We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Shiri Phillips a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Shiri, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. The first dollar your business earns is always special and we’d love to hear how your brand made its first dollar of revenue.
This question is a classic conundrum for artists! The initial supporters are often friends and family, serving as the foundation for expanding your reach. My journey into selling art began with leveraging Instagram and Facebook as powerful marketing tools. As my follower count grew, I found myself connecting with strangers, thanks to the heightened online presence during the pandemic.
A pivotal moment in my career occurred at my first art fair in Omaha, Nebraska. There, I forged relationships with numerous collectors from the local community, laying the groundwork for my career as a full-time artist.
One unforgettable memory from that show stands out vividly in my mind. Before noon on the first day, I sold the largest painting I had on display. The family who purchased it not only became my biggest patrons but also dear friends to this day. Our bond, forged through art, is a testament to the serendipitous connections that art fairs can bring. Had I not taken that leap and participated in the show, I would have missed out on meeting them and other invaluable collectors.
Shiri, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I have been an artist for as long as I can remember. I pursued art history in university and later embarked on a career in the non-profit sector. However, after the arrival of my first daughter, I delved into freelance graphic design while caring for her at home.
Four years later, with the birth of my second child, I felt the irresistible pull back to my paintbrushes. I realized how much I had missed them, and from that moment on, my artistic journey resumed.
Impasto strokes of vibrant colors form the foundation of my abstract artworks. I meticulously apply thick layers of color on canvas, creating a pixelated or graphic-like aesthetic. My art is characterized by the purposeful use of lively colors to evoke emotional and physical responses. Drawing inspiration from my upbringing in the Mediterranean and Southern California, I embrace the philosophy that “color is life.”
My art is infused with the intention of offering viewers both the comfort of structure and the liberation of abstraction. Influenced by my admiration for Impressionism, I incorporate bold colors and loose brushstrokes reminiscent of the great Impressionist painters who captivated me in my youth. By blending various mediums in an abstract or impressionistic manner, I aim to craft a distinctive and vivid experience for those who engage with my work.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
Sharing from a place of authenticity and sincerity is at the core of my social media presence. I believe that consistency is crucial in connecting with my audience and building a genuine following. It all began with me sharing about my creative endeavors and the intricate process behind each piece. Over time, I have witnessed my online presence organically expand without the need for significant marketing investments.
I understand the importance of staying current and relevant in the ever-evolving landscape of social media. By actively observing and engaging with trends, I strive to adapt and evolve my content to resonate with my audience. I am committed to maintaining a dynamic and engaging online presence that reflects my passion for creativity and artistry.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Make creating a daily habit, even when it seems tiring or unproductive. The key to being a successful artist is simply to keep making art. Whether it’s a small doodle or a full-fledged masterpiece, the act of creating something every day is what truly matters. Remember that not every piece of art you create will be seen by others, but that doesn’t diminish its value. Each creation contributes to your growth and development as an artist, shaping your skills and perspective in ways that will eventually lead to something truly remarkable. Keep pushing yourself to create, even on the days when it feels difficult, and trust that your dedication will lead to something truly special.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.shiriphillipsdesigns.com
- Instagram: @shiriphillipsdesigns
- Facebook: @shiriphillipsdesigns
Image Credits
Photos by Ariel Panowicz