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