Leaving Behind What is Safe with Jan R. Carson (#23)

One artist’s journey is never the same as another’s. Not only do you have to be creative in what you make, but also in how you get it out there, connect with the right people and situations, and create a sustainable living. There is no perfect blueprint on how to make money or create a sustainable career, but for Jan R. Carson, the focus is on the quality of the work. In this episode, she talks about her own journey from a production artist since 1999 making over 7,000 silk and stainless steel wire mobiles, to her decision to leave behind what had been a safe income to go after the art and life she wants for herself. She discusses the balance of both worlds and how she has made it work successfully over the years, the selection process for the shows she enters, the vulnerable side of transitioning to a fine artist, and advice for artists looking to take a risk and leave what is safe.

 

In this interview, you will hear Jan talk about:

 

• The non-linear career path of professional artists, and why determination and vulnerability are two key characteristics.

• Her personal transition from a production artist to a fine artist over the last 10 years.

• More about Jan’s Moon-Lily Silk Mobiles, and what is involved with production and filling orders.

• The many hats she wears in navigating the construction of the mobiles, along with marketing, accounting, etc.

• Why she found it easier to retain and train people as employees rather than interns.

• What led her into production work and the retail business, and how it showed her that it was possible to make a living as a fine artist.

• Why she feels as though production art is tough for artists that want to explore and grow the different facets of their art.

• The point at which Jan knew she needed to begin shifting towards making her own art, and the steps she is taking towards balancing both production work and creation.

• Her commitment to letting her body make the work, and keeping her mind out of it.

• How she got the confidence in herself and her artwork to exhibit it, and what it felt like to put it out into the world.

• The important question artists need to ask themselves: What do I need to make? Not: How do I sell my art?

• The challenges of textile art, and connecting with the right people that will lead to sustainable income.

• The social component of being an artist, and how Jan navigates the world as a self-proclaimed shy homebody, to integrate her personal confidence more into her art.

• The importance of listening, connection, and staying open and present as an artist.

 

Resources:

Moon-Lily Mobiles

Five Years Out

Cherry Creek Arts Festival