We recently connected with Megan Williams and have shared our conversation below.
Megan, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
Writing and self publishing our first childrens book has been one of the most meaningful projects from ArtsyBlue. The idea came about from a bedtime story, I was very intentional about making Melia read a book every night before bed, even more so after she was diagnosed with mild dyslexia. We were always in search of new books that would keep her interest and be on her reading level, so she could enjoy the process of reading. I was honestly waiting on that spark to ignite. One night she asked if I could tell her a story instead of reading a book. So I started it off, using some similarities basically describing her life, and I asked her to add some razzle dazzle lol. Melia is definitely good at the razzle dazzle. But it turned into a whole interesting and original story! That night, however, I didn’t immediately think to write a book.
God put it on my heart that “Author” would be my next creative pursuit about a month later, and I thought back to the story Melia had finished. As a creative, this project is perfect to merge art and literacy. We had to have the art element because it’s so much engrained in how we live our lives.
It’s super special because so many children and families can relate to being a part of a blended family in todays culture. Having a creative outlet is a gift that many people don’t realize makes a difference in self esteem and confidence.
Melia is named as coauthor and a n important part of the process from start to finish. She has been involved in the editing, choosing illustrations and even on the business side step by step learning how to self publish and market our book. There are even more stories already lined up and ready to bring to life.
I’m super proud to have this creative legacy and be sharing it with my kids. We love it here!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Im Miss Megan a Certified Art Therapist and Creative Director of ArtsyBlue, LLC, a brand providing several creative services. We started out doing art events and Patient Parties through Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta, providing activities to the patients who could participate. The motivation is definitely bringing positivity and creative energy to our communities. My business then grew to include Art parties and summer art camps in Metro Atlanta. We come in and create a fun and engaging art experience for large groups at their locations.
I have a background in Theater also. In 2020 I began teaching Musical Theater through an elementary after school program in partnership with Little Actors Studios drama club.
The newest creative development is our STEAM Enrichment Program. I have developed a creative curriculum for Daycare Centers and Developmentally Disabled adult Day Programs alike. We have an artistic approach to learning about Science Tech Engineering and Math. This program has grown quickly and our main focus is to continue to develop and scale to offer to more organizations.
Adding the book to this list is rewarding and transformative. Creative Literacy is now a part of my brand and will continue to build upon our legacy.
Definitely living a very charismatic lifestyle! ArtsyBlue
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
I wish I had known about building business credit and getting financial resources for my business earlier. There is so much money out there for businesses that just needs to be tapped into and properly sought after. Now I’m in a position where gaining more knowledge is going to be the difference in putting me in position to further faster and with more financial literacy and freedom to creatively pursue more.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
I believe more children and young adults need to have the freedom to create their own narratives. Although there have been major changes in how people pursue business and career choice, there is still a strong and stagnant expectation for people to follow a cookie cutter corporate life. Yes that is the path for some, but having the option to explore a creative approach to business should be present.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.artsybluebooks.com
- Instagram: @artsyblue.kids
- Facebook: ArtsyBlue Childrens Books