We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Marcia Hodges. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Marcia below.
Marcia, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
From the moment I could hold a pencil, I was drawing. As a child, my world was filled with colors, shapes, and endless possibilities. I sketched on every scrap of paper I could find, painted with whatever materials were available, and lost myself in the joy of creation. My high school art teacher recognized my passion and talent, encouraging me to pursue a future in the arts. I took her words to heart and entered college as an art major, eager to immerse myself in a world where creativity reigned supreme.
Life, however, has a way of redirecting our paths. I fell in love and got married, and suddenly, the world of art seemed less practical than the stability of a career in healthcare. I made the difficult decision to change my major to nursing, a choice that was both pragmatic and filled with uncertainty. I had always loved helping others, but would this new path fulfill me the way art had? As I progressed in my studies, I found that caring for people brought a different kind of joy—one rooted in compassion, connection, and purpose.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Becoming a nurse was both challenging and rewarding. I learned to care for patients in their most vulnerable moments, offering comfort and expertise in equal measure. My passion for women’s health led me to become a Nurse Practitioner, where I had the privilege of guiding women through various stages of pregnancy and childbirth. Eventually, my career took another turn, and I stepped into the role of a Clinical Perinatal Consultant. This position allowed me to travel across the country, teaching physicians and nurses how to use a Perinatal documentation system—helping to improve the quality of care for mothers and babies nationwide.
Though my career in healthcare kept me busy, my love for art never faded. During my travels, I sought out art museums in every city I visited, soaking in the works of masters and unknown talents alike. Each visit reignited the spark within me, reminding me of the creative spirit that had always been a part of my soul. I also made it a priority to attend the Sarah Towery Art Colony annually, studying under various artists and refining my skills in oils and acrylics whenever time permitted.
Ten years ago, I made the decision to retire from my full-time career and return to painting. I transformed a space in my home into a studio, a sanctuary where I could fully devote myself to my art. The transition was both exhilarating and daunting—after years of structured work, I now had the freedom to create without constraints. My style evolved, my techniques deepened, and I found immense joy in the simple act of putting brush to canvas.As I embraced painting full-time, I began sharing my work on social media and creating pieces for friends. Painting not only connected me to my creative spirit but also allowed me to tap into a deeper, more spiritual side of myself. While studying techniques was valuable, I discovered that painting purely for joy—without the pressure of sales—was when the magic truly happened. When I allowed my creativity to flow freely, others were naturally drawn to my work.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
I now sell my art when I create something new, and I also take on commissions. Beyond painting, I have found fulfillment in teaching art classes at Forstall Art Center in Birmingham, Alabama. Encouraging other artists and witnessing their progress brings me great joy. I believe there is no need for jealousy or competition in the art world—when I support and uplift others, my own journey is enriched. In turn, my work has found an audience of followers who appreciate the authenticity and passion behind my creations.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
From teaching classes and interacting with other artists, I have learned that many struggle with imposter syndrome or self-doubt—those nagging voices that whisper, “You are not really an artist.” I, too, have faced these doubts, but I have discovered that true artistry is not defined by external validation.
In recent years, I have begun painting with watercolors, a medium that has taught me to embrace fluidity and relinquish control. I love the way the paint moves freely, creating unexpected textures and designs, all dependent on the amount of water and layers utilized. Watercolors remind me that sometimes, the most beautiful results come from letting go.
My advice to artists who struggle with self-doubt comes from an unexpected source—my grandchildren. For five years, I was their art teacher during their homeschooling curriculum, and one day, I asked them what advice they would give to encourage other artists. One grandson wisely said, “The art is already inside of you.” The other followed with, “If you like what you have created, someone else will like it too.”
Their words are a powerful reminder that art is an extension of the soul, and its value is not determined by outside opinions. Just create. Leave your message on the canvas and trust that it will find the hearts it was meant to touch.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://paintingbythelake.blogspot.com
- Instagram: paintinbythelake
- Facebook: Marcia Hodges, Artist
Image Credits
Photo of artist by Whitney Hodges, photographer