Annie Wood

I create because I can’t not create. It’s how I dance with the world—shmooshing color, making marks, letting the mess lead me somewhere unexpected. My work is my love letter to curiosity, wonder, and the sheer joy of being alive. I blend abstraction with faces, following the feeling more than the form, letting charcoal, ink, acrylic, and oil whisper (or shout) their way across the canvas. I embrace imperfection, movement, and intuition because that’s where the magic lives.

Contact

anniewood.com
justbeherenow@mac.com
@artistanniewood

Interview

What inspires your art practice and keeps you motivated?

My art is deeply inspired by my curiosity about the world and the inner landscapes of human emotion. I'm motivated by the thrill of self-discovery and the joy of expression that art provides. Each piece is an exploration, a way to dive deeper into what it means to feel and connect. The energy of this continuous exploration keeps me excited and driven to create every day.


How does your mission as an artist influence the work you create?

My mission as an artist is to encourage self-love, embrace imperfections, and inspire others to trust their unique voices. This mission shapes my work by focusing on themes of inner beauty, the power of self-acceptance, and the magic of being unapologetically oneself. Each artwork is not just a visual experience but an invitation to viewers to explore their own paths of self-discovery and bold expression.


Can you share a key part of your creative process that helps you stay focused?

A key part of my creative process is allowing myself uninterrupted time to immerse deeply in my work. I thrive on having one to two hours where I can focus solely on creating, whether it's painting, writing, or conceptualizing new projects. This block of time is sacred; it's when I can truly sync with my creative spirit without distractions. Sometimes I can do it only once in a day, other times, several times with short breaks here and there. My hyperfocus ADHD can help me in these time blocks since I can hyperfocus on what I love. And I LOVE creating.


What mindset tip do you rely on to overcome challenges in your art career?
Whenever I face challenges or setbacks, I rely on the mindset of viewing every experience as a stepping stone. I remind myself that each challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow stronger in my craft. Embracing this perspective helps me stay resilient and maintain a positive outlook, turning obstacles into opportunities for innovation. I’ve practiced this mindset so much it has become second nature, but I know that anyone can train themselves in ways that can make their lives feel fuller. It’s all about desire and practice.


How do you hope your art impacts the world or your community?

I hope my art acts as a beacon of inspiration and a source of comfort—or simply makes someone feel calm or happy when they view it. By sharing my journey and the emotions embedded in my work, I aim to foster a sense of connection and understanding. I hope that my art encourages others to embrace their imperfections, celebrate their individuality, and spread love and positivity in their own communities. My ultimate goal is to create a ripple effect of creativity and self-acceptance that reaches far beyond the canvas.