Meet Traci Combs

Today we’d like to introduce you to Traci Combs. 

Hi Traci, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have enjoyed creating art for the last 50 years doing anything from sketching, logo design, photography, pottery/ceramics to painting wall murals and canvas pieces, but only recently stepping out in faith to pursue my art as a full-time career painting large scale pieces. Although I still work on a small scale at times, I really enjoy the challenge that comes with creating something beautiful on a large scale for people to enjoy that will bring joy, inspire hope and/or contemplation, or capture someone’s vision in a commissioned piece. I have lived in 3 very beautiful states which has given me inspiration and I believe an eye for aesthetic value. I love people and getting to know their stories and it’s important to me that each piece that I create for sale or a piece that someone has commissioned me to do for their home, business, or as a gift, has heart and meaning behind it. Something that spoke to that individual or myself. I feel it an honor to use a gift I believe that God gave to me to bless others, to unite people, to heal hearts, to encourage souls. As a single mother who has walked through tragedy, trauma, and deep pain of my own, I try to be intentional on pursuing healing of every crevice of my own heart so that I can be a healthy heart for others, and if I can be even a tiny part of someone’s journey in creating something for them that will bring a touch of healing to their hearts, I consider that a precious gift. 

In 2018, my 15-year-old (second-born son of 7 children) was in a tragic lawn tractor accident and passed from this earth instantly and before my eyes. At that moment our lives were forever changed. To honor his beautiful memory and his amazing heart and life, a new season of providing for my children and I was born. One that I trust will continue to grow. It is called The Studio At The Bridge (the bridge representing a memorial bridge that was built in my son’s honor). It is where creativity and healing happens and will not only encompass my painting studio but also more to come in the near future… A place for people to come and heal through creativity, beauty, and faith that will bring joy to a space in their hearts. And a place where one can buy beautiful pieces of art that will bring joy to a space in their life. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
My journey has been a difficult one. From the loss of my marriage to the loss of my son to then consequently some health challenges, a lot of beautiful dreams turned into paths of grief. I had always hoped that one day I would be a person with some wisdom and understanding, where my children and grandchildren could come and sit and profit from. I have now learned that wisdom and compassion comes from these kinds of experiences and pain. It is my heart’s desire to allow each season in my life to not go to waste but to be the very thread that authentic love is woven from. 

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I paint mostly in acrylic with some mixed media added in at times and mostly on large linen canvasses. I paint my own inspired pieces and also commissioned pieces. Although I have a specific personal style which involves soothing colors, subject, and tone, my skill ability has a wide range from realism, impressionism, and abstract to bridal bouquet portraits. (My pieces have been described by others as: emotionally connected, soothing, nurturing, calming, spiritual, fresh, meaningful, tranquil, sophisticated, elegant, inspired, natural, and free-flowing). I think that the word peaceful comes up the most when describing my personal tone and what sets my art apart, in addition to the larger size of canvasses that I tend to work in. 

What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love the heartbeat of our city. The kindness of people and the porch sitting talks. The general speed of life. I love how people stop and talk with you and are generally open-hearted. I love the thread of faith that connects so many here. I love the beautiful green of the landscape everywhere and the four seasons of weather. What do I not like? Hmmm, well I would say that I don’t particularly enjoy some changes of life speed that I have been seeing with the influx of so many from other places coming here, but I do understand the draw of wanting to live somewhere as beautiful as our city. 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: tracicombsart.com
• Instagram: @tracicombsart
• Facebook: TheStudioAtTheBridge-Traci Combs, Artist