Art Saves • by Lisa Kettell

When I look back and reflect on my life, art has always been a huge part of it, not just because I grew up in an artsy family filled with designers, illustrators and creative spiritualist, but because it has always been my comfort food, the food I turn too whenever I’m sad, in a rough spot or when I’m happy and feeling especially carefree. As a little girl both my mother and grandmother always influenced me to express myself, which sometimes included drawing crayon scenes on the walls of my room at the age of four years old. I think my Aunt Noel had it right when she bestowed upon me my first book, Alice in Wonderland when I was born, since then, this book has stayed close to me through every journey of my life.

After graduating from college I was involved in a life altering car accident, after 4 surgeries and 8 long years of physical therapy, I regained my strength once again. It was during this time that I was immobile, I didn’t go out much, couldn’t drive, gained weight and was in a lot of pain, all I had was my art, when I wasn’t working, I was creating every second I could, it was later on when I realized my art is what saved me during that time, it enabled me to re-build my confidence and regain my freedom, it’s what paved the way to the artful career I have now.

When you come so close to life and death, your whole body goes into shock, you thus make it your goal to appreciate the smallest of things in life, cherish your loved ones and waking up in the morning feeling grateful you are here and knowing there is a purpose for you. I believe mine is to help people grow, learn and create within a world of magic and joy for all to inspire by.

The last 16 months prove to test my courage and strength to overcome all the obstacles I was faced with, from the loss of family members, friends, relationships, health, financial and work related stresses that can test every level of your faith, at times even wanting to just give up, triggering insecurities and crumbling your world. Then one day I woke up after a recent trip to CHA, I was surrounded by all the art, design and people which inspired me all those years ago, I was re-charged and ready to get my life back both professionally and personally. I have made it a conscience effort to create every day and re- invent myself as an artist, designer and author, to re-inspire all those who have supported me through these past 20 years, to build a strong foundation which cannot crumble. I will be an advocate of working toward your goals and never giving up, I’ve been here way too long, I sometimes feel like the soap star Susan Lucci, she was in the soaps for so long before she was recognized, did she give up? No, then why should any of us give up on our dreams, I know I’m on a mission to make mine a reality, I hope you do too.

To learn more about Lisa Kettell, visit faerieenchantment.blogspot.com.