Meet Grace Galster | Artist & soon to be Social Worker

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

Hi Grace, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
There are two quotes that have always resonated a lot with me. One is by Nelson Mandela, “May your choices reflect your hopes not your fears”. And the second is by Stephen Grellet, “I shall pass this way but once, any good therefore that I can do or any kindness that I can show, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”

Both of those quotes remind me to live each day boldly and always step forward with love, kindness, and courage. We all know life is difficult and complicated, and at times it can be easy to “sleepwalk” your way through life. These quotes are great examples for me, of how to not only live a life of faith and hope, but to also use my time here on this earth to help and love others as best I can.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Art has always been something I enjoy. It is a creative escape that both simultaneously relaxes and challenges me. I truly never expected to have a side art business. I initially would paint and create pieces for friends and family who asked but would rarely monetize off it or share it with others. Within these last three years I have created a humble and small business (solely off Instagram) where I have been able to create and sell a variety of pieces. From custom digital prints, acrylic paintings, watercolors, stationery, and even wedding envelope addressing- I have been honored to be able to mold and expand the services I offer. I think my favorite thing about being able to do this, is that I love being a part of your story. Whether that’s creating a print of your passed loved one or painting a couples first home- it’s an honor to share my art with you and be a part of your story in some little way. I am currently finishing up my last year in graduate school, where next May I will receive my Master’s in Social Work. Though I am so grateful I can pursue my two biggest passions: social justice and art, I cannot lie and say it hasn’t been tricky balancing graduate school, my job, plus my art business. It has been a season of late nights, little sleep, and complete grind, but I also would not change it for the world. I have loved creating meaningful and fun pieces in the past, but I am now more excited to intentionally combine my heart for justice and art. I want my art to inspire others, remind them of their worth, and at the end of the day make them feel valued and seen. I have a few exciting things in the works with my art business and though I can’t disclose it all now, you will be seeing some new additions to my Instagram and Etsy store and I am so excited and hopeful for what’s to come.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well considering that food is one of my love languages, a large portion of the itinerary would go towards eating. One of my all-time favorite places and comfort foods can be found at Food Terminal. I will never get tired of this place, and I have yet to have a bad meal here. If you are also looking for a good burger, General Muir has one of the best in the city. Get a burger with their pommes frites and you will have a delicious and oh so satisfying meal! I would also take them on the belt line, I feel like this is a fun and wonderful depiction of Atlanta and you will always meet new people and have a good time, whether you are simply walking it or stopping in one of the many bars or restaurants. I am also a sucker for some dancing. Though Johnny’s may be the popular choice, I am a huge fan of 57th Fighter Club. Nestled next to the PDK airport, this little gem may be geared for the older generation, but I promise it will not stop you from dancing and having the best night!

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?
There are so many people I could shoutout for helping me get to where I am today. I am very fortunate to have a very supportive family. My mom, sister, and grandmother have always encouraged me to pursue my art and passions and whenever my self-critic would make an appearance they were always there to speak truth and reassurance over me. I can say with certainty that if it wasn’t for them, I would not have taken that leap of faith with my art. I also have some amazing friends that not only encourage and inspire me but will regularly provide me with ideas and business input and suggestions, which is truly invaluable to me.

Website: coming soon! (still being finalized)

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theart_of_grace/

Other: Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheartofgraceUS Tik Tok: @gg.thatsme