Meet Shawn Kolodny

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shawn Kolodny. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Shawn, great to have you with us today and excited to have you share your wisdom with our readers. Over the years, after speaking with countless do-ers, makers, builders, entrepreneurs, artists and more we’ve noticed that the ability to take risks is central to almost all stories of triumph and so we’re really interested in hearing about your journey with risk and how you developed your risk-taking ability.

Developing the ability to take risks started for me by stepping way out of my comfort zone. I dove headfirst into projects I wasn’t fully prepared for, without a clear plan on how to tackle them. This forced me to figure things out on the fly, which was incredibly daunting but also very rewarding.

Like any muscle, your capacity for risk-taking strengthens with use. As I faced more challenges, that initial discomfort became more normal. I found myself needing bigger challenges just to recapture that sense of risk, which in turn, made me more resilient.

What I’ve come to realize is that it’s not always the size of the challenge that’s intimidating, but the unfamiliarity of it. Often, the real test is adjusting to new situations. Overcoming these ‘mental obstacles’ has taught me a lot about my own limits and how to push past them.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Living the dream as a contemporary artist and entrepreneur, I’ve centered my extensive art practice around the sphere—a simple shape that I’ve explored through various mediums like steel, plastic, and stone. My work ranges from permanent sculptures to large-scale temporary installations featuring giant metallic inflatable spheres.

These installations have not only transformed spaces but also turned me into something of a social media celebrity. This unexpected spotlight led me to launch my business, BIG Shiny Balls, where we sell giant inflatable spheres and other inflatables tailored to creative needs.

Building on this momentum, I founded Kolossal Arts, a design studio dedicated to scaling up artists’ visions and supporting experimental marketers. We specialize in high-fidelity, bespoke inflatables that bring imaginative ideas to life. At Kolossal Arts, we’re excited about pushing the boundaries of what inflatables can do in both art and marketing worlds.

As for what’s new, we’re constantly expanding our reach and exploring new collaborations that challenge our creativity and technical skills. Stay tuned for upcoming events and launches that showcase the innovative spirit at the heart of our work.

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?

Certainly! Here’s a polished response for your interview that captures your insights and advice:

Reflecting on my journey, three key qualities have truly shaped my success: consistency, embracing discomfort, and a commitment to learning.

Consistency has been the bedrock of my progress. From the outset, I committed to posting on social media every day, no exceptions. This disciplined approach has not only honed my skills but also built a loyal audience. For those just starting out, my advice is simple: do the work every day. The compounded effect of daily efforts can lead to significant outcomes over time.

Embracing discomfort has been crucial. If you’re comfortable, you’re likely not pushing your boundaries or taking sufficient risks. Early in your journey, seek out challenges that make you uncomfortable. It’s in these moments of struggle that growth happens. Pushing past your comfort zone frequently will not only increase your resilience but also expand your capabilities.

Learning is a continuous process. I approach life with the mindset of being a perpetual student—always reading, listening to podcasts, and staying open to new ideas. Creativity is often sparked by connecting disparate pieces of knowledge. For those early in their journey, cultivate curiosity. The more diverse your inputs, the richer your outputs will be.

Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?

When I feel overwhelmed, my first step is to take a break from the work at hand. It’s crucial to recognize that operating under stress and panic can often degrade the quality of my work. I might meditate, go for a run, or even do something as mundane as cleaning the house. These activities help redirect my mind and alleviate some of the immediate pressure.

Once I return, I tackle the task by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable parts. This strategy not only makes the work seem less daunting but also allows for clearer milestones and progress checks. It’s about regaining control over the situation and your mental state.

Advice for others: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, give yourself permission to step away and reset. It’s important not to force productivity during high stress levels. When you come back, dissect your tasks into bite-sized pieces. You’ll find it easier to start, and each small accomplishment will build momentum and confidence.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kolodny.art
• Instagram: @kolodnyart
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kolodnyart/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Kolodny_art