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

Hi Michelle, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I jumped in with both feet when I founded A Damsel’s Locket with a bit of fear but no hesitation. There is always risk when starting a business. I think my fear came because I knew I was going to have to be open and vulnerable and share my own experiences to help other survivors on their journey to heal. As I reflect on the journey I can see the both the lessons (not failures!) and successes. All of it has been so rewarding. I think staying rooted in my purpose ever step of the way has allowed me to push past the fear, take the risks and know that no matter the outcome I did it to serve my mission.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When I found Art I was crippled with fear and anxiety. I had sever PTSD and spent years trying to heal the wounds of the past unsuccessfully. I was so close to giving up on having a peaceful life. I started to paint as a hobby to get through my days. Almost on accident something truly amazing happened, and for the first time in as long as I could remember I truly felt my heart beating. My soul was coming alive. I was able to speak with my paint brush paint and tell the story my heart carried for a long time. Art has always been about the process and transformation for me..
One of my favorite quotes about art is by Andy Warhol and he says “Don’t think about making art, just get it done. Let everyone else decide if it’s good or bad, whether they love it or hate it. While they are deciding, make even more art.”

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The Local is one of my favorite places to buy great gifts from local artist, and makers. Crumble Cookies is a special treat!

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?
My dear friend Sheryl Miess. She is an Art teacher and a photographer. She is a board member of our non profit. With her busy schedule of teaching, her photography business and being an amazing mom she still fits in being an amazing mentor friend and support for me and ADL.

Website: Adamselslocket.org

Instagram: Instagram.com/A_Damsels_Locket

Facebook: Facebook.com/adamselslocket

Image Credits
Sheryl Miess Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.