We created our Artist Fellowship Program to help creative people find the space and inspiration they need to bring their ideas to life. Earlier this year, we hosted illustrator, Ava Puckett, at Getaway Chattahoochee outside of Atlanta. Here’s what she had to say about her creative process, her relationship to nature, and her Getaway:
I am a freelance illustrator and online shop owner in Nashville, TN. I’m a lover of therapy, coffee, and soccer. I came to Nashville thinking I would work in the music industry, but after college I became friends with several illustrators who reignited my love for the visual arts. I make art that encourages self-care and reflection, often focusing on topics I’m working on in therapy or reminders that my current or past self needs in order to heal.
I feel at peace when I’m in nature, away from online distractions. It reminds me that it’s okay to slow down and take time to reflect, which is the focus of a lot of my work. I often go on several walks throughout the day and love going on afternoon runs – it evokes a similar feeling to meditation. It’s almost like time stops when I’m in nature – I feel much more calm and in the moment. It’s a reminder to stay present and practice gratitude.
My Getaway trip was amazing! It was the first solo trip I’ve ever taken and I enjoyed every moment. It felt like an opportunity to strengthen my connection with myself through listening to my body, getting lots of rest, and being away from social media. I did lots of journaling, reading, cooking, and was able to focus on a book I’m in the process of writing and illustrating. It made me want to take more regular Getaway trips to completely unplug, especially when I have a big illustration project I want to tackle. Not even having the option of logging into Instagram or my email allowed me to take a step back and think about my relationship with social media, questioning how much it actually serves me and if the balance is a bit off.
You can keep up with Ava on her Instagram and her website.
In need of your own creative escape? Book your Getaway today.