My story is not unusual in this tough economy. I was laid off from a corporate design job a year ago which has turned out to be one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I had been doing ceramics as a hobby for a couple years and with no prospects for finding another job in the web world, I quickly ramped up my production and really started marketing myself and my work like I never had before. It has been a struggle at times, but it has been a fantastic experience and I wouldn't change a thing. Even though at times it may be difficult to pay the bills, I am happier than I ever have been.
Looking back, I realize now that I was never really cut out for the corporate world. I was always feeling bad and apologizing for who I was. I am happy that i've had experience in the corporate world because i've found I really enjoy marketing...myself...and am pretty good at it. AND I get to reap the benefits. I am also able to take a break when I need to and hang out with my best friend (my dog Ennis) all day. Although I do end up working 7 days a week, I love almost every minute of it.
I've talked to people who don't consider themselves crafty or artistic but I feel like we all have the ability. It's just that some of us have lost touch with that side as we've gotten older and more socialized. When I first started out, I thought, "Am I nuts to be trying to build my business in this horrid economy? How will I keep coming up with new, fresh ideas?" ---However---
1. I had no other choice and
2. It just felt good and right.
3. The more I make, the more ideas I have, EVERY SINGLE DAY.
My name is Michael McDowell and I'm a ceramic artist. Mywork is a mixture of slip cast and handcrafted pieces and is available for purchase at etsy. I've also posted a series of images showing my slip casting process on my blog here.
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