In a recent conversation with Dr. Hannah Pitman, she shared details about her life outside of the office — in her art studio, or creative corner as she refers to it! Read below to learn about her background with art, inspirational thoughts on creativity and to see a sample of her work.
Q: How long have you been an artist?
I’ve always enjoyed art, even from a young age. I remember taking art lessons as a child and continuing through high school taking AP classes. I was a little busier during college and medical school but found more time for my hobby during the pandemic.
Q: Do you have a favorite medium and/or subject?
You could say I gravitate towards more classical mediums but my work ranges from sketches with a pen and ink to oil paintings to digital artwork. You’ll find my dog, Winnie, is one of my favorite subjects. She’s quite a character which makes her a good subject for some of my comics and more humorous pieces.
Q: Can you tell us about finding inspiration for pieces and your process?
I’m a big fall person. I love autumn and hiking. And my dog. So if I’m feeling homesick for fall, I’ll incorporate these in my work. I also have a cork board on the wall in my studio where I pin things I find inspirational. I’m self taught and have found that there are so many things you access from other artists online to use as jumping off point — no proper training required.
As for a process, it really depends on the day, the medium and the hours I can devote. My playlist varies as well – if it’s a rainy day, it will be indy folk. Other days if I’m painting with vibrant colors, I’ll listen to more high energy to match the mood.
Q: Any advice you’d like to share with others?
There is a page in my sketch book that says “A blank page is terrifying.” My advice is to just start and not worry too much about the end product. Even if it doesn’t turn out exactly as what you had in your brain (and most of the time it doesn’t), just take the first step. You might realize that you actually like doing this! Or, you feel more relaxed and energized. My wish is for everyone to have the courage to start something even if they feel like they don’t have experience or talent.
Q: What lines can you draw from your artistic world to your professional one?
For me, creativity can take so many different forms. Whether it’s cooking and playing around with recipes or painting and drawing, it is somewhat meditative for me to use a different part of my brain. We live so much of our lives in our own head that it’s a healthy outlet when when I go to a space where I’m not focused on myself or my surroundings and I can just be absorbed in the process. This time makes me more energized and focused in my professional life.
Thanks to Dr. Pitman for the great advice and for sharing her art. She always loves to hear what patients are creating as well so don’t hesitate to connect during your next visit.
