We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Riley Waite. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Riley below.

Riley, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

My journey towards earning a full-time living from my creative work had humble beginnings. Initially, I focused on honing my artistic practice, dedicating time to improving my skills, and assembling a portfolio that showcased my talent. One significant turning point in my journey was discovering the potential of online platforms like Etsy. Utilizing Etsy, I began selling commissions, which provided a reliable and steady income stream. This not only allowed me to sustain myself but also gave me the opportunity to refine my creative abilities further.

As I continued along this path, I recognized the importance of specialization within my chosen creative field. I identified a niche where my skills were in high demand, which enabled me to command premium rates for my work. This specialization not only increased my income but also made me a more sought-after creative professional. Simultaneously, I dedicated significant effort to building my personal brand. Leveraging social media and various online platforms, I promoted my work and created a distinct identity within the creative community.

Networking played a pivotal role in my journey. Engaging with fellow creatives and actively participating in industry events helped me establish valuable connections that led to numerous opportunities. Looking back, I believe seeking mentorship and guidance earlier in my journey could have accelerated my progress. Learning from experienced individuals and gaining insights into the industry’s nuances would have provided invaluable shortcuts and strategies.

In hindsight, my path to earning a full-time living from my creative work involved a combination of continuous skill development, leveraging online marketplaces for income stability, niche specialization, effective marketing and branding efforts, and the wisdom gained from reflection and learning. While the journey was not without its challenges, persistence and a commitment to improvement were crucial in achieving my goal. Today, I am grateful for the experiences that have shaped my creative career and continue to drive me forward in pursuing my passion.

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 fine artist specializing in representational figurative oil portraits. My journey into the world of art began with a deep-seated passion for visual storytelling and the human form. This passion led me to pursue a career as a fine artist, with a particular focus on creating oil portraits that capture the essence of the individuals I portray.

In my artistic practice, I provide a range of services centered around the creation of oil portraits. These portraits are meticulously crafted to convey not only the physical likeness of the subjects but also their unique personalities and emotions. I believe that art has the power to transcend mere aesthetics, and my work aims to evoke a sense of connection and emotional resonance between the viewer and the subject.

One of the primary problems I aim to solve for my clients is the desire to immortalize a moment, a loved one, or a cherished memory in a tangible and timeless form. My portraits serve as heirlooms, capturing the essence of a person or a moment in a way that traditional photography often cannot. What sets me apart from others in my field is my unwavering commitment to precision and detail, combined with a deep understanding of human anatomy and expression. I take great pride in my ability to translate the unique character of each subject onto canvas, creating not just a likeness, but a lasting piece of art that tells a story.

What I’m most proud of is the emotional impact my art has had on people. When clients or viewers tell me that my portraits have brought them joy, evoked memories, or provided comfort, it reaffirms the profound connection that art can create. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my work is a labor of love, driven by a passion for storytelling and a commitment to preserving the beauty and depth of the human experience. Whether you’re looking to commemorate a loved one or simply appreciate the beauty of the human form, I invite you to explore my art and discover the stories it has to tell.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the ability to translate emotions, thoughts, and experiences into tangible forms of expression that resonate with others. It’s the power of art to connect on a deep, emotional level, to inspire, provoke thought, and bring joy or solace to people’s lives. This connection, the knowledge that my work can evoke a range of emotions and create meaningful experiences for both myself and those who engage with it, is immensely fulfilling and what fuels my passion for creativity.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Absolutely, my artistic philosophy has been significantly influenced by various creative resources. Books like “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron and “The Creative Habit” by Twyla Tharp have deeply impacted my approach to art and creativity. Additionally, I’ve drawn inspiration from videos and documentaries that delve into the lives and creative processes of renowned artists, such as the documentary “Tim’s Vermeer” about Tim Jenison’s exploration of Vermeer’s techniques. These resources have been instrumental in shaping my artistic thinking, fostering a deeper understanding of the creative journey, and enhancing my commitment to innovation within the realm of fine art.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.rileywaiteart.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/rileywaiteart
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/rileywaiteart
• Other: www.etsy.com/shop/rileywaiteart