This month’s featured artist, Pamela Saunders, brings her vibrant love of life to every brushstroke, creating abstract artwork and gifts that radiate joy and inspiration in every piece.
Pamela Saunders | Watercolor and Acrylic Artist
How would you describe your work?
My goal is to create art that truly inspires joy. My work is abstract, playful, whimsical, unique and often colorful.
What was your journey to developing your artistic skills like?
My corporate background at Hanesbrands in marketing and merchandising was extremely beneficial as an artist. Being exposed to the creative development process, customer focus groups and sales presentations gave me a great foundation! I have also participated in several online art classes and fell in love with abstracts.
How have you grown, personally, as an artist?
Over time, I have become more confident and less worried about the details. In my experience, working with fellow artists and being involved in Art Leagues is very helpful to your personal growth.
What is your secret for carving out time to truly be creative?
I have learned some days are creative days; others are for selling and administrative tasks. When I catch myself staring at a blank canvas for too long, I decide to move on to another task. For me, creative direction comes from nature, other artists and customer input. I always enjoy commission work as it begins with a rough plan. I also find spending time in art galleries locally or when I’m traveling is very helpful to stay creative.
Do you have a favorite story behind one of your projects and why?
My first painting commission was a 5-foot by 7-foot painting so large that I had to set up in our dining room instead of my studio. It was shipped to them in a private van! The experience was incredibly challenging and fun. These clients are the best! I have since sold several other paintings to them.
What are you working on that excites you right now?
I’m in holiday mode right now, and it really is such a wonderful time of year. I sell my notecards/cocktail napkins, ornaments and more during holiday events which is always exciting for me! I also sell my canvas paintings over the holidays; it makes such a wonderfully personal gift. I am also motivated by my goal to support our local animal rescue groups. I’m a dog lover and have been blessed to have three special pups in my life.
What is one piece of advice you’d like to share with fellow artists, especially those at the start of their careers?
Starting your own business is challenging – but it’s incredibly rewarding at the same time. Just have FUN with it.
If you are interested in learning more about this month’s artist, Pam Saunders, you can find her work online at sweetpdesignllc.com. You can also follow her on Instagram @sweetp_design and
Pam Saunders on Facebook.
