Meet Sarah Wandzilak | Visual Artist and Model

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

Hi Sarah, what do you attribute your success to?
I was told, like many young creatives, that I would never make a living if I followed an artistic path. Though this is told to us by well meaning people, it isn’t the truth. The truth is you need more than just talent or skill. You need tenacity and drive. When one well dries up you need to go looking for another. I’ve designed and produced a tarot deck. I’ve painted pet portraits and done craft fairs. I’ve designed logos and tattoos. I’ve made YouTube videos, and designed stickers. Because of this willingness to try new things I’ve been a self employed freelance artist for five years. Making the leap to following my passion was terrifying at first, but I’ve realized something vital throughout the journey. I would rather constantly dedicate myself to the next creative avenue that will pay my bills than to settle for a career that would crush my spirit. So though it’s hard work I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve dedicated myself to creative endeavors for the last 15 years of my life. I’ve tried sculpting, digital art, traditional art, photography, modeling, video creating and editing. Though my ultimate goal is to be a painter, who doesn’t have to sell everything they paint, I’m happy now just to make a living doing something that I love. I wish it was as simple as saying that following my dreams has been a challenge, but it was the most clear-cut thing I’ve ever done in my life. The challenges don’t seem to matter when you know why you’re going through them, or what you’re going through them for. I feel lucky and grateful to know what I was put here to do. I was once told “,it’s the things we make ourselves do that grows us.” So whatever that thing is you’re sacred of, go out and show it who’s boss.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Downtown has a great atmosphere, tons of art to see, of course I would show my friends everything down there I’ve painted. Suehiros is probably my favorite restaurant downtown, amazing sushi and very affordable. One of my favorite things about this city is the close proximity to nature, so I would definitely be taking my friend on many hikes. The mica mines is probably my favorite trail, because it’s easy for a beginner like me, and still very beautiful!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would dedicate my success in part to my father. He is a business owner and seeing him manage his career showed me that you don’t have to settle for a job that doesn’t suit you. You could pave your own way. Of course I also have to thank each and every person who has supported my art via purchases and even a simple like or share on social media.

Instagram: S.E.Wandz

Youtube: YouTube.com/Swandzz