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Embracing Faith, Creativity, and Purpose
Case Study: Natalie Haydel Barker, Founder-Colors by Natalie
Grant Chiasson
October 25, 2024 • Read Time: 9 minutes
Welcome to the 13th edition of Resilience Blueprint!
Welcome to this week’s case study, where we explore the inspiring journey of Natalie, the founder of Colors by Natalie. From discovering her passion for art in college to balancing family life, faith, and a successful creative business, Natalie’s story is a powerful example of overcoming self-doubt and finding purpose.
Through five distinct sections, we’ll walk you through her transformation, highlighting how her faith and resilience have shaped her life. Check out her website below ⬇️
Who is Natalie?
Natalie is the heart and soul behind Colors by Natalie, where vibrant, faith-inspired art comes to life. Born and raised in Louisiana, Natalie currently resides in Houma with her husband Andrew and their three children: Eleanor, Teddy, and Ava.
Her journey into the art world started in an unexpected way—what began as a college side job painting party cups evolved into a full-fledged career. Natalie’s story is marked by a deep love for creativity and an even deeper connection to her faith. While she always knew she was meant for something greater, she struggled to find her path for many years.
After a series of unexpected commissions, Natalie’s art business began to take off during her college years. What started as a small project for a friend quickly grew into a steady stream of work.
However, it wasn’t just art that transformed her life—it was her growing relationship with Jesus. As Natalie navigated the pressures of college and young adulthood, she turned to faith for guidance. Today, her work is a reflection of that spiritual journey, where each brushstroke is an act of worship and surrender.
Early Days of Creativity and Confusion
Like many young adults, Natalie’s college years were a period of uncertainty. She switched majors frequently, searching for a career that felt meaningful. In the meantime, her creativity became her sanctuary.
She took a job painting party cups at the Balfour House simply to stay busy and help cover her college expenses. That’s when everything changed. A friend asked Natalie to paint an abstract for her home, and after sharing it on Instagram, the orders started pouring in. She was hooked.
During this time, Natalie found solace in her art, often skipping classes to spend hours painting in her guest bedroom. This period was pivotal—it allowed her to explore her creativity without the pressure of turning it into a career.
Even as her commissions grew, Natalie remained unsure of what the future held. She was about to face a much deeper challenge that would redefine her journey.
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A Leap of Faith and Finding Purpose
After graduating from college, Natalie was still uncertain about her future. She took a gap year to reflect, considering the possibility of pursuing a master’s degree in psychology.
However, her anxiety and depression about what to do next continued to weigh heavily on her. It was during this "time in the desert," as she calls it, that she found Jesus in a more profound way. This spiritual awakening became the turning point in her life.
Through prayer, Natalie sought clarity. She distinctly remembers asking God, “If this is what You want me to do, keep the commissions coming. If not, end it, and I’ll go back to school.” The answer came quickly—commissions continued to flood in, and Natalie embraced art as her calling.
With each piece, she felt the Holy Spirit guiding her. Art was no longer just a hobby; it was a form of worship. As her relationship with God deepened, so did her passion for painting, and she realized this was her purpose.
Family Life and Finding Balance
Fast forward to today, Natalie’s life has shifted dramatically. She is now married to Andrew, her high school sweetheart, and they are raising three beautiful children in Houma.
With Andrew recently accepting a job as a Pain Physician in their hometown of Houma, Louisiana, their family life is in constant motion. Yet, despite the demands of motherhood and marriage, Natalie continues to pursue her art career.
Finding the time to paint is more challenging now, but when she does, it’s a sacred experience. Natalie works on commissions when time allows and exhibits her art at shows across Louisiana a few times a year.
Her long-term dream is to create in her own studio, where she can fully immerse herself in her creative process. For now, she’s learning how to juggle the responsibilities of family, faith, and art, trusting that God will guide her every step of the way.
Advice for Others and Looking Ahead
Natalie’s journey is one of resilience and unwavering faith. Her advice to anyone facing uncertainty or struggling to find their path is simple: trust in God’s plan and stay grounded in your identity.
Whether navigating the pressures of college, career, or family life, she believes that embracing emotions, seeking help, and building a strong community are essential. Natalie emphasizes the importance of exercise and staying physically active as part of maintaining emotional well-being.
As she looks to the future, Natalie is excited about where her art will take her. She hopes to one day open a studio and continue sharing her faith through her creative work.
No matter where the journey leads, Natalie’s focus remains the same: glorifying God through every brushstroke, trusting in His plan, and encouraging others to lean into their faith during life’s challenges.
Closing Thoughts
Natalie’s story is a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and creativity.
From battling anxiety and depression to embracing her calling as an artist, she has learned that trusting in God’s plan can transform even the most uncertain moments into opportunities for growth and purpose.
Her journey serves as a reminder that, with faith and resilience, we can overcome any obstacle and find peace in the process.
Thank you for reading this week’s case study. I hope Natalie’s story has inspired you to embrace your own challenges with faith and courage. Stay tuned for more stories of resilience and growth in the next edition!
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