Natalie Renton Art
It’s been a ‘hot minute’ as they say since I last wrote a ‘Project Passion’ blog…in fact it’s been close to 4 months…
Naturally, this one is LONG overdue. Especially since it was meant to mark this lovely lady’s debut as a sole trader/new #bossbabe…and for that, I’m incredibly apologetic…
But, if anyone knows about life having other plans, things working out differently than we had imagined/dared to dream and having to a take a break at different points on this wondrous journey we call life, it’s Nat!
So, it goes without saying, that I’m really excited to be bringing this feature to you today. Just in time for her first showings at the local Caringbah markets, and before her Christmas sales. [*Hint Hint*]
Nat and I have known each other for quite some time, with our lives intertwining at High School through mutual friends, and then again years later, again through mutual friends, but this time a different set. Nat is the kind of lady you admire, regardless of how close you’re lucky enough to be to her. She’s vivacious, zealous and unique. Her presence drips with an authenticity and integrity that is so rare these days…
She’s effortlessly cool. Well versed in music (and even dabbling in a podcast with a friend on this topic). Fascinating to talk to. Covered in a patchwork of stunning tattoos that make her an absolute artwork to behold. Friendly and approachable. Non-judgemental. Fun. Happy to make her own way in the world, whether that’s in alignment with others or not. We’ve had plenty of fun times together such as nights out at Mexican, birthday bashes at the pub and Harry Pooter High Teas (because if you can’t be complete and utter nerds with your friends, who can you be that with?!)
But, I think that’s just about enough from my end…let’s hear from the lady herself…
My first, and possibly favourite question, when I interview these wonderful entrepreneurs is to ask them to tell me and my audience a little about themselves. I find it so interesting to see what these amazing creatives choose to share about themselves. What they think is most interesting, important and pertinent to their journey.
Interestingly, Nat’s answer to this question also encompassed how and why she started her passion project ‘Natalie Renton Art’ and how it’s grown from her love of art and design into her fulltime job. And, I don’t know about you, but that pretty much seems like #goals right there!
[And yes, I am 100% living vicariously through people like Nat who are chasing their dreams in the hopes that one day their magic/wisdom will rub off on me and I can turn my hobbies/love of writing into a more full-time commitment].
Nat’s passion for art (and as an extension of that, design) began at a young age. She was always drawing and painting for her friends and family. Living in the southern suburbs of Sydney, music, art and theatre played a significant role in Nat’s upbringing. Growing up she was influenced by a Dad who lived for/loved 1960s music, particularly The Doors and a Mum who loved abstract and Impressionist art, adorning the walls of the family home with it.
From there who education grew further through the persuasion of her brother and cousins. They provided an introduction to alternative music and all things ‘90s’. [I for one can say that utterly approve of both of these influences! SO much love for both of these things!]
However, possibly the most meaningful, immense, and sentimental, of all impacts came from that of Nat’s late Aunty whom she shared such a significant bond with. She loved to travel, enjoyed the arts and theatre and was synonymous with ABBA. Her imprint on Nat’s life is noticeable, particularly on each anniversary.
All of the aforementioned things not only shaped Nat as a person, but as a digital artist. As she grew into her teenage years, so too did her love of the three biggest things in her life: art, drawing and music. Being told to ‘concentrate more’ in class was a regular occurrence, when she was always doodling, sketching or drawing something in her workbooks while listening to music, instead of listening. [Whilst this makes the ‘educator’ part of me cringe, it also make me smile, because the heart wants what the heart wants, and we will be what we will be in the end. Art and music were clearly meant to be a constant in Nat’s life and I’m SO glad to see that she’s made it happen.]
‘Senior Year’ was another pivotal moment in Nat’s life, where she fell into the ‘design world’ meeting a beautiful teacher who became a fantastic mentor. They encouraged her to apply for design school [Billy Blue College] where she eventually graduated with a degree in Communications Design.
Like any of us young souls, Nat’s mind was filled with ambition and dreams for the future. She wanted to travel the world, visit her favourite art galleries, spend copious amounts of money on music, eventually live out of home, and maybe just maybe…live overseas one day! But sadly, as many of us experience, reality came knocking and after trying her best at freelancing, Nat’s priorities were ultimately forced to change.
This shift in mindset, and movement away from what was ultimately the ‘authentic’ Nat, lead to almost a decade in the administration field. A place where, unsurprisingly, she never really felt herself. (Or I would venture as far as to say, ‘happy’).
Fortunately, from there, came the ‘epiphany’ or ‘light bulb moment’. Magically, everything seemed to click into place upon moving to Canada in March, 2020. Faced with the reality (and obstacle) of multiple lockdowns and isolation periods, Nat turned to her one true comfort – art. Drawing. Creating. Dreaming. Sketching. Refining. She even attended Dundas Valley School of Art.
Art and design had always been at the back of Nat’s mind and something that she dreamed of pursuing fulltime. Which brings us to the present day – the realisation of her lifelong dream. Working as a fulltime, freelance digital artist back in Sydney, Australia. Backing herself, her talents and her growth completely by putting herself out there on multiple social media platforms, in boutique shops and at local market stalls.
I am SO beyond proud of her for this immense growth and how whole-heartedly she is going after what she wants. I am in awe of how much she loves and believes in her creations, her creative process, her collaborations and her talents. I wish I could be as confident, bold and go-getting as Nat because self-belief is a powerful thing! And it truly does make you a force to be reckoned with!
