Meet Christine Stadnik | Artist

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

Hi Christine, what is the most important factor behind your success?
As I began Awake the Soul Art as a young artist in high school, I struggled finding my unique voice in the pieces I did. I accepted commissions to help me explore different mediums and enjoyed the challenges of these tasks. In taking more time to paint for myself, I have found beauty in the differences amongst my pieces. Creating art from the heart, inspired by the world around me, I’ve learned that everyone’s unique perspective alters their view on my work. I attribute my success to the authenticity behind my art, something I believe is the core driver of connection with viewers. Staying true to myself and enjoying this form of expression has been most influential as I build my foundation as an artist.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

I’ve loved art for as long as I can remember. During the pandemic, I began cleaning out my space and finding canvases amongst an abundance of materials. In up cycling everything I could get my hands on, from denim to old vinyls and plywood, these different mediums allowed me to get creative as an artist. This is truly what kicked off Awake the Soul.

Currently, my studies of Geography and Sustainability at the University of Denver have translated into my art. I’m constantly inspired to create with the outdoors in mind. My work reflects my world, as I see life energy in everything from mountains to trees; hence why much of my art incorporates the painting of eyes.

As I continue forward, I strive to become more connected with the Denver Art Community. I hope my work can serve as inspiration for others and bring happiness to those who encounter it. In the near future, I intend to capture the importance of environmental awareness within my work.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If I was showing a close friend around, I would without a doubt take them on a coffee tour of Denver including Unravel Coffee and the Green Bus Cafe. You would find us roaming RiNo whether that be the Central Market or checking out the city’s murals. During the farmers market season, I’d be visiting S Pearl Street and City Park; eating your way through Denver never fails. And of course, I’ve never been disappointed by any of the live music I’ve seen in Colorado. From Red Rocks to the Gothic, experiencing music in these venues are some of my favorite memories.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am incredibly grateful for my friends and family that have supported me as a growing artist. In my hometown community on the east coast, when starting my business I received an abundance of work opportunities from people that believed in my capabilities. Working on larger scale commissions redefined my area of skill and my confidence. It helped me learn that art is limitless and expression is within us all. I want to thank everyone that has supported Awake the Soul Art. It means the world to me.

Instagram: awake.thesoulart