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

Hi Olivia, why did you pursue a creative career?
From an early age, I felt a sense of magic attached to creating images on paper. Holding a pencil or brush gives me a sense of control and ability to express myself in a way that nothing else does. No matter what my full-time job is, I think I’ll always be creating art.

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.

My art comes from my emotions and experiences, and sometimes even pop culture that inspires me. Additionally, a huge inspiration for my art comes from my faith in Jesus, I want to reflect my spiritual journey and speak of God in my life. I do all my art traditionally, meaning not digital, because I feel that art needs to be hands on and tactile. I am most proud of the quantity of art that I’ve made and the ability to keep going and trying new things, even when it seems like no one else is watching. In a sense, it is easy to always create because I feel like I need to in order to express myself! On the other hand, it’s not easy to ignore the desire to be like other artists, or to not care about what people think you should do. I feel that this year I am really stepping into that fluidity that’s afforded to being an artist and staying true to myself in what I choose to create, even though that changes through time.

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.
I always love taking people to the Short North Arts District in Columbus, especially if there’s a Gallery Hop! This is usually the first Saturday of the month, when galleries stay open later and sometimes have an opening of new art. There are great places to eat, like Melt Bar & Grilled and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream, plus other fun spots like Rocket Fizz (candy store) or Big Fun (toys & games) along the street.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to acknowledge my parents and my sister for always supporting my creative efforts while growing up, and my husband for being a current & constant support in all of my endeavors.

Website: www.oliviachapmanart.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oliviachapmanart

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oliviachapmanart

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSouthCarolina is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.