Public Speaking
I was able to get over my fear of public speaking, after owning that I deal with dyslexia, and I don't have to let me hold me back. I was able to accomplish:
Live painting with confidence while socializing without fear!
Doing multiple panel discussions on topics like art making, business process, running a creative art business, and sharing my story of triumph!!
Being interviewed live on BizTV
Speaking at Power in Your Presence Art Show that I curated in Matthews, NC which was said “to be the most diverse and colorful shows yet!”
Doing my first podcast interview on She Dreams In Color
Workshop at a Retreat
In the beginning of the year, I was interested in teaching retreats (with over 6 years of experience teaching art I was ready!!), but I didn't know how that would happen. #manifesting Guess what?!? My collector and friend Shanna Noel, owner of Illustrated Faith, asked me to teach at the Gratitude Retreat held at the Whatever Craft House in Kansas! It was an amazing experience and a joy to be in community with such compassionate women.
Joan Mitchell
Seeing my idols work in person was really the icing on the cake for my birthday (also, I had my first ever surprise birthday party)! I traveled to Baltimore to see Joan Mitchell's artwork. It was a liberating and emotional experience! I was filled with so much inspiration!
Featured in HGTV, Uppercase and HomeGoods!
Being published in Uppercase Magazine, a national publication, was a super joyous experience. It felt amazing knowing that my process was shared with folks all over the country in such a beautiful way.
HomeGoods, a national retailer, picked up my artwork through support from WexelArt. What started as a commission, is now available at select retail locations. It was a dream come true! Over 200 limited edition prints framed in acrylic frames by Wexel Art’s live in the world! Like WOW!!! *Thank you to everyone who purchased and/or sent pics!*
Women's Entrepreneurship Certificate
I went back to school to get a certification in entrepreneurship through a program with Bank of America. I actually graduated in March. It was a great experience to learn more about entrepreneurship because education is the key to succeeding and achieving in what you want to do!
The impact we made this year!!
Girls Who Brunch, an organization that provides a platform to cultivate, inspire, and empower at-risk girls.
Davidson College Freedom School, provides summer enrichment experiences for students in person after covid.
The Mccoll Center is a source of creative inspiration, growth, and support for artists and the people who care about them.
Donated to Domestic Violence Survivors and Mental Health organizations.
Philanthropy is key for LaDara Fine Art & would not be possible without your custom painting requests, word of mouth, & thoughtful purchases.
So thank you truly for everything!!!
Happy New Year ArtLovers!
- LaDara McKinnon