Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Amy Gray. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Amy , we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
For as long as I can remember, I struggled with depression and anxiety. Even as a child I felt an undercurrent of sadness I couldn’t explain. I built a career as a flight attendant in New York, working out of Newark, showing up professionally no matter how exhausted I felt. Outside of work, I slept. Sleep was my only escape from the sadness. I tried diet changes, exercise, and determination, but nothing truly shifted until my thirties, when I finally found the right doctor and treatment. I still remember the day I realized I felt happy and thinking, this is what happiness feels like!
Around the same time, I began painting, not with the intention of building a career, but simply to stay engaged in something. What began as a small effort to feel present became a source of purpose. Art gave my mind something steady to focus on. With the loving support of my husband of 22 years, siblings and dear friends, I’ve learned that feeling better is possible. It may take time and patience, but small steps add up. I’m grateful I kept looking for the right help and grateful I kept painting.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m a Lawrence, KS based artist working in acrylic on cradled wood panels, finished with high-gloss epoxy resin. I paint geometric abstracts, mostly of landscapes of my favorite places. I’m inspired by the Flint Hills, Cape Cod and Ireland and by colors for their own sake. My panels range in size from small 4″x4″ to 36″x48 inches, often using reference photos to guide the composition. People are usually drawn in by the colors and depth of the resin, and I love that they aren’t always sure what they’re seeing at first. I take commissions but also regularly show at local art fairs. I will be at the Salina Smoky Hills River Festival this year June 11-14. I also show at other art fairs around Kansas City. I hope to be at the Westport Art Fair and Lawrence Art in the Park. I also have a piece in the Lawrence Art Center Benefit Auction on April 11th. Through my work, I hope viewers feel the joy and beauty that inspire me every day.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The three qualities that shaped my journey are curiosity, resourcefulness and persistence. Curiosity helps me notice the colors and landscapes that inspire my work. Resourcefulness lets me figure out how to bring ideas to life, even when it’s challenging. Persistence keeps me showing up, experimenting and pushing forward even when I feel discouraged. My advice? Just start, pick anything that interests you and begin. Play with ideas, try new things, and don’t worry about getting everything perfect. Every step teaches you something.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed or discouraged, I talk things through with my husband. He listens, helps me sort out my thoughts, and offers advice when I need it. Having someone to talk to, combined with creating , makes challenges feel more manageable and helps me move forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amygrayart.com
- Instagram: @amydudagrayart
Image Credits
Tim Forcade for the artwork images. My husband took the photo of me.
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