We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Cindy Quayle, OPA. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Cindy below.
Hi Cindy , we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
I developed my confidence by never being afraid to try something new. I have always made it my goal to look forward and never go back because all of my choices and experiences, both good and bad, have led me to where I am today. Learning from life experiences along the way has taught me many lessons which are invaluable.
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?
Art, especially painting, has been part of my life as long as I can remember. Currently, I work in an Art Museum as Exhibitions Manager while pursuing a more active career as a professional artist. It has always been my passion to create a painting from ideas and images that capture my attention, and to challenge that creative spirit. It is also very rewarding for me to connect with a client when they fall in love with a piece of art. At some point in the near future, I hope to be able to pursue painting and exhibiting full time. It has always been my dream. Recently, I became a juried in member of Oil Painters of America. I am very proud to be a member of this prestigious organization.
My newest series titled “Americana” is all about capturing the spirit of our great country. This new series blends my signature style of impressionistic realism with love for items and scenery from an increasingly bygone era. I seek out old rusty equipment, cars, and buildings that all tell a tale about their former important roles in life. Nature is reclaiming many of these items, and in most cases, they will sadly start disappearing from view.
I have artwork in collections worldwide, and I am actively seeking gallery representation outside of my area and state.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Perseverance – I believe that you must have the drive and passion to see your way forward in your chosen craft, career, or area of interest. Along the way, I found it necessary to have employment to supplement my art interests, but I always tried to move forward by doing work that aligned with my end goal. I owned an art gallery which was very inspirational, satisfying and educational for me. I could sell and market my art, but the promotion of other artists was equally satisfying. My current position in an art museum keeps me inspired as well, but after this, I intend on pursuing my art career full time.
Education – A person should always be learning. Take courses in your field of interest. Always look for inspiration and alignment with others. In every seminar, class, or group with which I have been associated, there has always been something new that I could take away and add to my skills. Surround yourself with like-minded, positive, inspirational people.
Never be afraid to try – People always ask me how I know how to do so many different things. I usually respond that I have never been afraid to try something. If I don’t know how to proceed with a new task, I will research it and give it a try. Sometimes, it is not for me. Sometimes, it is perfect. These days, information is so widespread and readily available that there is no excuse to not try something new.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
I grew up with parents that were hardworking and dedicated to their family. Times were tough; so, most of the time, purchasing something new was not an option. We learned to not only make do, but to be resourceful and create the item we wanted out of scraps or parts. I learned an appreciation for nature in weekend camping trips and learned skills that are still relevant today. I also grew up with strict morals and to be honest above all. I think these are some of the most valuable lessons parents can give children. Looking back, these are things I am most grateful for.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.quaylesneststudio.wixsite.com/quaylesneststudio
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/Quaylesneststudio
Image Credits
Images courtesy of Cindy Quayle, OPA
