We were lucky to catch up with Joleen Thomas recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Joleen thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So, let’s imagine that you were advising someone who wanted to start something similar to you and they asked you what you would do differently in the startup-process knowing what you know now. How would you respond?

Time. If I had the opportunity to start over I would dedicate my time to truly learn specific skills and take more time to listen to business leaders, through podcasts and meeting with other small business owners. I think I have finally reached a period in my life where I can focus on my art. I am able to map out my commissions, try new mediums, and work to build my social media presence. Regarding getting to where I am faster, I do not think I was made to do that. I believe God has a timeline and has written my journey thus far, so I can only continue to trust in His plan. There have been a lot of setbacks and places where I wish I could have grown quicker and gain more revenue but it has taught me how to be patient and trust in God’s timing and not rely on my own merits.

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

Hello, my name is Joleen Thomas I am an engineer from 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM and an artist every other hour in between. I began my love of the arts when I was roughly 5 years old. I think something so quickly resonated with me in that my art was mine and I had full control of what was created. I may not have realized it at the time but it has truly paved the path of who I am today. I have been so blessed to have a constant outlet where I can breathe and not let the pressures of the world take over. It sounds a bit dramatic, but I do believe every human being should have a place to decompress. This may come from reading, running, traveling, whatever it is that keeps your soul from becoming what society thinks it needs to be.

My art is all in the details which come from the various materials I use. I work with multiple mediums but my main preference is acrylics and plaster. I create a variety of pieces from abstract art and digital pieces to my most recent task being a live wedding painter. I think I am most proud of how far I have come as an artist and how I have been able to display all that I have accomplished. My Instagram has truly become my portfolio to share my pieces and physically share with others what God has blessed my hands to do. God has given me a talent that I am beyond grateful for and has allowed me to experience so many opportunities from the palms of my hands.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Social media is and I admit a full-time job. I am still working towards building my following and growing in a media sense, but it takes time and devote dedication. I was able to sit in on a class by a social media specialist and she spoke about designing a specific person, what their interests are, their age, their hobbies, and all the details to create a fictional character and choose to make them your target market. I was amazed at how I could look at this perspective and hand pick one audience. I cannot say that is what I do yet, but I am working towards one voice to speak to and choosing a style focus that many people love and I enjoy creating.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Word of mouth is how my business began and that is how my career continues to grow. My friends and family are truly my marketing team even if they do not know it. I have been gifted with so many people to be loved by and who believe in my talents and all the heights I can reach.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jtworks/?hl=en
• Other: Tik tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jtworksco

Image Credits
The image of the live painting with the couple in the background: Natwongsaroj Photography. The image of the graduation cap: poulomibphotography