Passion for Murals

It was wonderful to have the opportunity to speak to a group of college-aged art students this week. This particular academic class addresses the marketing aspect of doing one's art. A lot has changed since my days in art school. So, I'm glad to see some very clear examples being given to students on how to approach their art as a business. We "right brainers" sometimes need help in the "left brain" areas (by the way, I found a great book recently that addresses this: "The Creative Entrepreneur" by Lisa Sonora Beam).

Much of what has worked for me over the past 18 years has been by trial and error. But, one thing I know for sure: providing the best quality work and customer service for your client will create repeat customers and keep the referrals coming for years. That will never change. One of my favorite customers was a delightful four-year-old boy gleeful upon the addition of a black grizzly bear per his own request (a  last minute addition made to the original design). And another -- a first time expectant mother became tearful upon seeing her requested Beatrix Potter-style bunnies adorning the nursery that awaited her Colombian baby due to arrive in the states within days. I cried with her!

I found myself getting a little misty thinking about so many of my past clients who invited me into their homes and called me to paint again and again as their families grew or circumstances changed. Incredible loyalty. Deep appreciation. Doing a great job for one's customer will always be rewarding and often for many years to come. I hope the students took that message home. They'll see.