Bringing Stories to Life - Erica Bortoloso

Team Subkit -

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fine arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Erica Bortoloso, children's illustrator based in Laghi, Italy.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I am a children's illustrator. My main clients are ordinary people who have a story in their drawer and want to see it take shape. I love seeing them excited and happy as we build the book together and shape their stories. It's a magical profession, a bit of an artisan and a bit of a witch, in which you slowly bring out the hidden heart of things. I never cease to marvel at the magic of stories and drawing.

Tell us about yourself

I have been drawing since I can remember, and drawing has always been part of my being. What motivates me every day is the awareness that through my illustrations, I'm participating in the realization of someone's dream. When that dream becomes a book, it will be read by children who will feel all sorts of emotions holding it in their hands, and I find it an extraordinary thing.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I'd say working on four books at the same time and even being able to sleep.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Taxes. (I'm Italian) And working alone, despite the support I get from my loved ones and the freedom that this type of work entails, working alone is daunting sometimes because, in moments of downtime, you have no one to share the load with, and everything becomes complicated.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Failing happens, and it's up to you to learn, don't complain.
  2. Be consistent.
  3. Believe and invest in yourself.
  4. Extra tip: You don't necessarily need social media to work.

Where can people find you and your business?

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ekira_illustration/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericabortoloso/

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.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.