Meet Sarah Wilson | Painter and Graphic Artist

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

Hi Sarah, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I am originally from Los Angeles, California, and I would say that growing up there definitely has an impact on the art that I create. As a young teen I spent most of my weekends traveling around the city with my father to find places to take photos. He was a finatic for capturing public spaces that have been altered in some way, whether it be with street art, natural aging of objects, or the loss of electricity. His appreciation for public spaces soon developed into a specific appreciation for signage and public objects, which has deeply bonded us over time. My father helped develop my interest in painting through our shared ideals that there is beauty in the every day, in the grime and rust, and in the simple things in which we surround ourselves.

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.
There are so many challenges to being an arist. From overthinking, to not being inspired at all, there is always something that seems to get in our way. Something I have learned that keeps me creating, even if it’s for myself, is to switch from painting to digital illustration. By training my hand in different ways, I don’t get as easily burnt out and have been able to stay relatively inspired and excited to create. I have also learned how to distinguish what artwork looks better digitally vs. physically, and have learned to be okay with not taking an idea to it’s final step.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Chicago is an absolute gem of a city. The energy is vibrant and the public transportation is pretty great. I always tell people that for a true Chicago experience, your best bet is to pick a neighboorhood and explore on your way there! If you’re going to Wrigleyville for a Cubs game, take the red line and explore the other neighboorhoods along the way! If you’re looking for a good shopping day, take the blue line to Wicker Park! Or if you’re looking to see some masterpieces, definitely check out the Art Institute of Chicago. No matter what you do, you will find fun things to do during your time here.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

To my mother, There are so many things about you to be thankful for, but I am most thankful for teaching me the importance of confidence. From a young age, you encouraged me to find comfort within myself, to be happy with who I am. Obviously it hasn’t always been easy, but the hard times feel less because I remember what you taught me. There is power in standing up for yourself and for what you believe in. There is love to give yourself even when you feel like you have none left. And most importantly, there is a voice inside you that deserves to be heard.

Many women were not lucky enough to be taught such important lessons at a young age. Thankfully, you’ve never let me forget them.

Website: sarahjwilsonart.com

Instagram: @sarahjwilsonart