We were lucky to catch up with Liz Lidgett recently and have shared our conversation below.

Liz, appreciate you joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

As long as I can remember, I have been drawn towards the arts. I have always looked at the world a little differently than those close to me and I feel lucky that my interests and passions were always celebrated by family.

It was college that I decided that I wanted to make the arts my career, not as an artist but as someone who would make the arts more accessible. I ended up going to get my masters so I could I understand all of my career options — in the end, I knew my dream job didn’t exist for me yet–I had to create it.

I truly believe I am doing my soul’s work. The work that was meant for me and I am so happy to do it every day. More than that, I feel lucky. That’s not to say there aren’t hard days but I always remember my “why” and that helps me keep going.

Liz, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a gallery owner and art advisor. My gallery Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design is located in Des Moines, IA but thanks to our e-commerce site we ship all over the country and the world. When I began the gallery, my intention wasn’t necessarily to reinvent the wheel but to do it “right” with high ethical standards and kindness. For example, we represent at least 50% women artists. We also put an emphasis on working with BIPOC artists. For our clients, we believe that everyone belongs in the art world and should be welcomed with open arms. We work hard to educate our clients, and those interested, about artists and their techniques so they feel comfortable asking questions.

I am very proud that the work we do helps artists continue to create. The world needs beauty. The world needs artists. I feel so honored to work with our artists and our clients. I believe that every work of art is made for a single person, and it’s my job to get it in front of the right person.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Pay them. Full stop. I am always surprised by the amount of people who ask artists to do work for “exposure.” Artists don’t need exposure, they need to be paid for their work like everyone else. By showing artists you value the work that they do, you help create a thriving ecosystem that supports artists.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

A passion for accessibility and equality in the arts drives everything that I do in my career. I know that my gallery cannot single-handedly change the art world but I do think I can show that you can be successful by doing things the right way.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.LizLidgett.com
• Instagram: @LizLidgett. @LizLidgettGallery
• Facebook: facebook.com/lizlidgett

Image Credits
Adam Albright – photographer