When you’re just getting started and getting your feet wet in a new space, it’s natural to look around and study the industry standards and norms. Obsessing over what you should do, how you should look, how you should be showing up can be paralyzing. Even worse, when you arrive and no one there looks like you, the thought of running away is hard to ignore.  Think about this…  There is no one path into art. There is no standard or art norms that should keep you from playing with and pursuing what makes you come to life. Art is healing and beautiful and has a universal song that sounds different to every artist out here.  Artists come in many shades and complexities from countless paths to find the creative spark that brings them to life. Today’s guest, Joy Ting Charde, ignited her creative spark as a way to communicate with her teacher and other students when she was new in the U.S. and couldn’t speak English.  Even still, her journey to art came after becoming an elementary school teacher. Not having professional training, working a full-time job that she actually enjoys is the part of this artist that is perhaps most relatable and familiar.  Joyful Takeaways for Non-Traditional Artists:  A great journey can start with a small 7 day challenge   Taking fun courses that spark your interests and curiosity can be life changing  Like the Alchemist, journeys often take us full circle  Having a fulfilling artistic journey doesn’t mean you have to leave your 9 to 5  “Give yourself a little challenge, and who knows, you might fall in love with it and end up doing the same kind of creative work for a long time.” -Joy Ting Charde  Joy started art licensing and has an agent, but her path there was not linear. The roads don’t have to make sense, you just have to show up willing to explore and be open to changes. Give yourself a chance to fall in love with new creative work.  Connect with Joy Ting Charde:  Website  Instagram  Sign-Up for Painting with Joy   Check out Miriam’s Free Water Color Supply List  Schulman Art Instagram  For full show notes, go to schulmanart.com/197 ++++++++++++++++++++ ?FREE GOODIES!?  Don't forget to check out the Inspiration Place goodie bag. Go pick up your party favor over at SchulmanArt.com/freebies. Whether you're a passionista or a passion professional, I've got something just for you.  ++++++++++++++++++++  ?NEVER MISS AN EPISODE!  If you loved this, I've got more inspirational episodes coming your way! Please make sure you hit the subscribe or follow button in your podcast app. And if you're feeling extra generous- leave me a review-- https://schulmanart.com/review-podcast   ++++++++++++++++++++  BTW If you pop your Instagram handle at the end of the review, I'll even give you a shout out over on my IG stories!  ++++++++++++++++++++  I'd love to chat with you on Instagram: http://instagram.com/schulmanart