Meet Sarah Moriarty

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sarah Moriarty. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Sarah, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

Truthfully, I’m not sure it ever fully disappears , it’s still that voice in the back of my head, whispering doubt, but I’ve learned not to let it lead and over time, I’ve found tools that help me quiet it.

Finding a creative, supportive community has been a big part of that. Through programs like The Artist’s Way, daily morning pages, and the simple act of showing up for my creativity, I’ve started to build trust in my own voice.

Saying “I’m an artist” out loud felt like reclaiming a part of myself I’d hidden for far too , I thought I had to earn it. The moment I stopped waiting for permission, I felt a quiet sense of peace and the freedom to finally start living my most authentic self.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’m a visual artist living along the South Shore of Nova Scotia, deeply inspired by the ocean and its ever-changing rhythms. Drawn by a natural fascination with the sea’s ebb and flow, I spend time closely observing its colours, textures, and moods. With careful attention and practiced technique, I work to capture the ocean’s subtle movements and qualities, aiming to evoke feelings of serenity and wonder in those who experience my art.

My art is layered, intuitive, and often explores themes of healing, transformation, and belonging. Creating art has helped me process life and reconnect with my authentic self, and I hope it offers others moments of calm and reflection.

I also volunteer with art programs and galleries throughout the South Shore, and I love being part of a community that values creativity, connection, and growth.

This summer, I’m honoured to be the guest artist at the Tantallon Library in July and at CUA Tantallon in August as part of the Peggy’s Cove Area Festival of the Arts. It means a lot to share my work in the place that inspires it and to be part of a celebration of local art and community.

At the heart of it all, I’m surrounded by those I care about and find joy in appreciating the beauty in the little things. Living a life rooted in creativity and authenticity means embracing those moments every day.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, the three qualities that have made the biggest impact on my journey are a desire for change, a willingness to play, and self-care.

First, wanting change pushed me to keep exploring and trying new things. I experimented with many different mediums and techniques and sometimes my favourite pieces came from what felt like “mistakes.” That openness to play and explore without pressure helped me grow in unexpected ways.

At the same time, working on my self-care was crucial. Paying attention to my own blocks, rest, and emotional wellbeing made it possible to keep moving forward creatively.

Finally, finding a community of supportive friends who celebrate each other’s wins has been invaluable. Having people who cheer you on and understand the ups and downs makes the journey feel less lonely and more joyful.

For anyone starting out, my advice is simple: play. Try new things, don’t be afraid to “fail,” and listen to what feels right for you. Take care of yourself along the way, and seek out people who lift you up.

Creativity thrives when you’re curious, kind to yourself, and connected.

All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?

The biggest challenge I face is the ongoing experience of rejection that comes with being an artist. It can be deeply discouraging, especially when imposter syndrome is already quietly suggesting you’re not good enough. Rejection can feed that doubt and make you wonder if it’s worth continuing.

What’s helped me is returning to the tools that keep me grounded, taking care of myself, reflecting through journaling, spending time in nature, and leaning on my creative community.

I’ve also learned that you don’t always have to wait for someone else to say yes. Sometimes, you make your dreams come true by yourself , you throw your own art show, you create your own opportunities, and you take up space even when it feels scary.

Rejection may still sting, but it no longer stops me, because I’ve learned to trust the path I’m creating for myself.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sarahmoriartyart.com
• Instagram: @sarahmoriarty_art

Image Credits

Steph McNamara