It's hard to believe it's been nearly two years since I bid farewell to the corporate world to become a full-time visual artist. I remember the relief I felt in taking a leap of faith. But – it wasn't an easy decision to make. It was a real battle between my heart and head.
My passion for art goes back to my childhood, however the decision to start creating on a regular basis and making a living from my hobby only started about seven years ago, shortly after my 40th birthday.
It happened organically and it was shortly after I became attuned to Reiki when a flood of creativity pulsed through my body in such a powerful way, that it had to escape and be expressed onto canvas. Somehow, I’d reconnected to my inner child and soul. Painting made me so happy, and I couldn’t get enough of it! But was I really an artist? I felt terribly uncomfortable calling myself as an artist, even though I desperately wanted to be known as one. It took a good 2-3 years of painting, exhibiting, and selling until I could shake off my Imposter Syndrome. Even then, I was only a part-time artist and had so much to learn about the art industry and how to effectively run an art business.
It didn’t take long until I started fantasizing about saying goodbye to the corporate world for good. Like many, I grappled with doubts and worries about the consequences of leaving behind a stable job with a good monthly salary to follow my heart and realise my dream.
Could I really make it as a full-time artist? Would I be able to support my family and cover the bills? The spectre of the "starving artist" stereotype loomed large, echoing the advice my parents gave me as a young girl - "Don't become an artist, you'll starve!"
Despite years of feeling I'd left my dream behind; I owe much of my success to my parent's invaluable advice to get a proper job! For over 25 years, I enjoyed working with creatives in top-tier advertising agencies, advising leading national and international brands on how to market. The knowledge and experience I gained during this time has proven invaluable in navigating and transitioning to a professional artist with rapid success and regular sales. I honestly believe it's having the right marketing strategy which led to me selling 6 figures in just my first year!
My story is not unique. In fact, it's a narrative shared by countless individuals I've encountered in both my abstract art workshops and business development sessions. I've met doctors, scientists, lawyers, corporate professionals – all yearning to pursue their passion for painting but stuck in their current paradigm. It's this shared journey that inspires me to be a mentor and share my own success story with as many people as possible, and why I created workshops designed for beginners to take their first steps in a supportive space.
There's nothing quite like witnessing someone finally living their dream (even if it's just on the weekends) and realising that it's possible to profit from their passion, breaking free from the constraints of conventional careers they felt obligated to pursue.
I've helped hundreds take the next step in creating their first artwork, sell artwork, book their first exhibition or publish an online portfolio.
If you're ready to take the first (or next) step in your art journey then please join one of my workshops or book a one-on-one private session.
I'm excited to share the knowledge I've developed over years of experience and cover the essential information required to guide you on your journey to success!
Click here for upcoming workshops or contact me for further information.
To hear more about my journey and what inspires me, watch this interview with Ela Lawrentjew and Les Price from Flame of Eternal Light.
Photo by Dean Atherton Creative at West End Art Space