We recently connected with Grace Federighi and have shared our conversation below.
Grace, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
As a little girl, creating brought me joy, excitement, and grandeur to my imaginary world where I dreamt of one day being recognized for my dramatic ideas. I would draw doll-like figures with chalk on the outside walls of my apartment in Krakow, Poland. After discovering a love for photography in high school in the U.S., I felt I belonged in the art world and was ready to push myself further. Finding the courage to pursue art ended too soon, as I changed paths early on during my first year in college. At that time, I felt an art career would not provide me with financial means, so I changed my focus to Business. Knowing all along that art fulfilled me, I never stopped creating. A life change presented an opportunity to continue the dream I left behind as a young girl. I haven’t stopped pursuing my dream since.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Working in the business world as a sales and marketing professional has prepared me for the highs and lows of being accepted and rejected in the art world. Starting out in sales as a young woman had its own challenges. I had to learn quickly to accept the “no”, assert my skills amongst other colleagues, and present solutions to clients that would gain respect in the industry. I knew that being transparent and ethical would establish a more successful future.
I apply the same philosophy of giving my all, self-reflection and follow through to my art business. My work ethic has always been a dedication and desire to deliver the grand and unexpected. I produce pieces which move me to the core. This is the only way for me to connect with my art. With each new work, I listen to my emotions, I take in the energy around me and I reflect on what my work will represent. The pieces are more than just figures in a particular pose on a canvas. They tell a story.
Sharing my art with the world through social media, newsletters and attending art shows and events goes beyond executing a task required to run a business. This methodology is personal and vulnerable. I am building relationships with individuals I may never have the chance to meet. Showing up, inspiring with my art, or with a message of how to #liveyourlifeinart is key to building my brand and trust. It is essential for me to deliver what I promise, to never stop learning, and to go after what I want.
Most of what I have wanted to accomplish resulted because I asked, I tried and I did. This year, I put on my first solo exhibition titled LUCIDITY. I felt it was the next natural step in introducing myself and my art on my own terms. What makes it truly special, is that LUCIDITY will continue to be the catalyst of what’s to come in my art career. I have always been a risk taker, a dreamer, and an artist.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
I am fulfilled when someone invests in my art and hangs it in their home or business. It is not about the sale, it is about the relationship between my piece and their life. Living with art is personal and significant. I am humbled when someone chooses one of my works to wake up to, to see in their bedroom, to look at while they drink their coffee or have their children grow up seeing it in their home. The ultimate privilege is knowing my art brought out an emotion they connected with or yearn for.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
I have multiple goals that intertwine and drive me to ultimately see how far I can go. With each goal I accomplish, I set another. Sometimes the result is unexpected, but I find it fascinating how it leads to a different outcome. I believe in planting seeds for future opportunities by showing up, meeting people, listening, and being genuine and appreciative. I want to lead by example to my two boys. I want them to strive for their goals fearlessly.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.gracefederighiart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracefederighiart/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-federighi-8728881/
Image Credits
Josh Sears Photography