Conversations with the Inspiring Megan Shumway

Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan Shumway.

Megan, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve always been artsy. Originally, I wanted to be a photographer, but talking to people was too scary for me! I pulled out one of my old sketchbooks one day and started doodling fashion illustrations, things I’d always envisioned for my photography but too scared to put into action. From then on, I just kept drawing and drawing. For Christmas, one year, I got an IPad Pro and my world was changed. I could start offering things I couldn’t before. I’ve always loved the idea of preserving family history. I think it’s fun to look back on my grandparent’s pictures and mementos. I offer family portraits, couple portraits, and anything else. Lots of these hang in homes or offices for friends and family to admire.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It wasn’t smooth at all. I’d like to meet someone who had a smooth journey. I started in 2017 and didn’t even have my own style yet. I took a break for a year when my husband and I traveled and taught English in China for eight months. I drew a lot during that time but kept my shop closed while I learned more about my art style. I finally started to kick it into gear during 2019 and so far, it’s going well. My advice to other artists is to draw ALL THE TIME! There isn’t a secret to finding your own style or being good. Just be consistent and everything will fall into place.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am a digital artist, I specialize in portraits and flowers. I think most people know me for portraits. I’m a dreamer, I love everything vintage! The colors and styles I use are inspired by the mid-century, I am always trying to spark nostalgia with my art! My motto is “Preserving life’s moments through illustration.” One time, I did a portrait of a grandfather holding his brand new grandson for the first time before the grandfather passed away. I thought this was a unique way to preserve that moment.

For good reason, society often focuses more on the problems rather than the opportunities that exist, because the problems need to be solved. However, we’d probably also benefit from looking for and recognizing the opportunities that women are better positioned to capitalize on. Have you discovered such opportunities?
I feel many opportunities are made available simply by saying “I’m a woman!” I also believe the professional workplace is adjusting to women more and more. Women are way more approachable and I think that is used as an advantage for many businesses. They also create the needed diversity so that men and women can be successfully catered to.

Pricing:

• Individual Portraits start at $20
• Couple Portraits start at $25
• Family Portraits start at $35

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MeganShumwayStudio?ref=seller-platform-mcnav
• Email: meganelainephotos@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meganshumwaystudio/

Image Credit:
Megan Shumway

Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.