We were lucky to catch up with Kathy Linden recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kathy, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
Two words of consummate importance to those of us in the arts! After years of honing your craft and reaching a level of satisfaction it is then that we are ready to present US to the world. We don’t always receive the reactions hoped for or the accolades we desire. But once we have garnered the courage to test the waters…. then we are all in…….no matter the temps. Yes there are unexpected rejections and disregard for all our efforts. But indulging in complete perseverance is key!!! Then, behold the affirmations, the awards, and the beautiful sentiments relayed…………ahhh, the acknowledgements that make the heart swell and the bravado !!! Therein lies the confidence and the building of self esteem. They must be nurtured; they must be strengthened; they must be enhanced by skill.
You MUST believe in YOU!!!!!
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
It has taken many years for me to find my place in the art world. Early years after University found me in some dark places (for reasons I won’t go into now). And as I became more entrenched, I didn’t hide in a studio; I took master art classes; I entered every exhibit available; I went to art shows to see what was going on around me. I visited museums and art galleries in Europe and the Far East. Why? To feel validated as well as to be art educated. That’s when I knew I was good enough!!! So many young artists just want the notoriety of exhibiting in a gallery. First and foremost is to find the venue into which your work fits. I am an exhibiting artist with several south Florida galleries…… POSH Design Studio, in Delray Beach, Pride Corner Art in Wilton Manors, and HotSpots Art Gallery also in Wilton Manors!!! My work is out there for public viewing as well as opinion. I also belong to several art organizations which encourage continuing work and offer regular exhibits.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
My course of study in University was Art. My intention was to become a medical illustrator. Training was rigorous and most of my days were spent in the Art Building. I was taught every medium available at that time. That made my ability quite versatile. While the rule of thumb is to develop a style that is immediately recognizable…. I am not of that mindset. I refuse to be “stuck” in one particular genre. I love trying different styles and being able to accomplish a goal……. whether it is a portrait, a figure study, a seascape or an abstract. My attempts may not always be successful, but that is part of the journey. My advice to younger people starting out is follow your passions! Never give up. There is a place for you in your chosen craft and just become as skilled as you can. Then market yourself. No one is going to do it for you!!! If you want to be successful, spend the time and be sure you are seen!
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
This is quite an explosive question for me. My parents were European; from another time; another place; a most difficult environment.
My father was a very brilliant and educated man who spoke 8 languages. He fought for his business success and was a strong but very loving parent. He gave me that.
My mother, had to leave school very young to help bring in money and so overcompensated with a strong and self centered personality. I never got any encouragement in my younger endeavors (in all fairness language was a bit of a barrier for her at the time). Whatever I chose to do, was on my own .All parental rules had to be adhered to… or else. Emotions were a struggle…. I didn’t show them. She made me very strong!!!
My parents had a huge impact on me and who I became.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kathyLstudio.net
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/kathylindenart
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/kathyLstudio
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kathylindenart
