We recently connected with Charlene Pulsonetti and have shared our conversation below.

Charlene, appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

Though I entered college with the intention of pursuing art as a full time career, the reality of “the real world” hit shortly after graduation. I spent several years with art as a side project while focusing on jobs that paid the bills. It wasn’t until I moved to California that I had the opportunity to bring art into the forefront.

Entering my local art community and building a client base took time, but it was inspiring at every step. It was becoming a profitable endeavor too, until Covid-19 hit in early 2020.

Fortunately, I had my writing. Personal writing projects and my job as staff writer for a local publication made me realize that this was another creative outlet that I loved wholeheartedly.

Working from home was a glimpse into what a freelance writing and art career could be like. In October 2021 I became a freelance writer, and am enjoying this new professional endeavor.

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

I am a multidisciplinary creative with a diverse background, so I’ll sum it up as best as I can!

First, I am a professional art with a background in painting and printmaking. My work has been focused on southwestern inspired landscapes and portraits with nature and personal exploration as the theme. In 2019 I published my first children’s book “Howdy Joey!”. It was exciting to combine my passion for both writing and art. Since then, I have published a Old West animals coloring book and a guided travel journal – all three are available through Amazon.com.

Second, I am a writer. I have been writing stories since I was young, but they were closely guarded! I was brought on as staff writer for a local publication in 2018, where I learned quickly the ins-and-outs of journalism. I enjoyed the opportunity to meet new people, promote local businesses and share good news.

Third, I have a strong background in customer service, public relations and social media marketing. I’d say that my time volunteering and working with the National Park Service taught me the most about making people comfortable and open to learning. I would enjoy the opportunity to help businesses and creatives establish their brand by developing techniques to promote themselves in an affordable and effective way.

My primary focus at the moment is freelance writing and completing my personal projects – a new “Howdy Joey!” children’s book and an adult thriller novel.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

The arts are oftentimes put on the backburner. Growing up, I was fortunate to attend a school district where music, art and theater was well funded from the get-go. Living in California, at least in my community, I see that funding could be better. Before Covid-19, I volunteered to teach art to elementary school children. They loved expressing themselves! I would encourage parents and nonparents alike to speak with local representatives and reprioritize the arts.

On an individual level, I would encourage everyone to consider working with a local artist – when possible – to create décor, gifts, and everyday items like dinner plates for your home. Or, commission an artist to create a gift for a friend. While you can shop at a big box store for these items, they aren’t unique and they aren’t as well made as an original piece of art would be.

Shop local, and shop small. Artists are imaginative, passionate people – their work will astound you!

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative person is having the skillset to interpret ideas and transform them into a tangible thing. I love being able to create something people love to read or look at.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.charlenepulsonetti.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/peculiarpeccary
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CPulsonettiAuthor/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlenepulsonetti-8b25b224/
• Other: https://www.amazon.com/Charlene-R-Pulsonetti/e/B08BJ2Z367?ref_=dbs_p_pbk_r00_abau_000000