Living the Dream (and the Reality) of Being a Full-Time Artist

There’s a certain magic that comes with waking up each day knowing that your job is to create. To take what’s in your heart, around you, your imagination, and your prayers, and turn it into something that others can see, feel, and hold. Being a full-time artist is both a dream come true and a daily adventure—it’s freedom and challenge woven together with threads of color, faith, and possibility.

The great part? Oh, where do I even begin! I get to paint, sketch, and design every single day. My imagination doesn’t have to stay tucked away while I clock in somewhere else—it’s my workplace. I don’t live bound to a rigid schedule, nor do I have to ask anyone for time off. If I need a quiet morning of prayer, a walk in the sunshine, or want to journal on the porch while dreaming up my next piece, I can. There’s no workforce drama following me home. Instead, there’s peace—God’s peace—reminding me I’m exactly where I’m meant to be. I get to do what He created me for, and that fills my spirit with joy.

There’s also the joy of sharing. Art is one of those gifts that doesn’t just stay with you—it spills out into the world. A painting that began with a single spark in your imagination can become something that stirs a memory, a hope, or even a healing in someone else. That’s part of the wonder of being an artist: your personal expression often becomes someone else’s encouragement. It’s a reminder that God uses us in ways we may never fully see this side of heaven.

But I’ll be honest: it’s not all sunsets and sketchbooks. The “other” side of being an artist is very real too. Marketing isn’t fun to me, paychecks don’t look the same every month, and there’s no retirement package waiting at the end. Some days you finish a piece and wonder if it’s any good. Other days you question if your audience is even out there listening. And there are plenty of behind-the-scenes tasks that don’t involve paint or paper—photographing work, uploading it, writing descriptions, setting up shops, managing social media, packing orders… it’s a job that wears many hats.

Finding your audience takes time and persistence, and sometimes the hardest part is deciding when a painting is “done” and allowing yourself to let go of it. I’ve learned that building community doesn’t happen overnight—you have to seek out other creatives, surround yourself with encouragers, and keep showing up even when it feels quiet. The truth is, art can be a little lonely at times, but it can also be a bridge to incredible friendships and collaborations when you lean in and stay open.

And yet, even with the challenges, I wouldn’t trade this life for anything. Because the rewards—the freedom, the joy of sharing my heart through art, the blessing of living in the gift God placed inside me to do—far outweigh the rest. Every brushstroke is a reminder that I’m doing what I was born to do.

Being a full-time artist is equal parts wonder and work. It’s trusting God for provision and trusting yourself to keep creating even when you’re unsure of the outcome. It’s both humbling and exciting, and it shapes you as much as you shape the art. You learn patience. You learn resilience. You learn to celebrate small victories and keep pressing forward on the days that feel slow. Most of all, you learn to see your creativity as an act of worship—an offering back to the One who gave you the gift.

At the end of the day, I can say with full confidence: I love what I do. I love the mess, the beauty, the waiting, the sharing. I love the moments when inspiration strikes and the times I have to wrestle through dry spells. It’s all part of the process, and it’s all part of me. And I love knowing that in every brushstroke and sketch line, I’m walking in the purpose He gave me. That is what we are to do here—use our gifts, however small or large, to reflect His glory in the world.

XO, Marie

A Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You for the gift of creativity. Thank You for filling my heart with color, imagination, and joy, and for allowing me to live out the calling You’ve placed on my life. I ask that You bless the work of my hands, guide my heart when doubt creeps in, and provide what is needed for each new day. May every brushstroke, sketch, and design reflect a piece of Your beauty in this world. And may those who see my work feel Your peace, love, and light shining through it. Amen.

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” — Ephesians 2:10

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” — 1 Peter 4:10

“whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” — Colossians 3:17

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” — Proverbs 16:3
XO, Marie

A Look at the Rise of Cozy, Nostalgic Art

There’s a quiet movement happening in the art world—soft, steady, and full of heart. Everywhere you look, people are being drawn back to cozy, nostalgic illustration. The kind of art that feels like a warm cup of tea, a childhood blanket, or a storybook you remember from being little. And maybe the reason it’s becoming so popular again isn’t just because it’s beautiful… maybe it’s because we all need a little more gentleness in our days.

Nostalgic art—whether watercolor animals, pencil-sketched cottages, hand-crafted patterns, or softly textured digital illustrations—isn’t simply about looking backward. It’s about reconnecting to the pieces of ourselves we sometimes forget: wonder, innocence, tenderness, hope.

Many of us grew up loving the quiet worlds of Beatrix Potter, Shirley Barber, Garth Williams, or Tasha Tudor. Their work had a softness that invited you in. It wasn’t rushed. It wasn’t loud. It whispered. And the world seems to be craving that whisper once again.

Why Cozy Art Speaks So Loudly Today

We live in a time where everything wants our attention all at once. Bright screens, fast trends, never-ending content. And while all those things have their place, they can make our hearts feel stretched thin.

Cozy, gentle art does the opposite.

It says:

Slow down.
Come sit for a moment.
There is still beauty in simple things.

This style of art is rising in popularity across social media, children’s books, surface design, home decor, and even fashion. People want their homes and lives to feel more peaceful, more meaningful, more soft around the edges. And art is leading the way.

