Owner and Artist

Amanda Leigh McConnell

Born in Lubbock, Texas in 1983, I am a proud product of the rugged

beauty and enduring spirit of West Texas. My mother, Alice Rogers is a

nurse from a hardworking ranching family in Montell, Texas and my

father Paul Darden, a Hall of Fame coach and teacher from Sundown,

Texas. They both instilled in me a deep appreciation for both resilience

and creativity. In my youth, I was surrounded by the sweeping West

Texas sunsets, the endless starry expanse, and the wildflowers dancing

along Highway 55.

After graduating from Sundown High School in 2002, I ventured forth to

explore my artistic and academic passions. My journey took me from

Southwest Texas Junior College in Uvalde, where I studied cosmetology,

to Tarleton State University, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree.

Amidst these pursuits, acrylic painting became my refuge—a realm

where neon hues and abstract forms of rock legends and powerful

women with piercing gazes came to life.

My art is a reflection of my lineage—descended from the legendary

Rogers Women: Liz, Rebecca, and Alice, whose strength and elegance

flow through me. Each brushstroke is an echo of their enduring legacy.

We are women hear us roar! Being my dad’s baby girl, I followed him

around like a shadow at his coaching events where he instilled in me, to

relentlessly pursue my goals and never give up! He also gave me a deep

appreciation for classic rock, inspiring me through the timeless music of

some of the greatest artists of the past.

I am fortunate to share my life with Dustin McConnell, my best friend

from high school and the love of my life, with whom I have a son,

Gibson Hayes McConnell. We did indeed name him with a nod to rock

stardom, as we believe he’s destined for greatness. If you’ve had the

pleasure of meeting him, you know he lives up to the hype!

I pursued an MBA, which I proudly

completed on my 40th birthday as a third-generation Red Raider from

Texas Tech University—a milestone I cherish deeply. I proudly get my

guns up whenever the feeling moves me!

In recent years, I’ve ventured into leatherworking, which has become

both a rewarding hobby and an avenue for creative exploration. I have

also dipped my toe into the fashion pond here and there as well. I guess

you could say I am a gal that wears many different hats……cute, stylish

and, more often than not handmade!