We recently connected with Kelly Anderson and have shared our conversation below.
Kelly, thank you so much for joining us and offering your lessons and wisdom for our readers. One of the things we most admire about you is your generosity and so we’d love if you could talk to us about where you think your generosity comes from.
Generosity for me is a foundation that I grew up on. My family was middle class and due to some health conditions we struggled for a few years. I watched my parents give back at church and other places when they barely had enough at home. I was constantly reminded that others needed things more than we did. I was very fortunate and instilled with generosity at a young age.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
As the founder of Kelly Anderson Projects, I’m deeply immersed in the world of art and creativity, where I strive to debunk the myth of the ‘starving artist’ by showcasing the economic potential of artistic careers. My focus is on empowering artists through mentorship and providing them with the tools they need to succeed financially and artistically.
What’s truly exciting about my work is the ability to create using existing platforms like Art Battle Minnesota. Where artists can compete, showcase their skills and connect with the community or potential buyers. It’s a thrilling and interactive experience that brings art to life in front of an audience, fostering a vibrant art scene and a sense of community.
I’m also passionate about financial literacy for artists. It’s crucial for creatives to understand how to manage their finances to sustain their careers and I’m here to guide them on that journey.
Looking ahead, we’re expanding our reach with new events and partnerships, and we’re in the process of launching an artists’ accelerator program. This initiative will fast-track the careers of emerging artists by providing them with exposure, resources, and mentorship. It’s an exciting time for Kelly Anderson Projects as we continue to grow and support the artistic community. Plus we are the only Ceative Agency in Minnesota approved to develop a trade apprenticeship program in partnership with the state of Minnesota that will be federally recognized.
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?
Reflecting on my journey with Crayon Kelly and Kelly Anderson Projects, the three most impactful qualities that have propelled me forward are:
1. Creative Strategy: My ability to envision and execute innovative ideas has been crucial. It’s not just about having artistic talent; it’s about strategically positioning that talent in the market. For those starting out, I recommend immersing yourself in your field, studying trends, and understanding your audience to develop a unique angle for your work.
2. Financial Literacy: Understanding the business side of art has been a game-changer. Many artists overlook this, but mastering budgeting, investing, and revenue generation is essential. My advice is to seek resources, workshops, or mentors that can help you build these skills early on.
3. Networking and Community Building: The relationships I’ve cultivated have opened doors and created opportunities. It’s important to be genuine and supportive in your interactions. For newcomers, attend events, engage with peers online, and don’t be afraid to reach out to those you admire. Building a strong network can lead to collaborations and growth.
Developing these areas will not only enhance your craft but also ensure your art can sustain you financially and professionally.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
Art Battle Minnesota is an exhilarating live competitive painting event that culminates in both state-level and national championships. We’re always on the lookout for partners and collaborators who share our passion for art and community engagement. We’re interested in teaming up with local businesses, art collectives, educational institutions, and sponsors who want to support the arts and provide a stage for artists to shine.
Ideal collaborators would be those who value creativity, community development, and are excited about the prospect of integrating art into the fabric of local culture. We’re also open to media partnerships to help amplify our reach and impact.
If you’re reading this and feel a connection to our mission, we would love to hear from you. Potential partners can connect with us through our website, social media platforms, or by attending one of our events. Together, we can make Art Battle Minnesota a beacon of artistic talent and community spirit.
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