Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Delia LaJeunesse, Owner of Subvert Art Consulting, located in Denver, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
As an art consultant, I help people find art from emerging and upcoming artists and teach them the skills and practices to connect with that art and use it as a resource in their lives.
Tell us about yourself
I have been working in the arts for a decade and noticed a very clear problem which is that most of the population does not know how to engage with art. There are some really big cultural myths and misconceptions about art, and a lot of fear and huge perceived barriers to entry when it comes to art collecting. What motivates me is the vision of transforming the way our culture engages with the arts and solving this problem for my clients. Everyone can find art they resonate with and have a meaningful relationship with that art by simply developing a few easy-to-master skills, and I absolutely love guiding people into that. Living with art is fulfilling and meaningful and creates an intentional home. Being the person who guides people into that experience is that much more fulfilling. I feel immensely fortunate and grateful to be able to do this work!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
It really comes down to the success my clients have had and the transformations I've witnessed not just in their homes but in the way they relate to art and utilize that art as a tool to improve their lives. It is so moving for me and feels like such an epic win every time I get a testimonial from a client that shares what this knowledge has done for them and how they are living better by living with art.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Honestly, perseverance. I think getting your company to a place where it's sustainable and successful takes a lot of courage and semi-blind commitment to your goals. The challenges are constant and feel personal, and being able to fumble your way through them takes a lot of devotion to what you know is possible both for yourself as a business owner and for the community you serve.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Clarify your purpose. It will put the challenges you face into perspective and make overcoming them a no-brainer.
- Ask for help all the time. There is so much learning that happens when you grow a business, and it is ridiculous to assume that you're supposed to know how to do it. Lean on people who have done it before, even if they're not in your industry. Ask good questions about everything. Delegate tasks, and allow yourself to be supported as often as possible.
- Don't work against yourself. Find your own timing, rhythm, and style. You don't have to do it how other people do it. If you want this to be sustainable (and beautiful! and joyful!), find an alignment with yourself and honor that every day.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.sbvrt.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sb.vrt/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/delia-lajeunesse/
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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