Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nancy Murty. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Nancy, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you wish you had waited to pursue your creative career or do you wish you had started sooner?

I have been drawn to drawing and painting since I was little. But, my upbringing discouraged me from pursuing art as a career and instead pushed me to pursue practical vocations like nursing or physical therapy. I followed this guidance and went to college, choosing the latter path. However, as I got more involved in the clinical aspects, I realized it wasn’t the right path. So, I dropped out and felt lost and unsure about what to do next.

While feeling lost, my father brought home a flyer from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh proposing a tour. Though surprised by his suggestion, enthusiasm convinced me to take the opportunity.

As I walked through the halls of the institute, surrounded by the sounds of creativity and enthusiasm, I realized that a career in the arts was not only possible but calling to me. I enrolled the following semester without hesitation and eventually graduated with a degree in visual communications.

After graduation, I worked in advertising for seven years and then had a successful 14-year career as a fabric and pattern designer. Although both roles allowed me to use my creative skills in different ways, I still felt like something was missing.

As I reflect on my journey, I often wonder what could have happened if I had pursued my passion for painting earlier. When I was young, I had endless energy and a touch of naivety, which could have given me the courage to go ahead and follow my passion. However, I am grateful for the wisdom and experiences I gained from my previous endeavors. Today, as a full-time painter, I use those lessons every day, knowing that every twist and turn has led me to where I truly belong.

Nancy, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I grew up in the beautiful region alongside Lake Ontario in New York, surrounded by rustic and agricultural scenery. As a child, I spent most of my days tending to animals, planting crops, and working, which instilled a profound appreciation for the land and a strong connection to the natural world. I learned to understand and respect the cycles of life. These experiences have shaped my perspective on life and helped me develop a deep connection with the land and agricultural landscapes. This, in turn, has fueled my passion for nature, which is reflected in my paintings.

I am passionate about exploring abandoned places and finding beauty in often-overlooked things. I strive to capture moments of stillness and peace in this fast-paced world through my paintings. I hope that viewers can take a moment to pause, find solace, and reconnect with the fleeting beauty of life that surrounds us.

My journey started way back when, as a little girl, I sat at my grandmother’s kitchen table with a drawer full of colored pencils beside me and a blank sheet of white paper in front of me. I asked my Grandma what I should draw, and she suggested I draw the birds at the feeder. This was the beginning of my artistic journey. I owe everything to my Grandma for her encouragement and kindness. You never know where a journey begins.

Then, I decided to go to the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, but not initially. My parents didn’t think being an artist was a practical career choice, so I started studying to become a Physical Therapist in college. While I did well academically, I didn’t enjoy the clinical aspect of the program and dropped out without a clear direction.

My father suggested the Art Institute and even drove me to tour the school. After graduating, I worked in advertising for seven years before starting Bee Creative Studio, where I designed fabric and patterns for the quilting industry. In 2013, I decided to pursue oil painting full-time, closing that chapter of my life. I couldn’t be happier with my choice!

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

One of the most fulfilling aspects of being an artist is the constant journey of growth and exploration. Each brushstroke and every canvas provides an opportunity to delve deeper. Whether discovering new and vibrant paint colors or mastering intricate techniques passed down by fellow artists, there’s endless inspiration to draw from. Add in the ever-evolving world of technology, social media, and websites, and the possibilities become even more expansive. As I continue to embrace this dynamic process, I find myself constantly invigorated by the creative challenges and rewards that come with being an artist.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

One lesson I’ve had to unlearn is the idea that every action must have a clear and practical purpose. Growing up on a small farm, productivity and efficiency were ingrained into our daily lives. Whether it was tending to the crops, caring for the animals, or preserving food for the winter, every task served a tangible goal. Money was tight, and there was little room for frivolity or indulgence.

However, as I ventured beyond the confines of my childhood environment and encountered different perspectives, particularly through my husband’s family, I began to reassess this mindset. Their upbringing in the city, marked by playful interactions with neighborhood kids and a more relaxed pace, presented a stark contrast to the constant busyness I was accustomed to.

Over time, I came to realize that not everything needs to serve a practical purpose. It’s okay to engage in activities simply for the joy they bring, without seeking validation or tangible outcomes. Embracing this realization has allowed me to appreciate moments of spontaneity, creativity, and pure enjoyment, enriching my life in ways I never imagined.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nancymurty.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nancymurty/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyMurtyArt