Today we’d like to introduce you to Linda Griggs-Faust.
Hi Linda, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Growing up, my love for art has always been present. When I became a mom, I would often paint around my house while my children napped. It was my little escape and creative outlet. As friends and family began to notice my work, they’d come up with their own creative ideas for me to work on. The first mural I ever painted was for my nephew’s nursery. I worked on these projects because I truly loved the people closest to me. Although, this sounds like the beginning of my painting business, it is not.
At that stage of my life, I was mainly focused on being a mother. I had left a career in cosmetology to stay home and raise my two girls. At 35, I went back to college to study art and interior design, which deepened my passion and opened new doors for creativity. The next ten years I created interior designs, built faux trees/plants, designed and installed high quality Christmas decor. Although every job avenue has an element of art hidden in the description, I never thought of trusting my skills and taking that leap of faith until 2021.
One day, we went to a party at my daughter’s friend’s home, and I noticed a stunning mural on the wall. I told her how beautiful it was, and she joked that I should paint one too. I laughed and said, “Girl, don’t play with me!” But that moment sparked something. When I completed the mural, my oldest daughter encouraged (or forced, its still under review) to start a Facebook page. That’s how it all began. Nearly four years later, I’m painting full-time and couldn’t be more grateful.
These past four years have been a journey of faith and creativity. This inspired the name “17 ART,” combining my birthday on the 10th and the number I gave to God, 7. The majority of my work are murals and completing a space with interior designs. I’ve had incredible opportunities to paint things I never dreamed possible: murals on cars, a 100 x 40-foot area for a local school, a plane runway, and even a metal chicken! Everyday looks different for me. I’ve traveled to five states and another country; created, and connected with amazing people along the way. It’s been truly incredible.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Honestly, I’ve been truly blessed. Most of my work has come through referrals, which has made this journey flow naturally. Of course, there are moments of uncertainty, not always knowing where the next job will come from or having quiet weeks with no projects lined up. But I’ve learned to see those times as a gift. They remind me to keep my faith strong and to use that downtime to recharge, reflect, and reconnect with my creativity and skills.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At one point, I thought I needed to have a specialty to be a “real” artist. But, I have learned not to put myself in a box. I rarely say no to an idea or a surface. I love exploring new ideas, learning new techniques, and challenging myself with every project. One of my favorite projects is the sunflower mural in New Waverly. The brick wall is approximately 40 feet and took 126 hours to complete. During that time, more than 50 people stopped to thank me for bringing so much joy and color to the town. It was such a powerful reminder of how art can touch people’s hearts in ways I never imagined. That experience truly inspired me to do more community-based art and give back through my creativity.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
When it comes to taking risks, I believe every job involves a bit of it. Each project is its own leap of faith, from the initial idea to the final brushstroke, because at the end of the day, you’re hoping your client will love what you’ve created. Since beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder, you never really know until it’s finished. But that’s also the exciting part.
Taking risks gives you the freedom to push your limits, to grow, and to see just how far God can take you when you trust the process. I also love that taking risk is an individual and private thing. One can take an idea as far as they want. Some are more reserved than others, while some may have more resources to put on the line than another. Everyone’s story will always be different when a risk is involved and that’s what makes the process beautiful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.17artlinda.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/17artlinda/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/17ARTlinda
