Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Hancock.
Hi Rachel, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I always wanted to be an artist. As a kid, I assumed artists were born with a natural ability to draw. They could pick up a pencil and draw a portrait without hesitation. Although I could draw a fabulous smiley face, I quickly realized I wasn’t good enough to be an artist. It wasn’t until my first year of college that I realized artists have to study and practice art.
For years, I was too busy for art. I focused on my photography and videography company. As Momma of two kiddos, any extra time was spent with them.
In March of 2020, our town went into quarantine. It seemed like it was overnight: My once jam-packed schedule of photo and video sessions was cleared.
For the first time in months, I had some free time to myself. I decided to bring out a few art supplies and learn new techniques with watercolor. I thought to myself, “I would love to have a painting of every building on the Historic Georgetown Square.” Then the wheels began turning. Fast forward to May 2020. The Art with Heart Georgetown collection was complete. I sold over 1,000 prints and made over $10,000 for the local business owners on the historic downtown square.
My entire Art with Heart collection was displayed in The Georgetown Public Library during the summer of 2021. My art was accepted into the 2020 and 2021 Georgetown Art Hop events, My work has been featured in numerous local businesses and I manage a monthly Local Artist event at Grace Plaza in Georgetown.
Now, I spend most of my time taking care of my family and painting. I absolutely love creating something out of nothing and adding a bit of joy to the world. I found my voice as an artist, and it feels incredibly natural. Maybe I was right. Artists are born with a natural ability. It just needs a little attention.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Finding my voice as an artist has been an incredibly challenging journey. Some days I feel confident in my work. Other days I feel like an imposter who doesn’t belong in the art world.
I am fortunate enough to have an amazing group of friends and family that support me and my artwork. Without them, I wouldn’t have the confidence to submit artwork to local shows, organize pop-ups at local events, or stay consistent on my website and social platforms.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
When I find a local business that I love… I paint it!
I use watercolor and ink to create whimsical illustrations of local buildings like coffee shops, retail businesses, and historic architecture.
I simply want to bring a bit of joy into someone’s day.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I would love to connect with you on Instagram @arkayartworks.
Contact Info:
- Email: rachel@arkayart.com
- Website: www.arkayart.com
- Instagram: @arkayartworks
- Facebook: @arkayartworks
Image Credits
Kim Hancock – Blu Tree Studios Photography
