Meet Eirenne Estergard | Artist and Teacher

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

Hi Eirenne, what makes you happy? Why?
Rain and the smell of creosote bring me joy but I don’t know why. Being in nature and feeling connected to the way things grow and move in predicable patterns sometimes, but not always. Admiring nature makes me happy because it’s designed so well and makes me think there is purpose to any form. Although it can seem random and chaotic, there is a deeply rooted knowing of direction and expression.

Allowing myself to surrender to bring a door for the ideas, images, and words that appear in my imagination fills my heart. Giving them the chance to be seen on paper or material. I have a reverence for my love of creating beautiful things. Making things makes me happy because it helps me see my imagination and understand myself more.

Making others laugh and smile. Helping them feel safe, loved, understood, and inspired. Being able to help others help themselves. It feels good to be able to give others the things I also seek. These things make me happy because they help me embrace the complexity of being human and appreciate the bright spots of an often difficult existence.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have been making things since I was a little kid. I have always just done it because I enjoy it. I love to have an idea and then make it into something I can see and hold with my hands. I think there are so many beautiful creatives out there and we each have a special sauce that resonates with a certain audience. I’m proud of my relationship with creating, I genuinely love doing it and I am so excited that I get to do something that I love doing. I’m not really anywhere yet professionally. I have built a website and have some intentions of making a living selling my artwork, but it is a learning process. I have not had an easy life in most ways. I overcome challenges with persistence and patience, if I feel strongly about something it’s just a matter of time and effort until it becomes a reality. Challenges are necessary. I have learned that I have no idea what I am doing and that nobody else does either. Everyone is just making their best guess and what works for someone may not for another. It is really important to be true to yourself and trust your gut. Listen to the advice of others, but use discernment when applying their path to yours. My brand is I hate brands, I need and seek truth. I want to be myself and make things and if others enjoy what I make it’s a bonus. I am in love with the beauty of our planet and the way things move and grow. Human kindness makes me cry. Humor is important to me and I hope to translate the lessons I have learned and healing I have done in my life into artwork that brings comfort and joy to others.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I live near Tucson and I am married with a young child, so I have not been much for going out on the town for excitement. I don’t really get excited about anything except for hiking or going to thrift stores.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband is my biggest supporter. He believes in me so much I’ve almost begun to believe in myself. I never would have had the confidence to share my work or my voice without knowing he had my back. I feel very fortunate to have a partner that sees my potential, even when I’m not able to.

Website: https://www.eirenneart.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cah1h51L1jQ/