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

Alright, Charlotte thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

I always wish I had an upcoming check when I don’t have any commissions but I wouldn’t trade my artistic profession for any other career in the world. When you freelance, you have to wake up and ask yourself “How am I making money today?” and you quite literally have to figure that out.

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

Originally, I went to college for Psychology. My dream was to be a therapist and open a therapeutic based ranch with equestrian therapy etc.. I realized school wasn’t for me, especially being a single mom. It took away too much time from my life. Studying until 2 am and waking up for work at 7 am the next morning wasn’t working for me. I quit college and continued working, as a single mom. When I got fired for the 3rd time for schedule conflicts over having to prioritize my daughter and my personal life (staying home with her, missing work for her birthday, etc), I realized opening my own business would be just as risky as trying to work a regular job and losing it from one day to the next. At the end of the day, nothing is really permanent or stable. Anything can change at home, at work, at school, etc. I don’t make nearly as much as I should to be comfortable but I’m definitely on the road there.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I’m about to be homeless for the second time with my daughter and it still has not stopped me from making art. We’re losing our home this time due to the owner selling the house. I’m hoping eventually I can have my own place for my daughter and I.

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

Being genuinely good at what I do, not trying to fit in place at some corporation or office.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversiondecor/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diversiondecor

Image Credits
Becky Nowak | Arise Images (IG: @ariseimages)