We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Suzanne King. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Suzanne below.
Suzanne , appreciate you joining us today. Do you wish you had started sooner?
I definitely wish that I would have started on my art career sooner in my life. Starting a small business in my late 30’s had it’s challenges for sure! I definitely battled with self doubt and depression in my 20’s, which would have been the prime time to begin, I think. Still, I always seem to hear “better late than never”. I’m very grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to grow my business, no matter what comes of it in the future.
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’ve been studying fine art since middle school, and continued my studies through college. In my 20’s, I landed a few small art gigs here and there, but never any serious jobs. I fell away from art completely for about 8 years. In 2018, I applied for a job at Harmons Grocery as a sign painter, and the constant practice gave me much more confidence in myself as an artist. I also had an extremely supportive Store Director who believed in me and my art. I began my journey as a freelance artist in 2019, and my brand MagicKing Illustrations was born. I work in both traditional and digital painting, and I sell my wares at local markets and conventions. I make much of my own merchandise with sublimation, giving it a more handmade quality. I’ve also dabbled in window painting and mural work, though my favorite place to be is Artist Alley at conventions. I hope to build my art career with every year that passes, and offer new types of merchandise and services.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
My original dream in high school was to become an animator for Disney. This was back in the year 2000, and animation was moving away from traditionally hand-drawn 2D to digitally created 3D. I only wanted to work traditionally, and this shift caused me to give up completely on my dreams to be an animator. It was only many years later that I decided to give digital painting a try. It’s actually one of my favorite ways to paint now, and I feel that my traditional background really helped me move into the medium more smoothly. I think it’s important to go with the flow of new industry art trends, instead of fighting them. Open yourself up to change, and you may find new opportunities for growth.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of my art career is meeting new people while I’m working in my art booth. I can connect to deeply with people through my art, which is something I never thought would happen. I also have received a lot of help from fellow artists and followers of my work. I definitely wouldn’t be here without them!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magicking_art/