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

Hi Courtney, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I was going through the back half of cancer treatment at the time and thought that I should take advantage of the time off to get things going because becoming a rising artist takes awhile.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Most people have one medium or type of art that they do. Mine is so diverse and it’s hard for me to stick to one thing. I have always loved learning new things and art has so many different avenues. My favorite things to do are painting and burning skulls, wood burning, and painting realism on multiple types of canvas. I started taking an interest in art when I was in 4th grade. There was a simple yet dedicated artist as our art teacher; her name was Mrs. Hanes. She taught us the basics and many tips/tricks to help us improve our skills. I never took another art class until high school when they offered them. Intro to drawing is all I made time for since I never thought of art as an actual perusable career. Other than things I’ve learned in those classes, I’m a self taught artist and have learned from other artists on the internet. Is it challenging to be a starving artist in today’s society? Sure; but how do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Definitely down town Cave Creek! There’s so much to offer there! Whether it’s breakfast at Local Johnny’s, lunch at the Grotto Cafe, or dinner and dancing at Harold’s Corral, you can’t go wrong! There’s also bull riding, lots of shopping, and some sight seeing on horse back or ATVs/side by sides if you know the right spots.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My parents, family, and friends that are always supportive (and my first customers) as well as Arizona Mule Deer Organization for their support and collaboration!

Website: www.courtneyscreations.art

Instagram: @courtneys.creations.art

Facebook: Courtney Polyard

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.