Christa Forrest is a figurative artist residing in Southern California. A self taught artist, Christa left her 20 year career in finance to pursue her true passion. She continues to evolve and grow throughout her creative journey and has recently focused on developing her figurative portrait skills and techniques. Christa has participated in numerous exhibitions throughout New York and Connecticut, her home town and has been commissioned for work in public and private collections.

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What does art is magic mean to you?

Art is Magic is an amazing way to explore your creativity in a consistent way. Following along throughout this year-long journey, learn from so many different artists and peeking into their creative process. This is a great way to learn and grow as an artist. I feel practice is key to growing as an artist and participating in this type of creative journey will help you thrive.

Why do you create art?

I create art because I was born to. It is in my veins and the air I breathe. I love being a creative and also sharing my creative process with others. I enjoy creating stories and getting them onto a canvas. I love seeing the journey come to life through the process and giving my viewer a front seat into my creative soul.

Tell us about your journey to become an artist?

I have always been creative but I didn’t take it seriously until I was a lot older. After a 20-year career in finance, I decided to follow my passion. I quit my job and focused on my creativity full-time. I followed and found amazing creators to learn from to help me grow as an artist and I started to share my process through teaching. This has led me to where I am today - followng my passion and sharing my creativity.

What is currently inspiring you?

I am currently working on a series focusing on women that have inspired me throughout my creative journey. These are fellow creators, and artists that I have found inspiration and motivation throughout my career.

What sort of creative walls do you hit?

One part of the process that I always find difficult is making it to the finish line. So many times I go through a period of frustrations in my creative practice. This comes as comparing myself to other artists, not have enough confidence in my practice and letting my inner critic’s voice take over. This struggles has at times kept me from believing in my work. This has led me to work on myself as an artist and spend time building up my creative confidence. Taking time off from social media, and focusing on me has helped me work through these feelings and grow as an artist.

How have you pushed through these walls?

Incorporating a consistent practice has helped me to push through as well as putting social media on pause at times. Practice is growth and allowing yourself to make mistakes helps you thrive. A consistent sketchbook practice let’s me do this - loosen up and just play.