Today we’d like to introduce you to Claudia Bartoli-mckinney
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Claudia is a bestselling book cover artist and mixed media creator based on a small ranch in Southern California.
Once blind, she experienced a miraculous healing that not only restored her sight but also led her to her life’s work. Drawing inspiration from her journey, Claudia blends traditional techniques with AI-generated art, crafting unique and thought-provoking illustrations. Her work has graced numerous bestselling books, making her a sought-after artist in the publishing world.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey hasn’t always been smooth. Recently, after 40 years of marriage, my husband left following an online affair. This was an incredibly challenging period, but it compelled me to reflect deeply and find strength within myself. I turned to my art as a therapeutic outlet, channeling my emotions into my work. This experience is helping me heal but also enriching my creative process, helping me to produce more authentic and impactful art. It reinforced my belief in the transformative power of creativity and resilience in the face of personal adversity. This deep suffering, for me, is an opportunity for transformation. The only way out of a truly painful experience is through it. That’s what I found to be true for me.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a mixed media digital artist, I specialize in creating unique pieces that often blend traditional techniques with AI-generated elements. While my professional achievements are something I am proud of, my greatest achievement are my four children and four grandchildren, as I deeply believe in the power of love and family. This I am most proud of!
My career began as a bestselling book cover artist, collaborating with authors like Amanda Hocking and Samantha Young. I was among the pioneers in the industry, designing covers that contributed to the success of numerous publications. Over time, I expanded my creative pursuits to include licensing my art for various products, such as jigsaw puzzles, diamond art paintings, and collaborations with major retailers like Walmart. I love this work and truly hope it brings joy to people.
A profound spiritual life is central to my being. Daily meditation and Centering Prayer practices are integral to my routine, they keep me grounded and grateful.
What are your plans for the future?
Looking ahead, I am committed to creating engaging art that resonates with people, while cherishing time with my children and grandchildren. Additionally, I am pursuing certification as a spiritual director and meditation coach, aiming to integrate art into therapeutic practices for individuals navigating traumatic experiences. This approach aligns with established methods in art therapy, which utilize creative expression to facilitate healing and emotional resilience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Phatpuppyart.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/phatpuppyart
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/phatpuppyart
- Other: https://Facebook.com/phatpuppyartist
