Meet Audrey Shantz

Hey there! I’m Audrey—an artist, teacher, plant enthusiast, and mom of five who believes in finding joy in the little things. I love color, creativity, and my family! My life has been full of adventure, surprises, and a lot of paint-splattered moments, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I didn’t grow up thinking I’d be an artist. I actually learned to paint when I was 39, mostly by watching tutorials, reading books, and practicing until something finally clicked. Now, painting is one of my favorite ways to slow down, pay attention, and bring beauty into the world.

Here’s a little more about me…

The Art & Creative Life

  • My dad was an artist, so I guess it runs in the family!
  • I opened my own studio and downtown shop, where I sold my art and taught watercolor for three years.
  • My favorite color to paint with is a lovely light purple—it always finds its way into my work.
  • I love creating beautiful spaces and I’m the interior designer for my husband’s therapy practice.
  • If there’s a plant shop nearby, I’m probably stopping in “just to look.” 😉
  • I’ve had a vegetable garden almost every year for the past 15 or 20 years and I especially love planting tomatoes!

A Little More About Me

  • I’ve been married to my husband, Bren, for 23 years.
  • I have five kids—three biological and two adopted from foster care.
  • I’ve been a foster parent, done respite care, and adopted.
  • I grew up in the Chicago area but now call Michigan home.
  • My pets include two turtles, Zoey and Joey, and two cats, Hashbrown and Pickles, along with our cute Shih Tzu-Poodle mix, Shelby. 
  • I got engaged in Rome when I was 20, which is still one of my favorite stories to tell.

Things I Love

  • Chips and salsa should be their own food group.
  • BBQ chicken pizza is the best kind of pizza, and Qdoba is always a good idea.
  • Dark chocolate and peppermint are the ultimate ice cream flavors.
  • I love musicals, singing, and rewatching Gilmore Girls.
  • Podcasts, and audiobooks make any day better!
  • Cinnamon pancake and vanilla cupcake candles make everything feel cozier.
  • Grapefruit La Croix is my drink of choice!
  • I love teaching watercolor. 🙂 

Let’s Connect!

I love sharing my creative journey, watercolor tips, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of my work. If you’d like to stay in the loop, sign up for my email list below to get updates on what’s new, what I’m working on, and maybe even a little creative inspiration along the way. I’d love to stay connected! Thanks for stopping by—I’m so glad you’re here.