We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shanda Nelson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shanda below.

Shanda, appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I remember it like it was yesterday. I was in the 10th grade, sitting in my art class. The assignment that day was to draw a bowl of fruit. I thought the bowl of fruit was so cliché, but I still gave it a try. After I started, I remember being so engrossed in the drawing that I felt as though I was in my own world. I lost track of time, and didn’t want to leave for my next class. The idea of spending all day lost in artwork was incredibly appealing to me.

This moment also stands out in my memory, because of my 10th-grade art teacher at the time. He showed a genuine interest in my passion for art and taught me a great deal about using shadows and highlights to bring out the message in my art. For example, he took the apple out of the bowl and asked me “How do you make an apple look like it’s happy? By using highlights to brighten it up. And the opposite applies if you want to make that same apple look sad, just by adding heavy shadows”.

I found joy in almost every art class I took, from elementary throughout high school. Art wasn’t just a hobby for me; it was a way of life and a part of who I was.

Shanda, 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’m Shanda Nelson, born and raised in Quincy, Florida, with roots extending to Fort Myers. From a very young age, I’ve always been deeply connected to art. I was always told by my mother that my talent for drawing emerged as early as three years old. Art became my sanctuary, my refuge from the world. Even in school, I found myself getting lost in doodles, so much so that it would get me in trouble with my teachers for not paying attention. It wasn’t just a hobby to me; it was a means of expressing every emotions. when I was happy I drew about it, when I was sad, I drew about it, even when I was angry, I drew out my expressions to cope with life. I even made drawings for friends, which I turned into a side-hustle of selling t-shirts with my drawings on them.

Eventually, I started the journey of “Real Life”, and had learn how to navigate all of its ups and downs, twists and turns. I was slowly being pulled away from my artistic pursuits, because life came at me so fast. Attending college, meeting my soulmate, getting married, and embracing motherhood all at the tender age of 20. It wasn’t until a traumatic moment of personal struggle, with depression and anxiety while raising my first two sons, that I rediscovered my artistry.

One day, while cleaning, I stumbled upon my old high school art portfolio. Flipping through those pages reignited that child-like spark within me. I promptly bought some supplies and dove back into creating. The feeling of self-expression was intoxicating and rejuvenating. I immersed myself in honing my skills, devouring tutorials and art books. Art became my lifeline, pulling me out of darkness and guiding me back to myself.

Over time, my passion evolved into a profession. I began painting commissioned pieces for clients, discovering my ability to connect with people through my art. This journey led me to explore abstract art and eventually delve into interior design, where I could infuse spaces with personalized, artistic touches.

What sets me apart as an artist is my commitment to involving clients in the creative process. Whether it’s designing custom furniture or crafting stunning wall art, I empower clients to co-create pieces that reflect their vision and individuality. My ultimate satisfaction lies in providing a seamless experience, from conceptualization to installation, where clients’ dreams come to life effortlessly.

I’m most proud of the connections I’ve forged with clients and the transformative impact my work has had on their lives. My goal is not just to create beautiful spaces but to empower individuals to express themselves authentically through art and design.

I want my potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my work is not just about aesthetics; it’s about storytelling, emotion, and connection. Whether you’re looking to transform your home or seeking inspiration, I invite you to join me on this journey of creativity and self-discovery. Together, we can turn your vision into reality and create spaces that truly reflect who you are.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is knowing that my work has the ability to touch hearts, inspire minds, and spark conversations. It’s a reminder of the transformative power of art and the endless possibilities that come with thinking creatively and embracing the beauty of the world around us.

One of the most fulfilling experiences as an artist is when I meet people who have connected with my artwork on a profound level. They often share stories about how the colors, textures, and emotions conveyed in my pieces have spoken to them in ways they couldn’t quite articulate. It’s incredibly humbling and gratifying to know that my art has the power to evoke such strong feelings and create meaningful connections with others.

Each piece I create is a reflection of my inner world, infused with my experiences, and perspectives. Through my art, I aim to not only express myself but also to invite viewers to explore their own interpretations. It’s a form of communication that transcends words, allowing for a deep and visceral connection between artist and audience.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Building my audience on social media has been quite the journey, to say the least. I’ve often found myself scratching my head trying to decipher algorithms and strategizing ways to drive traffic to my page. Despite my ongoing battle with the ever-elusive algorithm, I’ve managed to carve out a somewhat successful presence on social media.

While I may not have fully cracked the code to social media marketing, I’ve discovered that sometimes the most effective marketing strategy is also the oldest: word of mouth. By delivering quality work and fostering genuine connections with clients and followers, I’ve cultivated a loyal fanbase who enthusiastically spread the word about my art.

In addition to word of mouth, I’ve found great success in leveraging offline opportunities to showcase my work. Art shows and exhibitions have been invaluable platforms for connecting with art enthusiasts and potential clients. By putting myself out there and participating in these events, I’ve been able to build relationships that extend far beyond the confines of social media.

Another piece of advice I’d offer to aspiring artists is to think outside the digital realm and explore opportunities in the real world. Coffee shops, small businesses, and other local establishments can be excellent venues for displaying artwork and attracting new audiences. By taking a proactive approach and reaching out to these venues, you not only gain exposure but also establish yourself within the community as a trusted artist.

Ultimately, building a social media presence is about more than just numbers and algorithms—it’s about cultivating meaningful connections and sharing your passion with the world. So, to all the budding artists out there, don’t be discouraged by the complexities of social media. Embrace the journey, stay true to your craft, and remember that sometimes the most effective marketing strategy is as simple as a genuine smile and a heartfelt conversation.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shandanelsonfineart.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shandacrea8sit/

Image Credits
All photos were taken by me.