We recently connected with Vo and have shared our conversation below.

Vo, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So, let’s imagine that you were advising someone who wanted to start something similar to you and they asked you what you would do differently in the startup-process knowing what you know now. How would you respond?

If I were to start over, I would ask for help more often and champion for myself. I’m a hard headed person that constantly wishes I had a clone or two extra arms to get work done faster. I often times find it difficult to reach out to others in my circle or community for help at events, with organizing inventory, and handling other daily operations as a small business owner (shipping/fulfillment, updating spreadsheets, researching events, etc.). The administrative aspects get in the way so often that I don’t create new art. Simply asking for help could make such a huge difference in improving my quality of work and efficiency!

Shyness and confidence was also an issue in the beginning as I did not champion for myself enough. I was scared of what people thought of me for selling my art. I would always shrug off my business like it was just a hobby for me but it was truly so much more. It is the foundational stepping stones for me to pursue my dreams as a full-time artist one day. I have only recently gotten over these mental roadblock’s with the reassurance of my loved ones and those other passionate, like-minded individuals in the art community.

Making friends, being communicative, and the biggest advocate for yourself can make a huge difference as a small artist. I meet people so often now that ask to work at events together, to collaborate, and to borrow equipment from each other. I feel as though that could be beneficial in using less capital initially but it really is about the friends you make along the way— as corny as that sounds, haha.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hello everyone, my name is Vo and I am an artist based in the Bay Area that illustrates and creates clay/ceramic art with the themes surrounding nature, nostalgia and popular media. My art typically focuses on self-care, seeking comfort, and silliness. I’ve been very interested in seals for a few years now so I have a lot of harbor seal and harp seal related pieces. People really love the overall cozy vibes I bring and I’m always happy that my work can brighten up a person’s space or help them if they are going through a difficult time.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Getting an art business started initially was super difficult as it is very vulnerable and personal. I began selling art in 2020, during the lockdown, while I was also focused on finishing my last two years of college for my degree in information systems. As you can see, two extremely different subjects.

I had given up on my art business for two years after graduating in 2022 to focus on a career in tech. It was until I realized how rough industry is for creatives. I still pursued data analysis, thinking I was benefiting some internal widget out there. Until one day I got the call, that everyone dreads. I was laid off.

After getting over the initial confusion, emotional strife, and anger, one of my best friends reached out to me. Conveniently, she was working on her thesis on small business growth at the same time. She reignited my passion for art but with a new game plan and marketing tactic. We combined our powers and now we can’t stop! Although she’s graduated, she still helps me with social media and product ideas all the time and I’m forever indebted to her for bringing my passion back to life.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

I am an extremely small creator on social media, with around 2.7k followers— at the time this interview is taking place. However, I did start from nothing. I find that learning from other people who have larger followings is the best thing that you can do. I am adaptable to social media as platforms are constantly changing how their algorithm works. I think it’s really important to be flexible with your strategy. I focus on organic growth and letting my audience know who I am as a person and an artist. With all that being said, social media is super difficult and sometimes your authenticity is what will really catch people.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/LettucePunch
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lettucepunch
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@lettucepunch