We were lucky to catch up with Christa Lusk recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Christa, thanks for joining us today. Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?
My first time I sold one of my paintings was actually at my very first art event. I didnt expect to sell anything. I was going just to get my feet wet, so to speak. My friend M’ria invited me, and told me I could share a tent with her. I was very nervous, which she knew, so I was not ready to have my own tent. The thought of it, made my heart race. I didnt have that many pieces anyway, so having just one wall to fill was more than enough for me. There was a decent amount of foot traffic, a lot of people coming in the tent, admiring the artwork, asking questions, but no sales. And then a woman picked up my Turtle painting, said she loved it, and bought it. I remember how shocked I was that someone was willing to pay money for something that I made! Even now it still fills me with excitement to think about the fact that my paintings are hanging in many homes throughout the Tampa Bay/ St. Pete area!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I got into the industry by a fluke. The neighborhood I was living in at the time was having a Market. All different kinds of vendors from food trucks, to homemade candles, jewelry, dog treats, desserts, and Art. One of the tents I went into had beautiful Art that I was admiring, and the artist was very friendly . We began talking, and this was the start of my friendship with M’ria. Ive been creative all my life, but never tried painting. I preferred drawing. M’ria guided me down the artistic path, with many pointers on how to get started. That was about 5 years ago. Since then I have hung many pieces in local breweries and am a Vendor at 1 to 2 Art Events a month. I dont always sell something, but I always enjoy going. I consider these artists my art family. Im eternally grateful to be apart of such a wonderful group of creatives.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My goal driving my creative journey, is to show my kids a healthy outlet. Art for me is a release. Its a way for me to unwind. Instead of getting into trouble, its great to be able to find something you enjoy, and you’re good at.; Wether it be dancing, sports, cooking, singing, exercising, etc. For me its Art. Its a stress reliever. And its a bonus, that I can also make some money off of it, which is always helpful. Especially since I have kids.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an Artist for me, is knowing a part of me is hanging in people’s homes. Its such an indescribable level of happiness and honor to think about the fact that strangers come home, walk into their house, and my paintings are on their walls. That feeling will never get old!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Art by Christa Maria
- Facebook: Christa Lusk