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

Hi Jim, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I was in a job that I was going to quit or be fired. I had a few jobs before that as well. I was at a point where I realized that what I always wanted to be was an artist and that what held me back was the fear of not making it. What I needed to do was fully commit. Once I had clarity on that, the path was clear, choose to be, or not to be an artist. I chose the first one and haven’t looked back.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a Landscape Oil Painter. I paint En Plein Air and in the studio. My art presents my unique view of what I think is beautiful in the world. I have won many local and national awards for my work. I have been painting for 24 years and am represented by 7 galleries across the west. I am a member of several prestigious National art organizations. I am constantly striving to improve my work with the intention of painting a masterpiece when I start each painting. Sometimes it has been difficult to do and sometimes it has flowed with ease. Whenever I hit a rough patch I would look to my artistic vision statement as to why I was painting, what was my purpose for doing this career. “Bringing beauty into the world, making a difference with my art” is my main reason to paint and that spurs me on when things get difficult. One lesson I have learned along the way is that you attract what you ask for. Either consciously or unconsciously. So, if I can consciously ask for what I want, I can create my future the way I want it to be. My paintings are an expression of what I find beautiful in the world. What I see with a sense of awe. I try to convey that so when people look at my paintings they feel a sense of wonder and happiness.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First I would take them to Laguna Beach and stay there a few days. Eating lunch at La Sirena Grill. Best Fish tacos ever! Go to the beach and play beach games. Then I would Travel down to San Juan Capistrano to visit the mission area. Maybe Go to the LA Harbor and see the incredible ships there. I would take them to the Old Town Circle in Orange where I live and eat at some of the yummy restaurants there. We would also visit San Diego for a few days and explore that great town.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My friends and Family. The Landmark Forum (seminars in breakthroughs) Don and Nancy Ayres, Joan Smith, John Eagle.

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Website: www.jimwodark.com

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