Daily Inspiration: Meet Amanda Woods

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Woods

Hi Amanda, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
For 17 years, I have worked in the realms of Marketing and Graphic Design. in Nashville, TN. However, during the Covid era, while balancing virtual schooling for our young children, I rediscovered my passion for painting.

Fate led me to a bustling household with four wonderful children, each needing their own space. Experimenting with a closet (too dark) and the dining room (too chaotic), I ultimately transformed the back porch into my creative haven. Amidst the delightful chaos of pets and family bustling through, I found my artistic sanctuary. Some days, the southern heat causes my pastels to soften in my hands, while on others, a perfect breeze connects me to nature. With ever-changing light and constant music, it’s far from a conventional studio, but this unique setup has become my cherished creative retreat.

With acrylics and pastels, I craft enchanting florals in a vibrant, neon garden—a whimsical world where imagination reigns supreme. Often braving the rain or the intense heat of the southern United States, I find inspiration in the open air of my back porch studio, letting the natural elements shape and breathe life into my work. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Painting is a safe space for me. With that said, somedays the road is a rocky mess of balancing family, friends, and work. While I graduated with a Journalism and Fine Arts degree, navigating the art world has been a new, trying experience. There are definitely days of intense imposter syndrome and I compare myself to artists with decades of experience. However, I have spent almost 20 years in marketing… and I am shamelessly using that to my advantage.

After four years or trial and error, I found that getting up early in the morning is sometimes the only moment of the day I can sneak out to the painting porch. It is my favorite time of the day. I continue to push myself to explore new textures, color-ways, and have a deep desire to explore three-dimensional florals… which keeps me coming back to the porch day after day.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Using acrylic paint and charcoal I make art to process spirituality. Organic shapes and vibrant layers challenge the rigidity of human existence and celebrate the the endless cycle of creation. There is always more to discover. 

With nearly two decades of experience in marketing and graphic design, I am thrilled to seamlessly integrate all my skills into my art practice. In my studio, cameras and editing tools coexist harmoniously with paintbrushes and pastels. Pausing to film or photograph my work doesn’t disrupt my creative process; instead, it offers me a moment to reflect on the piece’s evolution and flow. It’s a joy to share my artistic journey with the world, allowing others to see and feel the essence of my creations.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Discovery.

Some days I know exactly what I want to lay down on the canvas, and other days I just want to feel the movement of the brush and see the colors land where they may. If I keep an air of continual discovery and the willingness to try something… even if it might fail… then my artistic pursuits can be never ending. The same goes for navigating the art world. I might be new and uneducated about the ways of this world, but the only thing that could stop me is myself.

It is almost a child-like willingness to play. Play with color, play with form, and play with shape. Sometimes that turns out really ugly. Sometimes I am shocked that I could actually create something so cool. I store what worked and what didn’t in my mind and push forward towards new discoveries.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://awoodscreative.com
• Instagram: @awoodscreative