We were lucky to catch up with Carole Morrison recently and have shared our conversation below.

Carole, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

I’ve always loved art, making, creating.. but with life somethings get put on the back burner. I have 2 wonderful sons, and when they were in elementary school I was blessed enough to help out in the art room. Helping with scenery for plays, art shows and just an extra set of hands. I did a pet portrait for the principal who was retiring. It was then my boys encouraged me “mom, you should do this!” They were the encouragement I needed to seek out my art career.

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

Colorful pet portraits is where it started. Love of animals and love of color.. I was a Cottonwood center for the arts studio artist and gallery curator, I was part of the Pikes Peak Studio tour. I showed in many galleries across Colorado. I painted pet portraits for Operation Baghdad Pups.. having my art all over the world. I was recognized as one of the top 10 up and coming artists in Colorado Springs. I owned my own gallery AHA Gallery. After meeting my now partner and co creator Jeff things took a step forward. Jeff is a master woodworker and together now we creat functional art. Charcuterie boards, cutting boards, wood trays.. laser cut earrings.. and so much more.

I think what I’m most proud of is the opportunity to learn and grow every day as a creator. We are constantly creating new and fun functional art. People only have so much wall space and I would much rather have someone living out art pieces and using them daily.

We recycle and repurpose much of what we do. We use wood from local fires to create beautiful serving boards.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Right now my main goal to to is for Jeff to be full time at the business. He works full time for the city.. he has so much passion for being in the shop creating. It’s wonderful to have a real partner.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

My painting professionally started in 2006, A lot of life happens within that time. A divorce, working 7 part time jobs, death of parents. Up and downs along the way. I always knew I prefer to be my own boss and working the rat race just isn’t for me. I’ve found ways to keep creating keep moving forward.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.offtheleashart.com
• Instagram: Offtheleashart
• Facebook: Offtheleashart
• Linkedin: Offtheleashart