Hello, creatives! This week, Stacie shares a deeply personal and transformative experience that led her to rekindle her creative spark and reflect on the intersection of life and art. Here are the highlights from this inspiring solo episode.
The Power of Stepping Away
Fresh off a three-week trip to Scotland, Stacie reflects on the joys and challenges of being alone for the first time in her adult life. From walking the historic streets to journaling and soaking up inspiration, this trip was more than a getaway—it was a reset.
“I realized how easy it is to lose yourself in the busyness and noise of life. Scotland gave me the space to ask: who am I when no one’s watching?”
Her time alone was not just about recharging; it was a reminder to embrace slow living and find moments of quiet to nurture creativity.
Annual Planning with a View
While the trip started with focused work—annual planning for her online education business alongside her team—Stacie also took the opportunity to reconnect with her personal goals. She reflected on the importance of setting intentional goals, like buying a commercial property in her local town, a dream she fulfilled just a day after returning from Scotland.
If you’re curious about her planning process, Stacie has an affordable course called The Artist’s Year that breaks it all down—from vision casting to goal setting.
Introducing the Bloom House
The highlight of Stacie’s return was the purchase of a stunning 111-year-old church building in downtown Springdale, Arkansas, now affectionately called “The Bloom House.” With tin ceilings, arched windows, and wood floors, the space is brimming with potential.
Though she’s still dreaming up its purpose, Stacie envisions hosting retreats, events, and gatherings to foster creativity and connection.
“Investing locally is how change happens. I want this space to be a place where people feel welcome and inspired.”
Keep an eye on her blog and Instagram for updates on the renovations and events at the Bloom House!
Living Artfully
Stacie’s journey to Scotland and the purchase of the Bloom House are reminders that to create meaningful art, you must first cultivate a meaningful life.
“To make good art, you actually have to work on your life. The best art comes from those who live creatively, beautifully, and authentically.”
Her story emphasizes the importance of breaking free from monotony and pursuing passions beyond your primary work. Sharing these personal, authentic moments can also create stronger connections with your audience.
A Challenge for You
Stacie leaves us with an inspiring challenge:
If you’re feeling stuck in your creative practice, look beyond your work. Try something new in your life and share it with others. Authenticity draws people in and fosters connections, both online and in real life.
Final Thoughts
This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the magic that happens when we step away from the grind and invest in ourselves. Whether it’s a solo trip, a personal project, or simply slowing down, living artfully can reignite your creativity and inspire your next big move.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Bloom House and Stacie’s journey toward finishing her upcoming book, The Artist’s Side Hustle. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help the Art + Audience podcast grow. Until next time, live creatively and embrace the quiet moments—they may just lead to your most vibrant art yet.
Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561.