My Creative Journey
For as far back as I can remember, creativity and all things art have pulled me like a moth to a porch light on a summer’s night. I spent the first 17 years of my life obsessed with the idea of becoming an actress, in part because of the allure of storytelling, another part for my love of theater, and another part because of the joy of imagining being someone else and getting to embody their story.
In high school, my passion for creativity flourished as I immersed myself in visual arts, theater, and music. I work for the Ohio Theater in Toledo, Oh, was a proud member of the glee club, art club, and the ToDay Productions theater troupe, while also modeling for figure drawing classes at the University of Toledo.
College brought new avenues for expression through photography, art classes, and a minor in dance, but I felt compelled to pursue a "responsible" degree in Psychology. This led me into a decade-long detour in corporate America, where I juggled the demands of a sales career while nurturing my artistic spirit through sporadic art classes and the opening and management of a yoga studio.
Eventually, I summoned the courage to break free from the confines of corporate life and embark on a journey as a life coach, championing women to unlock their inner wisdom through creativity.
Heeding my own advice, I delved into podcasting, blogging, and writing, becoming an advocate for the transformative power of creativity in personal growth.
The onset of the pandemic rekindled a passion for watercolor painting, ignited by weekly online classes with the talented Sharon Larson. With an illustrative style characterized by playfulness and nostalgia, I poured my heart into my art, culminating in the publication of my book "Little Failures" in 2022, for which I also painted the cover.
In 2023, I unveiled my first watercolor collections - "The Parisian Collection" and "The Farmer's Daughter Collection," followed by a venture into acrylic painting with the release of the "Intentions Collection" in early 2024. Concurrently, I honed my skills in surface pattern design through Bonnie Christine's Immersion course, contributing over 72 designs to Spoonflower.
My creative journey is a testament to the profound impact of art and not only its healing powers but its ability to help you explore yourself and others. Through my work, I aspire to celebrate personal exploration, embrace the beauty of imperfection, and inspire others to embark on their own creative odyssey.
My Process
Many people like to pick a word of the year to help guide their interactions and choices. With a word or an intention that I want to explore in color and in-depth is the inception of each of my large-scale acrylic on canvas paintings.
Once I’ve picked a word, then I meditate, dance, and write about the meaning. When I have a good understanding of the word or intention, I write it on the canvas in pencil.
Abstract painting for me is about a conversation with The Great Creator, The Divine, and the part of us that is our wisest self. I paint layers and make marks until it feels like the conversation has ended. I love the abstract medium because it allows the viewer to enter the conversation where they are, seeing what they need to see from the piece. In this way not only are the pieces open to interpretation from the viewer, but they are a way for the community to be a part of the conversation and the intention.
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Yes, I paint pets, people, homes, places, and favorite things in watercolor.
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Yes when I’m creating a watercolor commission, it’s important to have a clear picture of the subject. If it’s a pet portrait, you’ll want to make sure you can see their eyes in the photo, same with people.
When it comes to an abstract commission I do not paint from a picture. -
My pricing depends on the medium acrylic or watercolor, the size of the piece and the subject matter. My prices are reasonable for a custom art piece. Submit an inquiry for exact pricing on your subject. I require 50% down to reserve your spot and begin work. The remainder is due once the piece is done and then the piece will be mailed once the remaining amount is received.
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My wait list ranges from two weeks- three months. Two months advanced notice is suggested for a custom commission. When possible I do try to accommodate rush requests for a small additional fee.
Three Free Screen Backgrounds
Other Ways to Work With Alisha
Life Coaching
Alisha is a life coach working with women in any life transition. Her coaching is right for anyone in a transition who is feeling stuck, doesn't know where to turn, feels callings to something bigger than where they are, and has a propensity to take action toward their dreams.
Retreat with Alisha
Take a personal pause, travel, relax and retreat with Alisha in Tuscany
Practice Yoga With Alisha
Alisha has been a student of yoga for over 20 years and has been teaching for over 15. Take a class with Alisha, or even take her 200-hour yoga teacher training certification.