WOMEN WHO WIN - CHELSEA GOER

Artist, mother, wife, and style icon—Chelsea Goer is the ultimate modern muse. We caught up with Charleston’s resident “cool girl” to explore her effortlessly bold style and hear the inspiring story of how she paved her own path in the art world.

In this installment of our Women Who Win series, we’re thrilled to feature Chelsea Goer, a powerhouse in both the art and fashion worlds. Chelsea isn’t just an artist; she’s a true trendsetter and a style muse for her devoted social media followers. Her work has captivated audiences up and down the East Coast, earning her a distinct place in the creative industry. With her unapologetically independent spirit and signature ’90s-inspired fashion, Chelsea exudes confidence and creative freedom, inspiring others to embrace their individuality. Simply put, she’s the embodiment of a modern-day “cool girl.”

Born and raised in South Carolina and now calling Charleston home, Chelsea Goer has transformed her passion for Southern living into a flourishing career. Her artwork is vibrant and daring, celebrating iconic Lowcountry themes like oysters, sunbathers, and coastal landscapes—all brought to life with her distinctive, color-rich aesthetic. By carving out her own path, Chelsea has created a niche market that resonates with clients, galleries, and collectors from New York to Florida and beyond.

Outside her career, Chelsea is a dedicated wife and mother of two, seamlessly blending family life with her creative ambitions in a way that inspires those around her. Recently, she renovated her Charleston home into a chic, minimalist haven that reflects her artistic sensibilities, weaving her signature style into every detail. When it comes to fashion, Chelsea isn’t one to follow trends—she sets them. Her bold, unfiltered look is as effortlessly cool as it is uniquely her own, embodying the confidence and individuality that define her life and work.

Chelsea Goer is more than an artist—she’s a mentor and trailblazer for women striving to enter the art world on their own terms. She proves that female artists can carve out their own paths, build their own legacies, and inspire others along the way. At Elizabeth James the Label, we’re proud to honor Chelsea as a Woman Who Wins, celebrating her creativity, determination, and undeniable impact as an artist who didn’t just achieve success—she defined it on her own terms.

Q & A with Chelsea

What work/life balance tips do you have for working moms?

Balancing time between my kids and my work can be challenging. Sometimes I don't have enough time in the studio because of family commitments, and other times, I miss out on time with my kids because of my work. There's never quite enough time for both, so I’ve learned that being present and focused in the moment is the most valuable thing I can do. When I have a show and need to work long hours, I make it a priority to sit down with my family for a meal before heading back out. At work, I fully commit and focus on what needs to be done—knowing that the laundry and homework will still be waiting for me later. The key to balancing it all is simple: "Quality time over quantity time."

What is a misconception you want others to know about being an artist?

I’ve often been described as “mysterious” because of my work and the way I present myself. The truth is, I’m actually quite shy and find it difficult to talk about my own art. But once someone breaks the ice, I tend to overshare. While I have a deep love for art and quirky, eclectic things, I also have a pretty down-to-earth side. I enjoy watching guilty-pleasure TV, lounging on the couch for too long, walking my dog, and being a regular at the same two local restaurants. At my core, I’m just a creative person, but I’m not so different from anyone else.

Who are your biggest artistic influences? How have other artists or art genres influenced your sense of aesthetics?

I've always been drawn to photography, perhaps because it’s a creative skill that does not come naturally to me. I find a lot of inspiration in the work of 70s and 80s surf photographers like Jeff Devine, whose images capture both the raw energy of the sport and the spirit of the time. I’m also deeply influenced by the figure studies of Lisa Golightly and David Hockney, whose unique perspectives and use of color continue to inspire my own approach.

What is one fun fact about you that might surprise most people?

I’m obsessed with puzzles—probably because my creative mind craves the balance of something so logical. My sister and I even plan vacations around finding the perfect spot to work on a puzzle together. I also have a deep love for baking. Honestly, I think I’m kind of a grandma at heart.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone who wants to become a full time artist?

Immerse yourself fully in your subject and dedicate as much time to it as you can. It’s not your responsibility to appeal to everyone, so stay true to your vision. Your style will evolve naturally over time. And don’t be afraid to say "no" to opportunities that don’t align with your goals. Sometimes, turning down the wrong things can be more beneficial for your career than saying yes.

Who is your hero and why?  

This might surprise some people, but my hero is Dolly Parton. I've been watching and listening to her since I was a child. She’s an incredibly powerful woman and artist who has always stood up for herself. One of the most iconic moments in her career was when she said no to Elvis Presley, turning down his request to cover her song I Will Always Love You. Instead, Whitney Houston made it legendary—and because of that decision, Dolly still owns the rights to the song and collects royalties every time it’s played. I’ve always seen her as a quiet leader: kind, heartfelt, but unwavering in staying true to herself and her values.