The A.R.T. of Success: Three Principles That Shape Success

I can’t count how many times it happened. I'd be at a dinner party, a gallery event, or even just chatting with a stranger. I'd mention that I’m a professional artist, and they'd light up and say, “I’m an artist too!”

At first, I didn’t think much of it—after all, art belongs to everyone. But over time, I realized something: it only takes a pencil to call yourself an artist. What’s rare—exceptional even—is turning that creative calling into a full-time livelihood.

The odds? They’re steep. Fewer than 10% of art school graduates make their living solely through their art. Most supplement their income with other work or give up the dream entirely. But for nearly five decades now, I've painted every day, not just because I love it—but because I found a way to make it work.

That didn’t happen by accident.

It happened because I discovered the A.R.T. of Success: three simple, powerful principles that continue to guide everything I do—both on canvas and in business. And no matter what your industry, these pillars can do the same for you.

A — Alliance: You Can’t Go It Alone 
In my early years, I was stubborn. I wanted to do it all myself—be the artist, the marketer, the frame shop, the accountant. But real success showed up when I stopped trying to be a one-man band and began building alliances. Whether it was with nonprofits, corporations, or patrons who believed in my mission, partnerships elevated my art and expanded my reach.

In your world: Build teams and partnerships that align with your purpose. Collaboration creates momentum. Don’t underestimate the power of surrounding yourself with the right people.

R — Resourcefulness: Think Beyond the Brush
At first, I thought being an artist meant creating beautiful originals—and that was enough. But I quickly learned that if I wanted to turn passion into profession, I needed to think bigger than the canvas.

It wasn’t just about painting—it was about finding ways to share that work with a broader audience. I leaned into publishing, offering limited edition prints, calendars, gift items, and books that extended my reach far beyond the gallery walls. I discovered the power of licensing, partnering with companies that brought my art into homes across the country.

In doing so, I didn’t just sell art—I built a brand.

In your world: Resourcefulness means recognizing the untapped potential around you. Maybe it’s a new way to share your message, a platform you haven’t used, or a product you haven’t packaged yet. Think beyond your core offering—because success often comes not from what you create, but how you connect it to others.

T — Tenacity: Keep Showing Up
There were seasons I questioned everything—when the bills were piling up, when shows didn’t sell, when I wondered if I was fooling myself. But I kept showing up. Every day. Every canvas. Every new idea.

Tenacity isn’t glamorous. It’s early mornings, late nights, and doing the work even when no one’s watching. It’s finding the courage to keep going after rejection, to reinvent after failure, and to keep believing in your purpose even when the applause is quiet. Over the years, I’ve learned that consistency beats intensity—what matters most is that you keep showing up, even if it’s just one brushstroke at a time.

In your world: The key to enduring success? Don’t stop. Perseverance often outperforms talent. If you keep showing up, the breakthrough will eventually meet you there.

Success is not a matter of chance—it’s a masterpiece in the making. Whether you’re in business, education, health care, or the arts, Alliance, Resourcefulness, and Tenacity are timeless tools for creating something that lasts.

You don’t have to be a painter to live like an artist. You just need a vision, the courage to pursue it, and the willingness to keep crafting until your work speaks for itself.

In my motivational keynote presentations for conferences, I bring these principles to life through colorful storytelling—helping audiences discover how they too can become artists in their own industries: shaping culture, inspiring teams, and leaving a lasting impression with the work they do.

If you're a meeting planner looking for an authentic keynote speaker who blends inspiration with real-world experience, let's connect. Because when purpose meets creativity, you don’t just make a difference—you create lasting impact.

Flip the Canvas: Fresh Perspectives for Business Success

In my studio, multiple paintings often come to life simultaneously. It might seem counterintuitive, but some of my greatest creative breakthroughs occur when I flip a painting upside down or view it through a mirror. These unconventional methods instantly highlight hidden nuances and overlooked details.

Recently, when I created the "Most Original" winning design in Boom's Supersonic livery contest, this innovative technique proved pivotal. Regularly turning my work upside down and using a mirror provided fresh insights, allowing me to identify adjustments I would have otherwise missed. When I shared this simple yet transformative idea at a recent conference, industry experts and fellow professional speakers expressed genuine amazement at how effectively this accessible strategy enhances creative problem-solving.

