We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Caitlin Krumm a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Caitlin, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

The risk I took in purchasing a building before the pandemic was significant. Throughout my life, I have had a deep love for art and painting. However, I was always taught that a nine to five job was the responsible path to take. As a result, I could never fully dedicate myself to my passion for art.

Since 2010, I have been painting as a way to make extra money. After establishing myself as a Director of Marketing and marrying in my thirties, I felt closer to realizing my dream of pursuing my love for art. We also saw our struggle with infertility as an opportunity for me to transition into the world of art and stop putting off next steps.

In 2019, my husband and I made the decision to invest in a building in our hometown of Kenmore Village. We believed that this could serve as both a shop that the community needed and as my personal studio where I could create and sell my artwork. The deal closed in November 2019.

Soon after, we were thrilled to discover that we were pregnant through IVF in February 2020 after years of trying and one heartbreaking miscarriage. However, shortly thereafter, the pandemic hit Buffalo, NY in March.

The risk we took by purchasing the building and opening a shop became even more uncertain due to the unforeseen circumstances caused by COVID-19. It has been an eye-opening experience filled with many lessons about evaluating my passion for art alongside other commitments such as work and being a mom.

Unfortunately, because of the pandemic’s impact on businesses and job security, it has not been possible for me to step away from my corporate job at this time while simultaneously managing our investment accurately or exploring personal artistic pursuits fully.

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

I have been drawing since childhood, and after college, I discovered a passion for abstract painting. For years, I have been fulfilling commission orders from clients who seek to add a special touch to their homes. I enjoy painting for personal satisfaction and catering to shoppers’ tastes. Teaching paint and sip classes as well as pop-up kid classes has also become a newfound love of mine.

Throughout Buffalo, NY, people recognize me for my work at Children’s Hospital and as a signature artist whose Trendy Buffalo collection is highly sought after in the area. What I am most proud of is successfully balancing a full-time job with my art while remaining true to myself. Not everything that comes my way aligns with my vision, so learning to say no has been significant. It’s important not let others ruin the passion that drives me.

In the future, you will see me refine my shop and focus on reconnecting with art, classes, and products that I genuinely love. My goal is to engage more with projects and items that are meaningful to both myself and my followers.

Over the past few years, during my IVF journey, I have noticed myself becoming more introverted. During this time, sketching, uplifting quotes (creating some new “Daily Reminders”) and taking things one day at a time has brought me joy alongside cherishing every minute spent with my son. Now I am ready to share this part of my life as well.

Regarding the upcoming year ahead; it will be focused on refocusing!

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I am currently in a turning point. You may not be aware of what you lack knowledge about! The idea of owning a building, starting a shop, working full-time, painting, and becoming a mom all at once is overwhelming. At this moment, it is vital for me to focus on the things that bring me joy: selling products and establishing a successful business that continues to flourish. The objective is to introduce products that will help me determine if my passion remains merely a hobby or blossoms into a full-fledged business. I need to find the time to cut through all the distractions.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

A non-creative person may struggle to understand the effort required to release a product and face criticism from the public. It is crucial for them to appreciate the time invested in creating something, whether it’s art or a social media post, only to be subjected to feedback. Non-creatives should also recognize the significance of support – even kind words and sharing posts can make a difference. Additionally, when peers believe they can do something creative themselves, it is important for them to consider if they are willing to invest time, purchase supplies, and dedicate hours towards it. If not their passion, showing support by making a purchase or leaving a comment can still be very meaningful.        

Contact Info:

• Website: https://caitlinkrumm.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/caitlinkrumm
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FinishingTouchesbyCaitlinKrumm/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9BTZOryYQASEePaVNH2M1A
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/caitlinkrumm/

Image Credits
Michael Smith