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

Linda, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

The only way to learn how to paint is to actually do the work. It takes a tremendous amount of time to perfect your craft. I spent two years in my studio trying out different techniques with various paint mediums before I actually felt confident to sell a piece of art. I really don’t think there is a faster way to learn how to paint well. Practicing each day and working with various brushes, tools and paint mediums is the only way to get the hang of it. Determination and discipline is the most essential mind set to take you from being an amateur artist to being a professional. My biggest obstacle to becoming a better artist was constantly comparing myself to other artists. You often fall into the trap of not feeling good enough about your own body of work. You have to stop with all that negative chatter within yourself and just create.

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

I am a Canadian abstract artist and have been living in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico for over twenty years. In 2018 I decided I wanted to try painting and decided I was going to dedicate one full year to this new endeavor. I began creating large, colorful abstract art here in my garage which is now my full time home studio. After countless months of trial and error, only painting, sleeping and eating I found my own style as an artist. It wasn’t easy however my stick to it approach no matter what won in the end.
I now sell most of my art internationally and because of its huge size my artwork is shipped rolled. Social media is where I started growing my brand and Instagram @artistaunleashed has become my main headquarters for most sales.
I recently collaborated with Kavka Designs based out of NYC and have a collection of rugs as well as exclusive art prints. In addition I have teamed up with Stockholm Art House and have a collection of wall murals and wallpaper available to purchase.
I also have artwork on display at Tambaran Art Gallery in New York which I am very proud to be associated with.
It’s difficult as an artist to get recognized as there are so many great creative artists out there. I think what sets my artwork apart from others is its colorful palette and the large scale of canvases I offer.
Also being able to create potential artwork digitally helps perspective clients/interior designers as well as galleries see what my paintings could look like.
Being flexible with colors and not getting caught up in one particular palette is essential when creating custom artworks for particular collectors.
My goal is always to create colorful and interesting pieces that could potentially fit in any residential or commercial space.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

Becoming a sought after artist and gaining recognition in the global art scene is not easy. Even with a well executed body of artworks, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re going to get sales. The struggle to be seen and have your artwork collected on an international level is real. Not only do you need to create well executed paintings, you also need to know the business side of things. Working social media and exposing your art on a daily basis is fundamental for growth. Knowing where to invest your product and time is also crucially important. What galleries should I work with, where is it best to advertise….basically how do I reach potential clients all comes into play.. There is no secret recipe to gaining success in the art world. It’s takes a lot of work on many different levels to gain recognition. However if your all in, remain totally dedicated and put in the work I believe anyone can succeed.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I can remember when I got to a point in my fourth year of painting where I just totally felt defeated. Sales had been down for 6 months and it was having such a negative impact on my attitude. I really began questioning whether I could actually make it as an artist in this cut throat industry. I was at a point of throwing in the towel and brush and contemplating getting a real job. However I decided to post a sale on my Artista Unleashed Instagram account and boom! I got ten sales, my confidence was restored and I had this new level of energy. Fast forwarding, going into 2923 has been an amazing year so far with countless opportunities, many sales and I find myself now with barely any artwork in stock.
Getting through the rough times, learning to persevere and staying resilient is so incredibly important. Keeping a positive attitude is everything in this business.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.artistaunleashed.com
• Instagram: @artistaunleashed
• Facebook: Facebook.com/lindalieffers
• Youtube: YouTube.com/channel/UCjBhVRfPOpAedElvlzx3U9w