We were lucky to catch up with Dawn Sweitzer recently and have shared our conversation below.

Dawn, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been one of the most interesting investments you’ve made – and did you win or lose? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

There are so many I could mention when it comes to both good and bad investments. One of the best investments I have made occurred when I moved to a new state. I relocated from Ohio to North Carolina and, using the last of my money from my savings account, bought an old factory. For 13 years, this factory has evolved into my working studio. When I bought it, it was a 17,000 sq ft shell of a building with 20-foot ceilings. The renovations were extensive. There was no electricity or plumbing and a roof that desperately needed replacing. Over the years I have cultivated an entirely different space that is perfect for creating, hosting fellow creatives, and explore new mediums. It has become a bit of a sanctuary that allows everything outside to disappear.

Dawn, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

After living in Europe, Dawn moved back to the midwest and, inspired by her travels, she began hand painting objects, canvas and murals. This evolved into her business Notre Monde.

Dawn is the multifaceted creative and designer behind the brand Notre Monde whose work encompasses mixed media, painting, woven textiles, furniture, glass and mirror as well as home accessories.

Dawn is most proud of having a vision and love of her craft. She is thankful for the incredible people that surround and help guide her. Additionally, she is proud of her own hard work and how her persistence made her dream a reality.

One thing Dawn would like for her followers to know is that when she is creating, no matter the medium, she brings authenticity to her craft. She fails and she succeeds and learns along the way. She loves exploring new mediums and getting her hands dirty.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Despite the tedious logistics of running a business, Dawn feels the most rewarding aspect is the complete freedom that comes with owning your own business and being your own boss. The endless experimenting that leads to continual growth. Being able to surround yourself with beauty and culture.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

The lesson I had to unlearn is putting unrealistic expectations on myself and others.

There have been an innumerable amount of times
where the end result wasn’t what I envisioned. Learning to step back and re-evaluate what I deem a success allowed me to let go and learn how to trust the process. It expanded my way of thinking and allowed me to redefine what I deem a failure and learn how to push forward.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.dawnsweitzerstudio.com
• Instagram: dawnsweitzerstudio/dmsweitzer

Image Credits

Addison Jones
Sam Smith
Kaitlyn Porter