We caught up with opening show artist Shannon Watson to talk about life, art, and how painting has helped her through a challenging time in this week's Artist Q&A.
How has creating helped you get through a difficult time?
Every time I stop to think about it, I’m blown away by God’s brilliant timing in
bringing art into my life. It was the Fall of 2023 that I made my Instagram account
and website and began to take myself more seriously as an artist. Then 2024 hit.
Right out of the gates we got a miscarriage, my husband’s kidney cancer diagnosis,
his mother’s unexpected passing, a massive crawl space renovation and a beloved
grandparent’s passing. Trial after trial after trail. My escape? You guessed it!
Favorite time of day to paint?
Quite literally any moment I can. As a stay-at-home-mom, these moments almost
entirely exist during nap and bed times. I would absolutely love to ramp up my
hours in the studio, but unlike art supplies, babies don’t keep and I know I’ll miss
these slow, snuggly times with littles when my days becomes my own again.
What is your favorite book or the last book you read?
The last book I checked off was “It Starts With Us”, the sequel to “It Ends With Us”,
both of which erred from my typical carefree beach-read type. but were very
enlightening over matters that if you don’t have personal experience with, may
never be exposed to. It doesn’t hurt either that Blake Lively will be starring in the
movie to be released in August. While typically not a movie theater girl, you’ll
definitely find me front and center for this one.
Favorite place in the world?
New Smyrna Beach, Florida. This Atlantic Coast paradise was my family’s Summer
spot from the day school let out in May until the day it started back in August and
continues to be my favorite place on earth. Surf camp, farm camp, walks to Flagler
Ave for ice cream and boardwalk shenanigans made for lifelong friendships I
cherish to this day.
Coffee or tea?
Currently indulging in peppermint tea. Though typically very much a coffee girlie,
just a whiff these days sends me running to the toilet. Pregnant me and coffee are
not friends.
