Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Bowman.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I was an avid artist as a child, constantly drawing and happiest when I had art supplies and a big stack of paper. Creative expression came very naturally to me at an early age. As I got older, I struggled with depression and became disconnected from my artistic nature. I would try to create art, but became more focused on a party lifestyle than being creative. After years of mental health struggles, I chose to stop drinking and begin healing. I rediscovered my passion for art and began painting every day.
I came to the powerful realization that I simply had to create art for myself first. The process of painting, drawing, and playing creatively is a meditative and healing experience for me. Once I created a body of work through my soulful painting process, I began putting it out into the community at art shows and events about three years ago. Since then, I have been on an exciting journey connecting with other magical creatives in the community, and even around the world thanks to social media!
I am passionate about creating art for myself and for others. I love to paint colorful murals in the community, hang my artwork in local spaces, and spread artsy love at markets and shows. I also lead creative workshops and enjoy holding space for others to heal through creative expression.
Please tell us about your art.
One thing that people immediately notice about my work is the vibrant colors that I use. I am in love with color and it is a core theme in everything I create. Bright colors inspire me and bring me joy, and I am on a mission to make the world a more colorful place!
I express myself in many ways. I create small paintings based on my feelings and inspirations on a regular basis. These paintings involve themes of spirituality, nature (especially the ocean and the moon), goddesses, mandalas, Zen tangle, galactic themes and flow. My art is a meditation for me and that is reflected in what I create. These smaller paintings look great in people’s homes and I love to connect with my customers who are gravitated the peaceful energy of my artwork.
I also love to create large-scale public artwork. I have painted several utility boxes around the community, a large mural in City Heights, and recently a colorful mural at a local middle school. I am currently working on an ongoing mural project at a local church youth center. My intention is for the energy of my artwork to inspire the people who pass by and experience what I have created. I love to uplift others and encourage them to go out and be creative in their own lives.
Finally, I lead creative workshops. I partner with local businesses and venues to offer workshops such as my Full Moon Painting Circle, Mandalas + Juice workshop, and Flow + Create (yoga and painting). Each of these workshops are intended to provide outlets for people to explore creative expression and healing.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing artists today?
I personally feel challenged by the stigma of the “starving artist” stereotype. It is disappointing to experience our society value so many other things (business and more mainstream professions) over artists. As a result, many people do not want to pay artists what they are worth. People expect artists to create for free or get paid enough simply to break even.
The truth is, art is essential to our humanity. Throughout history, art has been an important part of the way that we communicate and express ourselves. Cave drawings show us what life was like thousands of years ago in the same way that contemporary artists express modern issues through their creations. I would love to see a world where art is more highly valued and respected for the hard work it takes and the value it adds to people’s lives.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My work rotates around the community at local art shops, coffee shops, markets, and events. The best way to stay updated on where I am showing or to purchase available work is to check out my website- www.soulflowcreations.com or find me on Instagram at @soulflowcreations. You can also email me with inquiries at soulflowcreations@gmail.com.
My latest project is the upcoming release of my first oracle deck – the Kindred Oracle. A 50 card deck to make your spirit journey more colorful. This magical healing tool will be available soon and we will be having an epic launch party to bring it out into the world, so stay tuned for details!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.soulflowcreations.com
- Phone: 760-707-4398
- Email: soulflowcreations@gmail.com
- Instagram: @soulflowcreations
Image Credit:
Photos of myself covered in paint and dreaming with my artwork taken by the magical Sarah McAllister of The Empress SD (www.theempresssd.com)
Getting in touch: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
