Meet Courtney Utter | One armed artist

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

Hi Courtney, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I chose this because of a passion for art since I was young. I always wanted to see how I could push the limits with my imagination and creativity.

To put things really into perspective, after I lost my left arm due to a Christmas Day 2016 ATV accident I wanted to feel like I could accomplish something on my own despite having my left arm gone.

I have used many mediums acrylics, resin, alcohol ink and I love them all. After I’ve finished something I’m a little surprised that I actually did it!

If anyone were to take away anything I do, it’s to not let limitations limit you.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What really sets me apart is I make my art with one arm lol! This is also my biggest challenge. It’s hard for people to understand the day to day after losing a limb. I’d never wish it on anyone but these are the cards I was dealt.

I’m mostly proud of the fact that all of my pieces are done solely by me. I don’t ask for help nor do I want it. I like to stand back and think to myself “this one armed chick did that!”.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is getting your artwork out there is hard! Finding that group, social media etc. can be difficult. Most of my work is by word of mouth but getting a bigger following would amazing!

I want people to know that when it comes to my art, I’m a perfectionist. I’ve had people ask me to commission a piece and if I don’t like where it’s going I’ll scrap it and start over. I’m representing myself and I want people to be more than happy with what they are getting. Plus as much as I like to buy art I know it can be expensive so I try to make it affordable as well.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a huge fan of people watching! I love just watching people!

Being from Fort Worth I’d take them all around from going to the Stockyards, eating at Joe T’s to the Botanic Gardens which is highly underrated.

Downtown Fort Worth has it all and is a must to people watch. Thompson’s in downtown is super cool…it has a speakeasy behind a hidden door and fantastic drinks.

I love sports! Depending on the time of year we’d go experience a TCU football game. Albeit it’s a “smaller school” game day rivals the bigger schools. It’s a great tailgating venue and the stadium and vibes can’t be beat.

A must is Woodshed along the Trinity River. You can sit outside and bring your pup. The food is great, the atmosphere is amazing especially on a nice fall day. If you don’t have a furry friend you get to meet others who do. A really chill vibe.

And don’t get me started on Near Southside. It seems like there’s always a new, funky place popping up. Once a year they have Arts Goggle with a lot of food vendors, drinks and of course art. I’m planning a stay in the new Hotel Revel in December. A smaller boutique hotel that’s within walking distance of Magnolia Ave. trendy restaurants.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
It may sound cliché but my husband has been my biggest support. He creates sculptures from rocks he’s collected from Colorado, so he get it. He understands that you are your own worst critic.

I’ll look at a piece I’ve done for too long and start to dislike it and start to doubt if I can actually create. His advice is always to step away from it and come back later. Most of the time it works.

Plus he’s also super understanding when I have all kids of supplies delivered to the house. He never questions it and always smiles and says “You got a package today”.

Instagram: courtney_utter_texas

Facebook: Courtney Utter