Annie Salness: Finding Strength and Creativity Through Adversity

Get to know artist Annie Salness from Portland, Oregon as she prepares to release her latest collection for our upcoming virtual art show!

To Be Featured In:  Fancy That (Nov, 2024)
Learn More & View Work Examples:  Artburst Studios Artist Profile

Annie’s love for art has been a lifelong passion. Growing up in Anaheim, California, she was always active—playing sports, studying art, and later earning a degree in illustration and biomedical illustration from California State Long Beach. After raising four children and homeschooling them, a simple request from a friend to paint murals reignited her artistic drive. She studied new techniques, marketing, and connected with fellow artists to rebuild her skills.

“Joyfully Persevere: have joy in your continued effort to do or achieve something beyond what you thought was possible.”

Annie’ journey as an artist took an unexpected turn in 2010 when she suffered a stroke that paralyzed the right side of her body—her painting hand. But what could have been a devastating loss became an opportunity for reinvention. Determined to keep creating, Annie began training her left hand, turning the challenge into a chance to embrace a looser, more abstract style of art.

The stroke changed everything but through perseverance, an athlete’s work ethic, and the support of her loved ones, Annie learned to walk, talk, and paint again—this time using her left hand. Today, she continues to create every day, finding joy in the creative process, teaching classes, and working with clients on commissions.

For Annie, art is more than a profession—it’s a testament to her resilience. She finds fulfillment in every step of the journey, whether it’s working in her studio, teaching others, or simply listening to music while she paints. Her story is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the beauty that can come from overcoming life’s challenges.

Her latest collection of original pieces will be unveiled at our next virtual art show “Fancy That“, which opens on November 14th at 10am MST. The show will close on November 16th at 4pm MST. Be sure to create your free Collector Account early so you are prepared for the show open!

You can see more of her work at her official website.

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