About Me
Hello, I'm Candace, a contemporary artist in Austin, Texas. From the earliest days of my childhood, art has woven its way into the fabric of my being, becoming an enduring passion that continues to shape my life. I feel incredibly blessed to have had a father who recognized my artistic talents early and gifted me with professional oil paint art kit for my eleventh birthday. With brushes in hand, I embarked on a journey of self-expression, painting vivid seascapes, snowy landscapes, and creatures that leaped from the pages of my favorite books. The kindling was lit, and I was hooked!
After graduating from Gettysburg College with a focus in English Literature and Fine Arts, I embarked on a new adventure, achieving an Interior Design degree from Parsons School of Design in New York City. It was an eye-opening experience that expanded my artistic horizons and led to studying at the magnificent Musée des Arts Décoratifs, part of the Louvre in Paris, France.
After completing my studies, I was fueled by a deep desire to bring joy, harmony and color into people's lives, so I ventured into the world of interior design. Returning to New York City, I established Candace Connors Interior Design. It was a thrilling journey, and I was honored to be featured in Better Homes and Gardens. I poured my heart into each project, integrating the principles of Feng Shui, color therapy, and environmental ecology to create spaces that uplifted spirits and radiated positive energy. Drawing floor plans, rendering room features, and splashing color across the white walls of NYC apartments became my canvas.
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However, life has a way of guiding us toward new chapters. Drawn by the serenity of the sea and the desire for a slower pace of life, my husband Robbie and I moved to Sag Harbor, New York, on the Eastern End of Long Island. After our children left home, we decided on a new adventure and moved to Austin, Texas, with our two dogs, Ollie and Ziggy where I embraced Austin as a canvas for my true artistic calling.
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I began painting, drawing, teaching, and nature journaling full-time. Over the years, I've honed my art teacher skills, guiding adults and children in various mediums, including painting, drawing, and mixed media. I have studied with such accomplished artists as Jean Haines, Lena Rivo, Cindy Briggs, Patti Mollica, and through The Contemporary Art School at Laguna Gloria in Austin, TX with Claire Gaston and Phillip Wade. Recently I completed the Nature Educators Workshop with John Muir Laws and the Wild Wonder Foundation.
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My artistic journey has led me to embrace the beauty of watercolor and acrylic painting and the intricacy of botanical drawings brought to life with colored pencils. When I'm not lost in my studio, you can often find me at The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, connecting with the local art community and engaging in heartfelt conversations about the transformative power of creativity with my local art group, The Botanical Buds.
My art is a testament to my lifelong dedication - my love for the natural beauty surrounding us, and my deep desire to uplift others through the transformative power of art and color.