Meet Holly Stafford
Holly Stafford is a whimsical artist inspired by nature, color, and light. Raised in the beauty and wildness of Alaska, she developed a deep connection to the natural world—something that continues to shape my artwork today. Her style is playful and bright, often blending dreamlike elements with earthy themes to spark joy, imagination, and wonder. Over the years, she’s worked as a graphic designer, illustrator, art curator and art instructor for all ages. She enjoys combining my love for fine art with digital creativity to create impactful product designs. Holly is passionate about creating art that feels uplifting and expressive—whether it’s through colorful prints, gratitude stones, or designs that find new life on products like journals, mugs, apparel, and more. You can find her work featured across Western Washington locations found on my website, HollysImages.com.
We are thrilled to have Holly as one of our guest artists during the Camano Art Association’s Studio Tour. Sunnyshore Studio’s Artistic Director met Holly when she was the featured artist at the Snow Goose Festival at the Floyd. He had heard about Holly’s gifts when she painted the window at the old furniture store/future Meyer Art Center. Jason was impressed with her art and joyful attitude, and sales, at the festival and invited her to join Sunnyshore Studio’s Gallery. You will enjoy learning more about Holly in this interview.
Enjoy this Interview with Holly
Sunnyshore Studio: What is the story of your artistic journey?
Holly: I knew at a very young age that I was meant to be an artist. God lit me up like a light bulb one day coloring with my mom, and from that moment on my purpose was clear. I grew up in Alaska which allowed me to grow up with a strong respect and connection to nature on a huge scale. After graduating high school, I came to Seattle to attend AIS (Art Institute of Seattle). After graduation I got a job as a graphic artist at GTE Directories making phone books and worked there for 20 years. During that time in management positions, I did art and small shows on the side, volunteered graphic design projects for non-profits and more to keep my inner artist fed. I had my own studio in Snohomish on First street for a couple of years and have belonged to several artist groups. I am currently a member of CAA and a teaching artist for SCAAC. My dream is to grow my art following to share my images of bright light and love to as many people as possible.
Sunnyshore Studio: How would you describe your painting style?
Holly: My painting style is sometimes whimsical, bright and uses dots and swirls to depict movement and connection. I love telling a story and each of my pieces hold some type of meaning or message. I ask Gods love to be present in each drop of paint and I believe it shines out and connects with the veiwer.
Sunnyshore Studio: Who have been artistic influences in your life?
Holly: My mother was an artist and my first introduction to creativity. I love the masters and have been influenced specifically by Van Gogh, Klimt, O’Keefe and Picasso. Local artist legends are also very inspiring and fun, Gunter and Cort come to mind but there are too many to mention. I am humbled to be doing an event at the Sunnyshore Studio with some of these exact people! I continue to learn and grow as an artist and will until I can no longer do so.
Sunnyshore Studio: How long have you been in the area?
Holly: I moved to Seattle over 42 years ago and have lived on Camano Island for the last 5 years. I LOVE IT!
Sunnyshore Studio: What has it been like to be part of the community of artists here?
Holly: After working at an insane pace most of the last 5 years, I am just getting my feet wet this year working with artists in this area. This art community is so warm and inviting and has such a variety of amazing mediums and styles! The island of artists is RICH with talent on so many levels! Teaching art at the gradeschools is very rewarding, as well as volunteering for the Gateway Gallery and connecting with the public.
Sunnyshore Studio: What do you know about Sunnyshore Studio and why are you excited (if you are) to show your work here during the studio tour?
Holly: Honestly I don’t know a bunch, but I do know it’s home to a family of amazing artists spanning many generations! Most of the work I’ve seen are watercolors from Jack and Jason Dorsey but I look forward to experiencing it in more depth. What an incredible legacy that keeps growing and growing! Thank you again for this opportunity – I am beyond excited!
Stop by Studio #2 during the upcoming CAA Studio Tour to meet Holly and collect some of her fun, whimsical and meaninful art!
