From Tech To Artist: The Truth About My Self-taught Artist Journey (Part 1)
Scrolling through Pinterest, battling a sinus infection, three years ago I stumbled upon watercolor painting content that changed my life. That moment fueled a passion for art that I never knew existed - a space where I could explore my limitless curiosity and process emotions through creativity.
Growing up, I loved the arts, but self-doubt held me back. I believed the myths that “artists are naturally talented” and “they’re just born with it.”
This blog series will detail how I became a self-taught artist and aims to inspire others to try new things. (You never know where it might lead!)
Life before art
As a child, I loved all things creative, and my imagination was a wild and fun place to be. But by middle school, I began to believe the lie that I could never “do art” because I couldn’t draw realistically. So, I turned to creative writing, especially poetry, and even won a scholarship for a poem I wrote in high school.
After college and a few random turns, I now work as a product owner in the tech world, engaging my logical brain and solving problems all day long. But throughout my adult life, I craved more creativity in my life and was always looking for ways to engage that part of me.
I tried all kinds of things, like starting various websites, working as a virtual assistant, managing social media, and even just crafty projects around the house. But, nothing ever stuck.
The turning point
One day in May 2021, while sick and mindlessly scrolling on Pinterest, I found myself deep in a rabbit hole of watercolor illustrations and educational videos.
After about an hour of scrolling, I ordered a basic watercolor set, paper, and brushes from Amazon. That same day, I had to run to CVS for a prescription and ended up in the stationary section, picking out a small sketchbook and pencils. And I haven’t stopped drawing since.
I turned to YouTube to learn about color theory, proportions, composition, and so much more. I was a sponge, soaking up all kinds of information and the art community also introduced me to new materials, paints, and styles.
Starting my art journey was a small shift that led to a major change in my life trajectory. But it hasn’t been easy becoming a self-taught artist. Finding time to practice, dealing with imposter syndrome, and managing life’s challenges have all been part of the journey.
In my next post, I’ll discuss how I find inspiration and develop my skills as a self-taught artist.
If you want to follow my journey and get behind-the-scenes updates, join my VIP Studio Insider list below and get a discount code for your first purchase! For more daily BTS of my studio & art practice, follow along my IG @MeganFordeArt!