If you’ve had a chance to sneak a peek at Natalie Renton Art on any of her social media platforms, you’ll be captivated by the bright, colourful and alluring designs she creates with fun patterns, unique designs and motivating phrases. For those well-versed in 1960s and 70s psychedelic art, its’ easy to where Nat’s inspiration comes from. But you can you truly blame her for her attraction to it? I mean…those colours! And those vibes…!
Beyond that, Nat also admits to being inspired by 1970s culture, animals, nature and traditional tattoo art. As mentioned previously, music also plays a significant role in Nat’s perspective on the world and her art. She enjoys both playing music and attending gigs. Music is an integral part of her life and is a core part of her design process. Nat’s even been known to make and share Spotify playlists that inspire her and her work. [Definitely worth checking out in my opinion!] I would also be remiss not to mention her favourite artists, such as Wes Wilson, Andy Warhol, Steen Jones, Ink Tally, Amy Perez and Postwook.
Having come so far on her creative journey and having pulled a full ‘360’ to end up back where she wanted to be (and some would say ‘rightly should be’) I was intrigued to find out what’s next for Natalie Renton Art, how she perceives success and some of the other ‘take aways’ Nat has from her creative/entrepreneurial journey.
What I love to hear most when involving myself in these interviews is that there is no clear, definitive end goal. That people just want to keep pushing themselves and pursuing their dreams. And Nat definitely doesn’t disappoint on that. Simply put, her aim is to keep growing her business and evolving. [YESSS Queen!] It makes me SO happy to hear that world ‘evolve’. There’s honestly nothing worse than complacency and stagnation, especially in a business. But if that line made my heart smile, the next one really got me in the feels: “Keep creating daily, inspiring people, sparking joy and comfort through my digital art pieces.”
Wow. Just wow.
If her client testimonials are anything to go by, I can confirm that Nat is indeed doing these things. From wedding invites and decals to album covers, custom pet portraits, cards and artwork prints. Her artworks spark joy, memories and comfort. That much is clear.
When asked how she defines success, Nat responded: “Achieving happiness and joy through what you love. As a result, you'll feel successful in your career and personal life. While working in the administration field for almost a decade, I had trouble dealing with this issue - no joy was really sparked.” What is it they say? That is you pursue and do what you love, then you’ll never work a day in your life? I love the thought that success is happiness and joy. My sister in law (whom I hope to one day interview) reminded me once that confidence grows from how much you love something – the creative process, your product, the journey….And she’s right. Loving what you do and create is life changing.
As an art lover who is a tad ‘rusty’ when it comes to creating, and whom has the technological skills of someone far older than I am, I was intrigued as to what personality traits and professional skills would be needed in the graphic design/digital art field. Unsurprisingly, creativity, passion, dedication, commitment, flexibility/adaptability, impressive interpersonal skills and thinking on your feet all featured heavily.
With those in mind, I was equally as intrigued to hear about the potential struggles and lessons that came with converting from administration (and death by office cubicle) to a life of art and design, because if there was one thing that was drilled into Nat’s and my generation, it was how hard/difficult/challenging/painful (*insert appropriate synonym here*) the life of an artist would be…
A part of me was glad to hear that I wasn’t the only creative fighting against Impostor Syndrome. I felt it in my soul when Nat said that like me, she struggles with it every day. As artists it’s our greatest fear that no one will like or resonate with our work or want to buy it. Or worse, that we’re not as talented as we think we are…
Hence, the change of mindset from ‘artist’ and ‘creative’ to ‘Boss Lady’ was surely a BIG one to make. I’m sure it’s been challenging. But, with all trials and tribulations come lessons. Nat has learned to remain patient and stay the course, because things don’t happen overnight. (*Cliché warning* Rome wasn’t built in a day!) She’s learned to stay focused even when she’s doubtful. Over time she has come to realise that it’s about being kind and compassionate to yourself. Setting small, achievable goals every day and sticking to a routine that works for you. This then allows you to prioritise your time and to do more of what you love. Like me, she loves a good ‘to do’ list either in a physical notebook or on her phone. (Gotta love that accountability!)
And, like with so many other things, asking for help is encouraged. Nat suggested that investing in a mentor was a ‘game changer’ because what they can teach you about business strategies and marketing is crucial.
Perhaps most fascinating of all of her learnings was what she realised about her audience (and I have to admit that she’s not alone here). When Nat began creating her art, she created pieces that spoke to her. Pieces that she was proud to hang up and showcase in her won home. But, as with anyone owning and running a small business, she’s had to reflect on her core audience – what speaks to them? What are they buying? What are they clicking on most? It’s one of the hardest battles an artist or creative has to fight…finding that fine line between their artistic identity and what the consumer wants…Because, after all, we create because of some urging within ourselves, but we can’t sustain ourselves without the support of others…it’s tricky!
I genuinely hope this insight into the lovely Natalie Renton Art has down her story and her business justice! And that you’ll take some time out of your day to check out her wonderfully original, vibrant and ever-evolving collection for yourself!
And hey, if you’re a female artist who happens to scroll this way, and you’d like to collaborate in one form or another, Nat’s keen! She’d love to work with other boss ladies around Australia and the globe!
If you’d like to get to know Natalie Renton on a more personal level, feel free to check her out at the following places:
Facebook – Natalie Renton Art
Instagram - @natalierentonart
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@natalierentonart
Website - https://natalierentonau.squarespace.com/