Finding Joy through Art
Anne's Story
I’m an abstract artist, energy medicine practitioner and 30-year veteran developing spas and wellness destinations and experiences around the world mccallwilson.com. Art found me after a challenging chapter in my life. After visiting a friend’s home filled with joyful, bright art, I felt an immediate shift in my energy. The impact was deep and soulful. Unable to find the art I then envisioned for my own home, I decided to paint it myself…and never looked back. Today, I paint and teach from my studio located at The Arts Port Royal, where I co-own the Stone Wilson Gallery. I live nearby in the Freedman Arts District in Beaufort, SC, and I am a member of the Beaufort Art Association and its downtown gallery. I am enjoying life surrounded by creativity and the artist spirit.
Art + Wellbeing
Art has the power to lift us. It rekindled my joy, awakened my imagination, and deepened my understanding of how creativity supports wellbeing. I now see art as another wellness modality.
Art can raise our energy, whether engaging in art making or simply enjoying the beauty of it. With similar benefits as mindfulness and meditation, creativity and play can be powerful paths to improved mental health and joy filled living.
Art Style
As an abstract artist, my work is intuitive, textured, layered and bold. It is an exploration of creative techniques and ways to express myself. It begins by writing an intention on the surface. I may include poetry or song lyrics not always visible but remaining as an energetic foundation.
Acrylics + Mixed Media
I primarily paint with acrylics and often enhance my work with mixed media: collage, modeling paste, drawing tools, and handmade papers. These elements add complexity, contrast, and tactile interest to the canvas.
The Journey of Abstract Art
Abstract art is a process of surrender and discovery. I respond to each layer and mark, making choices that reflect the present moment. It’s an ongoing dialogue with the unknown. Nature may guide my concept and principles like value, composition, and color harmony may guide the journey, but the magic is in the unfolding.
Art and Life
One of the most exciting aspects of abstract art is embracing the unexpected journey, enjoying the freedom of endless possibilities while understanding the universal laws of successful art. It exercises our imagination and elevates our joy, yet each session also brings new challenges to overcome as I react to the evolving canvas. There are so many life metaphors and corresponding lessons. The art journey is sometimes messy, the unexpected happens often and then we get to respond and continue to create the art (and life) we want.
