Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fine arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mary-Jo Lough, founder of MJL Fine Art, located in Calgary, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a vivid and detailed abstract artist based in Calgary. The foundation of my work is harnessing the chaos of daily life. MJL Fine Art is my business name, and my studio and small personal gallery are in SW Calgary. My work resides in both private and commercial collections. My collectors tend to enjoy bold, expressive art and aren't necessarily looking for pieces that "match the couch."
Tell us about yourself
Sadly in 2019, I lost my mother to lung cancer. That experience reinforced my belief that fear should not guide a person's decisions. Being vulnerable and taking risks will almost never be looked back at with regret. It was this experience that made me take the plunge and quit my "day job" and create MJL Fine Art.
I am motivated to push myself and become a stronger artist every day. Whenever I'm in a situation that brings forward fear or experience doubt when working on a piece, I remember that bold moves are often rewarded well. I attempt to do one thing a day that scares me at least a little bit, which definitely keeps things interesting. Additionally, I am motivated by connecting with my collectors. I am currently working on a blog that will launch soon as well as a small personal gallery that I will host collectors and potential collectors in.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Near the end of last year I was finally able to exhibit after having shows canceled due to COVID. I decided to create a collection that was 100% me, that I loved and fully represented who I was and how I interact with the world. I refused to consider if others would like this work. I felt very vulnerable when the ten pieces of this collection went on exhibit. I was scared no one would enjoy or understand these pieces. However, this collection has been my most popular work to date! Bold moves and authentic work pays off.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Time management is the most difficult thing about running your own business. At times everything can seem equally important, and it is very easy to fall down the rabbit hole attempting to get everything complete. Then, you've lost a whole day.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Understand your market and customers. Do the appropriate research to be sure that you know where you stand in your market and how to reach your customers and retain them.
- Goal setting is very important and keeps a person on track. Setting larger goals and working backward to determine what action steps need to be taken to attain the goal(s).
- Mindset & self-care. Running your own business will consume you. It will most likely also make you feel like a failure at times. Setting aside time for yourself to recharge and maintain a healthy balance and mindset in your life is 100% necessary!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.mjlfineart.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mjlfineart
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mjl.fineart/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mjl-fine-art/
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.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.
