Y’all, it’s an absolute honor to have one of my favorite up-and-coming Southern artists, Brooke Ring joining us on the blog today. I found Brooke and her gorgeous art on Instagram (best app ever for connecting with other creatives!) a few years back and have enjoyed following along ever since. Brooke’s colorful, classic paintings adorn the walls of homes across the country, I think you can see why! I’ll be sharing how I styled a few of her darling prints, right here on Somethin’ Southern in just a few weeks. She so graciously agreed to an interview for you all, so without further ado, here’s Brooke Ring!
Tell us a bit about you – where you find inspiration, how you fill your days, and how you got your start as an artist.
I’m a southern girl through and through! I’ve lived in Greenville, South Carolina my whole life and find a lot of my inspiration from this fabulous city I get to call home. The friendly people, the warm atmosphere, the vibrant colors, great shopping, and yummy food are constantly inspiring me and refreshing my creative energy.
My typical day looks a lot less glamorous then I would like to let on – haha! I normally start the morning with whatever devotional I’m currently working through and a cup of coffee. Painting, exercise, grocery shopping, running errands and cooking dinner is my usual schedule; however, on an extra special day I love a trip to Caviar & Bananas in Downtown Greenville for lunch with my mom or an afternoon shopping my favorite local boutiques.
I LOVE the free iPhone lockscreens you share each month. How do you choose which scripture to feature?
Thank you! It’s always so encouraging to hear how much these lock screens have really resonated with people. I started creating them a while back as a tool to help me memorize scripture; choosing verses depending on what the Lord is speaking over me based on current events in my own life and in the world. Honestly, it makes me so emotional when people tell me how much they love them because they are so deeply personal to me – I’m just so thankful to be able to speak into people’s lives in such a unique and special way.
The recipes on your blog always look so tasty, I have a couple on our September meal plan to try out! In addition to cooking and art, what are a few things/activities that bring you joy?
Oh, I love to cook so much! I have a few more recipes coming soon – so stay tuned! In addition to cooking and art – I love to exercise! I’ve been a distance runner since college and also love hot yoga, and tennis!
What’s your favorite thing about doing life in the south?
The culture. I love the people, the food, the places – it’s just the best! I also love how centrally located we are in Greenville. We can easily get to the mountains, the beach or a bigger city within a couple of hours.
Any tips for new artists?
“Comparison is the thief of joy.” Enjoy the process of creating, don’t get discouraged, and stop comparing yourself to other artists. You have a story and a perspective that is uniquely your own, so don’t be afraid to share it!
How can Somethin’ Southern readers follow along with you? (Social channels, etc.)
The easiest way to stay up to date is by following along on my Instagram @cbrookering ! You can also find me on Snapchat, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter (although I don’t remember the last time I tweeted anything – haha!)
Instagram – @cbrookering
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cbrookering/
Snapchat – cbrookering
Pinterest – https://www.pinterest.com/cbrookering/
Twitter – @cbrookering
Thanks so much for joining us, Brooke!
xo, mckenzie