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

Hi Mychaela, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Ever since I was able to hold a pen, I have been creating visual art. Growing up surrounded by creative people, I learned to paint, draw, sew, and experiment with various crafts. There was never a question of if I would pursue a creative career—only what that career would look like. After high school, I began my undergraduate studies at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. However, I soon pivoted, moving closer to home to study neuroscience and psychology at East Carolina University. While there, I took enough art courses to earn a minor in art.

I have always been fascinated by how people perceive the world around them and how they process the emotions that inherently come with life. For me, art has always been an escape—my form of therapy. Learning to share my art with others took practice, as it meant revealing my heart in a deeply vulnerable way. Art has always been, and always will be, an intimate experience for me. I hope to convey that passion and joy through my artistic practice. I love experimenting with new mediums, but watercolor will always hold a special place in my heart, as my grandmother was a nationally recognized watercolorist.

Through my work, I aim to bring the positive emotions I find from being outdoors inside—to offer a fresh perspective on how to view the world and to evoke a sense of joy and compassion in viewers.

Visual arts have allowed me to express myself in ways words cannot. Putting paint to paper and letting my emotions flow is a unique experience—one that I hope everyone has the opportunity to discover.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My artwork is defined by its vibrant colors—”bringing sunshine inside” has become my personal motto. I love working across a wide range of mediums, allowing myself the freedom to experiment and not be constrained by any one style of mark-making. I embrace the fluidity of watercolors, the precision of pens and markers, the rich textures of acrylics, and the layered patterns created through collage. There are endless possibilities to explore, and each medium offers a new way to express emotion and energy.

One of my proudest bodies of work is my Origami Animal Collection, where I translate three-dimensional models into two-dimensional geometric designs. This series challenged me to think about form, structure, and simplicity in new ways, blending my love for both organic and geometric styles.

Currently, I am collaborating with a local coffee shop, San Francisco Coffee Co., to host a series of events called “Coffee & Create.” These sessions offer a relaxed space for participants to learn about my artistic process, create their own origami animal artwork, explore color choices, and enjoy the act of creating.

Professionally, my proudest milestone has been having the courage to put my work into the world through art markets and gallery exhibitions. My first art market experience was at Studio 23 in Smyrna, GA. From there, opportunities have continued to grow, each one building my confidence and fueling my passion. I am thankful for all of the organizers I have worked with for having confidence in showcasing my work.

The journey hasn’t always been easy. Like many artists, I faced self-doubt and fear of vulnerability. Sharing art is sharing a piece of your heart, and it took time to find the courage to be seen. I’ve learned that growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone and trusting your voice.

What I want the world to know about my story is that art, for me, is about joy, connection, and emotional expression. Through my work, I aim to bring a sense of warmth, wonder, and creativity into everyday spaces—and to encourage others to embrace their own creative journeys.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First things first—coffee! There are so many great shops to choose from. Some of my favorite are: Dancing Goats Coffee for a cozy, laid-back vibe, San Fran Coffee Co. (where I also host art events), Refuge Coffee Co., which is a cool, community-driven café in a converted bus, and ParkGrounds, a chill spot with a great atmosphere and a dog-friendly patio.

For food, my go-to’s are La Fonda Latina, I almost always get the tacos (fish or shrimp) or a veggie and chicken quesadilla. And you best not forget the margarita! For breakfast, Thumbs Up Diner is a must, so many good options to choose from! We’d also swing by the DeKalb Farmers Market, not only a grocery store, but an experience with tons of unique finds. and if you need spices for cheap, this is your place to go!

During the day, we’d explore a few of the best local spots. We’d check out the Georgia Aquarium, it’s incredible (plus my husband volunteers with the Ocean Voyager tank, so we’d get the inside scoop on the animals). Piedmont Park is a great spot for a walk, a picnic, or just some good people-watching. The Atlanta Botanical Garden would definitely be on the list too—especially in the spring or summer when everything’s in bloom.

Depending on the time of year, we’d hit up art markets like GVG, Hillside Craft Crawl, and the Refuge Coffee Markets. They’re great for finding handmade goods, unique art, and supporting small businesses.

Overall, it’d be a week full of good vibes, amazing food, cool art, and a real taste of what makes Atlanta so special.

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 entire family has been incredibly supportive of my artistic journey; however, one family member in particular stands out—my late grandmother, Nancy. While I was in college, she suffered a stroke, and I spent one summer visiting her every day in the nursing home. She was a gifted watercolor artist, nationally recognized for her talent. One day, while we were painting together, a nurse walked in, and my grandmother said, “She is going to be the next Van Gogh.” While I certainly hope to remain a bit more mentally stable than Van Gogh, the sentiment was clear—she had unwavering faith in me as an artist. I have honored her memory in my most recent collection, which features origami animals—a nod to the paper cranes she used to fold for me during my childhood.

Website: https://msha.ke/mychaelaartist

Instagram: @mychaelaartist

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mychaelaartist/

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