Finding My Way Back to Art: A Journey of Creativity
& Career Growth in Surface Pattern Design
By Kathleen Atkinson
When I was little, I spent hours drawing Disney characters and cartoons. If it involved pencils, pens, markers, paints, or sketchbooks, I was all in. I just knew that my future had to revolve around art. (Also, I may or may not have an ongoing obsession with stationery!)

So, I did what made sense—I went to school for Graphic Design, hoping it would fuel my passion for creativity. Straight out of school, I dove into the field, working in print production, advertising agencies, financial institutions, marketing agencies, and publishing companies. I even became the creative director for a national magazine. I feel incredibly fortunate to have explored so many areas of design.
But something was always missing… my pencils and sketchbooks.
Finding Creativity in Life and Career
Fast forward twenty years into my career, and I finally figured it out.
I had spent decades honing my skills, working on incredible projects, and learning the ins and outs of the industry. But the creative freedom I had as a child? That had slowly faded. I found myself mentally drained, needing a shift—something to reignite my passion before burnout took over.
I wanted balance. I wanted to create freely again.
So, I took the leap. I started reshaping my career, diving into surface pattern design, and reconnecting with my artistic roots. It wasn’t an overnight transition, and it took a lot of patience (something I remind my daughter of often). But slowly, things started to click into place.
A Full-Circle Moment
Today, I’m creating art again—after twenty-plus years! I’m connecting with others, inspiring fellow artists, and watching my work step into the world in ways I never imagined.
So, if you’re feeling stuck, if you’re searching for that missing piece, know that it’s okay to take your time. Growth isn’t always fast or linear. Just start. Be kind to yourself. And, as I tell my daughter, pack your patience.
The journey is worth it.
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