Meet Victoria Lowry

Today we’d like to introduce you to Victoria Lowry.

Hi Victoria, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
A native of North Carolina, I originally moved to New York City to pursue a career in dance, but the universe had different plans. It was there at Marymount Manhattan College where I took my first painting class and fell in love with this new art form. I decided to double major. I always had a passion for animals, my first word was even “dog”! While receiving my art degree, I worked at a doggy daycare and as a dog walker in the city. My love of art and animals coincided with my thesis in a painting series of endangered species. I collected donations along with donating proceeds from the painting sales to the World Wildlife Fund.

Shortly after receiving my degree, I returned to my southern roots. Upon coming back to Raleigh, NC in 2015 I began painting commissioned pet portraits. This remained more of a hobby while working full-time at various local businesses. However, I realized after the tumultuous year we all had in 2020, it was time to take my part-time passion to a full-time endeavor! When I’m not at my easel accompanied by my three amazing rescue dogs, I am volunteering at Saving Grace NC in Wake Forest and teaching paint and sip classes at Wine & Design for both their Raleigh & Durham locations,

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?
Any artist or small business owner will tell you, it’s not without its many challenges. Between gaining the confidence that people will support you to figuring out the ropes of time management and financial stability. There has been many all-nighters trying to juggle full-time jobs and complete orders. Over the last several years, there’s been times where I haven’t painted for months and debated whether or not I should even continue to pursue it. I had all but put away my paintbrushes for good when this past holiday season friends and family started reaching out asking for paintings. I was shocked as the inquires continued to come in. Once I started sharing my paintings on social media, to my surprise, they kept coming. If it wasn’t for my amazing support system, all of those who have encouraged me, been repeat customers and constant cheerleaders, I know I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in custom acrylic pet portrait paintings. I enjoy taking a painterly approach to a realistic portraiture style. I love capturing a pet’s personality and creating something for my clients that will help them remember their beloved family members for years to come. My favorite is when a client responds that I captured a quirky detail about their pet “just right”.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Tenacity is key. Some paintings are going to come to fruition easily and others will be harder. You have to find ways to break through artistic blocks when you are doing commission work. Remaining determined and detail-oriented to ensure orders are being completed by deadlines and to a customer’s specific request can be difficult in a creative profession. It’s important to keep in mind WHY you are pursuing this to remain persistent while still remembering what makes you passionate about what you are doing.

Pricing:

• Starting at $50 and up

Contact Info:

• Website: https://victoria-lowry-art.square.site/
• Instagram: @victorialowryart
• Facebook: @victorialowryart
• Other: TikTok @victorialowryart