We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Megan Rose. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Megan below.
Megan, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
The near-gravitational pull towards art and creativity has been with me my entire life. I can remember being in an art class at five years old, picking up watercolors for the first time, and feeling the sensation of pure joy. At sixteen, I took my first studio workshops in the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The sense of purpose was instant, like a voice spoke from somewhere within telling me, “This is what I must do.” Creating is a magical feeling, and there is nothing else quite like it. I have always known that being an artist was the path for me, but I think especially this past year has been transformational. The practice of painting, sharing my love of the arts, congregating with fellow artists, constantly searching for the next beam of inspiration… These things are vital to me.
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 am an abstract artist and designer from Northwest Arkansas. I run a small business, Shop Megan Rose, where I create and sell vibrant artwork, jewelry, bags, and more. Since it was founded in 2019, Shop Megan Rose has gone on to offer handmade items online at www.shopmeganrose.com, on social media @shopmeganrose, and in-person at local artisan events and markets. Shop Megan Rose’s sole theme is a collection of artwork titled “Feminine Abstraction” exploring the individuality and diversity of female expression. My hope is that when someone views my work, it inspires a feeling of empowerment and joy. “Feminine Abstraction” is created with many artistic mediums, using acrylic paint and mixed media to create a sense of vibrancy that jumps off of the canvas. The tote bags and cosmetic pouches are hand-painted, and the jewelry is constructed using intricate blown glass beads and sustainably repurposed findings. Each and every item is unique to itself.
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?
Determination, willingness to learn, and the ability to stay curious. I had so much uncertainty in the beginning in terms of putting myself out there, sharing my story, and continuing to to persevere even when things didn’t go as planned. Continually reminding myself that I am capable enough to push forward, even in uncertain moments, is a big part of making it work. You have to be confident in your ability to succeed, open to looking at something from all sides, and all the while searching for possibility. My advice would be to find what you love, give it everything you have, and all the rest will fall into place.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
“Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott. I read many books growing up and I was always deep into a good story, but I quoted this one the most out of them all. I related a lot to the characters Jo and Amy March, and their resolution and courage to become successful artists and storytellers. Their tenacity gave me the inspiration I needed as a young girl, and this is one of my favorite quotes: “Have regular hours for work and play; make each day both useful and pleasant, and prove that you understand the worth of time by employing it well. Then youth will bring few regrets, and life will become a beautiful success.”
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shopmeganrose.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopmeganrose/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MeganRoseShop/
- Other: shopmeganrose.etsy.com
