Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Joe Mohr. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Joe, thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.
Hmmm. Good question. I suppose some luck and some awareness play a part. I was lucky to be raised in a happy home by two loving parents and an awesome sister. As a child, I rarely had a reason not to smile and I think I just got used to it. I also observed over my time on our planet that positivity equals progress. I am not always positive/optimistic, but I learned during those times that being negative is stifling. Optimism has always led to opportunity in my life as an artist. I am not realistic (or pessimistic) enough to stop myself from attempting things for which I may be underqualified. I’ve observed a lot of people putting up their own roadblocks over the years. I can’t do it. Life has enough roadblocks, I will not be my own. I’ve got my back. And, I’m lucky to have a best friend for a wife and three of the most kind-hearted, positive, and goofy kids. They have my back too.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’ve enjoyed a long and varied career as an artist. I am an active cartoonist, illustrator, and woodworker. I wrote and illustrated a children’s book about ten years ago (Robot+Bike=Kitten) that spawned a rock band (Robot+Bike) that played at festivals with the likes of Snoop Dogg, Huey Lewis, Run the Jewels, Wilco, Head and the Heart, Alabama Shakes, and more. And most recently I serendipitously invented a new skateboard deck in an attempt to save wood. I did it with no other plan than to make one for myself, but my great friend and creative partner, Kemp Wisland decided it was too good to stop at one. We started a company (Wormboards) and were making them on our own for a while. That took up more time than we could afford, so we now partner with Madrid Skateboards in Huntington Beach, CA. The popularity of our “Wormboard” is growing. It’s a fun and convenient mini-cruiser that uses half the wood of a normal skateboard, AND we plant a tree for every Wormboard we sell.
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?
Ok, here’s three-ish for any artists that read this–make what you love, make it often, celebrate your mistakes (and learn from them), and stay positive! Rejection is commonplace for artists. Have thick skin and believe in yourself. The only other thing I’d say is to go out and see live art in any form as often as possible. You will reinvigorate your inner artist while supporting your fellow artists.
Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
Like many artists, I struggle with the business aspect of my art. Artists aren’t always the best business people. I am working on it. I’d advise all young artists to think about this important part of being an artist. Ask for help early and often and don’t neglect this part simply because it’s not a strength or because you don’t enjoy it.
Contact Info:
- Website: JoeMohrtoons.com and Wormboards.com
- Instagram: @mrjoemohr and @wormboards
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemohr/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
