Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fine arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Michi Doan, Founder and Illustrator of Michi Doan Art, located in Fuquay Varina, NC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am an artist who manages Michi Doan Art and paints magical illustrations using Procreate. I create paintings that attract fine art collectors and local customers who love nature and fantasy to bring peace and calm to their homes.
Tell us about yourself
Art has always been a way for me to express my emotions. After attending a couple of conventions, I am inspired by many incredible artists and creators who have started their businesses. I started drawing only trees because I like the environment and nature. Still, I slowly developed my aspect of magic into my artwork, incorporating dreams, mystical creatures, and beings into the illustration. My goal is to bring joy to my audiences while expanding my ability to tell a story through art.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My work has been displayed in galleries, publications such as Infected by Art Volume 9, and various juried shows at conventions.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things while managing your own business is you are the artist, owner, producer, advertiser, manager, salesperson, entrepreneur, and planner. You are everything at once, and you must give in 200%. You will continue to learn, make mistakes, and spend extra hours getting things done. It takes a lot of dedication to become a business owner. However, it can be fun and fulfilling.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don’t give up! It can be hard when you start but keep going, and you will persevere through the tough time. It’s okay to start small and work your way through. There are days you will do well, and there are days you will have a slow sale, and that’s okay.
- Embrace your mistakes as learning experiences. You will make mistakes, and it’s okay. Please don’t consider it a failure; use those mistakes to improve your business. Failure leads to success.
- Don’t lose your vision! Have goals and deadlines written out and follow through, so you don’t sidetrack and give up. Know what motivates and inspires you.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://michidoan.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michidoan.art
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michidoan/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/michidoan
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michidoan/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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