Meeting planners, association leaders, and entrepreneurs alike can significantly benefit from applying this "flip-the-canvas" philosophy. Often in business, we cling tightly to initial impressions and quick judgments. Yet, adopting intentional shifts in viewpoint can unlock powerful and innovative solutions, reshaping organizational strategy, enhancing team building, and refining customer service.

Challenge Your First Impression: Initial reactions can be deceptive, especially in leadership and business strategy. Stepping back and reevaluating situations through alternative lenses uncovers hidden opportunities and challenges limiting beliefs, enhancing motivation and effectiveness in event planning.

Find Balance Through Fresh Eyes: Just as a painting viewed directly might seem unbalanced, marketing strategies, corporate responsibility initiatives, and customer service approaches crafted from a single perspective can misalign with their goals. Incorporating diverse viewpoints ensures clarity, balance, and overall business success.

Embrace Creative Problem-Solving: Innovation thrives beyond traditional boundaries. When business leaders and meeting planners face challenges, metaphorically flipping the problem upside down encourages creative and unconventional approaches that typical thinking might overlook, boosting motivation and entrepreneurial spirit.

Technology and innovation constantly reshape industries, making adaptability crucial. By flipping perspectives regularly, businesses foster a dynamic culture that embraces change and innovation.

When feeling stuck or uncertain, remember to flip your perspective. This message isn't just for the general public; meeting planners and associations can leverage this powerful concept as an inspiring theme for their next event or conference, fostering meaningful dialogue and empowering attendees to innovate and excel.

The Art of Remembering Where You Come From

"Remember where you come from and how it used to be." Those simple yet profound words from my Aunt Kate have shaped not only my life but also one of the most significant creative endeavors of my career—Carolina Preserves.

Twenty-five years ago, this coffee table book became more than just a collection of paintings and reflections. It became a tribute to the rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural icons of North Carolina. Through the voices of 48 remarkable individuals—from Billy Graham to Michael Jordan—woven alongside my artwork, Carolina Preserves captured the soul of our state, preserving its beauty for future generations. It stands as a reminder that places matter, history is worth cherishing, and each of us has the ability to create something that leaves a lasting impact.

But this isn’t just about my journey as an artist. It’s about the power of taking what you love—your passion, your skills, your experiences—and turning them into something that matters.

What Carolina Preserves Teaches Us About Using Our Talents for Good

Your Passion Can Become a Movement
Aunt Kate’s preserves were more than jars of fruit; they were a symbol of tradition and heritage. Inspired by that, I took my love for art and storytelling and created a book that connected people to their roots. No matter your profession—whether you're in business, education, healthcare, or community service—you have the ability to use what you do best to create something that brings people together.

Collaboration Multiplies Impact
Carolina Preserves wasn't just my vision. It became a collection of voices from across the state—leaders, athletes, and visionaries—who shared their reflections on North Carolina. When you bring others into your mission, it grows beyond what you could have imagined alone. Who can you partner with to amplify your ideas?

A Simple Idea Can Lead to Something Extraordinary
What started as a memory of my aunt’s pantry turned into the best-selling coffee table book of 2000, led to North Carolina’s first high-definition documentary, and attracted corporate sponsorship from Bank of America. All of this came from a simple idea that I pursued with passion and perseverance. What’s that idea you’ve been sitting on? What’s stopping you from bringing it to life?

What’s Your Carolina Preserves?
I often hear people say, “I’m not an artist.” That doesn’t matter. Creativity isn’t just about painting or writing—it’s about vision. It’s about recognizing what you love, what matters to you, and finding a way to share it with the world.

So, I challenge you: What’s your version of Carolina Preserves? What’s the story, idea, or passion that only you can bring to life? Our greatest legacies aren’t built by waiting for the perfect moment. They’re created when we dare to act.

WE ARE GIVING AWAY 5 CAROLINA BOOKS IN CELEBRATION OF THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY!  BE SURE TO REGISTER TO WIN THIS MAGNIFICENT BOOK.

