We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lauren Stine. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lauren below.
Lauren, thank you so much for making time for us today. We’re excited to discuss a handful of topics with you, but perhaps the most important one is around decision making. The ability to make decisions is a key requirement for anyone who wants to make a difference and so we’d love to hear about how you developed your decision-making skills.
Being able to make decisions comes from a balance of having the knowledge needed in that moment and also listening to your instinct. Some decisions we encounter in life allow for a longer decision-making process; in those cases, I stockpile knowledge in a given area and become more of a subject matter expert to know I am on then right track. Other decisions require a quicker pace, and that is when I feel it is incredibly valuable to be tapped into your truest self. “Going with your gut” is a valuable tool in more split-second decision making. I think the hardest thing for people is to learn how to trust that instinct, and I’ve found it happens over time with practice.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As a mixed-media artist who is relatively new to the industry, I’ve been focused primarily on creating in any way I can. My art revolves around seeing the beauty of our natural surroundings and reflecting it back in a way that feels true to my lens in life. One year ago, I took a big leap of faith with my artwork and decided to rent a studio in downtown York PA. It’s been an incredible experience of building my portfolio, but better yet, making connections within the community. I recently launched my website (www.laurenestine.com), and that’s been very successful in these first several weeks. I think my art resonates with people because the pieces I make are an attempt to harness unbridled creativity, which shows up in strange and peculiar ways. Those pieces tend to spark a conversation.
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?
Working as an artist isn’t just about creating; it’s about being business savvy and knowing yourself. Over time, I’ve become less risk-averse, and I’ve learned to lean into things that bring me discomfort – for example, branching out and getting my studio space. I’ve learned to recognize opportunities worth taking. One big skill I’ve honed has been the art of saying, “no.” Side quests can be wonderful, but they also can take you away from your goals. I have learned to choose carefully what I say “yes” to. For someone early in their creative journey, I would recommend journaling; spending time reflecting is very helpful in finding the true core of your wants and desires.
How would you describe your ideal client?
I’ve been fortunate enough to have met and sold a few of my works to my ideal clients. They come from all walks of life, but they are people who appreciate the simple things in this world. I think that’s really what my art is about – seeing our natural surroundings, the creatures we share this planet with, and framing them in a different way. The customers who come back to my art appreciate boldness and energy, and enjoy an air of quirkiness and playfulness.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.laurenestine.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbylaurenstine/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Art-by-Lauren-Stine-61557821728210/?locale=ne_NP
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