We recently connected with Beth Lakamp and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Beth thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

This is an interesting question since I actually always had a regular job with my creative work on the side. I decided twenty years ago to switch to part-time work in order to find more time for creating. Six years ago I simply made my home based art studio my permanent “job” . It worked out well and many artists I know also work in jobs too but their real work is always the art. I am much happier in the home based studio.

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

Art is part of my family history. My daughter, Suzy Adkins, is an artist. My father was always an artist yet worked all his life in paid employment outside this creative side. I started painting in 1999 and haven’t stopped. At this point in time I could no longer ignore that this is what I wanted to do even though my full time job was not related to art. Most of my work centers around people and family and the source my inspiration comes from vintage photos prior to digital. So often the older photos reveal so much more. I think capturing the unintended emotions or reveal without filters is what my audience likes best.

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

I started with the regular social media like Twitter, (now X). Eventually as new social media developed I also used that as well. For me though, having my own website was essential. I needed this for any art exhibits that I participated in and found less restriction on content. I have accounts set up on several social media sites mostly just to preserve my art name and not have it taken by another. I rarely find the time to tend to all the sites so I just choose the few that best serve me. I am quite happy to report that it is a great way to stay up to date with my art social circle, the artists I connected with in art organizations. All my art friends are on the sites as well.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

I was into my art journey for several years before I joined an art organization and then joined several. I found the connections immensely helpful, especially The Women’s Caucus for Art. With this organization my work was selected for inclusion in National Exhibits and with various curators and a great way to find a wider audience. Also, several local art organizations were a great resource as well. Almost all the organizations offer helpful seminars to address any artists needs. I could never learn as much elsewhere. For any artist starting out, I suggest joining an art organization within your community. Even though social media offers a great way to get your work noticed, art organizations offer so much more.

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