It has been 33 years since I made my first visit to Costa Rica. I was 30 years old, in a bad marriage and had never been out of the country. I was exhausted and struggling to find my purpose. I didn’t know exactly what I wanted but I did know a few key things.
- I loved being an artist but needed a new direction (I was a handweaver doing 28 craft shows year and majorly burned out.)
- I cared deeply for the environment and was determined to find some way to help out
- I had grown accustomed to working for myself and did not fit into the 9:00-5:00 5 days a week workforce.
I decided on Costa Rica because:
- The country had the reputation for it’s rainforest and I had a burning desire to experience the tropics.
- There was no military. It seemed far less scary than other Central American countries, especially since I was traveling alone.
- It was affordable for me since I had limited funds.
After my first trip, I was totally blown away and completely hooked. I had found my calling! I knew that I was destined to change my career as a hand weaver into a fine artist and illustrator. I wanted to draw the natural world; the plants, the insects, the animals. I caught on fire and my life changed. It was scary at first but through awesome training at the New York Botanical Gardens I was able to change my career and embark on a fantastic journey. I started teaching and gaining new skills. I started to get into juried shows, sell my work, and generate clients for a multitude of products. There were lots of pitfalls, ups and downs both emotionally and financially.Through it all I have managed to stay true to my creative self.
It is now 33 years later and I am still fascinated and inspired by the natural world. I have been able to travel to many other countries but each year I still make a trip to Costa Rica to where it all began. About 25 years ago I started leading trips there so I could share it with other artists and photographers. I have met many people within Costa Rica who are doing amazing work to save the rainforest; its animals, plants and natural resources. They care about conservation, rehabilitation, and sustainability. Through my trips I am able to help support these organizations and inspire artists. It is a win/win situation.
The Red-eyed Tree Frog was one of my first paintings I did so many years ago. It has been my logo now for over 25 years. I am still so excited to see them in the wild! If you think you might want to join me this coming February 2025 I would love to have you come on this artistic journey. There is a $250 discount for early bird registration by September 1, 2024. I am available for a phone or Zoom conference if you have questions. Just email me to start the conversation. MLighthipe@mac.com
Inspirational message! I think this will get me back to making art — I’ve been away too long.
So glad you are going to get back to your art. I know life gets in the way and we tend to loose track of things that really matter. Art nurtures the soul and feeds teh passion. Go out there and create!
~Mindy
I took this trip with Mindy years ago. It was a HIGHLIGHT of my life. Mindy is amazing and Costa Rica is beyond incredible. If you can join her you won’t be sorry!!!
Hola Wendalla! Thanks so much for your endorsement of the trip. You are awesome to travel with. So much fun and creative. Give my best to Jay. Hope you are both doing well. Hugs!
Mindy
Thank you for this posting! Very inspirational. I am so grateful you have chosen this path because your classes are fantastic!
A big Thank you. I am so happy to hear you enjoy my classes. I love teaching and sharing with others. It is is wonderful to have students like you! Cheers! Mindy
Mindy, thanks for sharing your wonderful story. It’s truly wonderful to have a passion!
Hi Michal,
Thank you for stopping by and reading my blog post. I feel truly lucky to have been able to follow my passion all these years. The journey has been a wonderful ride! Thank goodness I have been able to do what I love and share it with others! Cheers,
Mindy
Hello! It’s so nice to read about how you found your purpose through botanical illustration, and with conservation in Costa Rica.
You have also been an inspiration to so many of us.
Thank you!
Awww! thanks so much Vera! It has been a winding and twisty path but I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Hugs~ Mindy