1. What led to your decision to start your own small business?
I began creating textile art about 6 years ago. My first experience exhibiting and selling my art was with a gallery in Appleton, WI. where we lived at the time. I also opened my first etsy shop selling primitive hooked rugs. About two years ago I took some watercolor classes and have focused all of my creative energy on watercolor since then. I am now exhibiting and selling my watercolors online and in a gallery here in Illinois.
2. From where do you draw inspiration for your products?
I love the process of painting. . .and I am constantly amazed when my paintings begin to take on a life of their own. I’m never quite sure what the end result will be. . .and of course, I’m not always pleased. But I do always enjoy the process. Much of my work is inspired by the beauty of the natural world.
3. What do you feel has been your greatest accomplishment as a small business owner?
I am so thrilled to be able to exhibit my artwork and am delighted when someone enjoys my paintings enough to want to own them and enjoy them in their own space.
4. What is one of the challenges you face as a small business owner?
For me, selling and exhibiting is also the hardest part of this venture. I am by nature, rather introverted and private. If it were up to me, I’d sit in my studio and paint all day and forget about the rest of it! I That being said, if you are interested in my work, I sell original paintings at www.Redbirdcottageart.etsy.com
artistwebsites.com .
5. What advice would you give to someone interested in starting their own business?
I think the best advice I can give is to realize that a new venture takes time to learn and develop. Most of us don’t just wake up knowing how to be successful, but there are alot of resources available and if you are persistent, you can probably learn what you need to know. I feel so blessed to be able to follow my passion, with the help and support of my family. Thank you for your interest in my art.
I’ve tried water colour and must admit I comment the person that can get it right and that is what Dawn has done. Very beautiful!! I especially love the owls:) Congratulations and wishing you much success.
Thank you, Dear Ones, for featuring Dawn’s artwork. She is very talented and I love her sweet style! 🙂 My mother used to collect owls and every time I see something with an owl on it I think “I need to get that for my mother”! 🙂
Have a great weekend.
be a sweetie,
Shelia 🙂
I think Art was my Favorite subject in school, matter of fact I know it was because it was the ONLY class I actually got an “A+” in… Painting with water colors is truly a wonderful talent. Your work is Beautiful, Dawn.
Blessings
Angelina
Dawn’s artwork is so pretty! Thanks for the interview!
Hello Girls!
I am so ready for Fall too. This artwork is beautiful. I can never have too many pumpkins in my house, and I love the owls. I am off to check out her blog now. Thank you for sharing.
~Sheri at Red Rose Alley
I bought one of Dawn’s original water colors for my mom for Christmas. It is of a little red bird in the snow. My mom has dementia but still knows me and can still enjoy life. She loved it. It hangs in her room where she spends most of her time. It was the perfect gift. Thank you for sharing about this talented artist.
Dawn, your watercolors are magnificent…I just love the combination of the pumpkins and sunflowers…Will definitely be paying you a visit to see more of your beautiful art!
Thanks Heather and Vanessa for this spotlight on Dawn. She is so extremely talented. I loved the interview and so happy that she was able to follow her passion with so much support from her family….
Dawn is a fabulous artist! Painting with watercolors is more challenging than it looks… so beautiful! Love her etsy shop, I’ll have to check out her website!
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