Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Valerie Breshears. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Valerie, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

I love being a full time artist. I love the flexibility and control you have with your work.

I was very happy as a full time artist. However, as a single mom, I needed more income. I work part time now.

I think about working full time and trying to still be an artist. Maybe when my son is older. It’s hard choosing what amount of time goes where: kids, art, work.

I dream of selling enough art to not have to work at all. You have to market yourself a lot. There’s still plenty of work to “hustle” out there. You have to get yourself out there any way you can. My coworkers support my business and recommend me to their friends. So, even working Im still promoting by business in ways that lead to sales.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I have always been an artist. But, it isn’t what I went to school for. My Bachelor’s Degree is in Anthropology with minors in Art History and Archaeology. Art was always a hobby of mine.

When, I got pregnant 7 years ago, I could work anymore. So, I started making more art. I had a positive response and started selling some. For a while, I worked as an after school art teacher even.

I’m an eclectic artist. I like the fiber arts a lot. I’m an avid painter. I loke various crafts. Occasionally, I sculpt. I’m a photographer.

Ive had professional jobs as a photographer. I turn my photos into postcards and prints. One won an award this Summer.

My jewelry also won an award this Summer. I use different methods in jewelry making. Hemp and Macrame or Metal and Chains.

I’m always trying to learn new techniques and methods. I hope to inspire creativity in others as well.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I want to be someone my son can be proud of. I don’t want him to see his mom miserable at a job. The more I’m supported, the more supported he is.

Have you ever had to pivot?

In 2019, business was booming and I had started vending at local events. I planned to do several more for 2020. Then, the pandemic hit. And all the events were canceled. On top of that, everyone else started selling online to make up for the lack or foot traffic. The competition was worse than ever and all my plans were down the drain. I didn’t let it get me though. I found other ways to market. I had to get a part time job but that just gives me more people to network with.

Contact Info:

• Website: Https://freyasfernwehtreasures.company.site
• Instagram: Fernwehtreasures
• Facebook: Freya’s Fernweh Treasures
• Twitter: Freyastreasures
• Youtube: youtube.com/user/zombpeng
• Other: Tiktok: fernwehtreasures

Image Credits
All images my own