Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Linda Olsen. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Linda, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
My father was an Industrial Designer, and Inventor who worked from home. There were eight children to mentor and my mother who was extremely organized, kept the household in order and all of us helping. We were taught to be self-reliant and creative, resourceful and curious,
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As I am now in my 70s, I look back and realize I’ve re-created myself several times in my life. I was graphic designer and creative Director for three decades. Then I owned my own photography business for 15 years and now a full-time artist. I have raised my two boys while working. Each profession prepared me for the next. Being a graphic designer and directing photography for advertising over the years, helped prepared me for owning my own business and photographing weddings and portraits …some, internationally. Being a professional photographer allowed me to understand light. I graduated from San Diego State University in 1973 with a degree in art fine art. I taught high school art before moving to Florida 45 years ago from Carmel California. But I didn’t go back to my roots as a fine artist until I became a caregiver for my husband a decade ago.. Painting was something that I could do and still be watchful of him. I turned my love of painting into a business and now sell internationally.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Being resourceful and organized is essential for success. I have a set day of the week for marketing and keeping files and inventory up to date. Many artists are not willing to put the time in to do the marketing part of the business and I have found that it is necessary in making a business work. I post on social media daily to help my fan base see what is new. Also most importantly, I paint a lot! Nearly daily.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
I think a lot of artists feel a lack of focus at times with life getting in the way of studio time. Finding inspiration is the other struggle. The way I keep my energy up to be able to get all of the household chores and business done is to schedule time to check chores off the list, usually done in the morning hours. If possible, I make time for a rest or naps after working in my studio in the afternoon. Painting in the evenings after supper has been very productive. This work schedule has helped me to focus because I have tasks checked of the list, …I have rested and now can free my mind to work on an idea. Relaxing with music as I paint is my happy place.
Finding Inspiration; Subject matter should be related to what you love. Many artists try different subjects or mediums that other artists are working on. While it is good to try other subjects and techniques, I have found that returning to what I love is always more successful. The ocean that draws me, touches my heart and soul.., and my desire to share that love in my artwork gives me that passion.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.saatchiart.com/surfbabe
- Instagram: linda151art
