A Life Rooted in Design and Business
For most of her life, Angie Van Mulken walked the professional path of design and business. She studied both fields, building a career that seemed steady, structured, and defined. But life has a way of steering us toward what truly calls us. In Angie’s case, that calling came quietly during the isolation of COVID—through sculpting, and eventually painting. What began as a simple hobby quickly evolved into a profound life direction.
A Dream That Changed Everything
On the morning of November 22, 2021, Angie awoke from a vivid dream that altered her path forever. With a sense of clarity and conviction, she picked up her tools and began to draw. That very day marked the beginning of a journey she describes not as a choice, but as a guiding hand leading her forward. It was more than inspiration; it was destiny.
First Steps on the Creative Path
Like many artists, Angie began humbly—painting live portraits at a local street market, selling prints, and experimenting with original pieces. She turned to social media, learning how to navigate digital platforms to share her work with the world. Along the way, she carried a life lesson that still fuels her journey: life is short, don’t wait for tomorrow. Kindness goes a long way.
The Artist Behind the Canvas
Angie doesn’t see herself as drastically different from other artists—except perhaps in her relentless commitment. She calls herself a “typical tormented artist,” one who works tirelessly, often with more discipline than inspiration. What makes her stand out, though, is her belief in the present moment. She creates with urgency, as if every brushstroke is an act of living fully.
Milestones That Mark the Way
Every artist remembers the milestones that reassure them their work matters. For Angie, it was a bank check so large it required a hold, and later, seeing her art displayed in New York. These moments, though material, symbolize something deeper: validation that her dream-born path carries weight, meaning, and impact.
Facing Challenges, Finding Growth
Like all artists, Angie faces challenges. For her, the biggest has been building a body of work in a short period of time. Having only started oil painting a little over two years ago, her portfolio feels small compared to others. And yet, she sees this not as a limitation but as part of the process—trusting that everything unfolds as it should.
Looking Ahead: A Move Toward Europe
The future for Angie is wide open, yet her heart is set on Europe. With her husband’s connections abroad, she hopes to build a new chapter there, carrying her art wherever the journey leads. She’s already rolled up her unsold Seattle works, determined not to leave anything behind. The destination may be uncertain, but her excitement is undeniable.
The Ocean, Music, and Faith
Outside of painting, Angie draws inspiration from life’s simple joys—the ocean, gardening, travel, and music. At the center of it all is her faith in God, which she credits as the true source of her creativity. Her husband, a constant presence, is both her anchor and companion through every chapter, whether she’s counting his golf shots or wandering beaches by his side.
A Message for Aspiring Artists
When asked for advice, Angie’s words are simple yet profound: “If you want passion in your life, you must be passionate.” She believes diligence and daily commitment are key—keeping one’s goal at the forefront of thought every single day. Above all, she encourages others to be true to themselves, because authenticity is the artist’s most enduring signature.
