We were lucky to catch up with John Huynh recently and have shared our conversation below.

John, appreciate you joining us today. Day to day the world can seem like a tough place, but there’s also so much kindness in the world and we think talking about that kindness helps spread it and make the world a nicer, kinder place. Can you share a story of a time when someone did something really kind for you?

The local college was hosting an artist market, but not many people had shown up due to two factors: it had been raining on a cold day, so not many students were out, and I believe winter break had just begun, so not many students were on campus to begin with. These were just factors out of anyone’s control, but it did put a damper on my setup, since the market was outside. There just so happened to be a crepe seller next to me, and he was a kind older man who offered to let me use the tent he had in his truck.

It was a small gesture, but it meant a lot to me at the time, since it dawned on me what it means to sell art at events together, alongside other creators- you enter into a sort of “network,” and we’re always looking out for each other as a result.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m a Southeast Asian artist and illustrator, and I sell prints of my artwork, as well as adorable stickers and keychains! Most of my work, particularly landscapes, comes with a splash of color, complete with fantastical ideas at their core.

Two years ago, I felt lost at how competitive the industry was for artists, especially with the advent of artificial intelligence. It was there that I decided I would market myself to people in person, since it’s a bit trickier for AI to replicate those authentic in-person interactions with actual artists.

I love talking to people that stop by my booth, since it allows me to share what drives me and my artwork, and it almost feels like a sort of renewal, whether or not they buy anything. I strive for a good energy at my booth whenever I sell, since my setup is directed by one concept: “How can I make my booth feel like we’re having a picnic?”

I’m hoping to sell more of my work at events as I develop my skill as a painter even further, but more recently, I’ve been wanting to explore other avenues alongside my work, like murals and public art.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

When I first graduated college, I was in the market for a steady art job. I had optimism that with my portfolio, I’d be able to land one within a reasonable amount of time. Unfortunately, not everything went according to plan as a result of the current state of the job market, but thankfully, I did find some joy in selling my art in person at various local events and markets.

One of my professors said something that stuck with me: “When you pursue a career like art, you have to remember to think realistically in order to sustain yourself.”

As artists, we need multiple sources of income to sustain ourselves, and I like to think that this is part of the hurdles that come with the lifestyle we’ve chosen to live. In my case, I needed to resort to a day job to supplement my income alongside selling art(at least for now!), but it’s very important to remind yourself that you are still in fact an artist, even if you have to pick up a day job to keep yourself afloat.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I think immersing yourself in your local community really helps to build a reputation among customers and other vendors alike. You’ll be seeing repeats of both quite frequently, so, as in any industry, it helps to be professional and friendly, since these people will be valuable connections going forward.

I’ve personally had people come to my booth and greet me, saying they’d seen me at a previous event. This really helps cement the fact that people do remember what you put out there at these markets, and helps motivate me to keep a welcoming vibe going on at my booth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://noodleboiwastaken.carrd.co
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noodleboiwastaken/