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 upon the world of surface pattern design, thanks to a popular stock image artist (Oksancia). 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 the doors to Immersion 2020 opened, I hesitated. I'd already done the basic course, so what more could I learn from the pricier version, right?
So, I didn’t take it that year, instead, I continued on my own, creating patterns, learning business management, and figuring out legal stuff. I became part of Bonnie's “Flourish” membership in 2020, and started meeting all these amazing like-minded women that in fact had taken the course, and couldn't stop praising it. 2021, the Immersion FOMO hit me hard. But I didn't want to make a decision just based on that. So, typical me, I made a list of pros and cons (yes, I'm Miss Lists!). I was scared I wouldn’t complete it or it wasn’t gonna be “good enough” to justify the big money investment, but the pros eventually outweighed the cons. And in February 2022, I finally took the plunge! And it's one of the best decisions I've ever made!
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 don’t worry, it's all broken down into manageable chunks. And her soothing voice is a bonus!
Modules 3 and 4 were my favourites. That's where you start creating motifs and patterns for your own collection. I used inspiration from nature walks and had lots of fun experimenting and playing with my designs. Finishing my first collection of 12 patterns was a proud moment! Well, still is!
The last two modules cover the business side. I learned so much about building a brand, starting a newsletter, and licensing my work. Fast forward to 2024, and I'm now a surface designer for NZ's biggest souvenir company (dream job!), have my own brand, and have licensed my work globally. I also sell my products at local art markets, I’m starting my coaching journey, helping women find confidence in their work and reach their creative goals, and… BIG NEWS: I’m joining the Immersion course's expert team this 2024! Being part of the team of a course that transformed my life is a huge milestone for me!
Looking back at my old designs makes me cringe, but that just means I've grown.
