A journey of transforming public spaces into creative expression - Stephanie Boutari
A journey of transforming public spaces into creative expression - Stephanie Boutari  
Podcast: Daring Creativity. Daring Forever.
Published On: Mon Mar 03 2025
Description: "In the beginning I was more fearless because I had nothing to lose. Now I've developed a reputation, but I'm better at saying no." - Stephanie BoutariStephanie Boutari shares her journey from studying architecture to becoming a mural artist in Southern Ontario, Canada. Originally from Bahrain with Egyptian heritage, Stephanie initially chose architecture as a "safer" career path despite her lifelong passion for art. After years of suppressing her creative identity, she reconnected with her artistic roots during her master's thesis by exploring color, surfaces, and architecture. Her first mural experience—painting outside her architecture school where everyone could see her—marked the beginning of her transition. After working in architecture left her physically ill (culminating in a ruptured appendix), she finally embraced mural art as her full-time career. Stephanie approaches each project with a deep consideration for the architectural context, integrating existing features like windows and structural elements into her compositions. She now dreams of expanding her reach to paint multi-story buildings and participating in international street art festivals.Key Takeaways:Stephanie uses architectural principles in her art, creating geometric murals that play with depth and three-dimensional effects on two-dimensional surfacesHer first mural came from simply asking a building owner if she could paint their wall, showing the power of initiativeEach completed mural naturally led to more commissions through visibility and word-of-mouthShe balances creative freedom with client needs, but always stays true to her artistic visionPhysical challenges of mural painting include weather limitations, construction site complications, and physical fatigueSocial media metrics aren't as meaningful as genuine audience connection and feedbackHer evolution as an artist includes being more selective about projects and setting boundaries while still pushing her creative comfort zone Daring Creativity. Daring Forever. Podcast with Radim Malinic Show questions or suggestions to desk@daringcreativity.com Latest books by Radim MalinicMindful Creative: How to understand and deal with the highs and lows of creative life, career and business Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFcFree audiobook (with Audible trial) > https://geni.us/free-audiobookSigned books https://novemberuniverse.co.ukLux Coffee Co. https://luxcoffee.co.uk/ (Use: PODCAST for 15% off)November Universe https://novemberuniverse.co.uk (Use: PODCAST for 10% off)