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

Tiffany, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I’ve always loved art and all the supplies that come with it, but for a long time, I felt intimidated by the belief that I wasn’t “good enough” to actually pursue it. Art classes in school were challenging for me because creativity is so personal, and being graded on it can feel stifling. It’s scary to put a piece of yourself out into the world, especially in an environment where comparison is inevitable. If you’re not the “best” artist in the class, it’s easy to doubt your abilities. On top of that, I come from a line of artists, which created this internal struggle—I questioned whether I could ever live up to their talent. Like many people, I was really terrified of calling myself an “artist”.

Then, in 2021, my father passed away suddenly from Covid. Our relationship had been complicated, and while that made grieving more complex, I found that losing a parent is profoundly difficult no matter the circumstances. His passing forced me to take a step back and reevaluate how I was spending my time. In the midst of processing that loss and all the emotions that came with it, I went to lunch with a friend who challenged me to create something every day for 30 days—using whatever medium felt interesting. I hadn’t considered art as a form of therapy before, but I decided to give it a try.

So I painted. Every day. And as I started sharing my paintings online, something unexpected happened—people wanted to buy them. The response was overwhelming in the best way, and it made me realize that maybe art wasn’t just something I loved—it could also be something I built a life around. That realization led me to explore different ways to turn creativity into an income, and that’s when I started teaching watercolor classes. Teaching became a beautiful way to share my passion while growing my art business.

Around that same time, I also discovered Surface Pattern Design, and I’ve been working on growing that side of my business as well. This journey has been about more than just making art—it’s been about rediscovering myself, pushing past doubt, and embracing creativity as a meaningful and fulfilling path.

Tiffany, 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 an artist, teacher, and surface pattern designer who is passionate about creativity and self-expression. My journey into the art world wasn’t traditional—I spent years believing I wasn’t “good enough” to pursue it seriously. But in 2021, after the loss of my father, I turned to daily creativity as a way to process grief, and that experience completely changed my perspective. What started as a personal challenge led to people asking to purchase my artwork, and from there, I realized I could build something meaningful around art.

Now, through my business, Soul Saunter Studio, I create watercolor paintings, surface pattern designs, and printable artwork, many of which are inspired by nature. I also teach watercolor workshops, helping others embrace creativity without fear or self-doubt. Whether someone is looking for a beautiful, uplifting piece of art, a creative outlet, or a way to gain confidence in their own artistic abilities, I want to be part of that journey.

What sets my work apart is the heart behind it. I believe art should be joyful, freeing, and approachable—not something that feels intimidating or exclusive. My goal is to create a space where people feel encouraged to explore their creativity, whether that’s through the art I design or the classes I teach. I love seeing my patterns on products like journals, phone cases, and wrapping paper, knowing they can bring a little beauty and inspiration into someone’s everyday life.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the community I’ve built around creativity. Whether it’s students in my workshops, customers who connect with my artwork, or fellow creatives who share this journey, I love being part of a space that celebrates small creative wins. At the end of the day, I want people to know that creativity isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up, experimenting, and enjoying the process.

If you love art, nature, and finding joy in the creative process, I’d love to connect with you! Whether through my watercolor classes, my artwork, or the designs I bring to life, I hope to inspire others to embrace their creativity with confidence.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

At the heart of my creative journey is the belief that art should be joyful, approachable, and a source of confidence rather than intimidation. My mission is to help people embrace creativity without fear—whether that’s through the art I create, the classes I teach, or the community I build.

On a personal level, my goal is simple: I want to create beautiful things, get paid for doing what I love, and bring joy and fulfillment both to my life and to others. Art has always been a source of happiness for me, and I believe beauty has the power to uplift, inspire, and create connection. Whether it’s a painting that resonates with someone, a pattern that brightens a product, or a class that helps someone rediscover their own creativity, I love knowing that my work adds something meaningful to the world.

I also see creativity as something deeply fulfilling—not just for me, but for those who engage with my work. Whether someone purchases a piece of art that makes them smile, finds inspiration to explore their own creativity, or discovers a moment of peace in the process of making something, I want them to feel that art is for them, too. My goal is to build a sustainable creative business that allows me to keep making art while inspiring others to embrace their own creative journeys.

At the end of the day, I hope my work brings a sense of joy, inspiration, and confidence to those who interact with it. If I can help someone rediscover their love for creating or see art as something accessible and fulfilling, then I know I’m on the right path.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding part of being an artist is seeing how creativity can bring joy—not just to myself, but to others. There’s something incredibly special about creating something from nothing, about bringing an idea to life and watching it resonate with someone in a way that’s meaningful to them. Whether it’s a painting that speaks to someone’s heart, a pattern that brightens their space, or a class that helps someone gain confidence in their own creativity, knowing that my work can uplift and inspire others is what makes it all worthwhile.

Teaching has been especially rewarding because I get to witness people push past their doubts and embrace the creative process. Seeing someone go from “I’m not an artist” to “Wow, I made this!” is such a beautiful transformation. Creativity is so much more than just making something pretty—it’s about self-expression, growth, and allowing yourself the freedom to explore without judgment.

On a personal level, being an artist has also given me a deeper sense of fulfillment and purpose. It allows me to connect with others, build a business around something I love, and continue growing both creatively and personally. The fact that I get to wake up every day and do something that brings me joy—and share that joy with others—is truly the most rewarding part of all.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.soulsaunterstudio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulsaunterstudio/