Conversations with Joanne Grimm

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joanne Grimm.

Hi Joanne, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
As a former elementary school teacher, I made it a priority to include art throughout the curriculum. Now that I am retired, art is not only a priority for me, but a necessity! I am a self-taught artist and have been painting mandalas for over nine years.

In 2016, I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. and painting was my therapy; helping me navigate my cancer journey. With that phase of my life behind me, I now have the privilege of sharing my love of this colorful and meditative art form through teaching mandala painting classes in my home art studio in Thousand Oaks, California.

My students continue to be my inspiration to grow as an artist and explore new designs and techniques. We are truly a supportive community of one another.

More recently, my small business has had a creative growth spurt! In addition to offering mandala painting classes, Joanne’s Garden Whimsy Art Studio now offers a variety of artsy and interactive hands-on classes! From mixed media and crushed glass classes to wine tasting and candle making, my ambition is to offer my students and community opportunities to grow intellectually and creatively.

In the art world, trying new things can be exciting and a bit intimidating. However, you don’t need to be good at art for it to be good for you. I encourage to my students to enjoy the process. Sometimes the magic is in the mistakes.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As a small business, my biggest obstacle is getting the word out that I offer art classes. The immediate feeling of community among my students, the understanding that everyone is an artist, and the positive vibes I strive to encourage has helped propel my little business forward and continue to grow.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Mandala means “circle” and is a geometric configuration of symbols used in various spiritual traditions. Centered around a focal point, they often serve as a map representing the universe, a meditation aid to quiet the mind, or a spiritual guidance tool.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me as an artist and teacher is the feeling my students’ come away with from a mandala painting class that they too are an artist and are able to express themselves through this amazing artform.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://JoannesGardenWhimsy.com
• Instagram: @JoannesGardenWhimsy
• Facebook: @JoannesGardenWhimsy
• Other: Pinterest Joanne’s Garden Whimsy