Meet Annie Wolk | Artist

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

Hi Annie, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Risks are both exhilarating and horrifying. If it weren’t for the risks I’ve taken all my life, I wholeheartedly believe I would not be where I am today. Risks are a vital part of growth, no matter the size or timing of them. I believe they will always get you a step closer to what you want or open your mind and doors to more than what was in your peripheral view. Had I not made the move from the Midwest to the West Coast, I’m not sure I would have immersed myself in my art journey the way I have. Had I not taken the risk and created an Instagram page and Etsy shop, I wouldn’t have met the creative community in the South Bay. Without this, I’m not sure I would have been a part of all the events I’ve had the pleasure of being in. In the end, risk is the foundation for all the future experiences waiting for you.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

As an artist, my primary and preferred medium is watercolor – but I enjoy using acrylics occasionally. All of my pieces are originals, something I take a lot of pride in.

I got to where I am today by putting myself out there, taking risks, not getting discouraged, and simply just going for it. It was definitely not easy! The hardest part is simply just starting – going back and forth with the voice in your head debating whether you are good enough – you are absolutely good enough, you just have to believe in yourself and your abilities. My daily inspiration comes from all of the natural beauty I am surrounded by. Be it tropical foliage around me, the ocean, and so on. I want people to experience that connection when they see my art and feel some of the joy I feel when I’m creating each piece.

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.
We would take a long bike ride down The Strand (pick up some beach cruisers from Marina Bike Rental if needed)! stopping and walking around the Redondo, Hermosa, and Manhattan Beach Pier’s. In Redondo we would stop at Old Tony’s and Captain Kidd’s. Hermosa we would make a stop at Good Stuff, Stars Antique Market, and Curious. In Manhattan we would swing by the Downstairs Bar and Fishing with Dynamite. Best brunch spot in my opinion is Wildflower Café located off PCH in Redondo, trust me, you will be very happy. Next up would be a hike in Rancho Palos Verdes – Del Cerro Park and we would finish it off with a picnic in the South Bay Botanical Garden. Don’t forget the Esplanade in Redondo, such a beautiful walk and you will find the Riviera Village where you will find something for everyone. Finally, there are many, many amazing breweries located in Torrance!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Jessica Hickerson from Esplanade Brand and Sun & Sea Collective deserves the largest shout out! I met Jessica through Instagram back in 2020, I was fortunate enough to take part in the first ever Sun & Sea Collective Pop-up event held in Jessica’s parents’ backyard. There were about 10 of us in total and the experience is one I will never forget. The sense of community, encouragement, support, inspiration, pride, and all-around fun is one that I will always hold near and dear. I have since been a part of many more Sun & Sea Collective events, and it has been a pleasure watching the Sun & Sea Collective grow into what they are today, while showcasing incredibly talented local artisans.

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