Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in graphics and arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jason Zante, Multidisciplinary Artist, based in Toronto, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business provides one-of-a-kind custom artwork creations in the form of limited edition art prints, illustration services, and custom mural installations.
The body of work that I create is bold and vibrant, using colour as a visual language to influence the story I am depicting. My stylistic approach combines free-flowing abstract shapes and realistic elements as an interplay between lifelike and fantasy, infused with visual metaphors. Surreal and ethereal-like landscapes, everyday leisure, and a focus on Philippine culture are recurring themes of my artworks.
My customers range from avid art collectors and art enthusiasts to big-name brands looking to enhance their space with art that create a vibrant impact. Some of my clients include Justin Bieber, the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, the Neo Stock Exchange, Canada Jet lines, and Cadillac Fairview.
Tell us about yourself
I started my business while I was in University studying graphic design. I always had a passion for the arts, and I spent my years in school experimenting and honing in the type of art I would like to see in the world. As an Artist, it’s exciting to see a concept come to life. Artists are natural storytellers who can influence how people see things. In my process, I welcome the creative challenges that come along the way. It’s always a different journey for each artwork I am working on, and interesting to see the work unfold through each phase.
I recently started creating large-scale murals over the summer, which led me to the realization of the positive impact that art can have in our public spaces. The sheer size of these murals transports the viewer into the work itself while fostering a more vibrant community setting. There is so much potential in the spaces and environment that we live in, and murals are one way of enhancing open areas for everyone to enjoy.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
The biggest accomplishment would be how far I have come so far in my business. I’m certain that I will encounter many more wonderful art collaborations in the future, but for now, I’m grateful for where I am and enjoying the act of becoming as my artistic journey continues to develop. For me, this mindset is important because while I am excited about future artworks I will be creating, it’s necessary to reflect on my current path that is unfolding right now and embrace it fully.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
As an entrepreneur artist, one of the biggest challenges would be navigating my business independently. There was not much emphasis on the fundamentals of running a business in art school, which is unfortunate because it is instrumental that artists are equipped with these skills to succeed not just in conceptualizing and creating art but also in managing a business. For me, creating genuine connections with people in my creative industry who support one another is essential in having some guidance to navigate the art world.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Decide what your brand specializes in.
- Plan and strategize how to execute your ideas.
- Embrace your path, and adapt to whatever comes your way.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.jasonzante.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonzanteart/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-zante-22412a188/
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.
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