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

Hi Pam, thanks for joining us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

Anytime I do an art piece, I feel I am taking a risk. It’s putting yourself out there for criticism and judgement. I’m a sensitive soul so that is usually frightening. I am usually rewarded for stepping up by sweet comments or helpful narratives that even help me see my own work from a different perspective.

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 grew up with a talented artist mother who encouraged me in all my ventures. Unfortunately, I thought of art as “her thing” and felt I would never reach her level, so beyond basic art classes at school, I didn’t pursue it. It has made me want to “go for it” when things intimidate me so that I don’t miss out on valuable time.
Around 30, I just got the idea one day that I wished I could draw. I got out a silk rose and children’s colored pencils and gave it a try. I loved my result and was excited.
My husband is such a huge cheerleader of mine. He saw this and went to Michael’s with multiple coupons. He went through the line multiple times with his coupons buying me all the Prismacolors. I’ve ventured into several mediums since, but that was pretty exciting!
I took some local college art classes and loved them. My classes were scarce as I was juggling 3 kids, homeschooling, or teaching elementary school depending on the year.
After a quit teaching 2 years ago at 51, I decided to challenge myself and really try to work on my skills. I took local classes but recently entered the Mastery Program with Milan Art Institute. I’ve been greatly challenged but I see so much growth, I love my program! I highly recommend finding a challenge and jumping in.
Around the same time, I hit a mental block. I was thinking that I must not really be a professional artist if I wasn’t having constant passion for my art. I pondered how artists deal with it and wondered if they even did. I had the revelation that if I hosted a podcast, I could ask artists questions that could encourage others and me. So I host a podcast on all major platforms called, “At the Heart of Art”. I’ve learned so much from my guests, including the fact that MOST of these talented artists hit a wall from time to time.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

There are so many ways to support creatives. One of my favorites is to buy real art! There are great mass produced art pieces out there at big box stores, but it’s really special to have an original in your home to enjoy.
It’s simple and free to like and share posts, and helps the artist to be seen.
If you are a creative, one of the best things I did was to venture into my local community! Join an art club, visit local galleries and network with everyone you can. You’ll have friends and mentors in no time!

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

Being an artist has so many perks.

You are your own boss! YOU decide what kind of medium, subject, color, texture, and many other variables that are part of making art.

It’s exciting! When you get an idea and it comes to fruition, it’s so rewarding. Even when results are poor, a lesson is learned!

Artist friends are some of the best. Before I got involved in my community, I was afraid of competition and criticism. I really haven’t experienced either. On the contrary, artists get excited, share tips, and give encouragement that is special because they know how challenging it is. Sometimes getting a compliment from someone you admire is hugely encouraging!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://pamewellart.artcall.org/
• Instagram: @the.artfulsoul
• Other: “At the Heart of Art” Podcast on all major streaming platforms. IG page devoted to the artists and their work:
  @heart.of.art.podcast