Today we’d like to introduce you to Christy Ross
Christy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My current path has been created by two different yet similar experiences. The first working as an artist/designer and the second as an elementary school and art teacher. Currently, by day, I teach students K-8 at St. Didacus Parish School and at Pacific Coast Academy. By night, I teach Paint & Sip classes via my business Christy Ross Art, to adults all over the San Diego area. I also teach at Lemon Grove Library. I attempt to balance my lesson plan creations for my adult painting classes with creating personal work. Sometimes the two are intertwined and that is so rewarding.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Nothing and everything about my journey has been smooth. Being a creative in our culture is not easy. Making a living as an artist is not easy. However by following my intuition and making business decisions based on what feels right has taken me to so many wonderful places. Most of the time I make decisions based on the question “Will this be fun?”. Learning how to manage kids in a classroom with art supplies has not always been easy. I have the hang of it now (mostly) and getting to work with students is such a joy and a privilege. Knowing how to create accessible lessons for adults and kids, build a website, manage ticket sales for multiple events and market events successfully has strengthened with experience. Finally, being taken seriously is a blessing.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My art stands out with its vivid colors, silhouettes and whimsy. I love painting seascapes, landscapes and elephants! I’m known for my art teaching and I have a passion for bringing art education to everyone through my two schools and Paint & Sip events all over the San Diego area. Whether it’s to a pub in La Mesa, an art gallery in Mission Hills, a library in Lemon Grove or a coffee shop in Clairemont, I love making painting accessible to everyone!
Any big plans?
I plan on shifting gears a bit and finding time to focus on my new collection of paintings in the coming year. I’m in the process of expanding teaching time to adults as I’ll be working with individuals with disabilities through the San Diego Regional Center (SDRC). Paint & Sip events will still happen but I’ll be choosier about which events I’ll commit to.
Pricing:
- Clairemont Coffee Paint & Sip $55
- Propaganda Wine Co. Paint & Sip $45
- Lemon Grove Coffee Paint & Sip $45
- Sunset Harbor giclée print $35
- The Cloud original painting $800
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.christyross.art/
- Instagram: Christyrossart
- Facebook: Christy Ross Art
Image Credits
Mini Zhu
Amanda Woodley
Emily Trejo
Sara Hess
Christy Ross
