What began as a spontaneous dare at a county fair has blossomed into a 30-year art career built on creativity, connection, and heart. Renowned live artist Cathy Nolan has turned her passion for illustration into a powerful tool for storytelling and engagement — transforming ordinary events into unforgettable art experiences. From sketching at local fairs to collaborating with major brands, Cathy’s journey is a testament to following intuition, embracing opportunity, and finding purpose in the most unexpected places.

“Art isn’t just what I draw — it’s how I listen, connect, and help people see the beauty in themselves.”

From Dare to Destiny

Cathy’s artistic journey began when she was just 18, at a county fair where she set up a small booth to draw caricatures. “I had no idea that one week at that fair would shape the rest of my life,” she recalls.

By chance, she befriended a husband-and-wife team running a miniature golf area. One afternoon, the husband asked her to draw him surrounded by eight different versions of himself — each representing a different side of his personality. As he opened up about his experiences in Vietnam and his mental health struggles, Cathy quietly prayed for strength while sketching.

Later that night, his wife rushed to find her, moved to tears. “She told me, ‘My husband has never shared those parts of himself with anyone but me. How did you do that?’” Cathy says softly.

“That was the moment I knew — this was my calling. To meet people, listen to their stories, and capture their essence through art.”

Years later, in October 2025, Cathy returned to the Lenawee County Fair — the very place where it all began — for a full-circle celebration of her 30-year creative journey.

The Art of Connection

What makes Cathy’s work stand out is her ability to turn live moments into living art. Whether she’s drawing at corporate events, conferences, weddings, or family celebrations, her sketches bring people together.

“I love spreading joy, laughter, and love through art,” Cathy shares. “People may not remember what was said at an event, but they’ll always remember how they felt.”

Her approach is deeply personal. Before every event, she takes time to understand her client’s vision — what message they want to convey, what emotions they want to evoke, and what kind of memories they hope to leave behind. “Once I understand the feeling they want people to walk away with, the drawing just flows,” she explains.

The Magic of the Moment

Cathy’s live drawings have led to countless memorable moments — and some good laughs too.

“I was at a holiday party for PITCHBOOK,” she recalls with a grin. “Near the end of my time, a man I was drawing asked me to stay for another hour. I told him I had to check with the event planner about the budget, and he said, ‘Don’t worry about it — I’m the CFO!’ Sure enough, he was, and I got paid!”

These little stories, full of humor and humanity, are what make Cathy’s work so unique. “Whether it’s a global brand or a small birthday party, my approach is the same — read the room, connect with people, and make them feel special.”

Drawing With Heart

Behind every stroke of Cathy’s pen is deep empathy. “Art is my way of listening,” she says. “I don’t just draw faces — I capture energy, emotion, and connection.”

One of her most meaningful works, Never Forgotten, was created during the week of September 11, 2001. “I was living in New York during the attacks,” she says quietly. “That piece shows souls rising into the clouds above the city, with a tear falling from the Statue of Liberty. It helped me process what I was feeling — grief, compassion, and hope.”

Her art, at its core, is about healing. “When I draw someone, I want them to feel seen — really seen. It’s a moment of recognition, of honoring who they are.”

Art That Travels the World

Cathy’s career has taken her across the globe, working with both major corporations and private clients. Through social media, she continues to share her art, travels, and personal reflections. “Social media has allowed me to connect with people long after an event ends,” she says. “It’s not just about showing art — it’s about building relationships.”

“People will always be people. No matter how big the event or how high-profile the client, everyone just wants to feel understood and valued.”

A Legacy of Joy and Connection

Three decades later, Cathy’s passion for art still feels as fresh as that first fairground sketch. Her success isn’t measured by fame or money — but by moments of connection, laughter, and gratitude.

“Success for me is when someone looks at their portrait and smiles — that deep, genuine smile that says, ‘That’s me.’ That’s the magic I live for,” she says warmly.

Through her vibrant creativity and open heart, Cathy Nolan continues to turn fleeting moments into lasting memories — reminding the world that art isn’t just about what we see, but how deeply we connect.