Meet Chandler Strange | Artist and Flower Farm Owner

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

Hi Chandler, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
It has always been my heart’s desire to be my own boss. When I had my children and they were babies and toddlers, I was always dreaming and working slowley towards my goals, Even when it was just in my head, and built my businesses up while my children grew and grew into bigger people and started school. Then I felt ready. I would try growing different flowers, practiced watercolors and drawing, Dreamt of a children’s book im about to finally publish. Who I am now was very much developed in line with my family.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I work primarily in two ways. I do photo realistic drawings of plants and animals, mostly flowers and birds, sometimes very large. I also do watercolor illustrations, for children’s books, a line of greeting cards, botanicals and commissions. I am excited about a children’s book I am about to publish, an illustrated version of the old folk song “Over in the Meadow”, as well as a life sized detailed drawing of a flamingo. To get where I am professionally as an artist it has taken a lot of patience, education and some guts. It has been a challenge to carve out space for a creative career in this busy life, but I am getting there, and I am very grateful. With my drawings I am focused on light gradation, shadow, how the play of light on a single leaf can be so breathtakingly beautiful, how just one bird is so fascinating in its design and grace. In my drawings I am pointing out in dramatic contrast, the profound beauty in common things, while also playing with themes of time, mystery and joy. My watercolor art is playful and fun, not very serious, but also still dealing with themes of nature, sustainability, and joy.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh I love Durango! and there is so much to see, and so many amazing people. The mountains are just my favorite in the summer and I love to hike the beautiful trails, soak up the magic from the wildflowers and the beautiful views. Favorite restaurants in town are James Ranch, The Yellow Carrot, The oar House. I also love to show off our farm. On our property I have a flower farm and my husband has a fish farm, raising trout. I love sharing it with people, seeing it through new eyes, its a magical place.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mom, my husband, and some really incredible friends and co-creatives.

Website: https://www.chandlerstrange.com/

Instagram: cstrange27

Image Credits
Chandler Strange