beginnings
how I got started | I've always been interested in creating
things, but I didn't receive any encouragement when I was growing up. My
family didn't believe art could be a valid occupation. I was in denial
for years. I earned a degree in hotel management and worked in the
business world. But then I began drawing as a hobby, and I just couldn't
stop. Initially I was shy about my art, but people started encouraging
me to show it, they started buying it- so I discovered I can actually
do this! It helps that I live in San Francisco, where the community
appreciates and celebrates art. They respect artists, and try to support
them.
inspiration
why this job?| Because I think human beings are different from
animals because of our intellects, because of our creativity. Life is a
lot more meaningful when I do creative things.
love
why I love this job!| It's flexible: I can travel anywhere in the
world and still work. I can visit my family in China, or friends in
Europe, and do my work. It's something I like to do. I may still be
doing it at 3AM because I enjoy it. I meet a lot of people that I
wouldn't have met if I hadn't entered this field- people who respect my
work, people from all walks of life.
work
my typical day| I'm a night owl. Usually I get up at about 10AM
and start working on what I didn't finish the day before. I may work on a
graphic design project whose deadline is approaching, or I might work
on a painting for an art show. I cook supper, or meet with friends. I
don't generally go to bed until midnight or 2AM. There is no weekend or
holiday- I enjoy what I'm doing and I can't stop learning or being
creative because it's Friday.
challenges
what they are | I work in several disciplines, so I am not
perfect in any of them, i.e. I'm still learning. I got into graphic
design, web design and photography out of necessity because I couldn't
afford to hire somebody to design my website or business card. Finances
can be a challenge- it's an expensive business, for art supplies are
costly- but I do know how to live within my means.
upside
all about growth | It's very competitive- there are a lot of
creative people out there. People can be shy about calling themselves a
photographer or an artist. If you're confident, you'll find a market
somewhere. There's always a need for creative people. As for the
painting, the fine art- that's a little slow right now, but as the
economy picks up, people will start buying again. As a new artist gets
exposure and a steady group of clients, it will help.
More Info
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