Case Study #6: Tina Lawver

What was your life as an artist like before becoming a member of the Artist Mentoring Program? What was your biggest roadblock?
I struggle with a lack of confidence as an artist and as a person in general.
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What prompted you to become a part of the Artist Mentoring Program? Specifically, what were you looking for?
I was looking for a bridge, a pathway from being an occasional paid artist to becoming one who truly was living an Artist’s life, using my work to connect to others and connect those people to the heart of God. I also wanted so much to really make art my business.

Since becoming a member, how has your life changed? How have you experienced breakthrough?
Before discovering Matt Tommey and the Created to Thrive group, I was creating here and there and truly lived in a state of discouragement and a deep lack of confidence. I not only experienced this in the area of being a creative, but it bled into other areas of my life as well. Or, now that I think of it, it may have been the other way around. When I read Unlocking the Heart of the Artist, I felt comforted that someone really knew where I was in my journey and the roadblocks I was experiencing. I then began to discover through Creativity According to the Kingdom, there was an amazing connection and influence that Creatives have and this began my seeking the Fathers heart in a new way. When I became a member of Created to Thrive, the Lord really began a work towards becoming a joy filled artist, the one He created me to be. Now, I approach my studio time, like quiet creative time with The Father. I’m able to boldly explore and accept grace to fail and my confidence has increased in how I put my work out there. The Created to Thrive Mentoring group has changed my approach to my art and to my life.

What's been your biggest "Aha Moment" that was a real gamechanger for you while in the program?
The biggest Aha moment for me was when I was standing in the shell of my , in process, studio space realizing that my husband I are ,together, investing in me as an artist. That i am a thriving artist even though I may have a low income or no income week. Money and acceptance wasn’t the defining thing that made me a Thriving Artist anymore. It was more about the source of inspiration and provision. That studio build was the game changer.

What would you say to encourage other artists who are currently in the Artist Mentoring Program along their journey? To artists considering becoming members?
I would say that the journey is worth it. I am discovering that the process is so rich and we are always, in some way, in the process. I think of this every time I finish a piece. When it’s done, it’s just done and it’s for someone to enjoy. Someone will purchase this piece and there’s value in that, but what I received in the process of collaborating with the Great Creator while creating it is truly priceless. These are the experiences that propel me forward and change me forever. The learning and growing in skill and communion with the Lord is the best journey and others benefit from what’s learned here as well because that informs the next piece I create. This group, Matt as leader and the other creatives here, all the insights and sharing is all part of the journey. Matt shares wisdom and experience that has catapulted me through things that would’ve had me stuck. I’m so grateful.

What's on your horizon? What are you dreaming of and moving toward in this next season?
I’ve learned to say no to good things in order to make room for the great. I have a vision for my website and I’m in the process of creating 20 original pieces for a store opening in a few months. I’m also designing interiors and will be having my first home gallery show this Summer. The connections and relationships in recent days have me dreaming with the Lord and seeing big doors open.

Connect with Tina on Instagram @tinalawvercreativellc and FB TinaLawverCreativeLLC

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