Meet Seraphia Christe Snodgrass | Artist, Yoga/Breathe Instructor, COTA/L

We had the good fortune of connecting with Seraphia Christe Snodgrass and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Seraphia Christe, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I’m from a little bit of everywhere, a transplant of many places. Born in Connecticut, but moving several times between my birth state, Ohio and Florida. North Carolina for the beginning of my adult life. Traveling and moving frequently, I’ve spent the majority of my childhood in Port Orange, Florida with my Dad, stepmother, 3 other siblings, and two step sisters. The continuous movement has carried into my adult life.

My upbringing was quite difficult. My parents divorcing very abruptly and rather horrifically, when I was the age of 8. This definitely shifted the course of my life. Amongst five siblings, I am the oldest daughter. Caring for my siblings as we were tossed about between caretakers and parents in different states, and enduring many unpleasant experiences, definitely ignited my leader role.

I grew up in a very angry home. Having a Father with mental/emotional/behavioral issues as well as a very bitter step mother who was abusive. The typical Cinderella story, and then some. Without going into too much detail I was raised in a very neglectful/hateful house, filled with abuse on many levels. I was raised under harsh words and hands, having to carry the responsibility of all the household chores, caring for siblings and parents at times, while protecting my siblings the best I could at such a young age. This is where I acquired my work ethic and my compassion for others, as well as my determination to continue on and find a way. My role as a visionary/innovator developed from this space as well. I often formulated plans for our escape, created spaces of joy where I could. My imagination grew with fun stories, games, songs, experiences I created with my siblings to see us through.

My love for beading, which is a large part of my art work, began when I was a young child. My mother taught me how to bead in the earlier years of my life, and when I got to be with her for about a year in 3rd/4th grade. I would sell bracelets at lunch in middle school to save money for phone cards- So I could call my Mother in secret, as my Dad and Step mom withheld any contact between her, myself, and my siblings.

This is where my drive/work ethic and entrepreneurial skills initiated. As well as my deep love for beading as it weaved so much peace and fulfillment throughout my childhood. Then, beading was a way to connect with my mother and a therapeutic tool, now still therapeutic and fueled by so much love. It is a truly meditative art for myself.

Living close to the beach and in a neighborhood with a wooded area was a savior, amongst my art. I have always been connected to nature. It was a source of healing for me. And much inspiration in my current work. Naturr is place to simply just be, and breathe amongst the chaos. I would take my sketch books and beads outdoors and draw/create away the pain of my turbulent childhood.

I found my peace outdoors, with movement and fresh air. I was a bit of a “tomboy” as a child. Running through the woods, skateboarding, biking, and climbing all the trees. Combing beaches and swimming in the waters as much as possible. Nature and movement, was and is my medicine.

Growing into my teen years I met my first husband, the Father of my son, and became a mother at the age of 19. My art and creative endeavors were always evolving as life placed new roles and responsibilities on myself. Hayden, my son, is one of my biggest motivations and the first big shift back towards my art. His arrival and little life brought so much creative inspiration as I had a little artist of my own to now support and encourage. We explored and created alongside one another. I juggled being a young mom, working two part time jobs, while beginning college. My journey into Occupational Therapy was beginning and my current marriage was ending. Another shift. While in college I developed an addiction to alcohol. As a means to get by and avoid the past that haunted me. Though I was highly successful in school, earning Deans list and awarded scholarships for my efforts, I was drowning behind the scenes. In steps Luke, my now husband and another integral part of my growth into Occupational therapy and eventually back to my Art. After I recieved my degree, I worked in a Skilled Nursing Facility. I love to help others and give. I loved getting creative with treatment plans and interventions to bring joy to the geriatric community I served. Working full-time in Healthcare, I explored my art part time- often painting and creating late into the night. As years went by I felt my passion for my Therapy role dwindling and my excitement for my creativity growing. The beginning of 2020 with the pandemic brought so much awareness and perspective as to what I should really be doing with my time here.

I took the leap in July of 2020 and left my full-time position as a therapist to creating art in many forms. Within that time I created space for my healing- mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. I gave up alcohol at the start of 2022 and deepened my practices with yoga. Within the last four years I have branched out into many mediums with my art work as well as becoming a Yoga/Breath Instructor.

The difficult experiences and challenges my upbringing and young adult life carried have formed the resilient, creative, intelligent, and passionate Woman I am in this time. They have helped build my willpower and determination to accomplish my goals, and the passion to explore and create a life I love. The experiences I have collected throughout life, are simply building blocks to the present version of myself. Life’s obstacles are a great opportunity to remind ourselves us what we are capable of.

My childlike wonder and joy of life returned with my Art and Yoga. The dark heaviness of my past has given me a space to create light and color. To simply play and have fun, to feel and move through life, and know you are always where you’re supposed to be. I believe my work is an example of this.

The lack of love, support, and connection in my early years, has inspired me to create meaningful experiences now. Whether that’s through my art, during a yoga class, or simply being present for a friend or even a stranger. My background, just like a painting, is a place to grow from.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

I am a multi-faceted artist, my work is always evolving and growing. I find so much inspiration in nature, the people I meet, and the experiences of life. I love to create meaningful pieces and upcycled arts.

Second Wave offers a collection of mindfully crafted works. Intentional jewelry, functional art and decor, stained glass, suncatchers, terracotta art, plants, original paintings, and so much more. Inspired by nature and the beautiful flow of life itself. As the seasons shift, my work evolves. Second Wave aims to ethically source materials, often breathing life back into reclaimed and recycled pieces, always keeping Mother Earth in mind. As well as materials gathered along my travels and from around the world.

