We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lacey Eidem a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Lacey, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
I have invested a lot of time in my painting and I am confident in my abilities. I believe that I am an excellent painter and that my work is highly respected by others. I am always looking for inspiration from other artists, but I never copy their style. Instead, I have developed my own unique style that sets me apart from others. As a woman artist, I am aware of the challenges that women have faced throughout art history. By embracing my own unique style and perspective, I hope to contribute to the ongoing conversation about feminism in art.
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?
I’ve been a professional fine arts painter for 15 years now. Every year I learn a little bit more about myself and my business. I’m never too old or too experienced to ask questions. I know I have a lot of knowledge to give, but a lot of knowlege to still be learned. My style is every changing and I don’t think that changes who I am as a painter.
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?
1. Absolutely be confident in your work and your abilities. You chose the profession that you did because you are good at it! 2. Network with other artists! I have made so many connecitons that have led me to opportunities just by networking.
3. Don’t be afriad to seek out mentors who can offer guidance and support. You’d be surprised who will answer your questions.
4. Attend art events and exhibitions to meet other artists, because duh, you already love art! This goes hand in hand with networking.
5. Stay up-to-date with the latest technology and tools that can help you create your art. Ugh, technology is hard sometimes, but you just have to. I taught myself how to build my website to sell prints. It was NOT fun, but I did it and you can too!
6. Be open to feedback and criticism, but also trust your instincts and vision. When I pick a person to paint, 9/10 if I pick them because I just love them the painting is going to be so much more amazing. Choosing what/who you paint matters and I think you can see it in the artwork.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
Moving to MN last year was a pretty big change. That being said, I have found so many amazing resources, including Springboard for the Arts located in St. Paul, MN. They have been a game changing situation for me. They have free in person and virtual classes focused on art in the community, business plans, grant applications and so much more. I would recommend their resources for any artist.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lacey-eidem.squarespace.com
- Instagram: @laceyeidemart
- Other: Tik Tok: @laceyeidemart
Image Credits
All images from me, Lacey Eidem 🙂
