We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Gina Dodge. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Gina below.

Gina, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

Being curious, trying new things, and showing up has opened every door for me. My skills and talents are all stems from curiosity, troubleshooting, and trying again. My craft will never be mastered because there is always something new to learn.

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

Hi! My name is Gina Dodge. I am a multidisciplinary artist based out of Denver, CO. I have always been captivated by creating for as long as I can remember. I spent all my childhood allowance on art supplies, and my evenings destroying my bedroom with new ideas and art productions.

As I got older, I always seemed to find myself in different worlds of creative chaos. Out of curiosity, I joined theatre in high school and immediately partook in sewing costumes and building sets, along with being a cast member in the show. After college, I helped my university open a campus museum, the Southern Utah Museum of Art, once we relocated the entire museum collection, I spent countless hours building custom frames for exhibits, patching walls, and installing art. After leaving my college town, I found myself within two creative industries simultaneously – retail display and floral design.

My path may look chaotic to the average eye, but it has been fulfilling. Staying curious, and embracing what I am naturally drawn to has been my guiding star. I have been told many times to find my “niche,” but I have enjoyed diving into different industries, honing my skills, and carrying expertise into other worlds.

Since moving to Denver early 2022, I have embraced the freelancer life, and have been able to run with my skillset creating art, building retail displays, and making magical floral moments.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

Wow, we look a little lost, don’t we? I live for being told I’m “brave” for pursuing an art career. The first few times I heard this from friends I was caught of guard. I didn’t feel brave. I feel very aligned with my meandering path.

I suppose it is brave to run off into the world with your hard-earned skillset, and not know what is to come.

Being a little lost is the magic, you’ll find your way. I learned and grew the most when I had to find my new way. Try new things, learn what you like to do.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, I feel very fulfilled when I utilize my skills and create something that never existed before.

Creating for other people is my favorite. Helping someone bring their ideas to life. Hearing a commission brought someone to tears. That makes it worth it.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ginadodge.com
• Instagram: @ginadodgestudio
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-dodge-6bb22ab9/
• Other: www.drawntoflowers.com @drawntoflowers

Image Credits
Kelsey Huffer @poppyco Becca Sack @rebeccahaleyphotography Catlyn Griswell @catlynsuephoto