For artist Raney Watters, art serves as a powerful medium for expression and connection. Her paintings stem from a deep inner place, aiming to evoke a profound sense of connection and a safe space for self-exploration. As a professional artist, she continues to learn the delicate balance between creativity and logic in building her business, while still holding dear her career as a speech-language pathologist.

Unlock the Healing Through Artistic Expression

Healing Properties of Nature in Art

Raney grew up in Grenada and Greenwood, where her mother would encourage her to play outside or get creative when restless. Throughout childhood, she used her imagination through art and dancing. Her art journey began at a summer camp with an art teacher in Grenada who taught various art forms. This early exposure nurtured her love for art.In recent years, she has returned to art, finding the same therapeutic benefits as in childhood. She often wakes up at 4 am with ideas and spends long hours painting until 9 pm. Her studio, originally intended as a sunroom, provides excellent light and a peaceful space for her to create.

Art as a Means of Expression and Connection

Art provides Raney with a bridge of connectivity between all living things. She believes that through the arts, whether visual, music, or writing, we can experience each other on a more human level. Her paintings blend elements of nature, music, and emotion, creating a unique blend.She works with different mediums like watercolor, oil, pastels, and aerosol paint, aiming to make her work textured and full of layers and depth. Each time someone looks at her paintings, she wants them to notice something new and feel something.

Transition from Hobby to Business

Making the transition from a painting hobby to a business has been a challenge for Raney, but one she is eager to embrace. Her work was displayed at the Cotton House in Cleveland last year, which helped get her name out. Through that show, she was contacted to donate a piece for a children's fundraiser in Bolivar County.Her goal is to travel and connect with people worldwide through her art. She hopes to have her artwork featured in galleries and art fairs, furthering her connections and following her passions.Raney is married to Dr. Carter Watters and lives in Madison with their two beagles. Art has become a significant part of her life, bringing her happiness and a sense of purpose.