We recently connected with GEOFFREY GORMAN and have shared our conversation below.
Hi GEOFFREY, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
I grew up in a creative family and was allowed to pursue my own artistic interests from an early age. Later, I attended Art School and also studied custom furniture design. The more skilled I became as an artist, the more confident I felt in my creative abilities.
Throughout my journey, I was drawn to strong mentors and successful creative individuals. They provided me with invaluable education and guidance on navigating the artist’s lifestyle, including insights into making a realistic living in a notoriously challenging industry.
Along my journey, I’ve achieved many of the goals I set for myself. This process serves as a testament to my growth as an artist and marks the milestones of a successful art career. Concurrently, I’ve made mistakes, using them as opportunities for learning and personal growth. Indeed, sometimes mistakes are the best teachers.
Coming from a craft background, I developed a strong work ethic. I firmly believe in setting realistic goals, ranging from daily to yearly objectives, and regularly reviewing them. Additionally, I actively engage with fellow creatives to learn about their paths to success. This aspect of being an artist is both exhilarating and challenging. While I initially employed a “fake it till you make it” approach when showcasing my sculptures in national galleries, reflecting on over two decades in this world now makes me chuckle at my earlier insecurities.
I remain inherently curious and deeply passionate about learning. My studio sees a constant stream of work, and my other passion for travel keeps me engaged and inspired. I channel my enthusiasm for learning into my role as an educator, teaching at Art Schools across the country. While teaching, I adopt an attitude of continuous learning, recognizing that I can glean insights from both my students and fellow instructors. Teaching is an incredibly stimulating experience for me.
I consider myself fortunate to have been nurtured in such a creative environment from an early age. It wasn’t without its challenges, but I learned from both the difficult times and the good ones. This upbringing instilled in me the confidence to forge my own artistic path while also providing a robust support system.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I have been an art gallery director, handled large artist’s estates, curated exhitions, written nationally about the business of art> For the last twenty years I have been a full-time sculptor and art teacher. I’ve shown my work in the United States and also China and South Korea, in both galleries and non-profit venues. Also continue to teach workshops at Art Schools in the US.
My mixed media sculptures have evolded from using lost and found material to recently mainly caring them in wood. I am also starting to produce bronze casting of some of the pieces, which is a whole new marketiing/creative endevor.
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?
Some of the most important traits an artist can have are many. First off, you have to have a strong creative vision and voice for the work you are making and that can take time to develop. Become the best at your craft that you can.
You also should become an expert about one person: yourself. Create both short and long term goals and review them on a regular basis.
Souround yourself with other succcessful people who are willing to share their own stories. Join an association, a critique group or gallery association. In the art world you need to know a variety of people, from successful artists to gallery dealers, curators, arts writer and the most important, collectors!
Consider yourself an entrepreneur, a small business person and stick to your goals. I think the hardest part of makiing a living as a creative person is the business side of it.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
Mentors and successful creative individuals have been pivotal in shaping my artistic journey, providing me with indispensable guidance, wisdom, and expertise. Their insights and inspiration have fueled my growth as an artist and teacher, offering invaluable perspectives that transcend mere technical skill. Through their mentorship, I’ve not only honed my craft but also gained a deeper understanding of the creative process and the intricacies of the art industry.
Furthermore, the journeys of these mentors and successful creatives have served as powerful examples of what can be achieved through dedication, perseverance, and passion. I think the influence of mentors and successful creatives has not only shaped my artistic skills but also cultivated a mindset of resilience and determination, propelling me forward on my artistic journey with confidence and purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: geoffreygorman.com
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Image Credits
geoffrey gorman
