Artist Bradley Copeland

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Dave had the privilege of sitting down with the incredibly talented painter Bradley Copeland. 

Our conversation began with a funny reflection on how long it took to finally get her on the podcast, but the wait was undeniably worth it. In this episode, Bradley opens up about her journey as an artist, her struggles with mental health, and the profound impact art has had on her life.

Bradley shared her passion for painting, describing how she would love to spend all her time immersed in her craft, surrounded by friends who come to visit her studio. We delved into her recent return to a productive flow state after a challenging year that left her feeling disconnected from her art. She talked about the therapeutic nature of her work, how painting helps her process emotions and manage her stressr, and the importance of creativity in her life.

One of the most touching parts of our conversation was Bradley's recounting of her experiences with the justice system. She spoke candidly about her brief time in trouble with the law, the immense challenges she faced navigating the system alone, and how this experience fueled her passion for helping others, particularly through her volunteer work with the Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) and the Walton County prison system. 

Bradley's dedication to bringing art to incarcerated individuals and using creativity as a means of rehabilitation is truly inspiring.

We also discussed her origin story, from her childhood love of art to her unexpected transition into a full-time artist. Bradley recounted the pivotal moment when she moved to the beach, met Anne Hunter, and was given the opportunity for her first solo show. 

Despite a severe burn injury just days before her scheduled show, Bradley's determination to continue painting and pursuing her passion was unwavering.

Bradley's journey is a testament to the healing power of art and the resilience of the human spirit. Her story highlights the importance of embracing creativity, not just as a hobby, but as a vital tool for personal growth and mental health.

Connect with Bradley via IG @bradleycopelandart

Support the Cultural Arts Alliance and learn more about their programs at https://www.culturalartsalliance.com

Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes from SOWAL House.