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In an effort to lift spirits, spread positive energy and support those around us, Artful Living has partnered with Minneapolis artist Abbey Holden to create the exclusive art print “Wilderness.” A portion of proceeds from the sale of the print will benefit She Climbs Mountains, a Twin Cities nonprofit serving women and girls who have experienced mother loss through death at any age. Here, Holden shares the inspiration behind this artwork, how quarantine has reshaped her creative process and more.


Photography provided by Abbey Holden

At what point in your life did you start making art?

I’ve been drawn to art my whole life. I grew up focusing on the craft in school and eventually attended college to study it. Afterward, I worked as a designer for a clothing company for a few years on the East Coast. I moved back to Minnesota almost five years ago to start my own business as an artist.

How would you describe the style of your work?

I like to paint calm and serene landscapes. I’m always inspired by impressionist artists. I’d say my work is most similar to that style — thick paint, small brushstrokes and lots of light.

Has quarantine affected your creative process?

Yes. It has made me very grateful to have a career that is rooted in creating and processing. It has also given me the opportunity to paint my first series. I was unsure how business would look, so when commissions were coming in slow, I had time to paint a series of pieces, which is something I’ve wanted to do for a while.

What inspired the creation of this print?

I am endlessly inspired by both mountains and bodies of water. The two landscapes have a way of making you feel small and completely surrounded by earth’s beauty. I combined the two landscapes in this piece, making it the best of both worlds.

A portion of proceeds from this print will benefit She Climbs Mountains. Why did you choose this nonprofit?

After my mom passed away, I read a book on the subject and loved it so much I reached out to the author. She shared this local group with me and suggested I get in touch. It’s been really comforting to find support from women who have a shared experience in loss. She Climbs Mountains is doing work to build community amongst women who’ve lost their mothers and helping the grief process and journey.

Learn more about Artful Giving and purchase this exclusive print.

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