Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fine arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Marie-Christine Brisson, co-founder of Colagene, Creative Clinic, located in Montréal, QC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Colagene has a reputation as an innovative and competitive illustration agency, thanks to its unique concept, its insatiable thirst for new challenges, and above all, the quality of its managerial involvement in projects. Our trademark is the Clinic, a customized service that aims to emphasize the beauty of producing business projects. At Colagene, "taking care of your image" isn't just a figure of speech — for every project, we bring out the best of its qualities, using surgical precision to give life to innovative visuals. Colagene clients are various and from all over the globe, from an advertising agency, fashion or editorials magazines, editions, and productions houses, to direct brands companies, etc.
Tell us about yourself
The idea behind this innovative agency was inspired by a desire to change the status quo in the media and image field — a well-worn cliché but one that would quickly take off. Born of a common enthusiasm for painting, fashion, graphic design, and advertising. I have earned a bachelor's degree in graphic design from the Université du Québec à Montréal and continued my studies in advertising and marketing. In 2001, I founded my own agency with a Parisian designer/ex longtime life partner and am still a strong partner for Colagene Paris, also founded in 2008. Colagene allowed me to bring to life my own personal concept of visual communication and make sure I evolve in a creative domain for my entire life, as I am a passionate artist in all areas of my life.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
It is to have launched three clinics, Montreal, Paris, and London, and two of them are still healthy and continually grow and shine around the world. Also, to have a team of loyal, talented, and dedicated artists with us for our clients and all our various projects.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I think the most difficult step was to pass to a little company with its own rhythm and agency with seven employees and 45 freelancers in three companies; this was a real adaptation. As a creative and an artist myself, I have learned a lot from this experience. I was a leader but to be a good one every day is a big personal challenge. Today I manage our Montreal clinic by myself with 45 freelancer artists, and I really like it too; I breathe more than ever!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Find a field of activity where there is a lack and a unique and innovative service.
- Never to borrow money to start your business, just going slowly but surely. I've never had any debts; it's one of our greatest pride.
- Remember that each step of the process is precious and not just the goal. And most important, don't take things too seriously; make sure you have fun, laughter, and time to live your life too and at your own beat.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
During the last 20 years, I have worked a lot and pushed the limit by the moment, but I have never worked at night or during weekends. I have nourished my passion for people, love, sports, arts, and quality time with myself and others during these moments. This was my own life priority, and I'm proud that I have to respect it and make everyone around me understand that this was precious for me.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.colagenecliniquecreative.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/colagene/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colagene.clinique.creative/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/colagene/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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