Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in artistry, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Marco Sassone, the founder of Marco Sassone, a painter, in Toronto, Canada.

Tell us all about your business...

It's hard to classify my profession as a business. My career as an artist spans over 50 years. In general the business is conducted outside the studio. My work is consigned to art galleries in U.S., Canada and Italy. Collectors acquire my paintings. Occasionally my studio would deal directly with a special collector.

What's your background and motivation to grow as a business owner?

I was introduced to art at an early age in Florence, Italy where I was born, and became a modest practitioner following my studies and apprenticeship in the studio of a prominent artist in this city of the Renaissance. When you do what you like, your work becomes a passion and the passion motivates you in such a manner that you look forward from one day to the next.

As an entrepreneur, what does success ultimately mean to you?

Definitely, I would say, the pleasure received in making my collectors happy. This type of success precedes all my lengthy list of exhibitions in museums and galleries. Also, I must give credit to the work itself responsible entirely to support my life in one of the most challenging professions.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being an entrepreneur?

In my case, dealing with all the items outside the studio, items that fortunately can be attended by trustful assistants.

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

"As a young painter, beginning to feel the pull of art, you somehow believe that hard work alone will be enough to get you what you're looking for. But as you mature, you discover that, no matter where or how far you travel, you are still at the beginning." - from "American Journey-my life in art" soon to be published. My recommendations to young artists would be: believe in yourself, do not listen to general voices, and embrace perseverance.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

In line with what I mentioned before, one must love the process in order to navigate in today's environment which often may not be so friendly. More regarding the "process" is included in my soon to be released book American Journey-my life in art, an inspirational memoir that provides answers to the aspect of the "business" and what takes place in the studio during the act of painting.

Where can people find you online?

In Canada my work is available at Berenson Fine Art
http://marcosassone.com/
https://www.facebook.com/marco.sassone.7
https://www.instagram.com/marcosassoneart/?hl=en

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as an entrepreneur or business coach 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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