Life & Work with Caitlin Woods of Dallas

Today we’d like to introduce you to Caitlin Woods.

Hi Caitlin, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
When I was in High School, I suffered a traumatic horseback riding injury that landed me in a wheelchair for an extended period. I was dealing with a lot of trauma and anger. I utilized my artistic skills to help cope with the pain and depression. I had a lot of free time back then. I used this time to paint, draw, and rediscover who I am. I turned it into a business, Panhandle Creations, that followed me through life and evolved into something much greater. I find so much joy in hearing people’s stories and working with them to create something memorable that is just for them. I worked on many ranches across Texas and worked on various artistic projects on the side to help pay my bills; ranching was not a lucrative business. My art brought me happiness, as well as assisted in keeping a roof over my head. 5 years ago, I started working on a wildlife-focused ranch in south Texas. I loved my work and thought the ranch would be my forever home. I stopped working on my art and focused on wildlife management. It was such a rewarding career that allowed me to network with incredible people across the country. About 4 years had passed, and I had another accident and shattered my right leg. I lost my job and my home on the ranch and temporarily lost my ability to function independently. Yet again, I spiraled into a rabbit hole of depression and anxiety.

My family swooped me up and brought me to Dallas. As I recovered and worked on determining my next move, I started curating unique pieces from auctions and estate sales and once again started working on my art. I found so much happiness in this business venture. I obtained some amazing pieces, including a Nudie Cohn suit made for Porter Wagoner and borrowed by Bob Hope (who never returned it to Wagoner or that Wagoner gifted to Hope). My artwork became unique as I painted for myself versus taking commissions. I painted a Starry Night-inspired bucking horse, built a set of zebra hide chaps, re-vamping vintage travel cases with western-style pinup girls, and paid respect to Nudie Cohn by creating unique pieces inspired by his magnetism.

I am excited for the future and for my business to grow! I am working to turn my business into a full-time career. I am proud of what I have been through and what I have accomplished, but I am most proud of the happiness I have given others through my work.

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey has been difficult. I endured many hardships that bled into other facets of my life including injury, losing a pregnancy due to complications from Type 1 Diabetes, prejudice within the wildlife industry, and financial and business restraints. These challenges have provided me with growth and creativity. While the journey has been arduous, I would not have changed a thing.

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a jack of all trades but a master of none. I am known for many things, including beautiful hand-painted skulls, cowboy-style art with a trippy twist, pet portrait work, leatherwork, re-vamping vintage items, and curating unique pieces from auctions and estate sales. I am most proud of my ability to elevate pieces creatively and provide a unique twist. My attention to detail and imagination has allowed me to create some incredibly unique pieces that completely set me apart from the crowd. Every piece should be unique, and every piece is one of a kind. There is no limit to what I can create.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
My inspiration comes from my passion for wildlife and the ranching industry. There is something beautiful and comforting about spending time outdoors. Nature is a wonderful resource that can provide inspiration and happiness that you feel within your soul. It is beautiful and bigger than yourself, which is important to recognize as creative.

Pricing:

• Every piece is one-of-a-kind and unique. Ranging from $150-$3,000.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/panhandlecreations/
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/PanhandleCreations/