Hey Hey! I’m Annette Stephenson-Shipp,

When I was 10 I dreamed of being many things an artist being one of them. I think my 10 year old self would be quite happy with what we have achieved so far.

Recently I became a nature educator and more specifically teaching nature journaling classes to all ages within Polk County and surrounding areas. When not teaching I spend my time refining my craft sketching and painting the hours away in my home studio located in Central Florida and plein air painting.

In 2015 I graduated high school and after fumbling around in college for a semester I went to the military and served in the Air Force as a C-130 Crew Chief. Later, I received my AA in Computer Studies around 2020 because at the time I thought I wanted to be a computer scientist and apart of me is still nerdy about web development.

I am inspired by the natural world so you will often find all kinds of animals and habitats in my work. I enjoy observing the world around me. I enjoy painting the world around me as it is as well as illustrating stories I imagine about the places and animals there. I like to personify animals and give them personalities like us.

When not working I spend my time volunteering at my son’s school, volunteering on the Lakeland Arts Association as the Treasurer, and going on family on family hikes.

Fun facts:

I love rabbits and have had 3; Coco, Stefan Jr.  and Cinnamon Bun.

I have a small obsession with trains. Must be genetic because my 4 year old also adores trains.

I enjoy monthly plein air painting sessions.

I enjoy include tea, reading rom-coms, sewing, and gardening,