Meet Anj McMahon | Environmental Analyst & Artistic Dabbler

We had the good fortune of connecting with Anj McMahon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anj, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
“I trust”. I love the versatility of this phrase. Having struggled with disordered eating in the past, I usually end up expanding this mantra to “I trust my body” for my typical day to day routine. On a more artistic level, I can remind myself to trust my creative abilities and how my hand leads the pen, brush, and pencil even though I lack formal training. I’ve also used it to intensify my trust in the universe; I can handle what life throws my way as I always have up to this point… no matter how difficult.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve always been attracted to the simple act of creating. Anything. In second grade I had the daydream of crafting a mini carnival out of cardboard and string (complete with a moving Ferris Wheel, ha). I love keeping my hands busy and especially if that means crafting something as a thank you or celebratory gift to someone dear in my life. About 2 years ago I decided to delve into the watercolor world and hone in on my acrylic skills as well. Looking back, I can say I’m proud of learning from YouTube and practicing often enough to really see a difference in using these mediums. Ultimately I’ve found the most joy in customizing pieces for others… especially as surprise gifts. To hear that someone received a custom piece from me, teared up, shouted with joy, and then hung it proudly on display- that really fuels what I do. It’s an honor to have my work touch others so deeply.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There are SO many things to do and jaw-dropping places to explore within the Denver metro area and slightly beyond. For a week trip, we’d start at a lower elevation (assuming they come from a lower area of the world) in order for them to acclimate a bit. This means plenty of water between those craft beers at Kokopelli’s in Westminster. We could walk around Standley Lake and take in the surrounding views. Next up would have to be Boulder- Chautauqua Park (plenty of Flatirons hiking options from easy to difficult) and end with a drink and food on Pearl Street. The next day could be Eldorado Canyon. Such a hidden gem within a half hour of Denver. Let’s picnic there and watch the insane rock climbers! Once they’ve acclimated a bit we can take on the higher elevations at one or more of the following locations: Rocky Mountain National Park (Bear Lake, Nymph/Dream/Emerald Lake, Gem Lake, the Alpine Visitor’s Center- the possibilities are endless), Estes Park, and then take on Spirit Hound Distillers in Lyons on the way home. We have to go visit the giant, reclaimed wood troll- Isak Heartstone- in Breckenridge next. He is a true legend. Lunch can be at Ollie’s Pub & Grub on a revamped dredger in the middle of the river. We’ll walk Breckenridge’s main street for shops and sights. I feel as though a trip to Garden of the Gods is also a necessity. Located outside of Colorado Springs, this free park is a natural and strange beauty nearby the gorgeous Pikes Peak. The red rocks stand proudly in front of the mountain range. There is so much more to do and see, but let’s start there. 🙂

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m honored to dedicate this shout out to my husband, family, and friends. Every one of those in my closest circles have never ceased to lift me up in whatever endeavor I choose to take on. I go to this unofficial “team” for advice, insight, constructive criticism, laughs, ideas, and motivation. I truly believe that anything I create wouldn’t be meaningful or filled with love if it weren’t for my endlessly supportive tribe.

Instagram: anj.is.artsy
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anj.is.artsy

Image Credits
John Carr