We were lucky to catch up with Carissa Bowser recently and have shared our conversation below.

Carissa, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?

February of 2020 I took a leap. One of faith but unfortunately one that quickly was followed by lies of fears and of failures. To make the decision to pursue art more full time was not easy. I sat at the kitchen table in tears at the thought of not feeling worthy or qualified or good enough to call myself an artist, let alone make it a career. But that’s the thing about faith. We are not given a promise of what the future holds but we are called to be obedient in doing what we have been called to do.

My first collection as a full time artist was born out of that low place where I was believing the lies. The fear I’m not good enough. Anxiety that I wouldn’t be successful. Physical pain that gave me an excuse not to paint. And a very real apathy that simply kept me from moving forward in what I knew I was called to do.

I chose to paint each lie on the blank canvas, staring it directly in the face. Calling it out for what it was. Bringing it into the light. Because it does not define me. I needed to paint this. I needed to wrestle with where I was finding my identity. And the beautiful thing is, that through finding truth, I also found inspiration again.

My first collection consisted of 6 original oil paintings all inspired by flowers that represented the truth that spoke against each lie I was believing. I can still look back on that moment of stepping away from my current job at the time to pursue art full time and I love that that specific mini collection will always speak to when I took that leap of faith. I was terrified. I hate taking risks. I like the comfortable, cozy, easy route. But making moves to finally believe in myself and make art has been one of the best things I have ever done. It takes bravery. It takes showing up. Time and time again.

Carissa, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Carissa Bowser but I am most known for my work as Carissa Grace Art. I’ve been creating art since I can remember and I suppose, if you ask my mom, I was making art even before that. The road to my artistic career began with those beginning sketches hung on the fridge and countless sculptures of sculpy clay and shrinkydinks (you 90s kids know.)

I graduated from Cedarville University with a BA in Studio Art where I met my incredibly talented, graphic designer husband, Jesse. Though I never thought I would marry an artist, I love that we both share a passion for creativity together. Over the years we have collaborated on many projects from murals, children’s book illustrations, and posters and prints. As I like to say, “Support Art. Marry an Artist.” It’s the best thing I’ve ever done.

We love living in the foothills of the beautiful blue ridge mountains – which is the inspiration behind much of my work – and do our best to spend time outside taking in the beauty of the trails, lakes and waterfalls nearby. Much of my work consists of abstract landscapes and over the years I have found ways to create unique pieces that expand outside of the traditional canvas. I paint journals, necklaces, and ornaments in my style and have found it is a great way to be marketable to a larger audience. Creating these pieces has been a great way to connect with all ages and people who otherwise may not be purchasing a more expensive piece of fine art.

Though I still very much consider myself a painter, I have more recently found a love for digital illustration. It has been a means of challenging myself artistically and finding ways to conceptualize bigger, more abstract ideas. I believe art is meant to push us out of what we know and expect. While my landscapes are more soft and approachable, I have enjoyed using other mediums to play with bigger concepts and ideas.

I hope to continue to grow in all these areas! I remember one of my professors once saying, “I hope I never create my best work.” And he’s right. How sad to think I may have made my best piece. Where do you go from there? I never want to think I have arrived but rather continue to grow and learn on this wild journey as a creator.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

I would not ever admit to having a “large following” on social media but what I do have our loyal, amazing friends and supporters. Social media is always changing (algorithms, ways to grow, how you will be seen…etc…). It’s honestly exhausting keeping up with it all! I would encourage anyone starting out to just be authentic. You can find a balance of still intentionally curating your content while staying true and real to who you are.

I am not above staging photos. (It looks nice!) And I am not worried about posting something in the moment that may not be as edited. But you know what, it’s often the posts I have thought the least about that gain the most momentum. And I think there is something to that. People can tell if you are faking it. Your followers are following you because they like you and what you create. Engage with them. Thank them. Make them feel seen and heard. Invite them into your business behind the scenes. Invite them into the process.

Social media is also a wonderful way to connect with future clients and collaborators. Many of my commissions have come from engaging with my followers on social media platforms. I know there is a screen between you and your audience but do your best to remember the individual on the other side. When they comment, simply reply back. If they compliment, thank them. The little things over time go a long way.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

1. good communication (if commission, clients are part of the process start to finish) 2. relational with clients (I treat you like family)
3. people who believe in me and what I am doing sharing with others
4. quality work
5. consistency

Contact Info:

• Website: carissagraceart.com
• Instagram: @carissagraceart
• Facebook: Carissa Grace Art

Image Credits
Ally Oshiro