#22 Building Creative Momentum After Corporate Life: Sam Waters’ Journey to Full-Time Artist
What happens when you spend years not making art and then finally return to it?
In this episode of Empowering the Artist Within, Liz Ross talks to artist Sam Waters, whose story is proof that it’s never too late to reconnect with your creative self. From Harrods and cake decorating to corporate life and finally full-time art, Sam’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and creative courage. Sam went from managing corporate projects to managing her own art business - reconnecting with her voice, building momentum, and finding joy in creative community.
For anyone navigating the space between a creative calling and real-life responsibilities, this is a conversation about coming back to yourself. This episode is a reminder that your creativity is still there and ready when you are.
⏱️ Episode Highlights
00:00 – Meet Sam Waters
We talk about how we connected in the Connected Artist Club and Sam shares the two painting styles she works in today.
03:00 – Early memories & creative sparks
A primary school teacher ignites Sam’s love of art and one object keeps reappearing in her work to this day.
10:00 – Life detours: Harrods, cake decorating, and advertising
Sam walks us through the unconventional path that led her away from art but never too far.
15:00 – Art school (and 4 a.m. bakery shifts)
Why Sam returned to study ceramics and textiles while working two jobs.
20:00 – Corporate life & creative survival
How Sam balanced IT, data, and project management with small creative moments.
24:00 – A creative reawakening
A holiday sketchbook, a printmaking class, and everything starts to shift.
30:00 – Leaving her job to become a full-time artist
Sam opens up about quitting her job after 28 years and how she planned for the leap.
36:00 – Bringing corporate skills into her art business
How she uses corporate tools to stay intentional and organized in her art business.
42:00 – Money, value, and boundaries
A real chat about pricing and knowing your worth
48:00 – Exhibitions, art fairs & finding your people
Sam talks about showing her work locally, collaborating with other artists, and the joy of connection.
54:00 – Why creative friendships matter
From art buddies to accountability groups - why community makes all the difference.
🎯 What You’ll Take Away
You’re never too late. Creative energy doesn’t disappear, it waits.
Your past is not a detour. Every job or skill can fuel your art life now.
Treat your art like it matters. Know your worth, track your numbers, and plan intentionally.
Creative friendships are fuel. Find your people - they’ll keep you going.
Momentum is built, not found. Small actions - sketchbooks, shows, community - all add up.
Give yourself freedom. Time spent organising, thinking, or pausing is part of the process.
🔗 Links & Resources
Follow Sam on Instagram – @samwatersartist
Connected Artist Club – Listen to Episode 20 with Alice Sheridan
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