We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Elizabeth Schowachert a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Elizabeth, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Finding my purpose was a gradual journey that unfolded over several years. It revolved around embracing my passion for creating art and art tools and mustering the inner determination to pursue it. This wasn’t a straightforward decision, especially considering my extensive 23-year career in brand development and corporate marketing. It entailed taking substantial financial risks and putting myself in the spotlight, despite lacking the formal training and education that many professional artists possess.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
“I am a full-time artist, and my art practice encompasses a wide range of contemporary Sumi-e brushes and reductive mark-making tools. What excites me most about my work is the profound connection I have with nature, which I translate into every piece I create.
My brand revolves around crafting unique, handmade tools that bridge the gap between traditional artistry and modern expression. What sets my work apart is the infusion of nature’s elements into each creation, whether it’s the materials I use or the inspiration behind them.
As for recent developments, my role as a dedicated maker and designer of tools and brushes involves an ongoing exploration of innovative tool and brush designs. This relentless pursuit is fueled by my unwavering commitment to delivering professional-grade tools and brushes that act as catalysts for artistic inspiration. These meticulously crafted instruments not only elevate creative possibilities but also empower artists to ascend to new heights in their endeavors.
In this ever-evolving journey, I remain devoted to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of artistry, both in terms of the tools I create and the artistic experiences they enable.”
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Embrace Risk-Taking: Be open to taking calculated risks and stepping out of your comfort zone. Sometimes, the most significant breakthroughs come from pushing boundaries and trying new things. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, even if it feels challenging at times.
Seek Mentorship and Support: Actively seek out mentorship and guidance from individuals you admire and who possess the skills or knowledge you aim to acquire. Learning from those with experience can be invaluable in your journey. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice and feedback.
Cultivate Curiosity and Experimentation: Foster a sense of curiosity and a willingness to explore and experiment. The creative process often involves breaking rules and thinking outside the box. Enjoy the journey of discovery and have fun along the way.
Stay Authentic: Be true to yourself and your unique vision. Authenticity is a powerful tool in the world of artistry. Let your passion and individuality shine through in your work. It’s your authenticity that will resonate most with others.
For those just starting their journey, I would advise focusing on these qualities and skills as a foundation. Remember that growth takes time, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. Stay dedicated, keep learning, and stay true to your artistic voice.
Alright, so before we go we want to ask you to take a moment to reflect and share what you think you would do if you somehow knew you only had a decade of life left?
At the moment, one of the main challenges I’m grappling with is finding the balance between my artistic pursuits and the business aspects of my career. As an artist, I thrive on creativity and the act of creating, but there’s also a need to manage the practical side of running an art business, including marketing, sales, and administrative tasks. Striking the right equilibrium between these two facets can be demanding, but it’s crucial for the sustainability and growth of my artistic endeavors.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://elizabethschowachertart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethschowachertart
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ESSTUDIOS1/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethschowachert
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/schowachert/
Image Credits
I took all the photos
