How Bonnie Christine's Immersion Course Transformed My Artistic Journey: A Personal Insight
Ever wondered how a single course can change your entire path? Let me share my story with you. Back at the end of 2019, I discovered the world of surface pattern design, and it opened doors to a world I never knew existed. This blog is about that journey – how Bonnie Christine's Immersion Course not only transformed my artistic skills but also reshaped my entire professional and personal outlook. From my initial skepticism to becoming a passionate surface designer.
November 2019. That's when I first stumbled into the world of surface pattern design. I was looking at stock images (thanks, Oksancia!) and BAM! I was instantly fascinated and eager to learn more about becoming a pattern designer. So, I googled courses (as you do!), and that’s when a Creative Live course popped up in my feed. It was affordable, around 20 USD, and had great reviews, so why not? This was my first introduction to Bonnie Christine, and it was a game-changer for both my professional and personal life.
Am I exaggerating? Not really. Before 2020, I'd spent a decade exploring different creative paths, searching for that spark to wake up excited every day. Of course, those years weren't wasted; they were necessary. But after taking one of Bonnie's basic courses, I knew for sure: that I wanted to be a surface designer.
I graduated in graphic design back in 2013, so I was no stranger to Adobe Illustrator. When Immersion 2020 came around, I was kinda unsure. I'd already done the basic course, so what else could I learn, right? (Ever felt like that?)
So, I didn’t take it that year.Instead, I kept learning on my own, making patterns, figuring out the business side of things, even the legal stuff all on my own. I became part of Bonnie's “Flourish” membership in 2020, and started meeting all these amazing like-minded women who had taken the course, and couldn't stop raving about it. By 2021, the Immersion FOMO hit me hard! But I didn't want to make a decision just based on that. I'm a list-maker, so I wrote down all the pros and cons. I was worried about the cost and whether I'd even finish it. But the pros won in the end. And in February 2022, I finally went for it! Seriously, one of the best decisions ever.
The Immersion experience starts even before the course. Bonnie's attention to detail makes you feel valued and supported. I received a beautiful box at my door with loads of helpful info and goodies.
As soon as the first module dropped, I was on it. It was a bit basic for me, tech-wise, but still fascinating. Module 2 was where the magic happened. Watching Bonnie's process and learning her techniques was mind-blowing. It's packed with info, but it's all broken down so it's easy to follow. And her voice is super calming, which is a bonus!
Modules 3 and 4 were my faves. That's when you start making your own motifs and patterns. I got inspired by going for walks in nature and had so much fun playing around with my designs. Finishing my first collection of 12 patterns was such a proud moment! Still is!
The last two modules are all about the business side. I learned so much about building a brand, starting a newsletter (like this one!), and licensing my work. Fast forward to now, and I'm living the dream! I'm a surface designer for the biggest souvenir company in NZ, I have my own brand, my work has been licensed all over the world, my work has been featured in Frankie Magazine, I've held art exhibitions, I sell my art at the Encraftment Market, and I'm even starting my creative coaching path, helping other women find their creative confidence. Oh! And last year, I joined Bonnie's expert team! Being part of the course that changed my life is a massive deal for me!
All this just from saying yes to my dreams and going for it! If you're curious about surface design, I can't recommend Bonnie's courses enough. They really did change my life, and they could change yours too.
Looking back at my old designs makes me cringe, but that just means I've grown.
