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

Hi Andrea, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I wanted a career that would give me independence with the ability to set my own schedule. My business provides me with an income while allowing me to create and do something I love. Through my art, I am able to express myself while teaching others to tap into their own creativity.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a Visual Artist that specializes in pyrography, display work, and illustration. I love to learn different art techniques and I am currently in the process of exploring various art forms. My main focus is pyrography or wood-burning. The term pyrography means “writing with fire”. I find this therapeutic in the sense that while you are burning, the aroma that fills the air produces a pleasant scent of sweet sap and the slightest hint of a campfire. If you were to trail your fingers across the burn marks, you can feel the indentations in the wood. With pyrography, I am able to create amazing pieces that are extremely unique and one of a kind.

Pyrography has created many opportunities for me. I have sold pieces through various art shows, stores and online. I have donated pieces to charities and have taught workshops. I have a sponsorship that allows me to create online tutorials to help others with their own skill set. I am currently working on a pyrography book for beginners. I am in hopes that this will be the first of many. I am proud of each opportunity I have received. Every day I learn something new and I embrace how that new knowledge can elevate me to the next level.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Atlanta is such a big and exciting city. I am ashamed to say that there is still so much of the city I have yet to discover. For family-friendly experiences, I would take my friends to the Georgia Aquarium. This place is beautiful and I love watching the excitement in people’s faces as they take a peek into the world below. This aquarium is currently the largest in the world so it is bound to give you hours of beauty and entertainment. I am a huge animal lover which makes the Atlanta Zoo an easy choice. They have a wide variety of animals such as giraffes, pandas, leopards and more. Any place where I can visit a sloth is a win on my list. This is a great place to enjoy no matter what your age. Atlanta Botanical Garden is another place I highly recommend. It is located adjacent to Piedmont Park so you can visit both places in one day. The Delta Flight Museum is an aviation museum located at Delta Air Lines headquarters. I worked for the airline industry for many years so this place is near and dear to my heart. This would be a neat experience for anyone interested in the airline industry. Six Flags Over Georgia is a family favorite in my household. You could say that my family and I identify as theme park junkies. This is the place you would find us, every weekend (when open). If it gets too hot, we take a dip in the wave pool at Hurricane Harbor. Another great recommendation is the Center For Puppetry Arts. Many years ago, in college, I had to watch a show here. I fell in love with the experience. For a brief moment, you forget you are watching puppets and get engulfed in the performance. I highly recommend checking out one of their shows, you won’t regret it. Of course, there is also Centennial Olympic Park, World of Coca-Cola, the Fox Theatre and a slew of museums such as the High Museum of Art, Fernbank Museum of Natural History and Fernbank Science Center as well as the Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Atlanta is such an amazing city with so many places to see, you’re bound to find something that suits everyone’s needs.

As far as food goes, there are some places that have put Atlanta on the map. The Varsity is known for its chili dogs and fries. The Vortex is a well-known landmark famous for its burgers and beers. If you love sushi, a personal favorite of mine is Nori Nori. Be sure to get to this all-you-can-eat buffet when doors open. They have a large variety of sushi displayed beautifully throughout the restaurant and a section where a chef can customize orders of fried rice at your request. For a fun night on the town, try Greek. Taverna Plaka has such a fun atmosphere. While you enjoy your meal, belly dancers will come out and encourage you to dance along. So get up, grab a napkin and join the fun.
If you want to escape the crowds of the city, you can experience the mountains of North Georgia. While you are up there, relax and take in the lush scenery of Dahlonega, Helen or the various parks that have access to hiking trails with views of waterfalls. Head to South Georgia and sink your toes in the sandy beaches of St Simons Island, Jekyll Island or Tybee Island.

There is so much history and culture in Atlanta and the surrounding areas. We are known for our food, music, and movies. Every part of Atlanta is bursting with energy, creativity, and excitement. I would make sure that any friend that visits me leaves with the amazement of what Atlanta has to offer.

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 have several people I would like to dedicate my shoutout to. The first person I’d like to recognize is my husband, Gary, my rock. Gary has always encouraged me and supported me throughout our relationship. I would not be where I am today without him. My parents, Carol and Mike, who have been there for me since day one. They have watched my love for art grow from a hobby to a business. They have believed in my abilities before I even knew what I was capable of. My two beautiful children, Madelyn and Jonathan, who are my biggest fans. Both of my children always make me want to do the best that I can. They inspire me and motivate me daily. My dear friends, Michele and Jessica, are like family and have been by my side since high school. I am so fortunate to have them in my life throughout all these years. Lastly, I would like to thank Pavel, Rene, and my TRUArt ®️ family for sponsoring me and providing me with the tools I need to create my work. Not only do they sell amazing products, but they have given me an opportunity to teach and help others express themselves through art. I appreciate all the support you have given me over the past couple of years. Thank you all for your love and encouragement, I owe all my success to you.

Website: Www.patespyrography.weebly.com
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Email: patespyrography@gmail.com