Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Hartelust.
Hi Amy, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
My journey into art and illustration has been a lifelong one. I have always loved drawing and making things. I was always the kid walking around with a sketchbook in my hand, drawing as my life depended on it.
When I started art school, I really fell in love with painting as a medium and concentrated on that while I earned my studio arts degree. Right out of school, I got a job teaching art at an elementary school and continued in that field for about 11 years. I continued to work on my own painting practice and also really started to get back into drawing.
I really became interested in digital illustration and began honing my craft in that area. In 2020, I made the decision to focus on my art and illustration and it has been a whirlwind ever since!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
So many bumps in the road! I think the hardest of those has been learning to balance my work and personal life.
Transitioning from a job that I went to every day to have my work in my home studio has made it hard at times to shut the door and not constantly be working. I can get really caught up in what I’m doing because I love it so much but that can ultimately lead to creative burnout.
Setting boundaries is an important lesson I’ve learned that has helped my business and life run so much smoother!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My work combines mixed media originals with digital illustrations to create products inspired by the natural world and pop culture fun. I use my illustrations to create stickers, greeting cards, washi tape, and other stationery and gift items. I also sell some original works and take on commissions as well.
My goal with my business is to create products and art that bring a smile to your face and joy to your everyday. My most popular items are my stickers- they are such a great (and inexpensive) way to bring art into your everyday experience and also a way to express your personality and make connections. I mean, if someone sees an illustration of Jeff Goldblum lounging in a field of flowers with a baby raptor, it is bound to start up a conversation!
Another part of my business that keeps me very busy is painting images of wedding bouquets. Almost all of my art and illustrations have a very botanical feel and I love being able to use this skill to create these really meaningful pieces for clients.
What do you think about happiness?
In no particular order: Adorable animals (particularly cats and raccoons), laughing with my two silly daughters, well-designed stationery, an organized workspace, watching my husband be an awesome dad, afternoon coffee, and exploring nature.
Contact Info:
- Email: amyhartelustart@gmail.com
- Website: www.amyhartelust.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/amyhartelust
Image Credits
Headshot photo by Kristen and Lindsey Archer of ARCHd.
