We were lucky to catch up with Sheila Druist recently and have shared our conversation below.

Sheila, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

This is such a great question, and a difficult one to pinpoint. As a professional artist, my main goal is to promote kindness, confidence, and wellness. This desire originated both from personal experiences and my deeply empathetic personality. Two projects come to the top of my mind when asked this question, the first is my current series of floral paintings. I love to incorporate an element of art therapy into my work, whether through the message or the techniques used. For this particular series, I begin by scrawling words and thoughts across the canvas. Sometimes, I choose to make the text legible, and other times, I keep it private by using asemic handwriting. This allows me to process whatever is going on in my mind and emotions before diving into the intricate painting process. Next, I play with color and collage to create a beautiful abstract background. Once I am happy with the direction the painting is headed, I choose a fresh bouquet or floral photo to work from, and begin bringing beauty into the chaos. This process results in a dynamic, hope-filled artwork that is uplifting to both the viewer and myself.

My second answer to this question is sharing the arts with a new generation. Art is such a healthy and necessary part of life. I think it as a great tool for personal growth and development in a child’s life. My artist friend, Hannah Lehigh, and I operate a kid’s art camp geared toward instilling confidence and creative abandon into the young lives of our attendees. It is rewarding to see the skills develop and the pure joy on their faces when they discover “I can do this!”

Sheila, 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 was raised in small-town PA, and currently work from a little cabin studio with a gorgeous mountain-top view. I’ve always had a creative streak, but finally decided to pursue a creative career at the age of 25. My inspirations are varied, but frequently feature themes such as landscape, floral, abstract, and full-filled still life paintings of adorable stuffed animals. A signature feature of my work is vibrant, pure color. This brings energy and joy to my work. I occasionally offer custom artwork done in my signature style for people looking to preserve the memory of a loved one, pet, or looking for an abstract that fits the design of their home. I also offer private art lessons, paint parties, and workshops. My work has shown at the Delaplaine Arts Center and Nisei Gallery, as well as a local shops the Keeper of the Bees Apiary (McConnellsburg, PA) and Flannel on the Trail (Hancock, MD) and the Fulton County Library. I work primarily in acrylic, but also use oil paint, graphite, gel printing, lino-cut, and watercolor in my work.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

One resource I wish I had been aware of sooner, is the support of the local library system. Sometimes libraries have arts programs, whether that’s an artist residency, kid’s art camps, or craft classes, they have great opportunities available. Whether kids or adults, I recommend that anyone interested in the arts check with your local library to see what their options are. If they have no arts program, they may be open to one, and that could also be a great career opportunity. I am grateful for the Fulton County Library and their interest in my career. I have taught art camps, exhibited in their annual art show, and shown my work as artist in residence at this lovely library.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Non-creatives may not fully understand the passion and driving force behind the artwork. I’ve had plenty of people advise me to choose a “safer” more “realistic” career. I’ve also been advised to change the direction of my art to something more utilitarian, more trendy, or work in a “normal trade” that utilizes some creativity. I think it’s hard for a lot of people to understand why someone would choose uncertainty over predictability, creative expression over popular demand, etc. I know it’s a risk, but so is working a corporate job over which you have no control. I know I could find a trendy niche to fall into, but if I focus too heavily on pleasing others, my work looses its authenticity and emotion. I am stubborn and determined. My art means to much to me to not fight for it. I can’t begin to tell you how much I’ve grown along the way, how many wonderful people I’ve been able to connect with, how much joy I’ve seen on client’s faces. For me, success isn’t about the money, it’s about authenticity, connection, and kindness. That is my goal. That is where I will invest my tenacity.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.wildflowerwhisperstudio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildflower_whispers_studio/
• Other: email: [email protected]

Image Credits

Hannah Lehigh