We were lucky to catch up with Will Eskridge recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Will thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

I am definitely content as an artist. I have known what I wanted to do since I was 4 years old. It took me a while to get in my groove and I was my unhappiest when I tried to do other things to pay bills while pushing my creativity to the side. I have worked many different odd jobs and positions the years prior to going full time as an artist. I have worked a factory job at a CD making plant, janitor, dishwasher, cook, desk job in an office, bar back, prescription drug delivery person, and my first was helping my dad out at his veterinary practice from the age of 10-16. Though I have worked various jobs, I am curious by nature and sometimes fantasize about what it’s like to do other careers that I would aspire to choose if I weren’t an artist. Like a Wildlife Biologist, Park Ranger, Wildlife Veterinarian, Anthropologist, Geologist, etc.

Will, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Ever since I crossed red finger paint with blue finger paint to make purple at the age of 4 years old, I knew what I wanted to do. Growing up, every chance I could get I would draw. I discovered painting at an early age and pursued it with my education. I am a die-hard painter specializing in animal portraiture with a focus on misunderstood animals like bats, opossums, raccoons, coyotes, snakes. I also offer commissioned pet portraits which I have been providing for over 20 years. I am also a muralist with both sides of my art maintaining a fun and brightly colored atmosphere with a pop sensibility. A keen sense of humor, bold color palette, and a deep affinity for the “last ones picked during P.E.” are at the core of my art business.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the biggest lessons I had to unlearn was the notion that to be a successful artist you have to move to and/or have your work in big galleries in New York City. It took me some time to figure out my footing, but after many years of painting nights and weekends while maintaining a day job, I finally realized there are many avenues to pursue within the art world without any of these notions. I have carved out a successful art business providing commissions, studio work, and murals for clients.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

I highly recommend “The Big Leap” by Gay Hendricks, “How to Sell Your Art Online” by Cory Huff, and “You Are a Badass At Making Money” by Jen Sincero

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.willeskridge.com
• Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/willeskridgeart
• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/willeskridgeart
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/WillEskridge

Image Credits
Joshua Jones (portrait photo)