We recently connected with Ingrid Miller and have shared our conversation below.

Ingrid, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I’ve always known that I’ve had a passion for artwork ever since I could remember. I looked up to artists, hoping that maybe one day that’s what I could do but I was never actualizing it, up until 2nd Grade. I remember having a classroom discussion about being an artist. I was astounded when I learned that my art teacher was an artist, and that I, too can be an artist. This was the first time I really felt that spark of “Yes, Ingrid! You can be an artist!” From there on I remember becoming extra-motivated to become the creative I am today.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I was born in a small town in Southeastern Indiana. I grew up in a large family on a farm. As a child, my days were filled with exploration of the woods around us and creating things in the “art room” in the basement, along with playing with my siblings. My favorite class in school was always art class and my biggest role models were my art teachers. I always looked forward that class as long as I can remember. It was almost like I was glued to my art supply box in elementary school. My homework was more often than not covered in little doodles.

I’m lucky to have the insight of knowing I wanted to be an artist professionally from a young age, however knowing exactly what kind of art and how to pursue the career was (and still can be) a challenge. I have been showered with an array of different projects since high school – from murals, to logos, to portraits and more. Deciphering which avenue to pursue is challenging, and I’m beginning to learn that I don’t have to pick just one thing!

My first real start into the realm of an artist-entrepreneur began in 2017 when I started doing henna tattoos at local festivals & events. This foundation and entry into the world of small business propelled me forward. Unfortunately, when the pandemic hit, I had to stop my henna business as we were all in lockdown.

Currently I run Red River Gorge Earth Shop, an art gallery with crystals & gifts in Red River Gorge, Kentucky. Sometimes I have to pinch myself; it’s truly an amazing job. I’m thankful knowing that I can feature my artwork along with several other talented artisans in my shop. I am also focused on making and selling prints of my work and doing commissioned pieces for people in the community including paintings, charcoal drawings, murals, logos, graphic design work, and more. Every week brings a new client with an exciting project.

I believe my work is set apart from others because of the variety in mediums I can work within, I consider myself to be a multidisciplinary artist. I feel that I can make an illustration come to life by capturing my emotion in each piece I’m working on. I form a relationship with my work, bonding and connecting to the lines and color. My energy and soul is poured into everything I create, whether I realize it or not, and I feel that it really shows.

Some of my most recent project completions include a large mural of the local landmark, Nada Tunnel, an entire mini bus wrap for Red River Gorge Zipline Tours, designing moonshine bottle labels for a new distillery, a yacht logo, various logos for Red River Gorge Vacations and several oil paintings and charcoal sketchings.

I as an artist, my mission is to bring my client’s vision to life. I want to be able to take your idea and run with it. When I sit down with a new client, I ask them to tell me when they would like in the fullest detail possible, from there I immediately envision exactly how I want the piece to look and then start to break down the process into smaller steps.

Currently, I’m most proud of the Nada Tunnel mural. I felt very low confidence in this project, and was nervous to see the outcome. I really wanted to make my clients more than satisfied with my work. Once I finished the project and took a step back, I realized truly how blessed I am to possess this talent, as it came out more than perfect. It was a huge lesson to not take what I have for granted. With little confidence in myself I was still able to create this incredible piece of work.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

First and foremost, simply appreciating the work going into a piece will immensely support the creative community. Creatives are extremely important in everything we do. Everything around you was designed and created by an artist. Take a look at your favorite mug, shirt or blanket. Someone put work into that item and made it come to life. Having this appreciation will nuture a whole new perspective.

Lastly, purchasing from local artisans rather than large corporations and box-stores. Finding your next christmas gift or decorating your house with something that you know an artisan put their heart and soul into is a truly fulfilling feeling, not to mention the better quality in craftsmanship!

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

My creative process stems from my emotions. I am naturally an extremely empathetic person and I feel my emotions to the fullest degree, whether that be happy or sad. I find that these intense emotions are the driving force behind my work and my thought processes. I think it’s what makes my artwork “good”. Not everyone can understand the energy it takes to handle such emotion that comes along with the creative process. It can be quite exhausting.

Understanding most artists are more sensitive to their surroundings is important – both as an artist or being associated with one. We simply feel more and connect more, which can lead us to sometimes acting upon emotion. Accepting and celebrating our emotions can be a huge step in an artist’s life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://earthshopatredrivergorge.com/
• Instagram: @ingridtheartist @rrgearthshop
• Facebook: @ingridtheartist