Minimizing waste and consumption is a daily effort for myself. When you think of Second Wave, know I do my best to ethically source materials for creating as well as recycled materials for packaging/shipping. Sure, there are times this isn’t always possible, especially with custom creations, but know this is my mission. To create beauty with all that we already have. Whether that’s a scrap corner of wood lying around from a job, stones I have collected myself or sourced materials from other small businesses, even “trash” supplies others may throw to waste. I will breath life back into.

This Is a passion. This is a mindset. This is my purpose.

I have spent many years growing my art business. It has not been easy, but it is fulfilling. I am very proud of what I have created. Many hours of work go unnoticed, as I am a one person rodeo. Not only am I the Artist behind Second Wave Creations but I also manage all of the behind the scenes responsibilities.

I have faced ridicule from others who do not see or understand my vision with my work, or some who offer demeaning comments about my creations/lifestyle. This has taught me to allow others to perceive me as they will and not hold value to their opinions, to know who I Am, what my intentions are, and stand confidently in this space.

My logo embodies this journey. A second chance, a second life reclaiming the light. Climbing to the peaks of life, accepting the descent, then riding out the flow. Creating through all that life brings. As well as incorporating my love for the ocean/nature, and passion for environmental awareness with recycled arts.

As for my work with Yoga, I teach a Hatha Flow and Breath Class at our local health and wellness center, occasionally at our local library, as well as private lessons and group settings. I love to host gatherings and creating a space for community to come together, explore movement, and find peace, health, and wellness- that is carried off of the mat into our daily lives.

I also teach children’s art class twice a month and adult creative workshops sprinkled throughout the year. I attend many in person markets with my artwork, as I love meeting new people. Sharing meaningful interactions and stories offers inspiration.

No matter what your aspirations are, No matter how big or small your dream may be, they are worthy of effort and pursuit. Your dream matters. They are the way, the path. Each dream a step deeper and deeper into the Greatness you are here to give the World.

Consistency is key. There will be times you feel like giving up, but this journey has taught me to surrender to the flow of life. Step back when needed. Rest. Find solace in solitude. Then carry on with your work. We have to step out of our analytical minds and back into our heart. From here we can transform and grow in ways we didn’t know were possible.

And just have fun! Fill life with all of the colors and laughter, it is really not that serious. You are capable. Create the life You Love!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Living in a rural, small town I am surrendered by the natural world and not as many amenities as larger cities, but there are many hidden gems in my area. Nature trails/parks, Farmers markets, greemhouses/gardening, community engagement, thrifting, and local events bring my soul so much joy.

I love to take my friends to my favorite lake, Timber Ridge, which is only 15mins from my home- for swimming, kayaking, and hiking. As well as hiking local trail systems. My favorite close by, being The Gatewood Trail system in Rio Grande, Ohio. As well as Lake Katherine trails in Jackson Ohio, New River Gorge Area(West Virginia), and Hocking Hills in Logan, Ohio. I love to cook and mostly eat at home, gardening season is my favorite when I can prepare meals for family and friends. Locally, my favorite place to eat is The Colony Gallipolis -which is a historical theatre in Gallipolis, Ohio now a restaurant, bar, and entertainment venue. I am 2.5years sober, so no alcohol here! The Colony Gallipolis also offers a great atmosphere for drinks, that I recommend to friends if that’s their thing! We have a very cute thrift store in town as well, The Book Nook, in Gallipolis. I love to stop in and find second hand treasures to create with as well as other thrift stores in the surrounding areas. I also enjoy spending time at Hope Homestead General store in Rio Grande, Ohio. It is a community space offering locally sourced goods, refill stations for home/self care products, as well as a library and herbal refill station. My dear Friend, Pam Hammack and her husband Brian are the owners of this welcoming space. I often host creative events and Yoga classes there under their Willow Tree. It’s such a cozy space. You can hangout on the porch or front lawn, sipping Tea, reading books, or enjoying a workshop/event they have going on! I like to visit farmers markets with friends, when I’m not vending at them. Meigs Co Farmers Market and Gallia Grown Farmers and Maker’s Market are two of my favorite! Meigs Co Farmers market feel like home. Surrounded by such supportive community and friends. Tucked along the great Ohio River with River Roasters Coffee and music in the streets. I love that space, everyone should experience it. And greenhouses! We have many greenhouses in the surrounding area that are beautiful, Four Mile Greenhouse in Jackson, Ohio has a large variety of plants, a lake with koi fish, parrots, dogs, and cats mingle throughout the gardens. Its magical. We also have a very cute creative space, The Artisan Shoppe & Studio in Gallipolis, Ohio – that offers fun creative classes for everyone! I love to attend those with friends. As well as a seasonal event known as First Fridays, where our small downtown area comes to life and the community has a space to come together. The streets are lined with local talent, Live music, food and drinks! It’s a great time.
I also love our local park, O.O. McIntyre, it’s a great pace for the kids to play. They have a beautiful walking trail alongside a creek, with little waterfall features and many spaces for picnics/art in the grass. If it involves nature and community, I’m there!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband, Luke Snodgrass, who is the anchor to my Flightly soul. He is my biggest supporter and encouragement. He believes in me always and when no one else has. Luke has been there through so much evolution of myself and has always stuck by my side through all the challenges life brings our way. He has been the most consistent person, even when I may have not deserved it. He sees the light in me and has helped create a supportive enviroment for me to step into it. He has helped pave the way for my creative journey, more than he may even realize. Such a selfless and loving man I am blessed with.

Website: Secondwavecreations.com

Instagram: instagram.com/secondwavecreations

Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/359919781620056/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT

Other: Yoga group on Facebook and Instagram Facebook- https://m.facebook.com/groups/240986934956324/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT Instagram- instagram.com/naturallynamaste