We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Erin Shank a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Erin, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
The best way for me to keep my creativity alive is by making time for personal projects. In any creative industry you have to follow trends and stay relevant, but I think you can do that and still keep your personal voice. Even if something is trendy and popular, I strive to make it unique and very “on-brand” for my art. It can be challenging to fit this in when there will always be something you can do on the business side of things, but it’s so important to do more than just the next job. It took me some time to work personal projects into my schedule and can sometimes be difficult when there is so much to get done, but it has made a different not only in creative growth, but I think it bleeds over into doing better for my clients as well so it’s a win win!
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a watercolor artist specializing in surface pattern design. Like most artist, I began my artistic journey at a young age and have always loved anything creative. I have many creative hobbies including drawing, painting, crochet, cross stitch, sewing and pretty much anything that involves an artistic craft. I feel lucky to have fallen into the surface pattern community early, when companies like Spoonflower and Instagram were still young and fresh. It helped me realize all that I could do with art and how to reach an entire world of people who loves that same things I do, and who I could share my art with. It has been such an amazing journey, and I love that there will always be people out there who enjoy my work.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, if there were three things I could share with new artists it would be 1. Do it because you love it, and constantly remind yourself that you love it. It’s too easy to fall into “work mode” and just push products out and never really focus on the passion behind it. Don’t forget to have fun! 2. There will always be critics and not everyone will like your work. That’s okay! To that end, there will always be people who love everything you make. Surround yourself with those people and forget about the rest. 3. It’s okay to want to make money! I know this is taboo in the art world. We’re supposed to just create with no end game and never worry about profit, but I think it’s okay to love what you do and still want it to be financially successful.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
My fellow designers and artists! I can honestly say that I don’t think I have a competitive bone in my body, so when I first started out and had some negativity from other designers and artists, I was so surprised and extremely discouraged. But then an even bigger group of creatives supported me and helped build my confidence. They shared their knowledge, and I shared mine. We helped each other, built out own communities and groups, and supported each other. We built each other up and I still love reaching out to these friends and colleges for advice.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.erinannedesigns.com
- Instagram: erinannedesigns
- Facebook: Erin Anne Designs
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