Today we’d like to introduce you to Lou Wackes.
Hi Lou, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always enjoyed connecting with others through art and often dabbled in different side projects, but when I moved from South Florida to Newnan, Georgia, with my family a few years ago, that’s really when my love for our beautiful historic downtown gave way to a whole unexpected art journey. I had met a local store owner whose shop I just adored, and she requested that I create illustrations of the most beloved downtown landmarks. Locals quickly snatched up prints of my watercolor works to create their own home gallery walls filled with sweet inky images of their precious town. From there, I just kept creating watercolor and ink illustrations of the places people cared about. They kept requesting, and I kept creating. That’s how it started, and that’s really how it continues today. I sell my works through Etsy as well as through local shops that I’ve either visited in person of who have found my through Faire wholesale.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I tend to be shy about my art, so my struggle has often been in approaching new clients, especially shops to host my prints. In spite of my insecurities, I’ve found that most shop owners are happy to connect and even collaborate on fresh new ideas.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m most known for my watercolor and ink landmark illustrations. I love that people want to put pieces I’ve created in their homes. That’s very special to me. I’m particularly proud of the illustrations I’ve created for Savannah. The print of the Riverfront is one of my favorites!
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Not really. I look up places online to get different angles when I’m trying to set up my initial sketches.
Pricing:
- 8×10 prints $24.50
- 11×14 prints $54
- Custom work starting at $95
Contact Info:
- Website: www.messyheartstudio.com
- Instagram: @messyheartstudio
