Meet Gwen Hughes | Artist w/a gift of penmanship

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

Hi Gwen, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Anyone who has the passion to start their own business is automatically taking a risk. It may not cost you financially, if you have another stream of income, however there will be unforeseen obstacles that may cause detours. Failure in some area along the way is a guarantee. It can be a confidence breaker and make you question whether this is what you are supposed to be doing.

The possibility of turning back and not fulfilling your dream is even more risky. You might be right …and then you may not! I have been dependent on my business, with a few “odd jobs” in between, since 2009. I have been “doing business” since 2007 and decided to take the leap of faith at the height of the economic downturn in 2009 to leave my full-time, bill paying, insurance providing job. Before moving to Dallas, I worked at an advertising agency in New York as the Art Studio manager so I always recognized that what I was doing was NOT my career. I am and have always been an artist in my heart. I was afraid of the unknown (by not having a steady income) but I was more afraid of “missing my open door”.

The first step is always the hardest …but when you are overcome with a burning passion for what you feel you are called to do, you MUST answer.

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.
I can draw and paint (although painting is not where my passion lies). I have been gifted with a steady hand for penmanship and have been able to incorporate that skill, in tandem with other items, to create (functional) art. Most people think that my handwriting is calligraphy, and that it should be a font that everyone can use. I am excited that my art is appreciated AND affordable. It has blessed so many people over the years. If someone receives a piece as a gift, it usually has a domino effect and they order for someone else.

The handwriting part of my art comes easy. I was the kid in class who killed “the curve” when penmanship was part of the cirriculum!  I am set apart from other artists by the fact that I offer products from writing on stones to drawing portraits on vases, and handmade greeting cards.  The possibilities are endless!!

I got to this point in my career mainly by word of mouth. I have quite a few great “cheerleaders” who shout me out every chance they get when someone is looking for a unique handmade gift. Much of my journey has been trial and error because I am always evolving as the creative itch hits me! There have been spots in the journey that were easier than others …but that’s what makes it so exciting!! I am able to overcome the more challenging times by realizing that they are part of the stretching process, requiring me to grow.

I’ve learned that I am going to have ebbs and flows, and that I am not going to be able to please everybody …no matter how hard I try. It is when I face that type of obstacle that I have to humble myself and understand that a bad report travels twice as fast as a good one, so I have to sacrifice to make it right. The sacrifice may be a financial loss or a simple apology.  In business, the customer is always right, even when they’re not!

I want the world to know that if I can’t give you EXACTLY what you want, I will do my very best to come pretty darn close!!! From Gwen’s Heart is uniquely qualified to create works of art that are not only a blessing to your soul and spirit, but can enhance aesthetically as well. I love what I do and I am fortunate to be blessed to do what I love!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to the Dallas Museum of Art, the Perot Museum, and a night of live music at one of the many venues in the DFW area. I would scout out the comedy clubs to see if there was a worthy comedian in town …because I LOVE TO LAUGH!! There are more than enough different places to eat, on the fly and pulling up to the table! I am very spontaneous in my movement …when time allows!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shout out my Dad. Although he went to college to become a pharmacist, his passion for music took him on a 57 year journey with a well-known jazz band, The Count Basie Orchestra. He ended his career as the Director. It was having a front row seat and watching him navigate and juggle his passion and his purpose, while fulfilling his family role at the same time.

He knew that there would be a sacrifice, by traveling the world, of missing out on some of the milestones of a growing family. But he saw the bigger picture. He was VERY PRESENT when he was home, and a wonderful Dad and provider. I saw how one could pursue their passion for a greater good.  He also demonstrated excellent “people skills”!  Everybody who came within his realm walked away with a pleasant experience, having spent a little time with him.  I would like to think that acquired some of that gift from him as well!

There is something about fine arts that makes it necessary to be selfish at times, in order to create.  The crazy thing is that it is in the selfishness that others receive the best part of us.

Website: fromgwensheart.com

Instagram: From Gwen’s Heart

Facebook: From Gwen’s Heart

Image Credits
Photo credit: Me!