Today we’d like to introduce you to Lana Betts.
Hi Lana, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Good day! I’ve been drawing since I was a young child. During later elementary school years, I clicked with the art of drawing people. Various hair colors, textures, eye colors, etc., inspired me. Drawing remained my primary hobby as I grew up; as an adult, I made sure to prioritize art as a way to maintain quality of life. Portraiture is still so much fun to me!
Instagram is my primary method of sharing and advertising. This platform has helped me sell personalized pet & couples portraits to new connections. I’ve also connected with people in my personal life (ex: coworkers) to sell family portraits.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Artistry has been a mostly smooth road, in part because I did not plan for it to be a sole income source. During high school I struggled to choose between art college and state university applications. The quote “you don’t have to go to school to be an artist” stuck with me. I have a different degree and career; however, I’ve utilized these spaces for creativity too. For example, I teach painting lessons to my agency staff around quarterly for morale-boosts!
Regarding my road of selling portraits, 2020 and the shift to reels significantly narrowed my online notice. I used to receive more stranger comments, purchases, and follows. I tried for a while to make reels with my drawings, but it’s not for me.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in portraiture and mandalas. I use pen, pencil, and/or marker on paper. Outside of personalized portraits for happy customers, I draw & post celebrities of my liking.
Among artists, everyone has their own style that sets them apart a bit. I like to post all my drawings, regardless of color, with an initial black & white version. This way when you click on my Instagram profile, it looks like a cohesive black & white gallery. I also tend to price my work pretty affordable; costs varies based on size though.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Fun question! Jacksonville is so large with such a variety of entertainment. I’m big on nature activities, so the diverse parks are awesome. We also have the beach, many multicultural restaurants, history (Springfield), arts markets, vegetarian/vegan festivals, colleges, gyms, libraries, etc. There’s something for everyone!
Unfortunately the best things to do are all in the surrounding suburbs outside of downtown. Our central city and its nearest neighborhoods have a terrible reputation for crime and little to do. It would be wonderful to see more reform in the central areas.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @lanaroseart
