dreams

My entire childhood, I dreamed of being an artist. My mother encouraged my talent and I drew nonstop. As early as 7 years old, I was competing in school, district-wide. By the time I was 10, I was winning awards in the Utah State Fair. I knew that I would always be happy if I had my ability to create art. Due to some life changes, I wasn't able to pursue my love of art from 2010-2013. Those were critical years, and it was hard to see my classmates' talent soar while I was prevented from progressing. As soon as I was able, though, I picked back up where I left off.

I was lucky enough to live in California for a short time to meet and study with the famous John Burton, and that's when I truly decided how badly I still wanted to be involved in art. At this point, I had developed a new passion as well--helping children recover from abuse and emotional trauma--and I was torn between therapy and my love of the arts.

When I discovered Art Therapy existed, I was excited beyond description. I was also hesitant, because every time I looked into that degree, I was told that I would never make enough money or have a job. It was 'too specific' or 'too organic' or 'too expensive.' I knew that these people--professors, classmates, friends, and some family--were right. It is a very new degree, and putting a lot of money into a degree (especially a Masters) that isn't widely marketed yet can be risky. I took what they said to heart, and I stopped pursuing my dream degree.

I spent two full semesters basically 'undeclared.' I stayed in the classes I had previously registered before, which included behavioral science credits as well as just generals. I was determined to distract myself from my dream degree and find something more practical. I looked at every degree I could possibly dream of going into. I interviewed with multiple professors, looked into a degree in accounting, elementary education, secondary education, statistics, business marketing, business management, and many more. I wore myself out exploring options.

As the spring semester came to a close, I was stressing about which degree to choose. Since I was on a behavioral science track, I was prepared to basically start over and re-take the additional classes I'd need. The last couple weeks of school, I realized that I'd been trying to deny the fact that had pressed at the back of my mind for all those months: I needed to do Art Therapy. I have to admit that I was afraid to admit that to myself again. I knew it meant a lot of work, and I knew it would be hard. The problem was, I'd tried so hard to be happy with another degree--whatever that may be--and I couldn't find a single thing that I was as interested in.

So, I decided to stay on the track I'd started the previous year. I'm going into Art Therapy.

One thing that encouraged me greatly was my trip to California. As I spent hours practicing, my talent began to resurface. When I got my first commission, I was ecstatic. I began doing portraits for the holiday seasons in 2013, and I've been doing them since. It was always my dream to make money doing something I love.

I met my future husband, Scott, around the time that some really difficult things were happening in 2014. These personal life trials made it difficult to care about my passions. But with the love and support of my wonderful husband and community, I am back on track selling commissions and establishing my studio.

And so, the dream of a little girl has traveled into my womanhood. I know that it will continue to follow me into my adulthood, and I couldn't be more excited! Thank you to everyone who comes across my blog. I feel so grateful to have it, and to have the ability to express myself through art.

Brittany Wolferts-Dangerfield