We’re looking forward to introducing you to Diane Fifer. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Diane, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I. think that customers do not understand the work and expenses involved in getting to shows. I think this because customers, unbelievably, ask for discounts. What if I was asking my customers to take a reduction in their paycheck? I believe their answer would be a hard ‘NO’, and I would definitely understand.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Creating has always been in me from a very early age. I loved going to art class in elementary school. So much so that I was feeling sick one day and I didn’t want anyone to know. Working on and completing my horse paper mache was more important to me. So I ended up throwing up all over my desk (the poor maintenance man), and my mom needed to come and get me. As time continued I kept creating…painting, jewelry, sculpting, sewing, knitting, and on and on.
After high school I received a Commerce degree in Canada, and was hired on as a stock broker. The very next month I moved to Houston. I couldn’t work for two years until my green card came in. In the meantime I married the love of my life, and had a child. After two years, I received my green card and went back to school to become a math teacher to high schoolers. While I was studying math I was informed of an art teachers position at a local school. I applied and was hired. As a requirement, I needed to get certified in art so back to school I went. (I could be a full time student – I love school so much). I ended up teaching art to high schoolers and junior highers. It was important to me that my students experience all forms of art. It was the first time for the majority to take an art class. Several of my art students went on to become art teachers, graphic designers, web designers, architects, etc. which was extremely rewarding to me.
After teaching art at schools for several years, I decided to start an Art Institute in my city with two other people, Branching off I started Art Dwellers and began to put on Art Festivals in the local park. I loved organizing these events, and loved that I could help fellow artist show and sell their work. I finally, eight years ago, decided that I wanted to start my own journey selling art. I do art shows in Houston, Austin, and Colorado. I’m enjoying the people and the travel.
Making art, pretty much every day, is created on various surfaces. Gates, wine barrels, car hoods, benches, street signs, antique ceiling tiles, are a few of those surfaces. I use oil and acrylic paints. Mostly I paint animals, but also paint other things when the mood hits me. I am always taking pictures of animals to paint in fields I pass. However, ranchers have been gracious allowing me to take pictures of their animals at their ranches. Other times, customers send me pictures. There is never a shortage of inspiration.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
Growing up I was to be seen and not heard. That’s the way it was back then. I don’t blame anyone for this, but I don’t think that is correct. Adults would visit at our home, and my siblings and I sat in silence, just listening. Not understanding or able to question. You then start your first job and feel uneasy about conversing with adults. In time, of course, you learn, but why struggle?
Thankfully I met my husband, who is my number one encourager. Anything I wanted to do and still want to do, I am encouraged to do. Without limitations, I am who I am today. I am very cognizant of how blessed I am.
What’s something you changed your mind about after failing hard?
Quite simply, if you don’t like it, change it. Don’t give problems, give solutions. These are two important quotes spoken to me, by two different people, that changed the way I deal with life. It’s about overcoming the various challengers life throws at you.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
People who are honest and have integrity. Honestly is so important. If you are caught in one lie, how can you be trusted on anything in the future? Integrity in who you are and what you do speaks volumes.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
People ask when my husband and I will retire. Our answer is simple. We both enjoy what we are doing, me with my art, and my husband with his business. We consider that we are already retired.
Image Credits
myself
