Today we’d like to introduce you to Mandy Corcoran

Hi Mandy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?

Certainly! My journey has been anything but linear, but every step has contributed to where I am today.

I began my career deeply immersed in the tech world. With a strong background in computer science, I was fluent in five programming languages and started off as a computer repair technician and networking engineer. I found joy in solving complex puzzles and working hands-on with technology.

This passion led me to become a high school teacher, where I launched one of the first High School Cisco Networking Academies on the East Coast. I taught computer repair, web design, and networking, sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm for technology with students.

However, life took a significant turn when I decided to focus on my family. I transitioned to being a stay-at-home mom and homeschooled my three children. This period was filled with its own set of challenges and rewards, requiring creativity, patience, and adaptability.

As my children grew older, I found the opportunity to revisit my first love – art. What started as a hobby eventually grew into a professional pursuit. I began taking freelance jobs, designing beer and wine labels, and creating merchandise for local companies.

The pivotal moment came when my husband gifted me an iPad Pro and Apple Pencil. With these tools and platforms like Procreate and Skillshare, I delved into the world of seamless pattern design. My tech background gave me a unique edge, allowing me to blend logic and creativity seamlessly.

In 2023, I launched “Procreate Patterns Unleashed,” an online course teaching designers how to leverage technology in their creative processes. The course was a hit, and I found myself teaching thousands of designers worldwide. This venture allowed me to combine my love for art, technology, and teaching into one cohesive career.

Now, at 47, I continue to live my dream as an artist and educator, inspiring others to explore their creative and technological potential. My journey from tech expert to teacher, stay-at-home mom, and now to a successful artist and educator has been unconventional but incredibly fulfilling. It’s a testament to the fact that it’s never too late to pursue your passions and that diverse experiences can come together to create something truly unique.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?

My journey has certainly had its share of bumps and challenges, but each struggle has played a crucial role in shaping who I am today.

Starting my career in the tech industry, I faced the constant pressure to stay updated with rapidly changing technology. As a woman in a male-dominated field, I had to continuously prove my skills and expertise. Balancing the technical demands with my passion for teaching was another challenge. Launching one of the first High School Cisco Networking Academies on the East Coast was a significant milestone, but it came with the immense responsibility of ensuring its success while managing classroom dynamics and administrative tasks.

Transitioning from a tech career to being a stay-at-home mom and homeschooling my children was a whole new set of challenges. The shift from professional life to full-time parenting was not easy. Homeschooling required immense patience, creativity, and the ability to adapt teaching methods to fit my children’s needs. There were days filled with more chaos and spills than any server room meltdown, and finding a balance between nurturing my kids and maintaining a sense of personal identity was difficult.

Re-entering the workforce through art brought its own hurdles. Initially, finding freelance opportunities and building a client base was tough. There were moments of self-doubt and fear of not being able to establish myself as an artist. Learning new digital tools and platforms like Procreate was exciting but also overwhelming. The biggest challenge was blending my technical background with my newfound artistic passion in a way that felt authentic and marketable.

Launching “Procreate Patterns Unleashed” was a significant turning point, but it wasn’t without its struggles. Creating and promoting an online course required a steep learning curve in digital marketing, content creation, and managing an online community. There were countless late nights, technical glitches, and moments of imposter syndrome. However, seeing the positive impact on my students and the success of the course made all the struggles worthwhile.

Throughout these transitions, the support of my husband and children has been invaluable. They have been my rock, providing encouragement and grounding me during tough times. The journey has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of pursuing one’s passions despite the obstacles.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

Currently, I focus on creating seamless patterns using digital tools such as Procreate on the iPad Pro. My work primarily involves designing intricate patterns for a variety of applications, including textiles, home décor, and fabric. I have also had the pleasure of working with local companies to design beer and wine labels, as well as merchandise, which allows me to blend my artistic skills with commercial needs.

In addition to my design work, I am known for my educational contributions. What sets me apart from others in the field is my strong technical background. My early career as a computer repair technician, networking engineer, and Cisco Certified Instructor provided me with a deep understanding of technology and problem-solving skills. This technical foundation allows me to use digital tools in innovative ways, creating patterns that are not only visually appealing but also technically precise.

In addition to my flagship course, I offer numerous free educational resources, including a free pattern tester (which I helped program), and courses in Photoshop and Procreate. Recently, I have expanded my offerings to include “Master the ABCs of your Art Business” a free email course that helps artists integrate AI tools into their business operations, and a Notion Artist Hub to streamline their workflows (don’t worry, I am not teaching how to use AI for art creation). These resources are designed to support artists at various stages of their careers, providing valuable tools and insights to enhance their creative and business practices.

I am most proud of the impact my educational work has had on other designers. Seeing my students’ progress and their ability to apply the techniques I’ve taught them is incredibly rewarding. It reaffirms my belief that blending art and technology can lead to groundbreaking creativity and efficiency.

Moreover, my journey has been marked by a strong commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. Whether it was shifting from tech to teaching, homeschooling my children, or diving back into art, I have always embraced change and used it as an opportunity for growth. This adaptability and resilience are what I believe set me apart in a constantly evolving creative industry.

In summary, my work as a surface pattern designer and educator is characterized by a unique fusion of technology and creativity. I take pride in not only creating beautiful designs but also in empowering others to do the same through my educational efforts. My journey has taught me that it’s never too late to pursue your passions and that diverse experiences can come together to create something truly special.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?

AI and machine learning will continue to influence the design process, not necessarily replacing artists but augmenting their capabilities. AI can help streamline repetitive tasks, offer design suggestions, and even predict trends. However, the human touch will remain essential for creativity and originality. My focus on teaching artists how to integrate AI into their business operations, without relying on it for the creative process itself, is a reflection of this trend.

Contact Info:

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

Image Credits

The Floral Cowgirl, Millie Loves Lily, Bella Babes Co, Audrey & Bear