Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Hathaway.
Hi Melissa, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Up until nearly four years ago, I didn’t know the first thing about watercolor. Shortly before picking up my first paintbrush, I was challenged by a health diagnosis that slowed my body down. I needed an outlet; a way to fight the lack of energy I was experiencing. So I picked up my daughter’s watercolors, and began to paint. I quickly realized how relaxing the act of painting was. I painted day after day, adding short, contemplative writings to my work, and before I knew it, “One Light Studio” was born. My style became my signature; whimsical, bright, and cheery. I recognized the joy that watercolor offered, and I felt called to spread that joy with others. So I began to share my work through online sales, local markets, and events. The idea for my business name came from my belief that “we all carry a light within us, and when we share our light with others, we illuminate the goodness of humanity.”
Today, I’m using my story and experiences to connect with people; to share in this life-journey, and to hold space for the spirit of others in a positive light.
Sharing a piece of who I am with the world through creativity has become a vessel of inspiration; shedding light on others, staying grounded in my faith, and spreading a mission of hope.✨
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?
As a creative, I’m no stranger to the obstacles and challenges that surface along the journey. Things like confidence and courage are a large piece of what can hold me back. Most days, I feel excited to see what doors open when I make a connection, or discover a new opportunity. But, I’d be lying if I said that stepping into my title as “Artist and Writer” is easy–it’s certainly not; especially in a society where climbing the corporate ladder, overscheduling, and monetary wealth are valued above a slower, reflective lifestyle.
Of course, art, bespoke commissions, and product sales eb and flow throughout the different seasons. For my business, spring and summer are typically slower in sales, whereas Fall and the holiday season tend to bring in much higher numbers.
Making an income is important, there’s no doubt about that. But, since the creation of One Light Studio, it’s never been my end-goal. I promised myself that I’d pour my focus into “spreading light” by sharing vibrant, artistic expressions, words that resonate, and directly connecting with people. It’s been my experience that these pieces have far outweighed the “success” of any sales I’ve made, and at the end of the day, the relationships and networking that I’ve gained have been incredibly valuable.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Once my work began to make itself known throughout my small town, I’d have people approach me and ask if I did any commission work.
I started taking on projects, one at a time, and before I knew it, I had a waitlist of people who were eager to have their memories and special words, painted and written into a memorable piece that they’d cherish for years to come.
Now, I continue to paint and write, as well as offer services for creating custom written prose and painted work for all sorts of different occasions; birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, baptisms— each piece that I create holds a special place in my heart, and reminds me that life is worth celebrating.
My professional background is deeply rooted in education and ministry leadership, where I spent years directing and designing faith-based educational programming for children, youth, and families. Today, I build upon that foundation through One Light Studio.
I would like to believe that I’m known for bringing a positive, encouraging presence into any and all spaces I enter through spreading my creative and reflective styles, as well as engaging in deep conversation and relatable, spiritual compassion, throughout the greater community. I don’t believe art or faith should be confined to one space. Instead, I use my creative work as a bridge to meet people exactly where they are in their everyday lives.
Honestly, I am most proud of the little moments of personal connection that I’ve experienced while sharing my work in a local market or event, and the way that it’s touched the hearts of so many wonderful people. Listening to a story from a person who’s opened up about their life, and hearing how a specific piece resonates deep within them, or reminds them of a time that was meaningful or monumental to them, is the highest honor.
What sets me apart is not a specific technical skill or artistic style, but rather the immense value I place on authentic human connection. I believe that art is meant to be shared, given, and experienced by all. And through sharing, it cultivates community, connection, and a yearning to join in the effort of “spreading light”.
My ultimate dream is to scale this philosophy globally—sharing creative, accessible opportunities with people of all ages and abilities around the world, and proving that art and reflection are universal tools for connection and healing.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
In Her Studio magazine, and Bella Grace Magazine, have both been significant sources of influence for my writing and reflective style.
With a large chunk of my history and life’s work being in ministry, I have a large stack of books that I continuously refer back to when I need inspiration or encouragement. A few of those books include: A Rhythm of Prayer: A Collection of Meditations for Renewal, Edited by Sarah Bessey; Reaching Out, By Henri Nouwen; Conoeing the Mountains, by Tod Bolsinger. and The Artist’s Way, by Julia Cameron.
When I’m needing some personal encouragement, or to tap into the rawness of my faith, I enjoy the Woman Evolve podcast by Sarah Jakes Roberts, Everything Happens with Kate Bowler, and The Mel Robbins Podcast.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.onelightstudioart.com
- Instagram: @one.light.studio
- Other: https://www.onelightstudioart.com/theluminary