When Art Comes to Life: What I Learned by Letting Others Paint My Work

Art is often seen as a solitary pursuit, a quiet conversation between an artist and their canvas. But what happens when that dialogue expands, inviting others to be part of the creation? In December, I had the unique opportunity to do just that at Starmount Forest Country Club, where I was commissioned to paint their iconic clubhouse. 

Instead of merely unveiling the finished work, I was invited to bring it to life with the members, letting them add their own brushstrokes to my composition. I’ll admit—there was a moment of hesitation. Would this diminish the integrity of my work? But as the night unfolded, I discovered something unexpected: not only did the experience deepen the appreciation for my craft, but I learned three profound lessons about creativity, connection, and the power of shared artistic moments.

Inviting Participation Creates Connection
I’ve always known that art is a universal language, but this event reinforced how powerful it can be when people are invited to contribute to it. Some members eagerly picked up a brush, while others hesitated, unsure of their abilities. But once they made their mark, the joy was unmistakable. I learned that giving people permission to engage with art—even in the smallest way—breaks barriers and fosters a sense of connection they wouldn’t otherwise experience.

Art as a Reflection of Personality
Watching people approach the canvas was like a live study in human nature. Some were cautious and deliberate, others bold and spontaneous. It reminded me that how we engage with creativity often mirrors how we navigate life. I learned that art has a way of revealing personality traits—whether it’s hesitation, confidence, curiosity, or even the quiet joy of rediscovering a long-lost love for painting.

The Power of a Live Artistic Experience
While I initially thought the event was just about showcasing my commissioned piece, I soon realized it was about something much bigger. I learned that live art doesn’t just entertain—it transforms an audience. By sharing my process, answering questions, and letting people witness creativity in motion, the experience became immersive, personal, and unforgettable. The artwork became more than a painting; it became a shared moment, a collective story that everyone could take pride in.

A Lasting Impression

By the end of the night, the clubhouse painting had evolved into more than just a work of art—it became a symbol of engagement, creativity, and shared experience. And for me, it was a reminder that sometimes, stepping outside of your comfort zone leads to unexpected rewards. Whether it’s a country club, a corporate gathering, or an association event, bringing live art into the mix fosters connection, conversation, and a lasting impression.

Want to see the magic firsthand? I’ve put together a PDF with photos from the evening, capturing the energy, enthusiasm, and personal moments that made it so special. Take a look—and imagine how an interactive art experience could transform your next event.

The 59-Cent Investment That Launched A Career!

Fifty years ago, as a college senior, I wanted to give my mother a Christmas gift. Without the means to buy something extravagant, I turned to what I had—a 59-cent tray of watercolors from Woolworth’s and a sheet of drawing paper. That simple act of creation, born out of love and resourcefulness, changed the course of my life. My mother’s joy and encouragement sparked something within me, and what started as a humble gesture became the foundation of a lifelong career. Looking back, I see that moment as a lesson: greatness often begins with what’s in front of you.

Start with What You Have – You don’t need the perfect circumstances to begin. Whether it’s a creative pursuit, a new project, or a long-held dream, the key is to start. The tools don’t define the masterpiece; the passion behind them does.

Embrace Encouragement and Inspiration – Sometimes, it takes just one person’s belief in us to ignite our potential. My mother’s simple words—“Honey, you have to do more!”—became a catalyst for my journey. Surround yourself with those who encourage your dreams and be that voice for others.

Small Beginnings Can Lead to Lifelong Purpose – What may seem like an insignificant start can grow into something extraordinary. A single act, a tiny decision, or a moment of courage can set a path in motion that you never expected. The key is to take that first step, no matter how small.

Life’s greatest journeys often begin with the simplest of steps. You don’t need unlimited resources, the perfect timing, or a flawless plan—you just need the willingness to start. Whether it's picking up a brush, writing the first words of a book, or learning a new skill, your next great endeavor is waiting. Take what you have and create something meaningful, because even the humblest of beginnings can lead to a life filled with purpose and impact.