Meet Cora Wheeler | Artist

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

Hi Cora, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
About 10 years ago, I was working as a pediatric dental hygienist. As a hobby/on the side, I was working as a freelance floral designer and painting custom art. As my family began to grow with more children, it was getting harder and harder to balance work and family. I realized I needed to pivot. By starting my own business as an artist, I was able to work out of my home and able to help with the the day to day activities with the kids. Plus, I was now doing something I absolutely loved!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
There are so many creatives in this world producing beautiful art! I try to stand out by providing an experience for/with my clients, by engaging with them throughout the process of producing a customized piece. I am thankful to have opportunities to work with clients who want to create something meaningful for their homes. Another unique attribute of my work is that every piece is three dimensional. With the use of acrylic, mixed medias and resin, I create layers of color and sculpt the subject to produce a tactile and visual experience for the viewer. The path to creating my own business and becoming an artist, has not been easy. Through the years there have been many new opportunities to create, but there have also been a lot of closed doors. You have to continue to self motivate and move forward, knowing it is a big world and room to grow.

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?
There are so many places and things to do in Colorado! Covid has definitely changed what we can and can’t do though. One of the days would be spent hanging out at our home with friends and family outside on the patio. We would order tasty charcuterie trays from So Damn Gouda to snack paired with wine and drinks from Boozy. We would also have dinner from Colore Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria. They have the best cheese ravioli and focaccia bites. The next day we would head into Cherry Creek north for some brunch and shopping. We would eat at Le Bilboquet. They have the best champagne brunch and heated covered patio! We would walk the streets window shopping and going in stores. One of my favorites to visit would be A Line. We would then visit Aviano for a coffee and treat, followed by visiting more shops. Some other places to go, Masters Gallery, Hermès and Bloom are just a few. We would then finish the day with dinner at Sushi Den. The next day we would start with a workout at Fierce 45, Cherry Hills location and grab a quick coffee and breakfast treat at Corvus on Broadway. We would then head up to Vail for a few days, hiking or skiing (depending on the season) and eating at Mountain Standard, Sweet Basil, Pazzo’s, Vendetta’s, Russell’s, Los Amigos and ending the nights at the Red Lion for drinks and live music. One of my favorite galleries to visit would be Vail Village Arts. We would also need to see some western-ware at Kemo Sabe. The day would be interlaced with outdoor activities depending on what the weather allows. The last few days would be spent back in Denver brunching at Le French, walks in the neighborhood and a dinner at Shanahan’s, which also has a fantastic outdoor patio and night scene. We would also visit some amazing museums and special places Denver has to offer, the Rothko museum, the DAM, Denver Botanic Gardens, the zoo with the kids…so many things to do.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband, family and friends- those that continue to encourage and support the growth of my art

Website: www.csextonwstudio.com

Instagram: csextonwstudio