Today we’d like to introduce you to Autum Proctor.
Hi Autum, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Of course!
Traveling Art Parties was established a little over 8 years ago. I went in as an artist for the phenomenal owner at the time Evie. We both taught paint classes and absolutely loved working together. When Evie decided to retire she asked me if I would like to continue TAP and take over. I love what I do and never regret saying yes five years back. I took a leap of faith on myself and put every ounce of my being into the business while juggling a full time job until I couldn’t any longer. I got to resign from my full time position. I’m going to rewind a bit as getting to the point I’m at now wasn’t an easy feat. I am a ten year recovering alcoholic. Ten years ago I was in a hospital bed with a chance I wouldn’t come out. In my mid twenties I was 89 pounds, in liver failure, neon yellow from jaundice, and developed peripheral neuropathy which had put me in a wheelchair at the time. I spent a month in the hospital before I was stable enough to be released. I hit an all time low. I was now sober enough to see the damage done. I couldn’t paint or write due to the atrophy in my hands. I couldn’t walk, or drive and had to depend on others for help. One of the biggest blows was not being able to handle a paintbrush. I was told I would never walk again due to the damage.
I started intense PT, for six months I was pushed, encouraged by family, and overall my own stubbornness to not let this defeat me. After six months of being wheelchair bound, I was fitted with AFO braces and walked out of therapy. I am now walking unassisted.
It was my time to start learning to paint again. For years I practiced, and then had the opportunity to teach.
When I tell you, that was it for me. I said to myself I will do this the rest of my life if I could. I now strived from goals to learning to walk again and stay sober to owning my own business.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There will always be struggles, I always say it’s how you choose to face them. As business owners we’re not perfect and can always be a learning curve. Which I’m ok with. I learn from other fantastic business owners who have been so supportive along the way.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I get asked this a lot as far as a specialty, I like to say I dabble in a bit of everything as an artist. Acrylics, oils, and sketching. If I had to say a specialty though, I’m known for my horror art. Mainly cult classics. With our company we are able to teach Bob Ross classes which is fantastic and such a neat and unique class. Besides those I love portrait work and painting pets. I’m proud of all my work but I’m proud that I’m able to create beautiful memories for clients. As far as what sets me apart. That is a tough one as I know so many incredible artist I look up to, but I think my ability to adapt and work in so many different styles is what sets me apart.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
You get back what you put in. I live by this. If you own a business you have to promote yourself daily. Put yourself out there, and set realistic goals for yourself.
Pricing:
- Classes range: $30.00-$75.00
- Commission work: will vary by art
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.travelingartparties.com
- Instagram: Travelingartparties.tap
- Facebook: Travelingartparties.tap
Image Credits
Grant Wells
