Abstract Artist and Art Educator

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fine arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Heather Neilson, Owner of Heather Neilson Art, located in Winsted, CT, USA.

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

I am an artist and art educator. My abstract paintings and mixed media collages are included in private collections around the country. I also teach expressive abstract painting, mixed media collage, art journaling, and gel plate printing to adults. Students who take classes with me are often trying to flex their creativity, loosen up, learn new approaches, and feel good about their efforts.

Tell us about yourself

Art is a second career for me, but it has always been an important part of my life. Slowly, over decades, it became harder to ignore that it was what I wanted to do. I left the corporate world for the proverbial "do what you love" career. It has been almost two years of making and teaching art full-time, and I have never been happier. It is rewarding in ways I didn't expect. Every day I wake up excited for my day, whether it is getting into the studio to paint or doing a Zoom class teaching abstract painting. I like being able to make my own decisions, weighing new opportunities, and being my own boss.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment has been to generally establish myself as an artist and art educator. This year I have been in multiple shows, have sold more paintings than at any other time, and, most importantly, have grown as an artist. As an art educator, I have connected with hundreds of students and feel that I have helped many of them learn how to express themselves with more confidence and skills.

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

Time management! I manage all areas of my business, so every day is packed with things that have to get done. I have to take care of what needs to happen today but also plan what needs to happen next week, next month, and next year. And I have to find time to think about the big picture and what my goals are, and where I might want to shift my focus.

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

Make sure it is something you are passionate about and love to do.
Get good at managing your time.
Be disciplined financially.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.heatherneilsonart.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherNeilsonArt/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherneilsonart/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hneilson/

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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