Alpena, MI - April 2023
For Aprils's local creative highlight, we are highlighting Megan Meinzinger. Megan is a hardworking and talented artist, specializing in painting and local to Northeast Michigan.
Keep reading to learn more about Megan and what makes her so unique!
Growing up my parents always encouraged my creative pursuits. I was always drawing and painting, I enjoyed Bob Ross on PBS, and messing with any art supplies I could get my hands on. The art form has definitely changed during different seasons of life - whether that has been through painting, baking, gardening, or photography. My artwork today is largely inspired by my home and what we have chosen to surround ourselves with - home grown richness and simplicity. An evening walk to check on and water the gardens, steam pillowing off a homemade meal, or the light tumbling wonderfully through an open window. Nothing is better than the real thing, but my hope is my artwork can share a glimpse into my world and provide comfort to those who view it. I am so incredibly thankful for how my parents supported me in my younger years (and today) by hanging my artwork around the house, coming to art shows, and giving an encouraging word. They played a large roll in me continuing through road blocks and the dreaded comparison trap.
I am married to my wonderful husband, Kaleb, going on 5 years this year. We have a two year old son and another child on the way. I am a stay at home mom - a role a greatly cherish. We have a small hobby farm that we are slowly adding to but right now we raise chickens, vegetables, and fruit. I find being home provides me with more flexibility for my creative pursuits while raising my children and caring for our home. I paint when I’m able to find pockets of time throughout the day which usually ends up being in the mornings and during my son’s nap time. Painting gives me time to reflect and calm my mind. A time to reboot and look inward after the chaotic moments of motherhood.
I have received so much support from the community whether it has been a kind word of encouragement or those who are interested purchasing paintings. The artist community is also very welcoming and willing to help when anyone has questions. I met many friends by taking a few art courses at ACC and it was invaluable to receive feedback and insight from those who are also in this creative space.
As a mother, witnessing my child’s awe and wonder every day reminds me to stop and and look closer. It reminds me how miraculous life is, how beautiful it is and thus propels me to attempt to communicate that beauty. A quote by Robert Henri that inspires me is, “The object isn’t to make art, it’s to be in that wonderful state which makes art inevitable.” I love that. The best motivator is comparing how I feel when I take the time to create versus when I don’t.
When I take the time I feel lighter and energized and in turn ready to serve those around me.
Finding success in Northeast Michigan has been what I would expect it to be. Although resources can be limited, I find the tight knit community can carry you a long way. People want to support people they know and relate to.
There will always be challenges, doubt, and insecurities and it is true that the world needs what you create. What I find even more true is that you need your art. Do it for you and everything else will fall into place. For your mental health, for clarity, and for time to be with your own thoughts.
The Sunset Project seeks to elevate every creative in the community regardless of subject or outlet. The ideologies and beliefs found within creative pieces are those of the artists, not necessarily The Sunset Project as an organization.