For Angela Vennum, creativity has never been something she does, it’s simply who she is.
From childhood drawings and handmade signs to large-scale murals, commissioned artwork, and live wedding paintings, art has shaped nearly every chapter of her life. Today, the Fort Smith native works from her downtown studio, creating colorful pieces that can be found in homes, businesses, churches, schools, and public spaces throughout the region.
A self-taught artist with more than fifteen years of professional experience, Angela has built a career fueled by hard work, faith, family, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities. Along the way, she has taught young artists, opened a creative business, raised her son, Brooks, and developed a body of work that continues to leave a lasting mark on the community she calls home. Do South recently caught up with Angela to discuss creativity, community, the people who have supported her journey, and the dream she’s still excited to pursue.
DS: Have you always been creative?
Angela: Yes! In school, I made banners and posters for the cheerleaders and basketball teams. I even remember being hired to do calligraphy for wedding invitations when I was in sixth grade. I remember thinking, “Wow, people are paying me for handwriting!” I knew art would always be part of my life, but I wasn’t sure how to make it my career. In my early twenties, I decided to go for it. I started with nursery art, door hangers, and furniture, and through word-of-mouth referrals and church friends, I jumped at every opportunity.
DS: When did you decide that you wanted to pursue art professionally?
Angela: I’ve always known I wanted to be an artist. I remember drawing in church as a child and dreaming of one day having my own art studio. I never imagined it would actually happen. I was about twenty-five when I decided to pursue art full time. I was blessed to have incredibly supportive parents. My dad passed away when I was eighteen after battling multiple sclerosis, but he was my biggest fan. My parents always encouraged us to go after our dreams. Between that, my faith, and hard work, I didn’t really think about failing. It simply wasn’t an option.
DS: Looking back, what are you most proud of?
Angela: I’m most proud of opening Cross My Art in 2012. As a single mom with a two-year-old, I needed to do something. Teaching classes and creating something new for Fort Smith became a form of therapy for me. I was able to hire amazing artists and give our community a place to create. It taught me that I could make a living doing what I love while providing for my little family. Most of all, I’m proud that my son, Brooks, has grown up watching his mom chase a dream. I hope he’s learned to be brave and go after whatever he wants in life.
DS: Where does your inspiration come from?
Angela: It could be a color palette, past experiences, or even the weather. If it’s sunny and warm, I tend to paint bright colors. In the fall and winter, I lean more into abstracts and subtle landscapes. Recently, I went to the rodeo and was so inspired that I created an entire series of cowgirl paintings!
DS: What draws you to creating art in so many different formats?
Angela: I think working in retail taught me how to read people. I’ve learned how to see someone’s space, whether it’s a home or business, and understand their style. That helps me create something specifically for them. I also love the challenge of trying something new. It pushes me creatively and ultimately makes me a better artist.
DS: What does it mean to see your work become part of the community?
Angela: I’ve had the privilege of painting murals for churches, schools, nursing homes, the Cancer Support House, and local businesses. It’s a wonderful feeling, especially as I get older and think about what I want to leave behind. I believe using our gifts to give back is important. It feels good to create something lasting.
DS: Is there a project you can share that holds a special place in your heart?
Angela: It’s hard to choose just one! I recently painted a mural for the hospice wing at Methodist Village Senior Living, and that was incredibly meaningful. Knowing what families may be experiencing in that space, I spent a lot of time praying over the design and choosing something peaceful. I’m also very proud of the mural I painted for the children’s building at First Baptist Church in Greenwood. Knowing all the children and families who will experience that space makes it especially meaningful.
DS: What do you enjoy most about your event paintings?
Angela: I remember my first one—I was so nervous because I had no idea what I was going to do. But I love a challenge and thrive under pressure. For weddings, I visit with every bride beforehand and make sure I understand what she envisions. I love being part of such joyful celebrations, and I feel it’s my job to capture the emotions during the event. My hope is that when people see the finished painting, they’re immediately taken back to that moment in time.
DS: Tell us about the people who support you behind the scenes.
Angela: There aren’t enough words to describe my mother, Ruth. Whether it’s baking cookies for a class, washing brushes, delivering artwork, or helping with everyday tasks, she’s always there. At seventy-eight, she never slows down. We truly enjoy living together, and we’re a great team! My partner, Tim, is one of a kind. He builds my frames, wooden signs, installs artwork, and somehow always makes my big ideas happen. One of our largest projects included sixty-five pieces of artwork, some more than eight feet long. He built every frame, I painted, and then we spent days installing everything. Having him by my side allows me to say yes to larger projects, knowing we (he) can figure it out together.
DS: What are some dream projects that are still on your bucket list?
Angela: At the top of my list is painting a mural in downtown Fort Smith! With Bricktown Brewery being rebuilt just across the street from my studio, I’d love the opportunity to create something there. I’d also love to paint live weddings in Florida. I’ve painted murals in Panama City Beach, and I think a beach wedding would be so much fun. Another goal is to host an art show in my gallery showcasing fellow artists!
DS: What would you like to leave readers with?
Angela: Find your gift, whatever that is—art, speaking, writing—and find a way to do it every day. Even if it starts as a hobby, you’ll find more peace and joy by making time for it. And who knows? Maybe you’ll turn it into a career. I’m living out my dream. It has taken a lot of hard work, but it has been worth every sacrifice.
More than fifteen years into her artistic journey, Angela still approaches each project with the same enthusiasm that first inspired her to pick up a pencil as a child. Whether she is painting a mural, teaching a young artist, or capturing a wedding day on canvas, her goal remains unchanged: to create something meaningful. And with new projects, new dreams, and plenty of paint still ahead, it’s clear she’s only getting started. Connect with Angela on Facebook and Instagram at Angela Vennum Art.
