We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Eric Rottcher. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Eric below.

Hi Eric, thanks for joining us today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

I don’t really know how to answer this one, but I would have to say yes, I believe I am for the most part. Granted, I’m not happy all the time, but who really is? I think life is a steady flow of mundanity and disappointment, only punctuated with moments of happiness; it makes me appreciate those moments even more.

I believe that being an artist, for me at least , means being sort of perfectionist. I go through times when I feel like my work is horrible and I’m a failure. I also have days when I feel my work is just okay. But true happiness comes from the moments when I’ve created something I’m simply just proud of. When I step back from it, I wonder how I could have made something so successful. I experienced this recently after finishing a large-scale painting of flowers that I had been working on for almost 4 months.

Being an artist is the most freeing and enjoyable career path I could have chosen for myself, but it is equally just as frustrating and stressful. So, to answer your question more succinctly, yes, I’m happy as a creative/artist; it just depends on the day.

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

I’m a visual artist working out of Gettysburg, PA. I think I always wanted to be an artist growing up, but I wasn’t sure how to go about achieving it. Since I wanted to make a living as an artist but I live in a small rural area without many art galleries, I thought I would pursue a degree as an art teacher. I learned quickly that I was not suited for the role and I switched my major to Fine Art.

I believe what sets an artist apart from the rest, is their story. I think the story of an artist has a direct influence on how and what they create. My story begins shortly after I switched my major to fine art. My mom suffered a brain aneurysm and two strokes and it devastated me. What followed, was a cycle of depression and substance abuse that ultimately killed my creativity and passion for art. It took some time to heal and get me to where I am now.

Most of my artwork, in some way or another, is shaped by my experience during that time of my life. Some of my work is a little dark. However, I think I’m fortunate to have had the following that I do, and that people can relate to my work.

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

As an artist, one of the most rewarding experiences is receiving a message from someone who genuinely appreciates my work. It’s in that moment that I feel a deep connection with that individual. It brings me immense joy to realize that my creations can resonate with someone, even if they are miles away.

How did you build your audience on social media?

I’m still in the process of growing my audience. What I’ve discovered is that “social” media truly lives up to its name. It’s important to socialize and connect with individuals and communities that resonate with you. Over time, you’ll form friendships with people you may never meet in person. It also requires patience, as building a following takes time. Additionally, promoting yourself can be beneficial.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://eric-rottcher.pixels.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/ericrottcher
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eric.rottcher

Image Credits
Eric Rottcher owns the copyright to all images submitted