We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Heather Sportsman. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Heather below.
Heather, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you tell us about a time that your work has been misunderstood? Why do you think it happened and did any interesting insights emerge from the experience?
Sure. It’s been on many occasions. I am truly the type of individual that marches to the beat of my own drum. I don’t bother people, I mind my business, and I honestly don’t care what everyone else has going on. I have worked very hard to get here and I’m still nowhere near I’d like to be. Whenever I have a win for myself, I want to celebrate! Not just with my family and friends, but I want to share it with others who may need the inspiration! Representation matters. I’ve always had pure intentions and real love on my end. I really enjoy showing people they are worthy of love, joy, and light. Whether that be through my art, a conversation, a social media post, a story, etc. But sadly, to some people, it’s misinterpretated as thinking more of myself, bragging, and discouragement. Maybe even a stumbling block. It’s caused me to hold back from sharing a lot of accomplishments and celebratory moments because out of anxiety of being judged & misunderstood. What’s REALLY crazy is I didn’t think I deserved any of the amazing things that were happening to me in the first place! People don’t know that part. Certain people observe from a distance, though never supporting you. Assume things, though never having a conversation with you or asking questions from you to inform themselves. Or lamenting over where you are in your life not knowing the tears, pain, anxiety, and rejection you went through to get there. What I’ve learned is to continue to show love, continue to use my God-given abilities to help others, and most importantly… I will NEVER be able to please everybody, but as long as my Creator is pleased with me? I will sleep well at night, and I do mean with the fan on HIGH.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
I’ve done this a few times, so I’m going to spin it a bit. I’m now a full time artist. I left my job as an art teacher in the public school system after 11 years in October ’22. Best decision I could have made for myself. That job was killing me. Now I have more time to dedicate truly to my craft. Besides my fine art services in which I offer private commissions, drawings, paintings, and murals. My current focus is boosting my ColorMyVerses™️ brand. ColorMyVerses™️ is a creative entity with a mission to inspire, encourage, and motivate others to realize their greatest potential, love themselves, find relaxation through interactive art and organization. There’s something for everyone and I plan on continuing to expand the brand’s reach.
A coloring book with my moms favorite scriptures to help her during the pandemic lockdown, expanded to others, and now has grown into a 3rd coloring book, stickers, and other novelty items. I am hoping to expand this now trademarked brand into something more global! It’s a blessing to see how it’s developed. To see my clients, followers, and supporters faces light up when they receive their items and explain how it’s improved their lives makes it all worth it. You can purchase the coloring book directly from my website! www.hsportsmanart.com
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
Yes, I started reading The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. I really enjoyed it and it helped me to develop some great habits as a creative. If you are an individual that’s not really spiritual, the word “god”, or Creator bothers you….. you might not even want to pick up this book. However, there is a wealth of information, best practices, and thought provoking philosophies that gave me a different perspective on who I am as an artist and an individual. It really got to the root of some issues before I could even get to the business perspective. And I thought I was doing good! This is my recommendation for some good soul searching to tap into your creative before you begin the full time journey.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
While I was struggling with whether or not to take that leap of faith and leave my job or continue to be sick and deal with mental anguish, I just didn’t give up. I wanted freedom. I had to be true to myself and leave that career no matter who it might’ve hurt or what “securities” it may have appeared to provide. I wanted the mental, spiritual, emotional, and physical freedom. & I’m still chasing that. Freedom is not where money & riches are. We know we need it to live in a society consumed by commercialism. But that “ain’t it”. It’s not where fame is, big houses, expensive cars. It’s in keeping your eye simple, focused, being so busy improving yourself that you don’t have time to worry about what anyone else doing. That’s peace. I still struggle with acqueiscing to others supposed needs to make them comfortable at times. But I continue on in the path God had set for me whether anyone else understands it or not. It’s not THEIR path, it’s mine. It’s not meant for them to understand. I’ve been blessed more now than when I had the job. I prayed, listened for the answers, and moved accordingly. Just don’t give up. Somebody needs your light in this dark world.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hsportsmanart.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/
h.sportsmanart - Other: https://www.skillshare.
com/en/profile/Heather- Sportsman/32247096