Life & Work with Lucy Thomas of Fayetteville

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lucy Thomas.

Hi Lucy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Everything in my life leads to my decision to pick up a paintbrush. I didn’t start painting until I was 47 years old. At that time, my life was in turmoil. I was going through a nasty divorce when I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Formally known as Juvenile Diabetes, Type 1 usually happens when you are a child or teenager, not in your late 40s. My pancreas had died, and I became dependent on insulin to function. Unfortunately, no amount of healthy eating and exercise will change that. I realized then that I needed to figure out what I was doing with my life. I felt a real sense of urgency to find my purpose, and for some reason, I still did not understand, so I started to paint. I was a little obsessed initially and practiced painting 8 to 10 hours a day at least. Before too long, I was able to start selling what I made. Now, 8 years later, I am a professional artist. I have shown work in many big city galleries and have my paintings in hundreds of homes across the country, and most importantly, I have finally figured out what I am supposed to be doing with my life.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a smooth road?
Once I started and decided to follow this path, I managed to make it work without too many obstacles. Starting over at almost 50 years old with a young child to care for was risky, and it took some time to make it work financially. And, of course, there were the health concerns I mentioned above. I learned that I am an incredibly determined person!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a painter and am primarily known for bright, colorful florals. My unconventional use of color seems to be what makes my work different.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I lived in Huntsville, Alabama, when this whole art thing started. I was involved in the community as a volunteer and musician and had also worked in fundraising for several years. I knew many people, and those relationships were beneficial when I started selling my work.

Contact Info:

• Website: Lucyisanartist.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/lucyslifeinpictures