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In this interview with the artist Steven Walker, we explore how dedication, focus, and setting the right priorities creates an environment that empowers creativity and excellence in the studio. What grounds you in the chaos that life throws your way? Is your painting what grounds you and keeps you headed in the right direction? Maybe for you, it’s family or friends who keep you focused on what really matters in life. While the answer might change from person to person, the truth is, we all need something that helps us keep it all in perspective.  It was an honor to speak with my guest, Steven Walker as we explored what it takes to make the most of the hand you're dealt. From parenting, understanding depression, honing your craft, and so much more - Steven was kind enough to really open up in our wide-ranging conversation - I know that artists like you will learn a lot!  How Painter Steven Walker Learned the hard way Every artist has that one hurdle that stands in their way - some of us deal with multiple hurdles at once and often at different times through our lives. Steven Walker remembers learning several lessons in his life the hard way - one, in particular, was the first time he tried to mix colors for his first painting.  Then, fresh out of high school, Steven quickly learned that being the most talented in a high school doesn’t mean much in college. Steven excelled in high school where he honed his skill at drawing but he never took the opportunity at the canvas. You would never guess that Steven’s creative journey started that way by looking at his artwork today!  Rolling with the punches Let’s face it, no one plans on having to struggle with mental health. For years, Steven struggled with depression, he couldn’t understand what it was that was holding him back for so long. Eventually, Steven got the help he needed to thrive and live with his depression - he learned how to roll with the punches. If you want to succeed, you need to find what works for you - every one of us has a different answer for how we will face adversity and challenges when they arise. Finding your center One of the best ways to weather the storms that life throws your way is to find your center. While the rest of the world might assume that we live to work, the truth is we need something that grounds us just like everyone else. Steven's center is his family, plain and simple. When things go crazy in life, Steven buckles down and makes sure that his family is OK above all else. You can also see this theme of finding your center expressed through Steven’s artwork, make sure to check out images of his artwork located at the end of this post.     Outline of this episode [2:30] I welcome my guest, artist Steven Walker.  [4:30] Early artistic influences.  [6:00] How Steven got started as a painter.  [16:30] Struggling to get noticed.  [25:00] Steven opens up about his habits and how he approaches the canvas.  [30:00] Navigating COVID as a painter, partner, and parent.  [35:00] Steven shares how he has lived with depression over the years.  [45:00] Why family is so important to Steven.  [49:00] The most pivotal moments in Steven’s career.  [54:00] Balancing family life and an art career.    Resources Mentioned in this episode   Website: https://stevenwalkerstudios.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenwalkerstudios/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steven.s.walker