Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jill Rumley. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Jill, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your creative career sooner or later?

As a woman in my mid-50s, I wouldn’t say that I wish I had started my creative career earlier, but I wish I had spent more time learning artistic techniques and doodling. The first time I painted a painting it was in an oil painting class. I had been thinking about painting for many years. The texture of the paint, how to mix the colors, and what it would feel like to apply the paint to the canvas. It was as juicy as I imagined!

Life experience brings a unique perspective to any task, including creativity. As an older woman, I am less afraid to take risks and less worried about what others think about my art. As an artistic entrepreneur, I wish I had been able to capitalize on the emerging online teaching courses in the 2010s.

Jill, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I grew up in a creative family. Musicians and artists. My mother started painting when I was eight years old. I would tag along with her to her painting classes. I learned basic skills by watching her paint. In my teen years, I fell in love with technology and cameras. I was a photographer early on and would play with making images on computers and even using a typewriter! I also loved making mix tapes and grabbing snippets of songs to create a story.

I learned how to write HTML code and use Adobe in the late 1990’s. I jumped into building websites for friends and family. I realized early on that many people, especially women, were hesitant to use technology. I decided to start a business helping musicians build websites for their businesses.

2018, I started a business to help artists market their artworks on social media. However, I soon realized this is not where art sales are made, so I switched gears and now teach artists how to market using newsletters.

I no longer have a “business” for my coaching but offer workshops through local art organizations. And I decided to focus my efforts on helping artists in my community. That’s why I joined and became the Longmont Artists’ Guild president.

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

The best way to support artists and creatives is to engage with their work. Go to museums, galleries, and theaters. Listen to music, watch movies, and read books. When buying a gift, go to a boutique and buy something handmade by a local artisan. And most importantly, feel free to participate in creative activities yourself. The more we engage with the arts, the more we support the artists who create them.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I work as the Longmont Artists’ Guild’s president to help emerging and experienced artists have opportunities to show and sell their art in the community. By being involved with my local artistic community, I aim to help artists understand the nuances of having an art business. There is a lot of noise on the internet about how to sell art. But the reality is, someone doesn’t wake up in the morning and decide to scroll Instagram looking to buy a $500 painting from a stranger. Artists need to get out into the community and build a mailing list. And then consistently communicate with their fans. Make connections and get involved. Sell your low-priced stuff online, share your work, but nurture the ones who have purchased your work before. That’s the key to more sales.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.longmontartistsguild.org
• Instagram: @JillRumley.Artist
• Facebook: @LongmontArtistsGuild

Image Credits
Richard Rumley, photographer Jill Rumley, pastel paintings