Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fine arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nikki Gal, founder of See Thru Nikki, located in Boston, MA, USA.

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

Wanting to add a little spark of creativity and color to your life? Here at See Thru Nikki, that’s our mission! We are a digital art company specializing in custom artwork such as portraits, logos, and animations. We believe that art truly shines throughout us all, so why not capture it? Our customers range from those who are lovers of art to those who are curious about art. Whether being a lover or just simply curious, our pieces hope to bring and motivate the contagion of creativity within us ALL.

Tell us about yourself

See Thru Nikki was discovered in 2019, on accident. Yes, completely by accident. I never thought in 1 million years I would run my own company, never mind an art company. Since I was young, I have always been fascinated with the arts; it has always been my niche. My lifelong dream was to become a successful artist, but I honestly never thought that it would happen. So here’s the story- in 2019, my friend asked me to digitally draw her to post on her social media. She knew I did digital work, and the piece I gave her certainly was not my best work at the time. Little did I know that one piece I did for her would blow up overnight on social media. Snowball effect anyone? I was shocked. My messages on social media were flooded, and everyone was asking me to get their hands on one of my designs. At that moment, that’s when I knew I had a product. And not only a product, but the journey to a beautiful and creative adventure.

Throughout my journey as a 23-year-old businesswoman, I can honestly say that my clients motivate me. My company would not exist without them. Their constant support and positivity motivate not only myself but my art. Knowing that I am helping people express themselves through my artwork not only touches me, but it feels SO good. Whether it’s a client booking to use my artwork as a logo to complete their company or just something to put in their home, it is an amazing feeling that is beyond endless.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Going into this industry blindly with little to no expectations on how the outside world would notice my art, my biggest accomplishment to this day would be my art piece dedicating those who lost their lives for the #SAYHERNAME movement back in June 2020. #SAYHERNAME is a social movement that seeks to raise awareness for Black female victims of police brutality and anti-Black violence in the United States. Being a part of this movement is not only an honor, but the fact my artwork educated, touched, and spread awareness on many platforms, including ABC News’ morning program, Good Morning America, is truly beautiful.

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

One of the hardest things about being a business owner is definitely trusting the process. Not every day is going to be a good day; we all have those setback moments. But learning to accept those setback moments is what will help you in the long run. Don’t get in the way of yourself; trust your gut! Your company will thank you.

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

  1. DO NOT BE AFRAID TO FAIL - In any line of business, failure is going to happen. But that’s ok because you can learn from those failures. Trial and error is the key.
  2. TAKE RISKS - Just do it. Be a risk-taker; you never know what idea will be a hit.
  3. JUST DO IT - Don’t ever overthink the process. If it happens, it will.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.seethrunikki.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seethrunikki
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seethrunikki/

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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