We were lucky to catch up with Bhavna Misra recently and have shared our conversation below.

Bhavna, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

As an artist, my journey toward making a full-time living from my creative work has been both rewarding and challenging. It wasn’t something that happened overnight—in fact, it has been a gradual process of refining my skills, building a network, and finding the right opportunities.

In the beginning, I focused on honing my craft and establishing a recognizable style. I’ve always been drawn to nature-inspired, harmonious landscapes, particularly those influenced by the East Bay. Early on, I worked on smaller projects, commissions, and local exhibitions to get my work seen. Public art opportunities have played an increasingly significant role in my career, allowing me to bring my vision to a wider audience while also providing financial stability.

A major milestone was when I started getting larger commissions and partnerships, which allowed me to scale up and sustain my practice. Networking with other artists, applying for grants, and building an online presence were also crucial steps. If I could go back, I would have invested more in marketing my work earlier and sought mentorship sooner. I’ve learned that being an artist isn’t just about creating—it’s also about positioning yourself strategically in the art world.

Would I say I’ve fully “arrived” yet? The journey is ongoing, but I’m grateful for how far I’ve come and excited for what’s ahead.

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

I am a traditional media artist deeply inspired by nature, particularly the serene landscapes of California. My work revolves around creating harmonious, nature-oriented compositions that evoke a sense of peace and connection with the environment. I specialize in both fine art and public art, bringing vibrant, immersive visuals to private collectors, public spaces, and community projects.

My journey into art began with a deep love for painting and an innate appreciation for the beauty around me. Over the years, I’ve refined my craft, exploring different mediums and techniques while staying true to my artistic voice. While I initially focused on studio-based works and commissions, I have gradually expanded into public art, where my work can reach and engage a broader audience.

One of the key aspects that sets my work apart is the balance between realism and impressionism—blending intricate details with expressive movement to create pieces that feel cheery. I strive to capture the essence of nature in a way that resonates with people, whether it’s a landscape painting that brings tranquility to a home or a large-scale mural that transforms an urban space.

I’m most proud of the opportunities I’ve had to contribute to the cultural and artistic fabric of the community. Public art, in particular, has allowed me to create work that not only beautifies spaces but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

For those discovering my work for the first time, I want them to know that my art is about connection—between people, nature, and the spaces we inhabit. Whether through commissioned pieces, exhibitions, or public installations, my goal is to create art that enriches and inspires.

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

Society can support artists by investing in public art, expanding grants, and ensuring fair pay. Strengthening art education, fostering a culture of art appreciation, and providing affordable creative spaces are crucial. Encouraging diversity, leveraging technology, and creating community engagement opportunities further sustain a thriving creative ecosystem. Supporting artists enriches communities and strengthens cultural identity.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

I wish I had known earlier about artist grants (NEA, local arts councils), public art opportunities (CAFÉ, PublicArtist.org), online marketplaces (Saatchi Art, Etsy), business resources (Art/Work, CERF+), networking programs (Creative Capital), and digital marketing tools (Instagram, Squarespace). These would have helped me grow faster and navigate the art world more effectively.

Image Credits

Bhavna Misra