Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Estrin.
Stephanie, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was constantly drawing as a child and wanted to be an artist when I grew up. However, my family wasn’t supportive of that idea and lead me to go a different path. There was the notion that artists can’t be financially successful and it wasn’t a sound professional choice. Through the years, I dabbled in all kinds of crafts and took art classes at the local recreation center. It wasn’t until I closed my plush monster-making business (www.curlyqcuties.com) that I started painting eight years ago. I was looking for another creative outlet. I finally got to do what I had always wanted to do, be an artist. I’ve been painting and creating almost daily since then!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The act of painting and creating has been a smooth road. I do what I love. The marketing and getting my work out there has been more challenging. I think there is a preconceived notion that artists spend all day just playing and painting. That’s not the case. I’m a one-woman show so everything is on me to get done. Painting is one part of the job. The other part of the job is photographing, editing and marketing the work, finding shows to exhibit in, and networking. I spend a great deal of time doing these things, sometimes more than the actual painting. Staying up to date with all the social media channels is also a challenge.
Stephanie Estrin – Artist – what should we know? What sets you apart from others?
I’m an abstract painter working in acrylics. I love color. I think I’m known for my use of color and how I create lots of contrast in my work. I love playing with light and dark and working with a lot of layers. I want the viewer to take a step closer and peer into the work to see all the layers and be intrigued by what they see. I think what I’m most proud of is for following my dream. While it took 40 years to finally get there, I’m so glad I went for it.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I define success as making a living doing something you are passionate about. I think if you can find that one thing that lights you up and makes you want to jump out of bed every morning, that’s success. The money will eventually follow. So many people are unhappy with their jobs and life in general. My criteria for success is really simple if I’m happy with my work and if other people like it, that’s success. Each piece of art that I create is a piece of me that is left on the canvas, so when I get the feedback that someone was moved by my work and wants to purchase it, there is no better feeling in the world for an artist.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.stephanieestrin.com
- Email: stephanie@stephanieestrin.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephanie_estrin
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/Stephanie.Estrin.Artist
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/StephEstrin
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