Interview for Coloured Pencil Magazine Spring 2025
Lessons from a Coloured Pencil Artist: Advice and Inspiration
By Stacey Moore
Hello! My name is Stacey Moore, and I’m a coloured pencil artist based in the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales. My work is deeply inspired by the landscapes, wildlife, and nature that surround me, and I’ve dedicated the past eight years to perfecting my craft.
My journey as an artist began when I decided to follow my passion for creating lifelike drawings. Over time, what started as a deeply personal creative outlet has evolved into a thriving career. The process hasn’t always been easy, but every step has been worth it. My goal is to capture the beauty of the natural world in a way that resonates with others, evoking a sense of connection, nostalgia, and calm.
Focus on the details: That’s where the magic happens
One of the things I love most about working with coloured pencils is the level of detail they allow me to capture. Whether it’s the softness of fur or the intricate textures of feathers, it’s all in the layers. The process takes time, often weeks, but that’s what makes the final piece so rewarding.
As artists, we need to embrace the time-consuming nature of our craft and take pride in creating quality over quantity. When you pour your heart into your work, the result is always worth it.
Learn to balance and let go of perfection
In the early days of juggling two galleries, two babies, and endless orders, I often felt like I had to do it all perfectly. But here’s the truth: perfection isn’t necessary, and balance doesn’t mean equal parts.
Motherhood taught me to prioritise and let go of the pressure to be perfect. Some days, everything will flow smoothly, and other days, it won’t, and that’s okay. If I could go back and tell myself one thing, it would be: keep going, it’s all going to be worth it.
Stay true to your ‘why’
When you’re balancing family life and a business, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. What keeps me grounded is staying connected to my “why,” the reason I create.
For me, it’s about capturing the beauty and magic of the Yorkshire Dales and sharing that connection with my audience. My art isn’t about churning out content; it’s about creating pieces that evoke emotion and tell a story. That’s why I focus on quality over quantity, whether it’s in my artwork, social media, or website updates.
You don't have to do it all
Motherhood changes everything. It’s okay to ask for help, whether it’s from family, friends, or simply accepting that some days won’t go as planned. You’re doing enough, and that’s what matters.
I’ve also learned that scaling back doesn’t mean giving up. Taking time to rest, cherish the moments with your family, and prioritise what truly matters will always pay off in the long run.
Take action, even if it’s scary
For so long, I dreamed about where I wanted my art and business to go but felt stuck in the “what ifs.” Starting is the hardest part, but nothing changes unless you take that first step. Whether it’s a tiny step forward or a leap of faith, action is key.
If you’re thinking about pursuing your passion, go for it. You don’t need a degree or a perfect plan to get started. Just start creating and let the rest unfold.
It’s ok to say no
Not every opportunity is right for you, and that’s perfectly fine. Early on, I felt like I had to say yes to every commission or project. Now, I’ve learned to focus on the ones that align with my passion.
Saying no can be scary, but it’s the only way to make space for the work that truly excites you. Remember, your time and creativity are valuable, so use them wisely.
Celebrate the small wins
Building a creative career isn’t just about big milestones, it’s about the small, everyday victories. Whether it’s finishing a single piece, connecting with a new customer, or finding five minutes to sketch between parenting duties, those wins add up.
Every piece I create is a labour of love, and I’ve learned to treasure the journey as much as the outcome.
Stacey x
