Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fine arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Chase Allen, founder of The Iron Fish Gallery, located in Daufuskie Island, SC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I specialize in designing and handcrafting coastal-inspired steel sculptures for wall applications using various techniques such as blacksmithing, metal fabrications, and welding. I have been a professional artisan for over 20 years now. My customers/collectors are visitors to my rural Iron Fish Gallery located on Daufuskie Island(a bridge-less underdeveloped island in SC) and online at www.ironfishart.com.
Tell us about yourself
I had a lightbulb moment at 21 that I simply had to be an artisan. There really is no other way to put into words that inner fire that was burning. Thankfully, I followed that urge and have stayed the course ever since. Now with 20 years as a professional artist/artisan, it can be tough to keep creating, but besides being self-employed, which has its benefits, I love to inspire. I've had customers for 20 years tell me how inspired they are by my story and everyone needs inspiration. I certainly do, so I love the idea I have inspired others.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I won the 2014 Martha Stewart Made In America audience choice award in 2014 and have been featured in Southern Living, Coastal Living, HGTV, and many other various media outlets, but my largest accomplishment, I would have to say, is growing and maintaining my sculpture business for 20 years.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Staying focused, no doubt, is the most difficult thing for most and especially for an artistic mind like the one I have. I have stayed focused on mastering my craft with metal and coastal designs, and without a doubt, I'd say that's the reason I'm still shipping sculptures worldwide.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Stay focused, master what you do, and stay committed.
- When starting out, you have to wear many hats, but as soon as you can afford to delegate responsibilities where you are less gifted, do it. Money definitely will help you dictate the "when."
- Keep overhead low and always re-invest in yourself.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://ironfishart.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IronFishGalleryCoastalSculptures/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ironfishart/
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.
