Rediscovering Creativity: Kellie Lawler’s Journey as an Artist

In this insightful episode of The Art Coaching Club Podcast, Kellie Lawler delves into her journey of rekindling her passion for art after stepping away to focus on raising her family.

Kellie Lawler’s Artistic Path

Growing up in Baltimore, Kellie had a love for both art and sports. However, during her time at Brown University, where she played Division I lacrosse, her artistic pursuits took a backseat. After college, she moved frequently due to her husband's medical career and eventually settled in Alabama to raise her family. It wasn’t until her father brought back her old high school art portfolio that Kellie’s love for creating was reignited.

Her style evolved organically as she juggled the demands of motherhood. Using monochromatic palettes and continuous line techniques, she built a distinctive style that gained recognition locally. Without initially setting out to make art her full-time career, she started receiving commissions and gallery opportunities, sparking the beginnings of her professional journey.

Overcoming Challenges and Growing Her Business

Balancing family life and an art career is no easy feat, and Kellie faced challenges in time management and navigating misconceptions about the work involved in being a full-time artist. As her business grew, she realized the importance of outsourcing tasks like photography and social media management to allow more time for creativity. Her ability to delegate allowed her to focus on what truly matters—making art. Some of her most notable accomplishments include securing a dedicated studio space, launching a textile line, and establishing strong relationships with galleries and collectors.

Advice for Aspiring Artists

For artists looking to grow their careers, Kellie emphasizes the value of seeking help when needed, whether through hiring an assistant or utilizing tools like Lightroom and Dropbox to streamline workflows. She also advises artists to stay true to their creative process and avoid the pitfalls of comparison on social media, focusing instead on their personal artistic journey.

Conclusion

Kellie Lawler’s story is a testament to the resilience and dedication required to balance personal life with creative ambitions. Her journey offers valuable lessons for any artist aiming to turn their passion into a sustainable career. For more insights, connect with Kellie on Instagram or visit her website to explore her captivating work.