We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shea O’Connor. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shea below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Shea with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
My parents instilled a strong work ethic in me because they led by example. No matter the project—be it yardwork, house maintenance, a thoughtful gift, supporting loved ones, their own jobs—they’ve always done everything 100%. I was never told to “do a good job” or “do better,” I just naturally wanted. Maybe through observation or genetics? No idea! But I’ve always been a good worker bee.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I love getting to draw and create for a living. Essentially, I try and get my illustrations on anything I can—be it art prints, tote bags, wallpaper, fabric, greeting cards, children’s books, you name it—and I’ve developed a unique style over the years.
I worked in the design industry for years, but wasn’t feeling like I was making an impact on the creative community. I enjoyed my work because I was good at it, but I just didn’t feel fulfilled because I wasn’t really drawing. Outside of work, I started drawing the things that brought me joy: vintage musicals, Disney fan art, fashion, fun quotes, etc. Over time, it evolved into Designed by Shea and I now own a small business and work for myself as an illustrator.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Consistency: Making creative moments every day has helped me grow in my creativity. Creating can mean drawing but it can also be expressed through other ways for me like singing, writing, gardening, reading, watching. If I can find one way to be creative a day, it keeps me excited about what I’m doing.
Compassion: You never know what someone is going through. Always communicate politely and warmly.
Rest: It’s okay to take breaks as-needed. It will ultimately help your creativity if you take a breather and take care of yourself. That could mean a short walk around the block or a couple days away from the desk if you’re in a creative slump.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Yes! One of my goals this year has been to collaborate with more creatives and shops in Atlanta. I’d love to collaborate with local creatives to stay a part of this community. I’m also hoping to get more of my illustrations in local shops or create murals around my hometown.
Contact Info:
- Website: designedbyshea.com
- Instagram: @designed.by.shea
- Youtube: Designed by Shea
- Other: TikTok: @designed.by.shea Email: hello@designedbyshea.com
