We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Wendy Kwasny a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Wendy, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I think I have wanted to be an artist from a young age. However, back then it wasn’t thought that you could make a living as an artist. It was kinda like saying you wanted to make it in Hollywood. But now, with the internet and social media, being an artist is much more accessible and possible. After I received my Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art I actually got a job in insurance first. Then I transitioned into administration at a private art school. It wasn’t until I left that job on maternity leave that I decided to take the opportunity to be a full time artist and Mom. That was about 15-16 years ago now and I haven’t looked back.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

About 5 years ago I decided to try to get back into the art community in a meaningful way by taking classes at a local gallery and art studio called Art on 30th in Ashton Gallery in the neighborhood of Northpark, San Diego. My goal was to be a part of a community and enhance my skill after being out of college for so long. I loved taking classes with Kate Ashton in her studio style classrooms and have learned so much. I even switched from painting primarily with oil paints to painting with Open Acrylics. I have regularly been a part of the art shows at Ashton Gallery and do several private commissions, mostly portraits, a year. I also exhibit my work at other venues through out San Diego.

Recently I have begun teaching portrait drawing and painting at Art on 30th, bringing my relationship with that community full circle. I am loving teaching. It’s very rewarding to help other artists find their style and hone their craft in portrait work.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

I love being an artist! The opportunity to express myself through painting is priceless. I love making my own hours and working around my home life and being able to be flexible with my time. I love working with my clients to create a piece of artwork that will become a family heirloom and hopefully will be treasured for years to come. I love always learning and growing along with my colleagues and exploring new ways to create and paint. It’s a very rewarding career.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Buy original art. Support your local artists. It’s incredibly important to purchase original artwork from artists that you love and admire. Many artists are willing to do special commissions just for a client and many are willing to sell their work directly to the collector (you!). It’s the best thing you can do to support the local art scene. Personally, I purchase the art of my friends whenever possible and its so fun to grow a unique, original art collection.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.wendykwasny.com
• Instagram: @wendykwasnyart
• Facebook: @wendykwasnyart

Image Credits
all photos by Wendy Kwasny