We’re looking forward to introducing you to Carrie Cantwell. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Carrie, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
My cats, for sure! I have three rescue kitties, and their wild little personalities never fail to crack me up. Whether they’re demanding treats, dropping toys at my feet, gently patting my face, or snuggling up with me for a TV night, they bring me so much joy and laughter every single day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Carrie Cantwell, an illustrator based in sunny Atlanta, Georgia, and I create artwork with quirk! My work is all about playful themes, bold colors, and a dash of wacky humor. I love making art that feels lighthearted and joyful—whether it’s a funny cat pun, a cheeky illustration, or a bright pattern that instantly lifts your mood. My artist’s mission is to create little moments that make people smile, because we can all use a bit more happiness in our lives.
Over the years, I’ve had the joy of collaborating with dozens of amazing brands to turn my art into best-selling products—from home décor to clothing and beyond. It’s such a thrill to see my designs out in the world, making people laugh or feel a little spark of happiness in their everyday lives.
Alongside my illustration work, I’m also passionate about teaching. As an educator, I love helping fellow artists grow their creative confidence, find their unique voice, and turn their art dreams into reality. I’m also the co-host of the podcast, Two Cranky Creatives, where my friend Toni Federico and I share unfiltered, real talk about the challenges, victories, and everything that comes with navigating the art world as a business.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I’ve been creative for as long as I can remember—I was doodling pretty much as soon as I could hold a pencil. But growing up, I was told that making a living from my own art wasn’t really possible, so I spent years working in creative roles where I brought other people’s ideas to life instead. It’s only in the past few years that I’ve reconnected with that little kid in me who just wants to draw fun, silly things for the joy of it. And honestly, it feels amazing to have finally found my own artistic voice again.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self that it’s totally okay to just be you—silly, weird, and all. I’d say, “Don’t waste time worrying about what other people think. Lean into what makes you different and have fun with it! The things that make you a little quirky are exactly what make you special.”
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
The version of me you see in public is the same one you’d get behind the scenes. Life’s way too short to pretend to be someone you’re not. I spent years trying to come across as polished and “professional,” but eventually I realized that being my weird, goofy, authentic self is not only okay—it’s actually what makes me happiest. Now I fully embrace it.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I’d tell myself to stop stressing so much about making money from my art and just create for the joy of it. I’d experiment more, worry less about what would sell, and focus on expressing myself—no matter how random or wacky it got.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.carriecantwell.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carriecantwellart
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carriecantwell
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarrieCantwellArt
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@carriecantwellart
- Other: https://carrie-cantwell.cargo.site
Image Credits
All images Copyright Carrie Cantwell
