Thanks for being here—it’s most appreciated!
Let me put this out there…I never thought I was an artist. I am a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified health coach with my own business Neily on Nutrition. I help people improve their health and age gracefully.
“I’ve always believed we each have an artist inside us, it’s just how it shows up!!!” -a post on Facebook
my uniquely neily story
I like to say now—dietitian by day, artist by night!
My mom—appropriately named Monet—has created art since she was young (oils, watercolors, etc.) She started playing around with another medium, alcohol ink. Visiting her in Chicago during Christmas 2018, I loved the look and asked her to teach me.
For several days I unleashed my inner artist and created a few hand-painted coaster tiles. Then I returned to Dallas and on with life.
In early January 2019, a family member was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. It was devastating to my family and I needed a therapeutic outlet. I invested in some inks and started creating.
And haven’t stopped.
I wasn’t sure about posting on social media…what if people thought I should stick with my day job—which I love—I got the courage and posted on Instagram and Facebook with the message:
“Inspired by my mom I’ve let my creative side sneak out this month. Mom taught me how to paint with alcohol ink over Christmas and I’ve become a wee obsessed with making these coasters. It’s wonderful therapy and creating brings me joy.”
The response was overwhelmingly positive.
BABY STEPS
I ended up with the page @UniquelyNeily on Instagram and also bought this domain, Uniquely Neily. You can also check me out on Facebook @UniquelyNeily. Baby steps.
BUT…what to do with the abundance of tile coasters I’ve created?
You can check my calendar and if you’re in the Dallas area, please visit me at markets where I’ll have a booth.
Although nutrition is the career I’ve created—my art endeavors are a blessing.
One last thing, I have a rescue Great Dane, Lex, who is kind enough to share me. Over the years I’ve fostered 54 gentle giants through Great Dane Rescue of North Texas.
Lex is the third Dane I’ve owned and keeps me company in my home office. He was a certified therapy dog until Covid. As a team though we love putting smiles on faces we run into.
Thanks again for being here and feel free to reach out with any custom requests!
-Neily