Art That Feels Like a Hug

One of the most beautiful things about cozy illustration is the love woven into it. Whether it’s a tiny mouse in a knitted sweater, a watercolor fox wandering through a forest, a brushstroke that feels like sunlight, or a floral pattern that looks hand-tended—these images remind us of what nurtures us.

They speak to the child in every adult and the imagination in every child.

And maybe… they remind us of the way our Heavenly Father communicates. Not always with thunder, but often in the stillness. Through small, quiet reminders that we are held, seen, and deeply loved.

Why Artists Are Returning to Traditional Tools

Though digital art continues to grow, there’s a renewed affection for watercolor, pencil, gouache, and ink. People long to see the “human” in art—the soft imperfections, the texture of the paper, the brushstroke that wasn’t planned but turned out beautifully.

This return is not anti-technology. Rather, it’s a heart-led pull toward authenticity.

There is something sacred about watching pigment bloom in water. About the scratch of a pencil building a story. About hands creating something slow in a world that rushes.

What This Means for the Future

The popularity of cozy, nostalgic art isn’t slowing down; it’s only beginning. More artists are reintroducing:

• animals with personality and charm

• storybook-style illustrations

• gentle, nature-inspired motifs

• cottagecore, fairytale, and vintage elements

• hand-painted textures and traditional mediums

People are hanging this art in nurseries, kitchens, offices, studios, and classrooms because it lifts the spirit and softens the space.

It brings peace. And peace is powerful.

A Love-Led Invitation

If you’re an artist, let this be a little nudge from above:

Keep creating the gentle things.
Keep painting the whimsical things.
Keep illustrating what feels like hope, kindness, and warmth.

The world needs your softness. Your imagination. Your cozy stories. Your hand-crafted beauty.

And if you’re simply someone who loves this kind of art, maybe that’s because your heart recognizes something familiar in it—something pure and comforting. Something that reminds you that even in a fast world, goodness still grows quietly in the corners.

Art Is a Ministry of Love

We often forget that art reaches people in places words can’t. It ministers to the tired, the lonely, the overwhelmed. It comforts, encourages, and inspires. A single watercolor rabbit or a delicately drawn bouquet can speak life into someone’s day.

And that is a gift from God—both for the artist and the one who receives it.

So here’s to the cozy art movement.
To gentleness in color.
To stories told softly.
To the rise of work that feels like coming home.

And to the beautiful truth that creativity—especially when led with love—will always find a way to touch hearts.

XO, Marie

Chasing Your Dream Job: The Power of Going for What You Want

Many of us have dreams and aspirations when it comes to our careers, but all too often, fear and self-doubt hold us back from going after the job we truly desire. Taking that leap of faith and pursuing your dream job can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of going for the job you want, the potential rewards it brings, and the steps to make your dream a reality.

Identify Your Passion and Purpose

The first step in going for the job you want is to identify your passion and purpose. Reflect on what truly drives you and makes you feel fulfilled. Ask yourself what skills, interests, and values align with your dream job. Understanding your core motivations will give you the clarity and determination needed to pursue the right path.

Overcoming Self-Doubt

Fear of rejection and self-doubt are common roadblocks that can hinder your progress. Acknowledge these feelings but don't let them dictate your decisions. Embrace a growth mindset and remind yourself that failure is a natural part of the learning process. Believe in your abilities and be open to continuous improvement.

Set Clear Goals

Once you've identified your dream job, set clear and achievable goals to reach it. Break down the journey into smaller, actionable steps. Establish short-term and long-term milestones to track your progress. This will help you stay focused and motivated on your path to success.

Upgrade Your Skills

Enhancing your skills and knowledge is crucial in pursuing your dream job. Take advantage of educational opportunities, workshops, online courses, or certifications that align with your career goals. Continuous learning not only adds value to your resume but also boosts your confidence and competence.

Network and Seek Mentorship

Networking is a powerful tool for career advancement. Connect with professionals in your desired field through events, LinkedIn, or industry-specific gatherings. Seek out a mentor who can provide guidance and support throughout your journey. Learning from someone who has already walked a similar path can be invaluable.

Tailor Your Application

When applying for your dream job, tailor your resume and cover letter to showcase how your skills and experiences align with the role. Research the company and demonstrate your genuine interest in their values and mission. Make your application stand out by highlighting the unique qualities that make you the perfect fit for the position.

Embrace Rejection as a Learning Opportunity

Job hunting can be a rollercoaster ride, and rejection is a possibility. Don't be discouraged by setbacks; instead, view them as learning opportunities. Seek feedback and use it to refine your approach. Remember that perseverance is key, and the right opportunity will come your way.

Stay Positive and Persistent

Maintain a positive attitude throughout the process. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who believe in your abilities. Celebrate the small victories along the way and remain persistent, even in the face of challenges. Your dedication and resilience will set you apart from other candidates.

Going for the job you want requires courage, self-belief, and determination. By identifying your passion, setting clear goals, upgrading your skills, networking, and embracing rejection as part of the journey, you position yourself for success. Remember that the pursuit of your dream job is a transformative experience, regardless of the outcome. So take that leap of faith, and embark on a journey that could lead to a fulfilling and rewarding career. You deserve to chase your dreams and create a future that aligns with your aspirations. 
Good luck! XO, Marie