Interview with Artist Tom Shepherd
Episode 39: Interview with painter, tutor and podcaster Tom Shepherd
Tom Shepherd is a full time artist, specialising in painting wildlife which he does in oils, acrylics and especially in watercolours. Peter and Laura talk to him about his career-path and how he has adapted to working mainly 'on-line' during the current health crisis. Creative adaptation to the situation seems to be the secret and like Peter and Laura Tom is busier than ever..
Tom Shepherd; from surfing geography student to wildlife painter in demand, Tom’s working life is a balance of artistic passion and savvy business sense. In this episode Tom shares his expertise on growing an art career from the ground up and how he continues to build on his success, whatever challenges life brings. It’s been hard to condense this episode into short show notes, so this is just a taster. We really recommend you listen to the full interview and make your own notes!
The Useful Stuff
1. Be clear about your goals. Ask yourself what you want end results to be, whether that’s the lifestyle you hope your art career will provide or the results you want from social media presence and work towards those ambitions. Focusing on the end goal will help you to channel your efforts efficiently.
2. Review your plans regularly and make changes where needed. It’s important to realise where things are no longer working or could be improved. Knowing when to move on and find a new niche or approach is a positive asset for any business.
3. You will only be able to sustain art and business practices that you find acceptable. While there will always be less fun elements in your working week, avoid committing to art and business practices you actively dislike. If you hate doing something, you won’t be able to sustain it long term.
4. Picture a table: the more legs it has, the more stable it is and the longer it will stay upright if legs are removed. Your art business should be the same: try to develop several income streams rather than relying on one.
5. Rather than looking for a niche in the artwork and trying to fill it, flip the idea. Make art that delights you and find or develop a market for it. Passion sells, fitting in doesn’t!
6. Develop a personal relationship with your clients, virtual or real-life. The art world is changing and clients want to connect with the artist they buy from and feel they understand something of the story behind the artworks they buy. No need to reveal everything, but don’t expect to remain invisible!
Takeaway
You can find Tom and his work at https://www.tomshepherdart.com/ https://www.patreon.com/TomShepherdArt
https://www.instagram.com/tomshepherdartist
Check out Tom’s podcast Creative Perspectives on all good Podcast Providers
