We were lucky to catch up with Sydney Adams recently and have shared our conversation below.
Sydney, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
It’s hard. Sometimes creativity hits me like a lightning strike – immediate and bright in my minds eye – and flows through me onto the paper or canvas. I am just the conduit. Sometimes, though, my creativity is like a ghost dancing around me – I can feel it lingering there, just out of reach and I have to work hard to harness it so that I can craft my vision and bring it to fruition. When I’m feeling particularly lacking in the creativity department, I like to get inspired by music, movies, other artists and nature. Taking walks, taking pictures of things I’d like to draw (whether it’s a landscape, a flower, or a human) and listening to music really help me jump start the creative side of my brain and get me into the mood to make something new. Drawing on my own life experiences helps me, too. I have two dogs, a husband and a son, and our life can be chaotic at times, as well as simply magical. Our emotions can be powerful and overwhelming, and having an outlet to pour them all into can make for some beautiful art.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’ve always been the artistic type. My mom got my sister and I into artsy things when we were young, and I loved it so much that I studied Studio Arts in college. In 2014, I decided to start my own art business under the name of Sydney’s Swag. I was 24, and trying to come up with a name that would encompass everything I like to do. I love painting, watercolors, illustration, digital art, and working with clay. My sister and I make jewelry together, too. At the moment, I have less time to make art since I am the primary caregiver of my two year old son, but I’m constantly scribbling down ideas for when I do get the chance to art!
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?
The first skill needed in an art career is definitely perseverance. The art world is tough, and there will be people along the way who will discourage you from pursuing that kind of life – because it’s hard to make money, because putting your art out there (and by extension, yourself) is scary, and many other reasons. But if it’s truly your desire to be an artist of any kind, then persevere! Which brings me to the second skill: patience. As an artist, I’m always learning, and sometimes I get frustrated with myself when I make mistakes or can’t get something to look the way I want. Be patient with yourself when you make mistakes – you’re learning!! And the last skill necessary to become a better artist is practice! Keep practicing and there is no doubt you will become better. Many people think that artists are just born with pure talent – and while I do harbor within me a creativity that some other s may lack, I had to work very hard to hone my skills as an artist for many years (since I was a kid!) to get where I am today. And im still learning, still practicing, still trying to get better. So perseverance, patience and practice!
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client is someone who understands the creative process and understands the type of work I can do. I have a specific style of work and so if you want a piece of art from me, hopefully you like my style! I love clients who know what they want enough to give me a good starting point, and then are okay with me taking the artistic reins and going for it. Also, clients who are patient with the time it takes create a piece of artwork are much appreciated.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sydneysswag.com
- Instagram: @sydneys.swag and @bonnieandbillco
Image Credits
All credits belong to me.
