We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Samantha Nicoletti. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Samantha below.
Alright, Samantha thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?
There are many things my parents do right, but the thing that has made the most impact on my life and career is the unconditional emotional and mental support they continue to provide. Right after expressing my interest in becoming a professional artist my parents met with my high school art instructor, also a professional artist, to gather more insight into the field. Despite their concerns with potential financial struggles pursuing a career in the arts, they encouraged me to pursue my dreams head-on and haven’t stopped. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their unconditional love and moral support.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am an independent fine artist specializing in acrylic, painting custom designs on luxury handbags, wallets, shoes, hats, and more for clients. Passion for the arts was sparked at the early age of seven when I began painting and drawing classes at Mission Renaissance. I spent the next 25+ years refining my skillset and knowledge across several mediums. In addition to acrylic, I create through graphic design, photography, branding, mixed media, and I wanted a degree that would be versatile in the industry. That led me to Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, where I received an Advertising degree and worked as a Creative/Art Director in Los Angeles following graduation.
Before becoming an independent artist, I moved from Los Angeles to Dallas in 2022 after accepting the first resident hand painter artisan position at Louis Vuitton NorthPark in Dallas. Two years later, it was time for the next chapter of my career as a self-employed professional artist, continuing to do what I love through personalization services offered to a broader client/brand base.
My experience and knowledge in branding, design, and fine art set my work and client interactions apart from others. From concept to execution, my clients are guaranteed that their vision will be brought to life and seamlessly and professionally executed from concept to completion. My goal is happy clients and one-of-a-kind artwork.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
I think non-creatives will struggle to understand the day-to-day schedule or lack thereof for creatives. Our schedules can be a bit all over the place, and its attributed by two things: the creative process and the entrepreneurial end of the business. Whether its social media content creating for business, clienteling, painting, designing, concepts, networking, art shows, or events, there is always something to be working on. Being an independent creative is not for the faint of heart. The grind and hustle are real, but the beauty is it never feels like work when it’s your passion.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
There are several books I highly recommend (listed below in no particular order) that have significantly impacted my creative and entrepreneurial mindset. Some are chapter books and the rest are categorized by different topics, so you can pick and choose the inspirational material you’re seeking.
1. Steal like an artist – Austin Kleon
2. It’s Not How Good You Are It’s How Good You Want To Be – Paul Arden
3. Damn Good Advice (for people with talent) – George Lois
4. FLOW, The Psychology of Optimal Experience – Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
5. The Art of Creative Rebellion- John S. Couch
6. Art Is The Highest Form of Hope – Multiple Creatives
7. Imagine – Jonah Lehrer
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.samanthanicoletti.com
- Instagram: @sam_wich
- Other: TikTok – @thesamwichshop
Image Credits
Samantha Nicoletti