Gratitude from Great Local Artists

Happy Thanksgiving! I try to express my gratitude many times throughout the year, but I love the chance to celebrate a day of Thanks with all of you. Without any commentary on the origins of this holiday, I'm very much a fan of what it has become. I couldn't be more thankful for the opportunities I've been blessed with in my life, personally and professionally. Thank you to everyone in the Austin art community that's supported me and helped make my dreams possible. I won't discount the hustle it's taken on my end, but I know I wouldn't be where I am today without the connections and friendships. My goal is to better serve the artists and handmade business owners that make Austin unique, and I'm humbled every time I'm looked to for advice and expertise. I will always be a work in progress, and Crafting Exposure has plenty of growth ahead. I could go on and on, but I'd rather share with you some other thoughts of gratitude from local Austin talents. Thank you for believing in me and my journey, and I appreciate everyone who also supports the art community and creative entrepreneurs!

Amanda Lee Jones

As a representational oil painter, I’m grateful for all the amazingly skilled artists of the past the present that have passed down their knowledge & have created inspiring artwork through tireless dedication to their craft.

Angie Diaz of By Angie

As an artist I am most thankful to be able to connect with people from all over the world. I am thankful that I can use my imagination and work with my hands which adds meaning to my life that I had not experienced before in previous jobs. I am thankful that I can share my talent with people of different cultures and backgrounds. I am thankful as an artist because I am doing what I love to do.

Brian Phillips

There are so many things I'm thankful for, but I'm most thankful to have a supportive, understanding and awesome wife, Cynthia. Along with that, a huge circle of supportive friends and family that have been there from the beginning. I'm thankful to be friends with some of the finest creative minds around right now, they inspire me daily with their creations and achievements. And lastly, I'm thankful to live in a thriving city in a home we continue to fill with love and furry beastpets. I'm a very lucky man.

Brandy Amstel

Each day I wake up filled with gratitude and thankful that I get to be an artist expressing my passions, gifts, skills and talents while helping people to enhance their experiences in life. It is an honor and privilege to be able to do what I love and help others.

Katie Cowden of Killer Queen Designs

I'm thankful for technology that allows me to connect with other artists, fans and supporters, and get inspiration from around the world.

Mark Puente of Nailivic Studios

I’m most thankful for all the support I’ve gotten over the last few years. Support from Austin’s art community and my family, and also support from the city in terms of the educational resources for both artists and small business owners. So many people have helped me get this far, and I’m thankful for each and everyone of them.

Ellen vanHully-Bronson of Pearl Kissed

I am thankful for all the people in my life who have helped me on my artistic design journey. Whether it was the art teacher in college who taught me to never let anything out of the studio that wasn’t absolutely my best work or the multiple repeat customers who request custom jewelry… they have all helped me become the artisan I am today. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. 

Bonnie Brushwood

I am thankful for infrastructure. That's right. The most boring and untalked about blessings America has to offer.  When I need supplies, our mail system delivers them within the week.  There are spaces like Fireseed or the Techshop that have the space, tools, and experts to help you bring your ideas into reality.  And contracts!  How much easier is it to move forward with a vision knowing both parties have agreed to specific terms.  I am very thankful that my entrepreneurial spirit can thrive because I live in a nation and town with great infrastructure.

Holli Hartman

I am most thankful for the ability to express myself & create work that represents a part of me. Whether creating work to be shared with the world, or something for myself, having the ability to create art is some of the best food for my soul. The cherry on top is being able to connect with people, bring joy, & have discussions through my pieces. I am so grateful for all of the support & encouragement that I have received from family, friends, teachers, & strangers in regard to expressing my creativity.