The Adventure begins...

Comic by NC Winters

I think I'll take this opportunity to fill you all in on what I've been working on for the last 6 months or so. Its time to see if I can support myself with my art. Starting this summer, I will be leaving my current full time job, and heading into the world of professional artist/freelancer full time. The wonderful people I work with are very excited for me, and very supportive. Between then and now, I am from full time to part time, so that I have more time to focus on Stringfellow Art.

So what will I be doing? A little of everything. Graphic design, web design, illustration, and going to shows and fairs to sell my handmade items and art. Since I have been working for a church for the last three and a half years, it only makes sense to continue to work with other churches. This is one of the things I am passionate about, is helping small companies/churches/artist understand how important it is to look professional.

So am I ready? Um...yes. And no? I have done so much research over the last year getting ready for this stage. I have been slowly building up clients and networks, and building my portfolio. I've researched rates, explored selling venues, read hundreds of articles, figured out state laws, and set up my studio. I've figured out a budget, what my overheads are, and what I need to be making.

BUT I'm not actually rolling in the money yet. I am starting to see an increase, but I am still well below my bottom line. You know that saying, "It take money to make money"? Well it takes time too. And that is why I've decided to quit my job, because trying to do pursue my art career while working full time is killing me. I'm tired all the time. I'm run down, and I find it hard to enjoy relaxing without feeling guilty. There are not enough hours in the day to get everything done that needs to be done, and everything I should do, and everything I WANT to do.

So, how do I feel? Terrified. And thrilled. All at once. I'm so excited to be able to devote my time to doing what God wired me to do. And terrified that I'm going to fall flat on my face, and have to run out and get a job at Chick-fil-a. But you know what, I'm okay with that. To quote an awesome movie, "Why do we fall, Bruce? So that we can get back up."