Meet Erin Friedman

We recently connected with Erin Friedman and have shared our conversation below.

Erin, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
In the midst of a hectic life filled with uncertainties and doubts, a turning point occurred during the COVID pandemic. Overwhelmed with responsibilities and a growing sense of unease, I reached a breaking point. After a heartfelt conversation with my family and a much-needed release of emotions, I decided to take control of my life.

I stepped back from societal expectations and embraced my passion for art. I created art activities with my children, shared our projects on social media, and set up an art studio. As I immersed myself in painting, I found solace and a renewed sense of purpose. Art became my therapy, allowing me to process my emotions and connect with others.

Sharing my work on social media led to unexpected opportunities, and I started receiving commissions. My childhood dream of becoming a painter began to materialize. I built a successful career as an artist, driven by my authentic passion.

It’s about reconnecting with your authentic self and pursuing what truly nourishes your soul.

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 am an abstract artist based just outside of Washington, DC, in Bethesda, Maryland. I have always been captivated by the experience and process of creating. I graduated from the University of
Maryland with a BFA in painting and a concentration in design. Before pursuing her art full time, I spent over a decade working as a graphic illustrator for international brands such as Warner Brothers, The Smithsonian Institution, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art. I gradually refined my process and found my niche in abstract painting.

As my style continues to evolve, my process remains as intimate as ever. I bring my personality as a sensitive and empathetic truth-seeker to every blank canvas. My work is free from formal structure and open to interpretation, a style that I hope causes viewers to think about what the piece means to them. My work has been exhibited in private collections and galleries, both nationwide and abroad. I have also created many custom commissions for collectors and interior designers.

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?
Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks and keep going was crucial. There were moments of self-doubt, financial challenges, and the uncertainty of pursuing a less conventional path. To those starting their journey, I’d advise developing resilience by focusing on your long-term vision and learning to navigate and grow from adversity.

Authenticity: Staying true to myself and my passion for art was vital. It’s easy to be swayed by external opinions and societal norms, but embracing your authenticity sets you apart. For those early in their journey, I suggest getting in touch with your true self, understanding your core values, and using them as a compass to guide your decisions.

Community and Networking: Building connections and relationships within the art world and beyond was instrumental in my success. Networking opened doors to opportunities and collaborations I couldn’t have achieved alone. To newcomers, I recommend actively seeking out and nurturing relationships in your field. Attend events, engage with peers, and don’t hesitate to ask for advice or help.

In summary, resilience, authenticity, and a strong network have been the cornerstones of my journey. I encourage those embarking on their path to focus on developing these qualities and skills as they navigate their own unique journeys in pursuit of their passions.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am always open to collaboration and partnership opportunities, as they play a significant role in the growth and diversification of my art practice. Currently, I am actively seeking collaborations with interior designers and small local businesses.

I am eager to work closely with interior designers to create custom art pieces that complement their design projects. Whether it’s a residential space or a commercial establishment, I am committed to suit the specific aesthetic and vision of each project.

Also collaborating with local businesses is a way for me to give back to the community that has supported my journey. I see art as a way to add character and vibrancy to businesses, making them more inviting to customers. I am interested in providing artwork for display in stores, cafes, restaurants, or any other local establishments.

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