Trading Law Books for Paintbrushes: A Story of Creative Courage From High-Powered Law to Creative Awakening

Cecelia's story is one of transformation and the pursuit of happiness. Once a high-powered lawyer navigating the busy streets of Chicago, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C., she found herself overwhelmed by billable hours and high-stress environments. This constant pressure stifled her spirit, but a spark of creativity began to shine through, leading her back to her roots in Carroll, Iowa.

Three Decades in the Legal World

Cecelia's journey into the world of visual arts was not the typical route of a professional artist. After she graduated from law school, Cecelia left Iowa to practice law for nearly 30 years in large urban cities including Philadelphia, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. She describes her legal career in the big law firm one of long hours that primarily redistributed the wealth among the wealthy. She moved from the private sector to the public – working for the Chicago Transit Authority and the Federal Transit Administration. Although this work was more rewarding, it was still not giving her joy.

A Creative Spark Ignites

Cecelia's love for the arts, which lay dormant during most of her adult life, resurfaced in her late thirties when she found herself craving a creative outlet to counterbalance the acrimony of her law career. Embracing her passion for art with open arms, Cecelia boldly embarked on her journey of artistic exploration at 38, by enrolling in an adult education art class at the Chicago Art Institute, ready to unfold her potential and dive into the world of creative expression. Cecelia went on to take classes in figure drawing and portraiture and eventually started painting with watercolors.

Finding Community Back Home

Upon returning to Carroll, Cecelia discovered a welcoming community and family eager to support her artistic journey. She established her workspace in her sister's art gallery, where she showcased her creations and networked with fellow artists.

The gallery soon became a hub of creativity. Cecelia participated in local art events and workshops, often collaborating on projects that merged traditional techniques with modern styles.

An Inspirational Conclusion

Cecelia's journey from corporate lawyer to full-time artist shows the incredible power of pursuing one's passion. By taking a leap of faith and returning to her roots, she discovered not only her true calling but also a profound sense of fulfillment that had eluded her for far too long.

Her story inspires anyone trapped in a career that doesn't fulfill them. Often, happiness requires stepping away from the familiar and embracing change. In Cecelia's case, that change led her home, where she could transform her dreams into colorful realities.

You can see Cecelia’s art on her website, www.ceceliacomitoart.com, and you can follow her on Instagram @ceceliacomito