We were lucky to catch up with Natalia McGuffee recently and have shared our conversation below.
Natalia, 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.
Building my confidence as an artist is a work in progress. There are lots of elements to this, but I would say the three biggest ones for me have been knowing my purpose, having a strong support system, and learning to take “no” as a learning opportunity.
A clear purpose provides a strong foundation for confidence by giving you direction, motivation, and a sense of accomplishment. When you have a clear understanding of why you do what you do, it is definitely reflected in your work.
The second element for me has been surrounding myself with the right people— family, friends, fellow artists, and my customers. It is incredible how much your confidence can be boosted when people you love and trust, or people you look up to, genuinely tell you they like what you are doing. Before I saw myself as an artist, my parents and sister made me believe I was one. They have not only helped me see the value in my work but have always encouraged me and given me constructive feedback from a very loving place. Then there is my husband, who constantly reminds me I’m doing a good job. He has been so encouraging and supportive in turning my passion into our business. He, my family, and all the different ways of support I get from other fellow artists and my customers, are the biggest reasons why I am where I am today. I feel so thankful.
The last element I want to talk about is learning to view “failures” as opportunities. Receiving a “no” can be discouraging and affect confidence, but it’s essential to grow comfortable with rejection. This was very hard for me at first, and it took time and effort to learn that not receiving a “yes” doesn’t mean my art isn’t good enough – sometimes it’s just not the right time. I decided to see those “failures” as learning opportunities and started figuring out what I could do differently and better to achieve the results I wanted. Today, I partner with different stores that successfully sell my work.
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 Colombian landscape and abstract artist based in Fort Collins, Colorado.
I create art to bring a sense of joy and calm to others, reminding us to see and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the world around us. I believe creating art and having it displayed at home has a positive impact on our inner and mental health. A space thoughtfully decorated with art can make us feel calmer and happier, and we all deserve to be in a space where we feel that way.
My work is inspired by nature and my travels, not only by the places but also by all the experiences I have there. I see art everywhere: in nature, food, conversations, light, sunsets… All this inspires me when I create each piece.
I just launched a new collection called By Your Side, dedicated to my husband and inspired by a trip we took in April to Washington to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary. Exploring the Pacific Northwest by his side was beautiful. I was amazed by all the landscapes, had the great fortune of getting to know some of the Quinault and Quileute tribal members, and enjoyed local shops and restaurants.
Creating art brings me peace and joy. For a long time, I have wanted to share what I experience through art with others, and so this spring I started hosting The Art Gathering. This is a space where we get together to paint, have some food al fresco, and enjoy the company of amazing people around the table. The next event will be at the end of this month at a local winery in Northern Colorado that has beautiful outdoor spaces for us to enjoy this gathering. You can find all the information about this on my website. I’m so excited to have everyone around the table for another creative experience!
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?
The most valuable qualities to me as an artist are creativity, authenticity and consistency.
You need to nurture your creativity to generate new ideas and concepts, which is essential for creating original and impactful art. Being creative also allows you to explore and express emotions and perspectives through your art, making it more meaningful and engaging.
Authenticity ensures that your work reflects your true self. When you paint what feels natural to you, you start developing your unique creative voice and artistic identity. This not only makes your work more compelling but also attracts an audience who truly appreciates and connects with your art.
Consistency is so important when you are an artist. You need to constantly be exploring, practicing, improving and learning to grow as an artist.
What would you advise – going all in on your strengths or investing on areas where you aren’t as strong to be more well-rounded?
My advice would be to focus on your strengths to create a unique and compelling body of work. However, I think it’s important to put some time into those areas where you are not as strong, especially if they impact your overall success as an artist.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.nataliamcguffeeart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliamcguffeeart/
Image Credits
Sierra Ann Photography
CONTACT INFO:
Website: www.nataliamcguffeeart.com
Instagram: @nataliamcguffeeart
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