An Interview with Artist Summer VonHolten on Embracing Nature and Creativity

Summer VonHolten is an accomplished oil painter based in Tomball, Texas, celebrated for her vibrant and emotionally evocative works. Drawing inspiration from the rural landscapes and wildlife of her surroundings, Summer’s art combines realism with textured, layered oil techniques that capture the beauty and depth of the natural world. Her bold use of color and movement invites viewers to connect not just with the scenes she paints, but with the emotions they evoke.

A graduate of the University of Houston with a degree in Fine Arts, Summer honed her skills through years of dedication and experimentation. Influenced by artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Vincent van Gogh, her work reflects a passion for storytelling through visual art. Each piece embodies her belief in the power of imperfection, embracing the raw, unpolished elements that make art uniquely human.

Beyond her painting, Summer VonHolten is passionate about fostering creativity in others. She offers workshops and mentorship programs for aspiring artists, encouraging them to embrace their individuality and explore new techniques. With a focus on authenticity and connection, Summer’s art and teaching inspire others to find beauty in both nature and their own creative journeys.

How did growing up in Tomball, Texas, shape your perspective as an artist?

Growing up in Tomball gave me an appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. The rural Texas landscapes, with their wide-open fields and ever-changing skies, instilled in me a sense of wonder and serenity. That connection to nature is the foundation of my art. I find myself drawn to capturing the interplay of light and shadow, the vibrant colors of a sunset, or the texture of wild grass in the wind. Tomball also taught me to value simplicity and authenticity—qualities I aim to bring into every piece I create.

What do you hope people feel when they view your art?  

I hope people feel a connection—whether it’s to a memory, an emotion, or just the beauty of the natural world. My goal is to evoke a sense of calm and reflection, almost like you’re stepping into the moment I’ve painted. I also want people to see the humanity in my work. The imperfections, the textured brushstrokes, and the layers are all part of the story, and I think those elements resonate on a personal level.

What role does emotion play in your creative process?  

Emotion is at the heart of everything I do. Before I even pick up a brush, I spend time reflecting on the feeling I want to convey in a piece. Sometimes it’s joy, other times nostalgia or even melancholy. Those emotions guide my choice of colors, textures, and composition. I think art is a conversation, and emotion is what allows that conversation to happen. If I can communicate even a fraction of what I’m feeling to someone else through my work, then I’ve succeeded.

How do you balance technical skill with creative intuition in your paintings?  

It’s a delicate balance. Technical skill is important because it provides the tools to bring a vision to life, but intuition is what gives a piece its soul. For me, the process starts with a solid technical foundation—I’ll plan the composition and think about how to structure the layers. But once I begin painting, I let intuition take over. I listen to the painting, so to speak, and let it guide me. Sometimes that means veering off the original plan, but those moments of spontaneity often lead to the most powerful results.

Who or what has been the biggest influence on your art?  

Nature is my greatest influence, but I also draw inspiration from artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Vincent van Gogh. O’Keeffe’s ability to elevate simple, organic forms into something monumental is awe-inspiring, and van Gogh’s use of color and movement speaks to me deeply. I’m also inspired by personal experiences and the emotions they bring. Every piece I create is, in some way, a reflection of my relationship with the world around me.

Can you describe a painting of yours that holds special meaning to you?  

One of my favorite pieces is a landscape I painted of a Texas meadow at sunset. The colors were richer than anything I’d attempted before—deep oranges and purples melting into softer tones. That painting came from a moment of pure joy I experienced during a walk one evening. It’s a reminder of how powerful even the simplest moments in nature can be. Every time I look at it, I feel that same sense of awe and peace, and I love that others have told me it brings them similar feelings.

What challenges have you faced as an artist, and how have they shaped you?  

One of the biggest challenges has been overcoming self-doubt. Early in my career, I often second-guessed my work, feeling like it wasn’t “good enough” or didn’t measure up to other artists. It took time, but I’ve learned to embrace the imperfections and trust my instincts. Those challenges pushed me to focus on authenticity rather than comparison. They’ve made me a stronger artist and a more confident person overall.

How do you stay motivated and inspired when facing creative blocks?  

When I hit a creative block, I step away from the studio and reconnect with nature. Whether it’s a walk in the woods or just sitting quietly outside, being in natural surroundings clears my mind and sparks new ideas. I also give myself permission to create without judgment. Sometimes I’ll work on something just for fun, without worrying about whether it’s “good.” Those low-pressure sessions often lead to breakthroughs.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their journey as an artist?  

My biggest piece of advice is to be patient—with yourself and with the process. Finding your voice as an artist takes time, and there will be setbacks along the way. Embrace experimentation, make mistakes, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Art is about growth, not perfection. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. Create what moves you, and the rest will follow.

What do you hope to achieve in the next phase of your artistic career?  

I want to continue growing as an artist, exploring new techniques and pushing the boundaries of my creativity. I’d also love to expand my workshops and mentorship programs to reach more people, especially those who might not have access to formal art education. My ultimate goal is to inspire others—not just to create, but to see the world with fresh eyes and find beauty in the everyday. Art has given so much to me, and I want to share that gift with as many people as I can.

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