Meet Sara Edenfield | Illustrator & Barista

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

Hi Sara, why did you pursue a creative career?
I think most creatives take this path because it feels like the only one. Six years ago, I couldn’t imagine working the rest of my life doing anything that wasn’t art. So much about living has always felt jerky and uncomfortable. The only time that went away was when I was making something. Something about drawing was so smooth and easy, even when I my work looked wrong. It was the only thing I really had confidence in, so I went for it. Now, it’s less about feeling like it’s the only way and more about knowing that this is the way that will bring the most joy. It’s still the answer, but the dilemma is not so dramatic.

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.
I’m a sketchbook enthusiast and a digital illustrator. I draft almost all of my work traditionally. If I want to push it further, digital always seems to be the solution. It helps me give the work a vibrancy and enthusiasm that I can’t get any other way. It’s pretty focused on nature and fantasy themes, but I’m game for almost anything. In terms of my career, I feel like I’m just getting started. I graduated May of 2020 in the midst of the pandemic and felt pretty lost in the confusion of all that was happening and the fear of landing in a position that I didn’t find satisfying. I’ve worked through a lot since then, and been able to work on some really neat projects. I’ve been a rule follower and a people pleaser my whole life, so putting my foot down and genuinely living my life and pursuing work that I choose has been difficult. It’s been a long year of working through old internal issues and making deliberate choices to be better. I’m more happy and at peace than I have been in years so I think it’s working. I’m drawing for fun and for work. And sometimes I feel like I’m working for fun. As a brand, I want people to notice that I draw the natural world and fantasy the same way. Everything deserves the same glittery energy and vibrant patterns. Everyday life and fiction can be the same if you give them the same love and attention. I’ve realized I need to give my own life the enthusiasm that I used to give to the fantasy books I read as a kid. People give meaning to the things around them. So I’ll do just that.

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.
One thing I really enjoy about Atlanta is how intertwined with nature it is and how a good hike is never too far away. My husband I have spent a lot of time hiking the East and West Palisades. And the Paper Mill Ruins at Soap Creek were always great for inspiration. Great places to relax, have a picnic, and get a few good reference photos. For dinner, I’d recommend Hankook Taqueria. It’s a delicious Korean Mexican fusion restaurant and it’s super affordable.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband and my family have given me the most support. Any of the growth I’ve had over the past year wouldn’t have been possible without them.

Website: edenillustrates.com

Instagram: eden.illustrates

Image Credits
Jon Beavers