We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mollie Mason a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Mollie, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
I started out painting as a hobby. I started by showing my artwork to people locally, and then posting to social media. I started receiving a lot of positive feedback, so I continued to share my growth as an artist. I also joined an online Art Group to learn more about expanding my art business. I learned about the Facebook algorithm and how to sell my artwork locally and online. I feel like finding my niche is what really helped me overcome imposter syndrome. I was kind of all over the place making different kinds of art and never saying no to commissions. When I discovered live wedding painting, I knew I had to try it. I ended up revamping my website to online include live wedding painting and started advertising on Facebook. I booked up quickly! I slowed down advertising to not overwhelm myself for the 2024 year as I just had a baby. I recieve so much positive feedback about the live wedding painting that it is impossible to feel like an imposter. My biggest struggle is comparing myself to other wedding painters. I have to remember that these wedding couples chose me because they like my style of artwork.
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 a Northeast Ohio Live Wedding Painter. I take my paint, canvas and easel to weddings and paint a special moment from the wedding. I usually paint the ceremony kiss, but I can paint any scene from the wedding. 2023 was a busy year for me, not only for my business, but also in my personal life. I just had my second baby on Halloween 2023! I am using 2024 to upgrade my art studio to accommodate more commissions, and work on my painting skills during maternity leave. I will not be advertising much for 2024, but I will be back in full swing for 2025!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I am empathetic, excited, and confident about my art. I share my art with everyone to the point where it is almost weird! I am also an Elementary Art Teacher, so I am used to talking in front of a group of people, even if they are young. If you are interested in selling your artwork, share it with people. Most people are just impressed that you created something. Social media is flooded with negative energy. Remember that when you are sharing your artwork with others, you are adding something positive to this world. Don’t be shy about sharing your artwork. People like seeing the process, so share your process! Social media is a great way to reach collectors!
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 have two obstacles: time and money. I am a full-time art teacher and mom of two. It can be hard to feel creative with a new baby and when I get home from work. I also have ADHD, so I get really upset if I am interrupted while I am creating. I sometimes hold my baby while I create, so I can keep working. I think in the next few years, my creative process will get easier!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.molliemason.art
- Instagram: art_by_molliemason
- Facebook: Art by Mollie Mason
- Other: TikTok- mollie_mason_art
Image Credits
Heather J Photography
