt and clothing line. My journey has most recently led me to create my personal wellness brand which I have named “Vee Wellness by Veronica.,” which I have merged with my “Life After Loss” collection.

In June of 2023, I formed my non-profit organization called “Ashley Rissi Charities Inc.” This is the umbrella for with my wellness and clothing brands will be under. I want to be able to give back to the community and help fight against mental illness, homelessness, and addiction.

With my mission, I am not sure I can say what one thing separates me from others, as my mission is to bring people together.

I am so proud to see that I have come this far, when in the beginning I was not sure how to move forward at all. I feel so humbled just knowing that others out there have my artwork in their homes, or are wearing my clothing line. It is humbling to know that they too are learning to heal with grief and my art is a part of that.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is knowing that I am making a positive impact in the world. I am a part of not only the healing of others but of my own healing as well.

I believe a combination of my past life experience and challenges, prior work experience, and the ability to overcome were the most impactful attributes of my journey. Without these, I would not have the empathy and drive to do what I do and be who I am today.

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

My goal in this mission is to save lives. If I am able to save just one life in my daughter’s memory, then I know I am carrying her message in the best way possible.

Although I am new in my journey, my advice to those who are just beginning theirs is to build your foundation with, “Why,” and find out what that is. Understanding your why, as well as feeling it will be the fuel to keep you going forward with your dream. Thoughts are things, you have to feel your passion in order to bring it to life.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ashleyrissicharities.org
• Instagram: @artbyveronicahazel
• Twitter: @artistrybyvee

Image Credits
These are all my own personal photos