Check Out Natalie Childers’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Childers.

Hi Natalie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Ever since I can remember I was either drawing on paper, the walls, or myself. I started taking drawing and painting classes from the community center in Marietta while I was in middle school, then got a studio art degree from Berry College in 2009. I moved back home to the metro Atlanta area, started freelancing and doing other jobs – food service, a brief stint in antiques, managing a byob paint studio, being an artist assistant – learning skills I could later apply to being an entrepreneur, each step getting a bit closer to where I find myself today. While working at the studio I began to meet other Atlanta artists, I began actively seeking out art shows, and started getting my first mural opportunities.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I knew I liked painting, art, design, and decorating, but it took me a while to figure out how I wanted to apply myself. There have definitely been times I wasn’t sure when the next project was going to be – now when that happens I like to assist on someone else’s murals, do some studio work, get more involved in the community. I’d say that you have to look for new things to learn, to try, for new opportunities because you never know where it’s going to lead and the lessons you’ll take away from it.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Nowadays, I primarily work on designing and installing murals. Occasionally I also get to spend time on paintings and drawings as studio work or commissions. Many of my murals are made to fit the needs of the client so I’ve worked in a variety of styles. So far the majority of my installs have been for apartment complexes or businesses that are looking for a way to rejuvenate shared living spaces and create cohesion across the property. For example, I completed a set of 3 murals for an apartment complex in West Midtown last year, all working within a theme but accomplishing different goals.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
I’ve worked as an artist assistant for a few different people, which I really enjoy doing, I think it’s the best way to learn and you never know how you’ll end up applying the knowledge you gain to what you work on later. There’s always something new you can learn, so try many things. You’ll good get at what you practice over and over, but as they say, don’t let perfect be the enemy of good and if you have to eat two frogs, eat the big one first. Make hay while the sun shines but don’t forget to rest. Wear sunscreen, hydrate, stretch, lift some weights. Go meet people who do want you want to do. Those kinds of things are important.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Natchildersart.com
• Instagram: Nat.Childers.Art