Today we’d like to introduce you to Helen Lary.
Helen, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I have always been drawn to the creative world: always drawing when I was young, photography when I had my kids, interior design after we bought our first home. It was in that first home that I wanted original art and decided to paint something for our bare wall and painting felt so peaceful and gratifying. I truly haven’t put my paintbrush down since! After painting for family and friends, I had no idea that I was starting a small business by word of mouth and people visiting others’ homes. It was organic, which was so nice because it also made it purposeful.
After formally launching Helen Lary Art, most of my time was devoted to the commission process and creating personal pieces for clients. I love collaborating with clients to create pieces they will cherish and be a source of joy in their every day lives.
While the bulk of my business is still commission-based, I also create for the pure love of creating and know that there is a big market for affordable, original art. Local businesses, like The Collective, carry my pieces and they have helped me grow tremendously! CanvasKick is another great partner, where my pieces are available as prints and giclee. Local and online pop-ups are another great avenue I have explored throughout the years. This spring I am joining The Tate Studio for a pop-up shop and I was recently invited to join The Scouted Studio’s online pop-up event this April!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Time management is a big struggle for me, and probably most artists! I have three kids with endless amounts of energy, and with the youngest not being in school, managing everyone’s schedules, needs and studio time is a constant balancing act. I can’t tell you how many times my husband peeks his head into the studio, asking what’s for dinner. Eek! It’s so easy to lose track of time while I’m painting. Setting boundaries for your time and expectations is super important for any business, no matter your size or industry.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Helen Lary Art story.
People are drawn to the color and texture of my pieces. My mother grew up in Mexico, so I was surrounded by vibrant colors and a deep love of that culture. We only spoke Spanish in our home. I try to ensure some of that beautiful movement and feeling in my paintings. I’m also driven by giving back in some small way. I was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at 22 years old and, after my cancer journey ended (thankfully in remission), I wanted to find a way to use my story to help make a difference for other patients. I shared my story last year via @helenlaryart and accompanied each “chapter” with an art auction to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I’m so thankful to my community, physically and virtually, who showed so much love and encouragement! I hope everyone knows that behind every piece of art, there’s an artist who feels honored and so grateful to share their gifts. I certainly feel that way!
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I 100% believe that God is with me through everything. My cancer journey, my everyday life and my business, so I don’t think of it as luck. God really blessed me with this gift and I know He has a path laid out for me. I am just happy to be on this creative journey and I’m soaking up every twist and turn this business (and life!) throws my way!
Contact Info:
- Email: helenlaryart@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helenlaryart
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helenlaryart
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