We recently connected with Christine George and have shared our conversation below.
Christine , so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
Being born 100% Greek American in an athletic body really gave me my confidence and self-esteem through sports. As an artist growing up, my Mom would support me by taking me to craft fairs. At these fairs, I would sell my little projects, paintings, crafts. I was always amazed that at the end of the day there were none left. I thought, wow, I just love making these things, but I gues others love them too. So it was at an early age I knew I could do my art and support myself economically.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I have loved horses and art for as long as I can remember. Growing up in Sunnyvale, California, with a Big Fat Greek Family, our gatherings at the 1,000 acre George Ranch in Sonoma, California, allowed me to dream of a lifestyle that included horses and art. I first connected with the spirit of a horse there, riding bareback across the acres and learning about natural as well as traditional English/Western riding and ownership.
Inspired by my upbringing and high school years alongside the likes of Steve Jobs and the creators of Apple, I set out to create my dream life-a life that involved my passions for horses and art. I believe in enjoying life while working, so choosing what I loved became my driving force.
My professional journey in graphics and packaging design, as well as equine art, is built upon a lifetime of experiences. I’ve been drawing and painting since a young age. After college, I worked for Landor Associates in San Francisco before starting my own design company, which has been going strong for 36 years. Additionally, I’ve taught in higher education for 30 years, serving as assistant Department Chair for the San Francisco Academy of Art University and Chairing the Corcoran College of Art and Design Department in Washington DC for 2.5 years. Alongside these roles, I own my own Olive Oil Brand, serve as the USA Rep for horse boots out of Spain, and continue to run my design, photography, and fine art business.
My work has been recognized with awards such as the Best of Napa 2015 for small business, a Clio, and 2 Addy Awards. I’ve collaborated on corporate and packaging identities for renowned brans such as Coca-Cola, Dole, Jergens, Continental Airlines, and many others. You can view some of my current designs on my website under Graphic Design and Packaging Design section.
In the realm of equine art, I’ve had the privilege of working with and capturing famous clients like Gandalf’s trusy steed Shadowfax from Lord of the Rings, as well as Kentucky Derby Champions and other notable horses after a decade as one of the Official track Photographers for the Kentucky Derby. My equine artistry has been featured in prestigious publications and venues, including internationally recognized exhibitions and galleries.
My art and design work have allowed me to capture the essence of light and spirit, bring them alive through arious mediums. Being a multidimensional artist had filled my life with exiting projects, experiences, and people along the way. I’ve never had to seek out work; instead, the most wonderful projects seem to find me. It’s been a fulfilling journey, and I look forward to continuing until I slide into home plate, having used up every bit of my passion and talent.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Always get the best education you can. Always show up before the start time for anything. Showing up at the time is late. Have integrity. Always do right for no other reason than it’s the right thing to do. Respect others different ways of doing things. There are so many ways to accomplish the same goal. Every individual has a different way of doing it. We can always learn from others at any age.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
Supoorted me the best they could with the education I chose, along with those early years of arts n craft shows.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ChristineGeorge.com
- Instagram: @christinegeorgeart
- Facebook: Christine George Equine Artist
Image Credits
©ChristineGeorge.com
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