We recently connected with Tina Honerkamp and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Tina thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?
Other than being a wife and mom, being a full-time artist has been the most fulfilling and rewarding part of my life. Growing up, I knew in my core that I was created for this, a life expressing the beauty I saw in life. However, I did not live in an atmosphere or environment that fostered that desire in me. It never went away even I pursued other work. It was always there, waiting for me to take a leap of faith. Challenging to say the least, there are days when I reflect on what it would be like to have a “regular” job and it sends dread to my heart. I pray it never comes to that and so I hustle and pivot. I’m humbled and honored to able to live my dream.
Tina, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My name is Tina Honerkamp and I’m located in the mountains of Western North Carolina. I began my professional career as an artist about five years ago after having been a pastor’s wife and mother for over 23 years.
I’m constantly inspired by my surroundings in the forest where my husband and I live. “All things green and good”, a quote from the Lord of the Rings is what I would say my artwork best reflects. Forest animals are a recurring subject in my paintings and well as trees and plants. I try to capture the purity and beauty that I am privileged to see on a daily basis and share it with others.
My paintings have been featured in American Women Artists 2018 Online Show and I have exhibited in the 2018 Oil Painters of America Salon Show in Traverse City, Michigan and the 2019 Steamboat Art Museum Exhibition by American Women Artists in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. I’ve taught oil workshops internationally and currently offer local beginner and advanced beginner workshops in watercolor and pen and oil.
Most recently, I have written and illustrated an early reader book for children featuring woodland animals entitled, “Good Morning from the Forest”.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
I most recently had to pivot in my creative career due to my husband’s decision to pursue a dream and start his own business and non-profit. I was thrilled and in agreement but soon realized that I had to increase my business income to help cover family expenses. In doing so, I’ve learned to create multiple streams of income within my own business, not relying solely on sales of my originals.
Though stressful and difficult at times, it’s really forced me to be more creative and in touch with my audience. I immediately increased my workshop offerings and finished and published my children’s book. I also found that art markets are a great way to meet people face to face and get immediate input which wasn’t possible in just being represented in galleries. Offering prints and other merchandise helps as well.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to share the beauty and purity left in the world with those who might need it. I love when someone connects with my work and purchases a painting. I’ve found that teaching is a great way to share and connect as well. Seeing someone take my experience and input and apply it to their own creative work is humbling and motivating. It makes me want to be a better artist!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tinahonerkampart.com
- Instagram: @tinahonerkampart
- Facebook: @tinahonerkampart