An Interview with Autumn

This week, I get to share with you all an interview I did with my wonderful friend, Autumn. (And no, this isn’t Autumn Rebecca from Sunshine in the Haze!) She recently launched her art business, Shades of Art, so I’m here with some questions for her!

1. When did you discover your love for art?

I have always loved art; my parents are very artistic, and my mom drew a lot when she was my age. When I was younger, every Friday night, we would have art night, and do our best to copy an object that was in front of us. Believe it or not, I didn’t like doing that. But, about two or three years ago, I really got into drawing animals from a Hobby Lobby book. Then, in 2021, we watched a movie and there were some amazing portraits in the End Credits. I remember sitting on the couch and promising myself that one day I would draw like that. The very next day, we went back to Hobby Lobby and I got a portrait book for myself.

2. Did anyone especially encourage you in your art journey?

My parents have always encouraged me to be artistic, even by simple things such as quiet time alone on Sundays so that I could find things to do to entertain myself. The books that I got from the store on drawings were gifts from them, so they have definitely helped me along. Now, as I get better, they are looking for more ways to help me out as an artist.

3. What was your number one resource when it came to growing your skills as an artist?

As soon as I showed real interest as an artist, my parents found me a teacher and gave me about three or four months of lessons. I had a very good book that touched most of the elements one would need as an artist. Animals, birds, houses and faces. It was a wonderful start.

4. Do you plan on pursuing art long term?

Yes, if I ever went to college, it would be for art. I just love it. I also love to write, and maybe one day I will illustrate my own books! 

5. What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time?

My favorite thing to do in my spare time would probably be sitting down at my desk and putting on my headphones and reaching for something in my desk drawers. I may end up writing or drawing or nothing, but I just love retreating into my own corner and blocking out the world with great music and a world of my own.

6. What is one thing you want to do by this time next year? 

This time next year, I want to have a prosperous art business and a clear vision of what I need to do to step towards getting published. I hope that I will be closer with Jesus more than anything. 

7. What is one piece of encouragement you would like to give to a young woman who is following Jesus? 

 This may be more advice than encouragement, but I would say to anyone who is following Jesus Christ, to always put Him first. Sometimes it may feel more comfortable to put Him second or third, but in hindsight, putting Him before anything always benefits you in ways you could never imagine beforehand. Not only does Jesus want you to put Him first, he also knows that it is in your best interest to do so. Always keep Him in the forefront of your mind, and pray that all you do honors Him.

Thank you, Autumn, for doing this– it was so much fun to do.

Lastly, if you’d like to find out about her art business, you can read this flyer here!