We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Marcia McMillen a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Marcia, 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 come from a family rooted in creativity and resilience, originally from Michigan but having lived across the diverse landscapes of the United States. We moved frequently for my dad’s career development, which meant I was often the new kid in school. These constant transitions taught me to adapt quickly and find positivity in every new experience, even in something as simple as choosing where to sit in the lunchroom. Over time, this ability to embrace change became a strength, shaping both my resilience and my appreciation for the cultural diversity that continues to influence my artistic perspective today.

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?
As an abstract painter immersed in acrylics, my creative process revolves around interpreting natural phenomena, particularly the fluidity and depth of water. Working horizontally allows me to layer colors intuitively, blending opaque and translucent hues to evoke both the movement of water and the ethereal essence of atmospheric spaces. This approach not only informs my technique but also invites viewers to explore the dynamic interplay within each canvas.
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?
Curiosity is my guiding principle—I find inspiration in exploring all facets of life, constantly questioning and absorbing new perspectives. Trusting my instincts has been invaluable; it allows me to navigate artistic challenges with confidence and authenticity. Above all, I cherish the process of creation itself; for me, art is not just about the final product but the transformative journey it embodies.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
Working independently in my studio can sometimes feel isolating. I am actively seeking to expand my creative community, hoping to engage with like-minded individuals who share insights and ideas. Building this network is crucial for me as it fosters collaboration and enriches my artistic journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.marciamcmillen.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marciamcmillen/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
