We had the good fortune of connecting with Chelsea Baranski and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chelsea, what role has risk played in your life or career?
As an artist and teacher, I recognize that risk-taking is part of the creative process. We have to challenge ourselves to see differing perspectives, try new techniques, and figure out what we like/dislike. The creative process parallels life. Risk-taking is part of learning and self-discovery. Often the experiences that were the most scary, exciting, and took me outside of my comfort zone, were the ones where I learned the most about myself.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Art has always been a passion of mine since I was a little girl. I would entertain myself for hours by drawing the world around me. Of course, my work has evolved since then! It has gone through many transformations and I think that has been the biggest lesson I’ve learned along the way. When I first graduated, I struggled to keep making work in the same way I did while I was in grad school. Then, I realized our art should transform as we do. Let your work be guided by your own personal experiences and growth.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
East Texas is beautiful and I’d definitely take my friend outside to experience nature. There are many parks and trails – Tyler State Park would be a stop. I also am a coffee-drinker, so we would visit a few local favorites (1948, Crema, and Laurel & Pearl). We would also have dinner at some favorites: Don Juan’s, Wasabi, Ichiban Ramen, or True Vine).

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’ve had several mentors (college professors) and peers (artists & coworkers) that have helped me along the way.

Instagram: @cbaranski_art

Linkedin: Chelsea Baranski

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