Debugging Life: How I Traded Algorithms for Art
Are you searching for a piece of art that encapsulates life's most vibrant moments? I'm Sara, the creative force behind Swil Arts Studio. I've traded the predictability of code for the beautiful unpredictability of watercolors. After nearly a decade as a software engineer at Google, I embraced a new chapter to fully pursue my artistic passions. My j
ourney from tech to watercolor artistry is a testament to the joy of exploring different paths in life. At Swil Arts Studio, I craft vibrant, dreamy watercolor scenes inspired by the kaleidoscope of life itself. My current love is the line and wash technique, marrying the expressiveness of ink sketches with the fluidity of watercolors. This approach allows me to capture a scene's essence with both detail and atmospheric charm. From captivating urban landscapes and charming animals to often-overlooked everyday objects and mouthwatering food, I find inspiration in the world's rich tapestry. My work whispers nature's beauty, echoes city life's pulse, and immortalizes those soul-stirring moments that color our existence. With Polish roots and San Diego wings, I bring a unique perspective to every brushstroke. My background in computer science infuses my artistic process with precision, resulting in pieces that are both emotive and technically intriguing. Through my art, I strive to unveil the extraordinary in the ordinary, inviting viewers to see the world anew. Whether you're drawn to an original piece or envisioning a custom commission, let's collaborate to bring that same transformative energy into your space. When I'm not in my studio, you can find me:
— Immersing myself in ancient wisdom: practicing yoga (I'm certified in teaching Hatha and Kundalini), offering Reiki healing, or guiding sound bath sessions.
— Exploring local farmers markets, drawing inspiration from the vibrant colors and fresh scents of seasonal produce.
— Hiking with my partner, immersing myself in nature. I prioritize self-care, mental health, and overall wellbeing, and I've found that spending time outdoors helps regulate my nervous system and brings me a sense of peace. I believe in:
— Creating safe and inclusive spaces where everyone, regardless of identity, feels seen, validated, and celebrated. — As a q***r artist, I bring my whole self to my work, infusing my unique perspective into every piece I create.
— The power of authenticity, honesty, and vulnerability, inspired by role models like Esther Perel, Elizabeth Gilbert, Desiree Adaway, and Glennon Doyle.
— The healing power of beauty and aesthetics, and that surrounding oneself with art can profoundly nurture the soul.
— A spiritual connection to a divine consciousness and intelligence, trusting that the Universe supports my creativity and inspiration. My artwork graces a diverse array of spaces, from vibrant small businesses to cherished personal collections. For businesses, I've had the privilege of creating custom pieces for unique establishments like Living Juices and Yoga, FarmaSea, and Cactus Beach Bar and Cafe. Here's what one business owner had to say:
"We commissioned Sara to paint three watercolors for our juice bar/cafe. She brilliantly brought our ideas to life, providing references and a design board that helped us envision the pieces and refine our concept. Sara captured our desire for bold, bright colors while maintaining a realistic style. We're thrilled with the results, and our customers constantly compliment the artwork!"
I take equal pride in the heartfelt connections I create with individual clients. Recently, I received this wonderful testimonial from Jesse:
"Sara went above and beyond to capture a drawing of both our dogs for our wedding cocktail napkins. Her attention to detail was incredible, with their facial expressions and even their eyes captured beautifully. We have gotten so many compliments already, and can't wait to frame the piece in our house and pass out the beautiful napkins to all of our guests this September. Thanks for sharing your talents with us, Sara!"
You can find my art, both originals and prints, in FiftySix Shop in Koh Tao, Thailand, and across seven shops in San Diego: Gallery at Land's End, Bazaar Del Mundo, Stroll, Studio NN, Nibble, La Jolla Outpost, and Vervor. Five things you may not know about me:
1. I've had the incredible opportunity to visit 50 countries across 5 continents and live in 7 of them. My global adventures have greatly enriched my perspective and lifestyle.
2. Interior design is another of my passions. I designed and decorated the apartment I share with my amazing Colombian spouse, and our home was featured in "Apartment Therapy" magazine.
3. Edward Hopper is one of my favorite painters. His ability to capture the quiet, haunting beauty of everyday moments deeply resonates with me.
4. I’m an avid reader, and my current favorite author is Liane Moriarty. I also dabble in writing fiction. My short story won 3rd prize in the SDPL Short Story Contest in 2022, and another was shortlisted in 2024. My literary works have been featured in Helikopter, Aloka, and Lunaris Review magazines.
5. Cooking is another of my passions. I've taken numerous cooking courses and used to run a recipe blog. As a pescatarian sharing life with my vegan partner, I delight in crafting diverse, plant-centric meals inspired by our travels across the globe. Whether you're looking for an original piece or a custom commission, I'm here to help you add a splash of dream-like beauty to your world. Follow me on Instagram to see my latest creations, or reach out to discuss bringing your vision to life through a custom watercolor piece. Let's paint your story together!
