Tammy Mitzka Crawford -Inspiration Unleashed : Inspiring Lives Through Art, Nature, and Empowerment
Tammy Mitzka-Crawford’s life story unfolds like a vivid tapestry, painted with adversity and triumph, each brushstroke a testament to her tenacity, creativity, and indomitable spirit. Celebrated globally, Tammy’s art—spanning evocative Fine Art, 3-D Wall Sculptures, Reliefs, Murals, and paintings—captures the gaze and narrates profound tales. Beyond her artistic mastery, Tammy is an internationally published author, coach, and speaker known far and wide for her motivational fine art and three-dimensional wall sculptures. Her distinctive, original works command prices ranging from five to six figures, marking her prominence in art.
Tammy has always been passionate about nature, creativity, and motivating those around her. However, there was a time when she thought she’d never be able to do anything, including her Art. As newlyweds, Tammy and her husband relocated to Eugene, Oregon, to advance their education. At 23, her interests centered on the fashion industry and modeling, alongside nurturing their two daughters.
However, this became incredibly challenging after she suffered a severe fall that led to a head injury, resulting in persistent headaches, pain, dizziness, and nausea. Her ability to remember even simple things was compromised, which was quite alarming.
Following 67 medical consultations, including x-rays and MRI scans, Tammy received diagnoses of brain tumors, fibromyalgia, and nerve damage. She was informed that her life expectancy would be significantly shortened or that she would become severely disabled before reaching the age of 35, with surgery not being a viable option. Despite having a dedicated team of doctors, they tried various treatments to no avail. This left her feeling like a failed experiment.
The gravity of Tammy’s illness truly dawned on her when an insurance agent declined her coverage, citing the risk that she might not awaken the next day. This realization made her understand that the uncertainty of life’s duration is a universal truth. However, Tammy’s steadfast faith became her stronghold, as she embraced the belief that our time on this earth is preordained by a higher power. (For with God, all things are possible. He alone holds the knowledge of our lifespans.)
Seeking a transformation, Tammy, who already followed a healthy diet and maintained a daily exercise regimen, realized the importance of eliminating stress from her life. This led to a decision for a fresh beginning, prompting a move to the serene mountains of North Idaho, where she and her family constructed their dream home. Immersed in nature, Tammy found therapy a profound source of inspiration. The peaceful surroundings of North Idaho’s mountains offered her solace and rejuvenated her spirit. In this idyllic setting, Tammy’s creativity thrived, inspired by the lush forests, gleaming lakes, and the harmonious calls of wildlife, reigniting her artistic passion.
Encouraged by her husband and a handful of friends, Tammy chose to follow her passion—art- a path she had always loved, found profitable, and excelled in. Having sold her artwork since she was 14 and taught it in public and private settings, she transformed her natural talent into a globally celebrated career. Her art now adorns elite collections and the interiors of prestigious homes, a testament to her skill and dedication.
Naturally, when Tammy committed to her path, she encountered skepticism and criticism. Phrases such as “Get a real job,” “You’ll end up a starving artist,” “You’re not talented enough,” or “You lack an art degree” were thrown her way. However, Tammy chose to turn a deaf ear to these discouraging remarks. She embraced a positive perspective, thinking, “I’ve been endowed with an incredible gift that mirrors my inspirations and creativity. Absolutely, I’m going to pursue what brings me joy!”
Tammy, however, remained steadfast. Guided by her mantra — To enhance people’s lives by creating beautiful Art that causes them to reflect, imagine, and be inspired — she chose to tread the path less traveled, creating Art that resonates with emotion, creativity, and inspiration.
Art has always been Tammy’s primary passion, yet she’s also significantly impacted the fashion world. Drawing from her experience as an Elite model and professional image consultant and armed with a degree in Fashion Design and Merchandising, Tammy has collaborated with renowned brands such as Merle Norman, Rodan and Fields, Jay Jacobs, and Macy’s. These achievements, however, represent just a vibrant slice of her life’s rich mosaic.
Tammy has always sought out new challenges beyond her primary passions. For over 38 years, she’s passionately committed to volunteer work, mentoring, and coaching youth. Starting at just 14, Tammy has broadened her professional horizon by engaging in a diverse range of roles, including working with mental health patients, property management, real estate, scouting, and sales. This eclectic mix of experiences underscores the breadth of Tammy’s career and her relentless pursuit to make an impact across different fields.
Tammy’s prowess continues after the brush or palette. She is an internationally published award winning author whose writings illuminate the transformative power of Art and nature. Her book, “The Power of Art and Nature – 10 Ways Both Can Improve Your Life,” serves as a beacon for those grappling with trauma, offering them a path to healing, empowerment, and self-discovery.
As a dedicated Coach and Speaker, Tammy shares her wisdom through courses like “Unlocking Freedom Transformational Courses“,”Unlocking Freedom In Nature Adventures” and the upcoming “Beyond the Surface: Turning 3D Wall Art into Business Success. ” These initiatives further solidify her commitment to imparting knowledge, empowering others, and showcasing the therapeutic magic of Art.
At the foundation of Tammy’s radiant odyssey are the stalwarts of her success—her devoted husband, Darryl Crawford, her cherished family, and an esteemed circle of coaches, mentors, and friends, including Kane and Alessia Minkus, Korrie Minkus-Trevino, Jessica Shelley, Lisa Vrancken, Paul Maloney, Richard Harrington, Les Brown, Kevin Harrington, Sajen Thathiah, Robin Banks, John Assaraf, Laura Vidal, and Kate Chaffe
Tammy Mitzka-Crawford is more than an artist or author. She’s a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her life story reminds us we can craft a masterpiece with passion and perseverance, even in adversity. Tammy finds therapeutic relief and joy in her artistic endeavors, using creativity and nature to cope with the persistent headaches and pain she endures. Surrounded by the tranquil beauty of nature, she immerses herself in her art, working with her partner Lori (Unlocking Freedom in Nature) and maintaining a positive outlook. Beyond her own creations, Tammy dedicates herself to mentoring youth and others, spending time with her grandkids, and sharing her knowledge on using art and nature for healing.
Tammy steadfastly upholds her mission: “To transform people’s lives by helping them discover the powers of art and nature through healing and strength.” With the ethos of “Inhale positivity, exhale possibilities” guiding her every step, Tammy illuminates paths with her captivating artworks, insightful writings, and transformative courses. Through her endeavors, she becomes a beacon for resilience’s grace and the enduring spirit of self-confidence. —