Meet Anastasia Zielinski | Visual Artist and Art Educator, owner of FREAK’N ART

We had the good fortune of connecting with Anastasia Zielinski and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anastasia, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
After being reliant on other businesses to teach out of, I was looking for control of the process, from scheduling, pricing, to supplies. My aim was to design a conducive environment that encouraged creativity. Originally, I was just looking for a studio space big enough to teach out of, but after a year plus of running classes and workshops around town I realized people needed more flexibility and something outside of the traditional art workshop model. Not everyone learns the same or has room in their schedules for conventional classes. Giving people open access to materials, information, and a space to make a mess in, encourages them to explore their creativity without hesitation. FREAK’N ART is a place where we create community through art. The studio offers a combination of classes, workshops, and DIY open studio time.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Time spent outside is vital to my wellbeing and artistic practice. My process starts with walking meditations. As I move, surroundings dissolve into patterns of color and light. I experience a sense of wonder, creative energy, and a desire to share these positive sensations with others.

My work explores the natural world and our connection to it. Through my art I document the plant life of public spaces, gardens, parks, and open lands. Rather than highlight grand vistas and panoramas, I focus on the varieties of vegetation that thrive in the often-overlooked areas. I am drawn to moments of overgrowth and density, where there is no foreseeable end to the foliage. These mysterious environments inspire dense, detailed compositions that spark wonder and captivate the viewer.

Risk-taking has been central in my artistic journey and perseverance is the key to my success. Embracing the unknown has led to immense personal and artistic growth, from exploring different mediums to launching new ventures. While fear of failure is often present, I believe in my ideas and projects, and know that setbacks are opportunities for learning and growth.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of my time. While I pride myself on self-sufficiency, I’ve come to understand the benefits of outsourcing tasks that detract from my creative process. Additionally, I’ve learned the power of asking for help. Remaining open, honest, and vulnerable with my audience has fostered connection and authenticity, even during challenging periods.

My approach to work-life balance has evolved significantly over the course of my career. Previously, I pushed myself relentlessly, neglecting self-care and overworking. Recognizing the value of my time and energy, I now prioritize rest and give myself regular days off. I structure my studio days into focused segments, dedicating the mornings to creative pursuits and reserving administrative tasks for later. Prioritizing activities that nourish my well-being, like daily walks and healthy meals, has become integral to maintaining balance.

Ultimately, my art is a reflection of my deep reverence for nature and my career is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and self-discovery. Through resilience, vulnerability, and a willingness to take risks, I continue to evolve as an artist, sharing my journey with authenticity and gratitude.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My essential to do list when visiting Bend depends on the season! Let’s say I have a friend coming for a visit in the summer. During their stay I would make sure we walked the Deschutes River Trail as well as floated the river. We would eat breakfast or just grab some delicious Gluten-free pastries at Blissful Spoon before walking around old town Bend. While they were in town, we would be sure to grab lunch at Active Culture and have dinner at Spork. If they were up for it, we’d camp at little crater campground on Paulina lake and hike the loop trail, ending with a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs along the shore.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are many people who have supported me along the way, but I would like to dedicate my Shoutout to the librarians at the Deschutes Public Library! FREAK’N ART would still be a thought in my head without the assistance and guidance provided by these hard-working individuals. I have had several art studios throughout my career, but I have never had a storefront which was fully open to the public. I knew I wanted to open a community studio space and had no clue where to start. The Deschutes Public library has a book-a-librarian program, I emailed my idea and confessed I did not know how to implement it. Not only did I receive a personal phone call to discuss my concept, but I was also sent a list of resources to help me form a business plan and find a local small business mentor. The library has always been a safe and happy place for me. It has provided me with entertainment, a place to research, study, and now as a launching pad for my small business. So, Shoutout to all the librarians out there making the world a better place!

Website: https://www.anastasiazielinski.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freak_n_art/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anastasia-zielinski-08941623/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvmVofokN8M_OPrc1eIuQow

Other: shop/studio — https://freaknart.com/communitystudio
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/freak_n_art_bend

Image Credits
Pushdot Studio, Portland, OR (for the 1st 2 images)