Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fine arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Clare Winslow, Owner of Clare Winslow Art Studio, located in Bethesda Maryland, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I teach printmaking in person and online, working with diverse groups of artists of any age and level of ability. My artist membership, Creative Flow Artist Membership, also offers a community for like-minded artists who work in every medium, though we often focus on hand printmaking.
Most of the artists there have some basic experience, and some are very experienced. The membership is a place where artists can share their art, grow, and support each other. I also sell prints and paintings through my website and exhibit locally and internationally.
Tell us about yourself
It is my mission to help people experience the transformative power of art. As a child and grandchild of Washington DC painters, I grew up surrounded by vibrant paintings on every wall. In college, I studied art and have kept learning ever since. No matter what level of experience you are at, making art can soothe, energize, and enrich your life.
I have personally experienced the mental health benefits of gel plate printmaking, for example, and I highly recommend this medium, as it is easy to start, calming, and highly addictive. Seeing an artist make a beautiful gel print for the first time brings me joy!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Growing a solo business, reaching clients all over the world through email marketing and social media.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Balancing a business with creating and teaching is challenging because those three areas require different abilities. Like many creatives, I have a broad skill set, but being a jack of all trades can sometimes affect your focus.
Maintaining a strict calendar of tasks and appointments can seem opposed to the "flow state" you need to get into to make strong art. I'm still learning to navigate this.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Choose an area you love because your hours will be long. Instead of avoiding rejection, seek it out.
- If you are somewhat introverted, know that every day you will need to put yourself outside your comfort zone, and eventually, you will be comfortable being uncomfortable.
- That's when things start to happen.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://clarewinslow.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClareWinslow/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clarewinslowart/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clare-winslow-4783b321/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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