I had so much love for the "I should get a proper job" blog that I was not expecting. It opened a conversation up for me to have with so many other artists and small business owners.
Along the same topic, I thought I'd do a post on why you should take my work seriously.
I am a needle felter and textile designer, with a passion for colour, texture and reusing materials.
Alongside working full-time on my business I am a freelance gallery/shop assistant. Last month I was promoted to shop manager which has been my dream.
I'm lucky enough to have my work exhibited and for sale in all these places. I hear a lot of comments on my and other's artwork which 90% of the time are lovely comments.
As I happen to work in the shop/galleries I don't think people expect me to be one of the artists, they are much more open to sharing their opinions with me or loudly to others.
'I could do that'
'What is that even meant to be?'
'Why would people buy that...'
'If they are trying to sell that then they can try and sell my rubbish'
Just a few comments I've heard over the past 5 years I've been working in this industry. That is someone's work, they have taken the time and money to create. I am lucky to have made this my job, it pays the bills and puts food on my table and without the constant support, I don't think I would have had the confidence to put myself out there.
I appreciate everyone has different styles and tastes but think beyond the work you see in front of you. Not everything I see I love but I understand the hard work, time, money and how brave they are to put themselves out there to you.
There are many many talented people out there and we are lucky enough to appreciate their work all over the world from different styles, techniques and materials.
I would love to end with a few lovely comments I've heard:
'You are so talented'
'You have a real eye for colour'
"Just beautiful
'I've never seen anything like it before, so original''
If you are scared to put yourself out there, don't be. There are so many incredible people out there who love supporting artists. Your biggest supporters will end up being strangers. I've made my bestest friends from going for it. It's 100% worth it.
Till next time
Mils x
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