At BTS, we talk a lot about mission, teamwork, and taking care of people—but sometimes the most meaningful stories come from the moments outside of work, when life gets hard and we discover what keeps us grounded. For Sr. Technical Recruiter Harmony Moulthrop, that outlet came in an unexpected form: art.

Today, Harmony shares her journey, the power of rediscovering “play” as an adult, and why she hopes others give themselves permission to try something new.

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What first inspired you to start making art?

A year ago, my family was going through a very difficult time at home, and I felt like I had to stay strong for everyone. Inside, though, I was struggling. I needed something —anything—that would help me hold it together.

I had never done art before and honestly thought, “Who am I to start at 50? That’s ridiculous.” My kids were the artists in the family, so buying supplies felt extravagant, even frivolous.

But the pain was so overwhelming that I finally bought a couple of small canvases and a few tubes of paint to try mimicking an artist I saw online. It was a disaster—but in the middle of the mess, I felt a tiny glimmer of hope. That was enough to keep going.

How did art shift from something new to something meaningful?

Every day after work, I started watching videos, learning techniques, and trying again. Bit by bit, I discovered acrylic pouring and dot art—forms that resonated with me and didn’t require “traditional” drawing skills.

My real moment of clarity came when I realized what art was doing for me: It gave me a way to process the personal stress my family was going through—not work stress, but the kind that weighs on your heart. It forced me to put down my phone and stop doom-scrolling because when your hands are covered in paint, you can’t pick anything up. For hours at a time, I was disconnected from stress and able to breathe again. 

Art became a healthy way to self-regulate. It offered wonder, presence, and peace at a time when I desperately needed all three.

What has been the biggest gift this creative outlet has given you?

It gave me a safe space to feel everything without falling apart. It allowed me to stay present for my family while still doing the inner work I needed. And maybe more importantly, it reminded me how essential it is for adults to play. When we stop playing, something beautiful atrophies—but it absolutely can be regrown. That’s what art did for me.

What advice would you give to someone who’s curious about trying a creative outlet but feels unsure?

Just try. Truly—just try. Watch a couple of videos, see what sparks something in you, and give yourself permission to be a beginner.

You don’t need to be “an artist.” You don’t need fancy supplies. You don’t need to be perfect. I had no idea how much this would help me, and now I can’t imagine going a day without picking up some paint. If you’re even a little curious, follow that curiosity. It might become a lifeline.

Thank you to BTS for their support during this time of personal hardship in my life and for supporting me in this journey.

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Tags: art, harmony