We love featuring real women with real stories of intentional living. Today we are thrilled to be featuring Amber Morel and her artwork. Amber is a self-taught artist from Burlington, North Carolina. She has a love for color and florals (two of our favorites!). Without further ado, meet Amber Morel.
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Amber, you are an avid painter, and your work is truly beautiful! We’d love to hear more about how you got started in art and what inspires you. First though, who is Amber Morel? Could you give us a little of your background, church history, and also what you’re up to these days?
First off, thank you so much for this opportunity! I have been married to my Prince Charming for eleven years, and we have five beautiful and sweet babies. I was raised in church all of my life . . . That doesn’t mean I’ve always been perfect, but God has never failed to show grace and mercy! I homeschool three of our children (the other two aren’t school age yet), and I also nanny during the week in my home. My husband and I are youth leaders in our local church, and we are active in the music ministry. We have a busy and exciting schedule but wouldn’t have it any other way!
Getting back to your art: When did you first discover you had talent as an artist? How have you developed that talent?
About one year ago, I was looking for some bright, colorful, floral pictures for my home. Of course, I didn’t want to spend a fortune. After zero luck, my mother suggested that I paint my own! We are very crafty and love a good DIY, but it never occurred to me that I could actually do something like that!! Fast forward one year, and now I paint daily! I try to complete each painting in one sitting. It makes me feel accomplished. Not every painting is wall-worthy, but pushing myself to figure out what I don’t like about it and how to avoid that next time, is how I have developed my skill.
How would you describe your style? And how did you get to be so creative with decorating your personal space?
If you walked into my home, you would be greeted by a feminine style mixed with lots of color and patterns. While soft colors are beautiful, a bright, funky accessory will scream at me from across the store! This is what naturally comes out while painting. I believe the design and color of your art should reflect the person who made it!!
Is there someone who has been most inspiring in both your work and walk with God?
Sis. Beth Baus recently spoke at a ladies conference that I was attending. In her lesson, she talked about how she never dreamed of being a family/marriage therapist, but someone encouraged her to do it, and they believed in her. She pursued this dream all because somebody else believed she could do it.
Sometimes, it is so hard to step out into the unknown and face the fear of failure. It’s scary. Every painting has a tiny bit of me in it. What if I post my art and nobody likes it?! What if I never make a sale?! Today, I am here to tell you, you already have what it takes to be successful. Life would be so boring if we never attempted anything new. Whatever you have been wanting to try, go for it! YOU have the potential to make beautiful things!!
What kind of advice and/or tips would you give other women who get overwhelmed with decorating their homes?
Style and color are the cheapest things you can add to your home. Forget the trends. What is your eye drawn to? What makes you happy? Find your style, and portray that in your living space. Make it your own. You don’t have to break the bank. Thrift stores and yard sales are my favorite places to find neat things for a bargain price!!
As an Apostolic young woman, what one piece of advice would you give like-minded young women?
Stop comparing yourself with other people. There will always be someone smarter or more creative than you. That doesn’t mean you are any less qualified. Be confident in who you are. Doing your best is more important than being the best. Go for it! You are not alone. I’ve got your back.
To keep up with Amber’s latest project, you can connect with her on Instagram at @amber_morel_art .