We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Gayla Irwin a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Gayla, thanks for joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I’ve always loved art and dabbled in it here and there, but I didn’t begin pursuing it seriously until about six and a half years ago.

While traveling with my husband, I received a phone call from my doctor. She told me that my biopsy had come back positive for cancer. The news was completely unexpected and filled me with fear. Things moved quickly—surgery, a difficult and somewhat ambiguous diagnosis, a second opinion at Mayo Clinic, and then radiation.

My recovery was slow, and during that time I struggled with anxiety and the reality of my own mortality. The truth that we only get one life became very real to me. I realized I didn’t want to live always wondering, “What if?”

So, I began to take small steps toward the things that mattered most—including art. Bit by bit, I leaned into it more deeply. It has been a slow, steady journey, but one that has brought me so much joy. I’m grateful every day (almost!) that I followed this passion.

Gayla, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My love for art began early. My mother was regularly painting or doing calligraphy, which sparked my creativity. My dad would bring home giant stacks of used paper from his office, and my brothers and I would fill the blank side with wonderful drawings of whatever captured our imaginations at that time…fantastic creatures, kings, queens and castles, colorful animals, or Star Wars characters.

Today, I am a watercolor artist and spiritual director who creates nature-inspired art to help people slow down, notice beauty, and enjoy the healing benefits of creativity. I also work part-time at a retreat center here in Denver. I find a lot of joy in teaching and leading retreats with an art experience.

My watercolor designs feature nature-themed motifs inspired by the wonder of the natural world and my faith.
I create and sell greeting cards, stickers, art prints, tea towels, gifts, and seasonal items, with the hope of adding beauty to everyday life. I also do some watercolor commissions.

I am so proud of the membership I started just a few months ago, The Creative Way. It is a monthly digital membership blending watercolor, reflection, and the contemplative prayer practice of Visio Divina, helping people connect with God through art.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My mission is to help others connect with God and find healing from the hurts we all experience as part of being human. I believe that practicing art and creativity offers a powerful pathway into the right side of the brain, where we can begin to process and heal from trauma.

Through creativity, we become more grounded in the beauty of who we are, uniquely made in the image of God. I love how art allows us to step beyond words and intellect (wonderful as they are!) and invites us into something deeper, more holistic, and profoundly healing.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

I don’t have just one story, but learning to navigate the tech side of this business has definitely taught me perseverance. Technology isn’t something I naturally enjoy, but I’ve had to figure out tools like Photoshop, build a portfolio, and even learn how to market my work—all of which stretched me far outside my comfort zone.

When things didn’t go as planned (and they often didn’t!), I had to pick myself up and try again. Each challenge has strengthened my resilience, and for that, I’m deeply grateful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://gaylairwin.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaylairwinart/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gayla-irwin-71994039/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GaylaIrwin