We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tonia Allen. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tonia below.
Tonia , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
I first felt the pull toward creating art about 20 years ago. I set aside becoming a professional artist, while continuing my career as a stylist and makeup artist. Two years ago, I finally gave myself permission to turn my passion for art into a profession.
Tonia , 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?
After retiring from the beauty industry, I finally had time to pursue my dream of becoming a professional artist. I enrolled in an art program and never looked back. I love being a full time artist. Each day is an adventure into creativity. I am captivated by the idea of discovery and exploring the unfamiliar, through color, line and texture. My medium of choice is oil. Creating abstract art allows me to embrace spontaneity and intuition. I believe the best artists are not bound by the rules, but to their creativity.
While my art certainly adds beauty to a space, it goes beyond decoration- it creates an atmosphere. My art invites people to pause, reflect and connect with their inner world. In a sense, I’m helping people create not just beautiful homes, but meaningful environments that uplift their spirits and express who they are.
Recently, I had the honor of being a featured artist at a local gallery for the very first time. What touched me the most wasn’t just the event itself, but watching people look at my work… really see it. The connection – the human response to something I created was impactful.
This art journey I’m on is ever evolving – constantly growing, shifting and surprising me in the best ways. Creativity invites me to take risks and that there is always more to discover.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
Yes, absolutely – there is a deeper mission behind my creative journey. One of my heartfelt goals is to generate enough income through my art, to support nonprofits that help victims coming out of sex trafficking, find healing and restoration.
I hope my art can play a small role in that bigger purpose.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist, for me, is the freedom. Freedom to explore, to express, to question, and to imagine without limits. There’s something deeply fulfilling about taking an idea and translating it into color, form, and texture. When something I created touches someone else’s inner world, that’s powerful. Art has the ability to bridge hearts without a word.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://toniaallenart.com
- Instagram: Tonia Allen Art
- Facebook: Tonia Allen
Image Credits
Capture Every Second Photography