Let Calming Colors Fill Your Space - Ashtyn Sibinski Art
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fine arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ashtyn Sibinski, owner of Ashtyn Sibinski Art, located in Minneapolis, MN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am an abstract painter, collage artist, and muralist working from my studio in Northeast Minneapolis. I do work for those looking to add a little calming color to their home, designers seeking to curate original and custom artwork for commercial projects, and everything in between.
Tell us about yourself
As cliche as it may sound, I've truly been painting my entire life. I had the opportunity to study and receive a degree in Studio Art at the University of Northwestern St. Paul. At school, I leaned into my fascination with color theory and the interaction between shapes. After graduation, I accepted a few odd jobs for about three years before really starting my business.
When I began painting again, I did it for myself. I started painting more pieces than I could count and kept it to myself for months. My business has grown slowly and organically, all starting with creating an Instagram profile for Ashtyn Sibinski Art while painting in the corner of my apartment. Now I have a few years of this business behind me, dreamy shared studio space, and exciting projects ahead. It's challenging to put my finger on what motivates me each day - I simply can't not paint. It's a part of me.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
One of my biggest accomplishments is the sweet relationships and connections I have made as a business owner. I thrive when I get to connect with others, lift others and celebrate other artists and small business owners.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the most challenging things about being a business owner is time management, which includes knowing when it's time to work and when it's time to "turn off work brain" as much as possible and slow down. It's a discipline of learning to say no, and knowing when to pump the breaks to avoid burnout.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know who your support is - friends, family, and other small business owners. It's going to be very challenging trying to do anything alone. Lean into your support and your community around you.
- Comparison is the thief of joy. Don't compare yourself to those around you - your small business is unique and has a timeline and journey of its own. Social media is simply everyone's highlight reel - it's a great space to connect and get inspired, but it's important to remember that everyone's journey looks different.
- Understand your "why." There are going to be many days and seasons where running a small business is exciting and life-giving and inspiring, but there will also be days and periods where you experience severe stress and burnout, and it's simply just hard. Understanding and remembering your "why" is crucial in the good and challenging times to keep carrying you forward.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I'm an open book - please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about me or my work.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.ashtynsibinskiart.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashtynsibinskiart
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashtynsibinskiart/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashtyn-sibinski-1b137913b/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.