Meet Analisa Shepard | Artist

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

Hi Analisa, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I’ve always been one to throw myself into risky, uncomfortable, and unpredictable situations. I graduated from the University of Tennessee Chattanooga in 2017 with a bachelors of science in civil engineering. I was one of few women in each class I attended and it was obvious I was headed into a male dominated field. I also compared myself to some very brilliant people in those few years and the work was grueling and hard, but one thing I learned through it all was that if I never take the risk, I’ll never know if I can do it. Engineering school wasn’t a piece of cake but I did it, and I believe it was because of my strong work ethic and determination. Did I fail tests? Plenty!! Did I do well in other assignments? Yes! In the end, I made it and that’s all that mattered.

I’ve taken this lesson with me and applied it to my art career among many other aspects of my life. There is always risk of failure but it’s truly my job to get back up once that happens and push through.

Success is always sweeter when you’ve worked hard for it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started painting when I was young. I’ve always felt a deep appreciation for art and an even deeper appreciation when making it, as it gives me a freedom to express myself, my experiences, and my emotions. At first, it was risky putting my art out there because I didn’t know if it was good or if people would like it, but I kept going despite my vulnerability. Along the way, I’ve gained confidence in my work and I can credit that to God. There’s a saying that goes, “God is either everything or He is nothing”. I have faith He created me and my path for a reason and I choose to embrace it!

My art is full of texture. I have two different styles, one being abstract landscapes and the other being abstract textured pieces. I love to work on a larger scale and aim to have viewers get lost in my pieces. They always have a story to tell and usually are pretty magical.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
So because I am currently in Chattanooga, TN, I’d first take my friend to the Art District so we could stroll around and look at all of the unique statues and artistic things. Next, we’d have lunch at Chattanooga’s finest little vegan place-Southern Squeeze, shop northshore and visit a few art galleries downtown. Then we’d head to Point Park on Lookout Mountain where we’d see all of Chattanooga along with many beautiful colors as the sun sets.

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’d have to say that my husband, Shane Shepard, has given me as much support as any man could give his wife and more. He stood by me through college and now through our parenthood journey. I started my art career as he was given more responsibility within his own career, and both of us maintaining our precious family and raising our three boys that are five years old and under. We have a lot going on but Shane sees my passion and the fire I have when I paint and I’ll forever be grateful for him for all of his love, encouragement, and support. It’s nice to have a best friend by your side through all of the ups and downs!

Website: Www.ShepardStudios.shop

Instagram: @shepard_studios

Facebook: Shepard Studios Chattanooga

Other: TikTok: @shepardstudios

Image Credits
Art staged with Smartist App