What would you say was your biggest obstacle in your journey to be where you are now?
“My first thought was money, but I'm not really dictated by it. I think I would be further if I did have more money when I started, but my journey (and process) has been beautiful in its own way and I can say that I grew from literally nothing and no money. I left my well-paying, cushy job with $900 in the bank and became a freelance artist, living out of my rusty 1993 van. My biggest obstacle would be not having and feeling the support from my immediate family. It's still a point of contention in my family.”
As an artist, what is your role in your community/society?
“I made a pledge to myself to be a part of the community and help build community with my art when I moved back to NH for good to have my son. Locally, my art can be found in little shops and my murals/designs are everywhere. But what I feel is more important is the projects I do (like the Local Goods Guide or kids art camps) that promote the kind of healthy living and community I want to be a part of.”
What is one piece of advice you would give to people out there who want to be successful in their own lives?
“Live your life authentically. For you. No one else.”
Stacey Lucas is a living example of how defying all odds and following your dreams creates the happiest life for yourself. Stacey is a huge inspiration to me. Her free spirit and optimism are two things I aspire to develop and radiate onto my peers. Not only does she create and sell her art in her own gallery and elsewhere, but she authors and designs cute, little catalog booklets to advocate for healthier living in her district. She embellishes our world with her colorful personality and art pieces, which is why artists like Stacey are so important to communities. We need more “veggie art girls” (and boys) in our society. You can find out more about Stacey’s work, including her specialties, artwork, Fig Tree Gallery, and more on her website www.VeggieArtGirl.com.