Thriving as a Freelance Artist

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fine arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mayb, a freelance artist based in Calgary, AB, Canada.

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

I am a freelance artist. I work primarily in Acrylic portraiture but also in digital illustration and other fine art materials. I'm an artist for the people; I established my career on private collectors and have ventured to brand for small businesses. I have a little bit of everything for anyone.

Tell us about yourself

I dropped out of art school and decided I'd say yes to every commission that came my way. It's been ten years, and I've never had a day without a project. Building something from nothing takes a bit of nerve and patience. There's a lot of struggle and sacrifice that comes with that path. There were times when I failed people's expectations and times when I worked three part-time jobs to pay for paint. What drove me to keep going was seeing progress in the work and myself. I started to build the life I imagined, and I wouldn't trade that for anything.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Starting to see the work I did pay off and start leading me more organically to the opportunities I was seeking was my biggest accomplishment.

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

The burnout. Working too hard, for too long, and neglecting yourself. I find it much more necessary as I grow to work on setting healthy boundaries. I do much better work if I sleep.

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

Make good art; regardless of what your business is, the product will speak for itself. If you make something you're incredibly passionate about and build your craft, then you'll be ok, I promise!
Face your failures really critically; there are answers in those moments.
Research, everything! Knowledge is powerful.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://maybarts.bigcartel.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayb_art/

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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