We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Maria Listman a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Maria thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?

What a great question! My parents have been instrumental in how I conduct myself. That includes my personal, as well as professional life. They have led by example, demonstrating tenacity and kind-heartedness.

My father passed away when I was a child, so I don’t have many memories of him. But what I do recall is his drive to want better for our family. He was an immigrant who was born into very challenges circumstances. He got his footing in America, paid his way through college, and earned an advanced degree from one of the top universities in our country. He had a tremendous work ethic. My father instilled in me the desire to keep going. Don’t quit. That goes for all areas of life.

My mother is a powerhouse as well, who has a giver’s heart. She’s the person that you want in your corner when the going gets tough, or if you need a lighthearted afternoon running about. She’s capable, kind and carries herself in the most fun way. I adore her for it! She’s the person that teaches me to be considerate of others, be hospitable, and genuine. These are all characteristics that apply to my everyday life, and most certainly to my business. She and I are on the same page when it comes to offering my collectors top-notch customer service and quality. If I need a second opinion on products or design, she’s my go-to gal. Mother has a great eye for details, colors and so much more. It’s a blessing to have her by my side.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m a professional artist and storyteller. A few years ago, I took the leap and started my art business. I’ve been an artist since childhood, but shied away from my passions as I got older. After a long, hard season in my life, I had this deep desire to start creating again. I like to call it a God nudge. My heart needed to create, so I picked up my paint brush and got to work. I offer original paintings, custom art, and teach painting classes on occasion. Most recently, I started making seashell art to assist with Hurricane Ian relief. Five percent of revenue from all original art sold is donated to non-profits.

In addition to being an artist, I’m a storyteller. If I’m not making art, I’m dancing around pastures while interviewing farmers. As a freelance agriculture journalist, I have the opportunity to interview some of the most valuable people in our communities. Besides my freelance work, I write a blog highlighting a farmer’s best practices and grit. Personal short stories are also included on my blog in hopes to encourage my readers.

My brand is based upon a few principles that I hold dear: gratitude, encouragement and beauty. And joy! Let’s not forget about living a joy-filled life. I create from these spaces knowing that a few short years ago, my life looked a lot different.

Whether it’s through my art or writings or attitude, I want those around me to feel loved. I want them to know that anything is possible. And to remind them that beauty is all around.

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

Oh, that’s a great question. My immediate answer is years of experience in different fields, which may sound trivial.

My art business is only a few years old. It’s fresh and new and very much in the building stages. With that said, I have years of professional experience, particularly in customer service. I consider myself an expert when it comes to communications and customer relations. I utilize the skills that I’ve gained over the years in my previous professions, and apply them to my business.

Passion is another key element. If you’re not enjoying what you’re doing, it shows.

And lastly, my Mother taught me gratitude. I make sure that my collectors, readers, and followers know how much I appreciate them. Really, truly. They could be spending there time and money somewhere else.

Do you sell on your site, or do you use a platform like Amazon, Etsy, Cratejoy, etc?

I currently sell my paintings and seashell art on my website. You can also find my shell art at a retail store known as Local by Design. My work is in their Annapolis Mall location, as well as Main Street – Annapolis.

Since I sell in three locations, and only create original art at this time, it’s a lot to manage. But I’m grateful to have these platforms in place.

Having your own website puts you in the driver’s seat. You make all the decisions, and are responsible for every last detail. I’m currently a team of one, so I do all the things – content creation, marketing, photography, accounting and much more.  But I have full control over my work. The challenge I currently face is getting more people to learn about my art, and visit my website.

And that is why I chose to sell in two stores. Local by Design has been great for my business. It reaches more potential collectors, and gets my name out there. I pay monthly fees to them, but it’s absolutely worth it!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.blueskiesandgrit.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/blueskies.and.grit
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/blueskiesandgrit

Image Credits
Maria N. Listman