I started painting at a young age while visiting an art museum for painting lessons. While walking through the museum I hoped that my paintings would someday be exhibited in a museum. During the summers, my grandparent's farm provided the inspiration for my landscapes and transportation art. After high school I joined the Marines for tuition and I became a rifle range instructor. That's when I realized how much I enjoyed teaching others.

Years later I completed my Masters in Museum Studies from Johns Hopkins University. While in D.C. studying museums I walked to breakfast at the McDonalds near the White House.  Outside I noticed an elderly woman pushing a cart full of her belongings.  I walked inside to order and while waiting in line I saw her enter and sit down at a table.  Something told me to order breakfast for her so I did.  I took it to her and she was surprised but she said thank you and asked me to join her.  

As we talked I explained that I was a Hopkins grad student studying museums.  I also explained that I was completing my certification as an art teacher.  She looked at me and said that teaching is something that would impact the world more than any other career.  I enjoyed talking with her for a while and then I got up and wished her a good day. She was right about teaching.  I enjoy teaching art and helping others improve as artists. I was voted Teacher of the Year at my school in 2015. In 2016 I received the Fine Arts Educator of the Year award from the arts council in our county.

When I reflect on my work, I realize that being an artist is a blessing. I enjoy the painting process and I want to thank those who have purchased my original paintings and prints over the years. Painting really is like keeping a diary and sometimes I think about paintings that I've sold. I've also learned that having your art exhibited in a museum is nice but the internet can exhibit your art globally. The Hickory Museum of Art has exhibited my paintings and I exhibit my art online. I've also created art for a published children's book and painted murals for cities in North Carolina and Kentucky.

When I’m not teaching students, I offer individual art lessons in my studio and also online.
Keep in touch on my Link Tree below.
God bless you and keep making art!
-Stacy C Bottoms