Meet the Illustrator Behind Our National Parks Need you
Shannon Andrus is a talented artist and illustrator from Michigan.
When I set out to create a new book about the national parks, I knew I had to find the right artist. I searched high and low, and then I discovered an incredible artist on Instagram. Shannon Andrus is a nature nerd, just like me, and I knew she’d be the perfect illustrator for Our National Parks Need You. To get to know her better, here’s a little Q&A with her.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN CREATING ART?
I’ve been creating art for as long as I can remember. I come from a family of artists so it was a big part of my life growing up. I always knew I wanted to be an artist professionally, and in college, I started my career as a graphic designer for the university I attended. By night, I freelanced as a technical illustrator for textbooks. After college, I wanted to have more of an impact with my art, so I got into the art therapy field. Later, it inspired me to open up my own studio, Hearts for the Arts, which specializes in art therapy, education, and entrepreneurial training for artists with disabilities. I’m proud to say we’ve now been open for 14 years.
DO YOU HAVE ARTISTS OR ILLUSTRATORS THAT INSPIRE YOU?
I love Modigliani and feel like his style was ahead of his time. Also, I’ve always been a huge fan of the illustrators, Mark Ryden and Joe Sorren as well. I love the level of detail in their work, the imaginative environments, and that whole pop surrealism style.
WHERE CAN WE FIND YOUR ART TO ENJOY OR EVEN TO BUY?
**Cue shameless plug** You can find my print work for sale art at www.shannonandrusart.com or follow updates on my Instagram at shannonandrusart.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU’RE NOT CREATING ART?
In my free time, you can always find me in nature. I love hiking, camping, and exploring with my husband, kids, and pup. Being in Mother Nature is definitely my happy place.
HOW DO YOU TRY TO LIVE YOUR LIFE IN A GOOD HUMAN WAY?
We only have one life, so I try to live mine in an impactful way that uplifts others. Over the years my studio has allowed me to help so many different populations of people (and animals!), I’m very grateful I took that leap so many years ago. Beyond art therapy, I also put on or take part in fundraisers for non-profits and/or people in need, and volunteer frequently in my community. I’m also a vegetarian of 27 years because of my love for animals. Living kindly, empathetically, and with some laughs is what life’s all about!