An Interview with Tiffany Brady
Artist and Air Force spouse Tiffany Brady shares the struggles of having to build a new art community with each PCS. Because finding fellow artists in a new location is challenging, it is important that communities like MilspoFAN exist to give support and aid in networking.
MilspoFAN: Tell us a little about yourself, your journey as a military spouse, and where you are today.
Tiffany: I’m Tiffany, an acrylic painter from Cleveland, Ohio. I am a wife, mom, and crazy cat lady. My husband (Jason) has taken me and my son (Tanner) around the world with him for nearly 14 years, and we have absolutely loved it. We have lived in North Carolina, England, Japan, and most recently, South Korea. My husband has been in the Air Force for 15 years, and it’s been a great adventure so far. We are looking forward to what the next 5 years of chaos brings before we move home to Ohio to be closer to family.
MilspoFAN: How did you become a painter?
Tiffany: In high school, I took every art class available. Something about art always calmed my brain. After high school, I would dabble with arts and crafts over the years. I started to focus on painting a few years ago while living in Okinawa, Japan. As my friends began to move on, I decided to paint buoys that had washed up on the beach as a parting gift, to remind them of their time in Okinawa. That quickly turned into my husband and friends suggesting I start selling them. Honestly, at first, I thought they were all a little bit crazy. I felt like an imposter since I was really just learning as I went and taught myself. With their love and support, I took the steps to get my business approved and attended my first event. It was so nerve-wracking, but the response from everyone was so positive. I found myself in a very supportive community that allowed me to continue to be creative and inspired. After that first event, I found confidence in myself that I didn’t know existed.
MilspoFAN: Describe for us your creative work and the aesthetic of your painting?
Tiffany: My work is inspired by my surroundings and my travels over the last 15 years. I love bright, bold colors, so I do my best to make things that stand out and catch your attention.
MilspoFAN: How has your role as a military spouse impacted your work as a painter - creatively, logistically, or otherwise?
Tiffany: There’s always some positives and negatives when it comes to being a military spouse with a business. I try my best to always find some positives, of course. I fell in love with painting and creating in Japan. I had a great community of other small businesses and the best customers/friends. We recently moved to Korea, and it feels like I’m trying to find myself and my people all over again. I was sad at first, but I’m finding my way and meeting new people. Thankfully, I had a business friend moving here, too. Having her here will help me grow in so many ways, and for that, I am grateful. How lucky am I to say I have shared my art in multiple countries?!
MilspoFAN: How do you meet other artists or plug into the local arts scene when you PCS?
Tiffany: This most recent PCS, I was lucky enough to have a small business friend moving here at the same time as me. Rosalind (@theartb0x) and I have been holding each other accountable and hyping one another up as we prep for our first event at Osan. At previous events, I always gathered the vendors for a group photo before the event started, so I’m hoping to do that here as well. It’s a great way for everyone to say hi to one another, exchange socials, and get everyone really excited for the event.
MilspoFAN: What’s next for you?
Tiffany: How I wish I had an answer to this question. We are coming up to the halfway point of our time here in Korea, but we also don’t know where we are heading next. I do know that I can't wait to explore whatever our next location is and to channel my new “home” into my work.
MilspoFAN: What is the most practical piece of advice that you would give to other artists?
Tiffany: My biggest advice is that if it makes you happy, keep at it. Don’t let anyone make you feel like your work is less. I mean this in multiple ways, but if you are self-taught, that doesn’t mean you aren’t as good as someone who went to school for art. That’s the magical thing about art. Anyone can make it, but what’s important is loving what you do. Don’t let anyone make you feel differently. Understand that your art isn’t for everyone, and that’s OKAY! This doesn’t make you a bad artist. I know my art style isn’t for everyone, and I’m completely okay with that. Keep trying new things and pushing yourself to grow as an artist. If you need someone cheering you or your business on, then reach out! I love being a cheerleader for small businesses. My cheerleaders were the reason I started!
You got this!
Don’t give up on what brings you joy.
You are a great artist!
I can’t wait to watch you grow!
Find Tiffany Online at:
Instagram: @CREA_TIFFDESIGNS
Facebook: facebook.com/CreaTiffsDesigns