Painter, crocheter
Can you share a brief overview of your creative journey, from when you first started pursuing your creative career to where you are now?
My creative journey started when I was very young, I remember being at Kindy and loving painting and crafting things, though it was not till my 8th birthday that I realised I had some talent. Since then my dream was always to be an artist. I studied art all through school, with painting and drawing being my favourite mediums, I went on to do a bachelor of Visual Arts but came out with a bachelor of Visual Communication Design as I majored in printmaking and illustration. After I felt disillusioned with my talent and stopped being creative, though I appreciated the skills I had learnt from glass casting and welding right through to ceramics and graphic design. It was not until I started to study Steiner education that I got my passion back. The focus on art in the curriculum is huge. I re-learnt how to enjoy the process and reconnect with this spiritual aspect of creating art.
What inspired you to become an artist, and how did you decide to pursue it as a career?
Realising I had some talent and the pure joy it gave me to create. Originally I decided I wanted to become an architect around the age of 16, but changed my mind and went on to study design as I wanted to become a children’s book illustrator.
How do you balance your creative pursuits with the practical aspects of being an artist, such as marketing, networking, and financial management?
This I admit is something I am inconsistent on. throughout the years I have done commissions and sold a lot of artwork. my most recent adventure is making crochet amigurumi, and have started an Instagram page where I make commissions for people.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a creative person?
Being in the state of flow. It is that moment when you become so lost in the process that time disappears. You reach a state of flow which makes me feel connected to the universe and everything in it.
What keeps you motivated and passionate about your craft?
Inspiration from other creatives and seeing their passion
What advice would you give to young artists who are just starting out and considering a creative career?
Believe in yourself, don’t let the harsh critics of the art world crush your love of creating
How important is it for artists to find their unique style or voice?
I think it is really important, with modern technology and the invention of ai generated art
How did you discover and develop your own artistic identity?
At 43 years of age, I’m still not sure what my style is, to be honest… my focus always in whatever I try is to create things that bring sparks of joy for myself and for the viewer
Can you talk about the role of failure and perseverance in the life of an artist?
See above 😊
What are some misconceptions or myths about being an artist that you would like to debunk?
That once you start selling work you will start making the $$$ the general public does not appreciate or understand the cost it takes to create art physically, (art materials and time) emotionally and spiritually
How do you navigate the art industry and find opportunities to showcase your work or collaborate with others?
Take every opportunity offered, as long as it does not compromise who you are. I remember being in art school and was offered a job in which I had to copy other artists’ paintings and they were then resold or used in businesses. It felt so wrong ethically and while being a student it was an easy cash flow option I just could not do it.
What are some common challenges artists face in terms of recognition and financial stability, and how can they be addressed?
As mentioned above plagiarism is huge in the art world. And with the internet, it has just gotten way worse. I’m not sure how to address it externally, if I see it I often report it or let the artist being plagiarised know on social media. Internally I always just follow my own moral compass which includes being respectful of other artists and their journey
How do you stay connected with other artists and the larger creative community?
Social media is super helpful, community groups and through my job i get to meet many creative people.
Can you share any tips for artists to market and promote their work effectively in today’s digital age?
This is something I am still learning!
Are there any specific resources, workshops, or organisations you would recommend for young artists who want to further develop their skills and knowledge?
Look to your local community. There is always something to be discovered.
How do you approach self-criticism and growth as an artist?
I love I find my perfectionism coming out I stop and breathe and remind myself to focus on the process not the outcome
What strategies do you use to continually improve your craft?
Constant learning, from watching other artists create on social media or picking up a book at the library, seeing what others create is always inspiring.
Have you ever experienced creative blocks or periods of low inspiration? If so, how did you overcome them?
Yes! As I mentioned before as much as I appreciated the skills I learnt in my degree it also taught me to be critical of my work. The feedback and perfectionist in me made me feel like I wasn’t good enough to be an artist. I took a long break and when I started creating again I focused on the journey and process rather than the outcome
Do you believe it’s necessary to have a degree in art to succeed?
Definitely not! The only bonus for me was meeting other creatives and learning various mediums in which to be creative.
Can you share any memorable experiences or achievements in your artistic career that have had a significant impact on your journey?
My first combined exhibition with multiple artists I sold every piece I had submitted. It was the first time since getting my degree that I actually believed and felt like I had talent again.
Is there anything else you would like to share with young artists aspiring to pursue a creative career?
Have fun and when it gets hard and you feel like you are being knocked back by the world always remember that spark that made you want to travel this path in the first place
Kim can be found on: Instagram
