Sharyn Sowell has a way with scissors!
Her work just leaves me awestruck – I don’t think I could cut so intricately and beautifully if my business depended on it. (Thankfully it doesn’t!) I met Sharyn last year at SURTEX – our booths are close – she’s across the aisle and 2 down so I get to look to the right and admire her handy-work.
If you’ve never exhibited at a trade show you might not understand the dynamic of trade show neighbors. They can become like family for the days you are on the floor. People to talk to when it’s slow, be excited for you (and you for them) if you get a great lead, and of course to cover for you (again, and you for them) if you need to step away to the restroom or to grab some food. I’ve had the good fortune to have some great trade show neighbors and consider Sharyn to be one!
Her story, like everyone’s, is not what you will expect, is heart-felt and will leave you inspired. So take a few minutes and get to know the talented Sharyn Sowell.
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Learn more about Sharyn on her blog at www.SharynSowellArtBlog.blogspot.com
Thanks again Sharyn!
– Tara Reed
P.S. Anyone who submits a video will receive a $20 coupon good towards eBooks, teleseminars (live or replays) or Ask Call Replays from ArtLicensingInfo.com as a way of saying “Thank you for sharing!” These are NOT just for artists who were at Surtex.
When can I expect to see your story?
For all the details or to see all the stories submitted to date, click the “Stories” tab at the top of the blog or go to http://www.artlicensinginfo.com/stories/
Sharyn is correct when she says ” be yourself”- those who cannot find their own way in this business will not succeed in it. Many years I would hear companies who would say do you have any ” olive oil art” or ” gourmet art”, and although I have some, I never made it my priority to follow trends and do what “most” people are doing. I sort of stick to my own trend on what I think people would like to see. However that being said , you will find me doing some of the trends but only if I like them, I have never made it a point to create art I don’t believe in or enjoy. LIfe is way to short to spend it on work that makes you unhappy!!
Ellen
Hi Sharyn, I find your work, your story and your advice so inspiring and am so glad I cam across your blog. I would love to chat with you more via email or phone about your experiences. I am a graphic artist. I am currently selling my designs in the form of canvas and paper prints and marble coasters but ultimately I am focusing on getting into licensing etc. I have done a number of smaller trunk shows and gotten some wonderful feedback but am just a but overwhelmed by where to begin as far as getting into the licensing end of things. My work definitely does not fit the “norm” of the pattermaker or illustrator who licenses their work as you will see if you visit my site, yet I do feel strongly based on the positive feedback that I have received that there is a market for my style somehwere. Just not quite sure where to begin. If you had a moment I would love to chat as I am very inspired by your talent and advice! Sincerely, Laura
I’m so happy to hear that being yourself pays off. I know in my heart that I’m onto something–and I seriously can’t help having my own style. I hear criticism time and time again but I know that I just haven’t tapped into my market just yet. But when I do, watch out! : ) Thanks Sharyn!