Case Study #3: Dionne White

What was your life as an artist like before becoming a member of the Artist Mentoring Program? What was your biggest roadblock?
I have been a creative all my life. I’m gifted in many areas and mediums. I tried other creative business ventures but nothing ever stuck. I always seemed to get labeled Hobbyist or Crafter. And because I never completed school with an art degree I felt the odds were against me. I knew that I was an artist and as a Kingdom Creative it was a calling but art as a career just seemed like a nice idea and not reality. I used art for my personal enjoyment and as a Therapeutic practice for inner healing which resulted in physical healing. I would create to give away and had always hoped to “sell” my work. I had to debunk the myth that I couldn’t be successful or thrive without a college degree. Understanding that it was OK to make money with my gift was what I had to overcome and believe that I could thrive at it!

What prompted you to become a part of the Artist Mentoring Program? Specifically, what were you looking for?
Timing! I wanted my art to have purpose and I wanted to make money from it! I needed permission...to be an artist. I needed business direction. I needed a business mentor! I wanted to join when it was launched but distractions kept getting in the way. Honestly I saved the link to the group, registered for GOA in January of 2017 but lost sight of the vision and never went through with the purchase until I made a business decision that was proposed by a friend. It seemed fun and a great way to make money. It was a thousand dollars investment and there went my GOA money! The first week I made that decision I woke up sick everyday thinking “what have I done?” And because of the amount of work it took to make it work. The cold calls, false enthusiasm etc. Exhausting! I would cry and literally grieve the time it was taking away from me creating. Up until this time I had continually spent regular studio time co-creating with the Lord but was holding the value of my art at a very low place. So I got another email from The Worship Studio and saw another add for Created to Thrive and knew immediately that it was what I was supposed to do to take my gift and business to the next level! I cancelled my other business venture, returned the product and got my refund. I immediately signed up for CTT the next day and then paid for my GOA registration. Thank you Lord for letting it all work out! I had about given up on my dream as an artist and then I joined Created To Thrive.

Since becoming a member, how has your life changed? How have you experienced breakthrough? 
Since joining Created To Thrive my life has been enriched by creative and business knowledge. I’ve gained greater spiritual insight and encouragement and have been given a creative faith family. I have finally found my TRIBE! I have experienced breakthrough in my confidence as an artist. I used to think I was good but not great. I used to see my gift only to be given away and not valued to sell. We artists are the go to “volunteers” for everything creative at churches and schools. But that is not the case anymore. I see my art as valuable and worthy of money. I am worthy! I used to feel “different” like an outsider as an artist and that it was not “Godly”, especially in the body of Christ. But now I know that I am one of His chosen artisans who He has chosen to FILL and Helps me to grow my skill. He has chosen me to bring Heaven to earth. He has chosen me to release and display His glory!

What's been your biggest "Aha Moment" that was a real gamechanger for you while in the program?
That is a no brainer. It was almost instant. I immediately felt the permission to be who He created and called me to be as a Kingdom Artist and that it was OK to make money at it. The long time prayer for an art and spiritual mentor was answered! Once I had that permission it was game on! Thank you for that and for the affirmation of my gift!

What would you say to encourage other artists who are currently in the Artist Mentoring Program along their journey? To artists considering becoming members?
It is an investment not another monthly bill. It is worth every penny and more. Don’t lose sight of your WHY and the important part that you have to play in further advancing the Kingdom of God. Do trust yourself and the gift He has entrusted to you. Be diligent to work the program and grow your gift. Stay focused on your vision. Keep connecting with Him and trusting Him in the process. Just stay the course and ask yourself HOW BAD DO YOU WANT IT!?!

What's on your horizon? What are you dreaming of and moving toward in this next season?
Currently I am working on what I am calling My Kingdom Fine Art Collections. Paintings Inspired by explorative play and His insight. As well as trying to complete a book or two. I’m dreaming of the day I publish my books and the people that will they will help. I am dreaming of my work being accepted into shows and being viewed by many then selling for high end prices. Also to see the impact my paintings will have on people. Resuscitating them! I also have loved fashion and interior design since I was a teen. My hope is that I can turn my paintings into fabric one day and maybe even make some “Dionne White Branded items” in my fabric. I am currently having a professional logo and brand mark created. Which I am very excited about! I’m also seeing some type of “creative spiritual coaching business” down the road. It seems to be evolving and this has been a desire of my heart for years since 2008 and I launched my personal ministry in 2016. My heart is to help others persevere empowered so that would be along those lines and just continuing to paint and display His glory!

For more information on Dionne, visit her online at http://www.dionnewhiteart.com

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