We recently connected with Beth Bru and have shared our conversation below.

Beth , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

One of the biggest risks I’ve ever taken was moving to Miami to pursue my art career full-time. My journey as an artist actually started in Phoenix, Arizona, where I originally went to college with the goal of becoming a dentist—of all things! But life, and God, had other plans. While in Phoenix, I connected with an incredible community of creatives who showed me what it meant to be a professional artist.

In December 2021, I flew to Miami for Art Basel to assist Emmy Starbrown, a Chicago-based artist (and now a great friend and mentor). That week, I helped paint two murals in Wynwood, surrounded by an incredible network of artists, and something in me ignited. I couldn’t shake the feeling that Miami was calling me. For two years, the thought of moving there lingered in my mind.

Fast forward to December 2023, and a door finally opened that made the move possible. As I started seriously considering it, doubt crept in: What if it doesn’t work out? I don’t really know anyone there! But I have this personal “life rule”: If I think about something for two years straight, I have to do it. That’s enough time to know it’s not just an impulse—it’s a real, deep-seated desire.

With just a month of planning, my friend helped me move my few belongings—mostly canvases and art supplies—into a U-haul trailer attached to my 2011 Scion, and I drove across the country from Phoenix to Miami.

Looking back now, in 2025, if I had known all the challenges ahead, I might have hesitated. But I’m so glad I took the leap. Moving to Miami has been the best decision for my art, my soul, and my spirit. It’s a city that truly values art, with organizations like the Arts & Business Council of Miami and Art in Public Places actively supporting creatives. Being here has helped me grow—not just as an artist, but as a business owner and as a person learning better self-care and embracing a more joyful life.

Risks don’t always come with guarantees, but I’ve learned that nine times out of ten, they pay off in ways you never expected. And this one definitely did.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I grew up in Boulder City, Nevada, never believing art could be a real career. I went to Grand Canyon University to become a dentist but was drawn to creativity instead, designing album covers for musician friends. After dropping out, I worked in auto finance, where a friend gifted me my first large canvas. That moment sparked everything—my coworkers started commissioning my work, leading me to professional artists in Arizona who introduced me to mural painting. That’s when I truly saw art as my path.

Like anyone, I’ve faced my share of hardships, but in those moments of difficulty, I always turned to art. That was my constant—my home. I believe our purpose reveals itself in what we naturally return to, and for me, that has always been creating. Now, I feel called to share this gift with others, especially young artists.

I hold strong moral values in business and in life, and I believe in supporting others however I can. The world isn’t easy, but we can lift each other up.

I’m grateful to have followed my heart for this long. In a society that often encourages consumption over creation, choosing to pursue art was not the easiest path—but it was the right one. I’m deeply grateful to God for giving me the courage to follow my dreams.

My work is always evolving, but my mission remains the same: to spread joy and encourage others to create. I want people to see my art and feel inspired—not just to appreciate it, but to believe in their own ability to create something meaningful too.

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

The best way to support artists is to recognize and respect our work as a legitimate profession, not just a passion. That means valuing our time and talent by offering fair compensation rather than exposure. Choosing to buy original work from local artists instead of mass-produced decor from big retailers makes a meaningful difference. Support can also come in the form of funding public art, investing in arts education, and creating opportunities that help creatives sustain their craft. When artists thrive, culture thrives!

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

One of the greatest tests of my resilience has been continuing to create, even in moments when I don’t feel like it or when I’ve faced considerable rejection. There have been times when doubt, exhaustion, or life’s challenges made it difficult to pick up a brush, but I’ve learned that being an artist isn’t just about inspiration—it’s about staying true to my purpose. Pushing through those moments is what separates a hobby from a calling. Choosing to show up for my craft, even when it’s hard, has strengthened my discipline and deepened my understanding that art isn’t just something I do—it’s who I am.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://bethbru.com/work-1
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethbruart/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@bethbruart

Image Credits

@philnicecreative
@niah.media