Daily Inspiration: Meet Erika Bride

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika Bride.

Hi Erika, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started my art journey in 2022, seeking to heal from past trauma through creative expression. As a survivor of childhood trauma, escaping a domestic violence relationship, and being a single mom for many years, I found art as a transformative healing tool and have dedicated my life to this work. Art saved me. My company, Outside the Lines Artwork, focuses on three different services; Therapeutic Art Experiences to help people heal from trauma, custom art, and Paint and Sip Events. Art is a fantastic way to express yourself, bring friends and family together for a fun activity, decorate your home and office, and also an effective way to heal from trauma. At OTLA I am here to meet you where you are and offer fun and creative ways to engage in creativity.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it has not been a smooth road getting to where I am today. I have found that life is the best teacher. And like a caterpillar, sometimes you don’t know that you are meant for greatness. Enduring many traumas and accepting that these experiences were necessary for me to gain the tools to help others was crucial to my development. Art is the tool I have chosen to help people and grow my business, but the journey has been far from easy. Because of my life experiences, I offer therapeutic art experiences focusing on people who have endured narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault. I also love people and enjoy making them happy, which is why I host Paint and Sip events. These events are a fun way to connect with family, friends, and loved ones and bond with team members in a corporate setting. What sets me apart from others offering similar services is the human connection I bring to the table. You will leave any event I host with a sense of being seen.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Therapeutic Art Experiences

At Outside the Lines Artwork, I have developed a unique Therapeutic Art Experience called the Butterfly Method. This method consists of three transformative stages. The first stage involves journaling on a canvas to express your feelings, symbolizing the caterpillar’s journey. In the second stage, you use stencils and various art mediums to cover the words, representing the chrysalis stage of a butterfly’s life. The final stage is where the butterfly emerges with beautiful wings, symbolizing transformation. I take the conversation from our session and transform the painting into something inspired by our discussion. Additionally, I offer group therapeutic workshops, providing a safe and supportive environment for collective healing.

Paint and Sip Events

As a licensee of a company called Painting and Vino, I partner with venues throughout the East Valley of Phoenix to host vibrant Paint and Sip events. I bring all the art supplies and provide step-by-step instructions, while the venue supplies the food and drinks. These events are perfect for girls’ nights out, family gatherings, and date nights. I also offer private parties, where I can come to your home or business to create a personalized painting experience. Additionally, I love hosting kids’ painting parties, making art accessible and enjoyable for all ages. Paint and Sip events are a fantastic way to bond with loved ones while exploring your creative side.

Custom Artwork

At Outside the Lines Artwork, I offer custom artwork tailored to your needs and preferences. Whether you want a unique painting for your Zoom background that highlights your brand, or a specific piece for your home, I can create it for you. My versatility allows me to work in various styles, ensuring that your vision is brought to life. I can also paint your life story, capturing significant moments and emotions in a beautiful and personalized piece. Whatever your artistic needs, I am here to make your ideas a reality with custom art that reflects your individuality.

Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
The quality that I believe is most crucial to my success is empathy. While creativity has always been a significant part of who I am, it is my deep empathy that truly defines and drives my work. Empathy allows me to connect with people on a profound level, understanding their experiences, emotions, and needs. This connection is the cornerstone of my Therapeutic Art Experiences, Custom Artwork, and Paint and Sip events.

My art is not just about creating beautiful pieces; it is about touching lives and inspiring lasting change. I genuinely care about the people I work with, and this care is evident in every project I undertake. Empathy enables me to create art that resonates with others, providing them with a sense of being seen and understood. This characteristic has been fundamental to building a meaningful and impactful practice, where my art serves as a bridge to healing, connection, and transformation.

Pricing:

• Therapeutic Art Experience – starts at $59 per person
• Paint and Sip Events – start at $45 per person
• Custom Art – starts at $300 per piece

Contact Info:

• Website: www.otlartwork.com
• Instagram: @otlartwork
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/outsidethelinesartwork/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-bride-406874270/