Today we’d like to introduce you to Andy Szabo.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Andy. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I have always loved art. It started when I was young, just drawing wildlife and my favorite cartoon characters, I loved the way art expressed the artist’s view of the world giving insight into their mind and emotions. I was always encouraged to pursue some form of art as a youngster and enjoyed it so much that I decided to do so.
As a growing artist, I faced the same dilemma that all young artists face at some point. “What am I trying to say through my art?” As a follower of Jesus, I lean heavily on prayer, reading the Bible, and loads of introspection. Through doing all of those things, I found this answer. God gave me a gift, and I want to use that gift to bring joy, provoke thought, and make people’s lives better, so that is what I set out to do. I got my associates degree in graphic design which helped me become a better artist as well as diversifying my skills. During my schooling I volunteered at my church in the student ministry teaching and encouraging young artists, showing them that through persistence, hard work, and preparation you can thrive and make the world a better place doing what you love.
About a year ago I started Wild Inside Co. a visual art and design company where my focus is to bring people’s dreams into reality and to keep that childlike wonder and creativity alive. Something that I started saying and implementing in my life is “There are no small adventures, only small imaginations.” Just like when we were young and a cardboard box was a pirate ship or the floor was lava, the adventures and productivity you can have in a day are limited only by your imagination.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has not been a smooth road at all. Like all people, I struggled to find my identity as an artist, which was so hard to do when you don’t know what you want your art to say, and when there are so many talented people that you are “competing” with. I am thankful that I had a great support system that helped me persevere.
I am also not a natural businessman. I don’t think that many artists are when they start. We just want to create and let our work speak for its self. I had to pray a lot and push through that mindset to the point where I am excited about the business aspect of art. I still have a lot to learn and struggle with some of the business parts that are involved, but when I see the payoff of diligence, it inspires me to grow in that area.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Wild Inside Co. – what should we know?
Wild Inside Co. is a small visual art and design business that specializes in most forms of visual art. My heart is focused on illustration, traditional painting, and graphic design. I love how those mediums can bring an audience into the artist’s or client’s mind and not only create something beautiful, but create an experience, stir, and emotion, and provoke thought, through creating something beautiful. The one on one relationship between the client and designer sets Wild Inside Co. apart. I feel like face to face meetings, and relationships are becoming less common, and even less convenient when e-mail, text, and even Skype is so prevalent, but an initial face to face meeting speaks volumes about any business.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My family and close friends are definitely responsible for encouraging me to follow my dreams and work hard, my teachers in school helped educate me, and God gave me the drive and courage to step out and pursue this.
Contact Info:
- Website: wildinsideco.com
- Phone: 832-830-5753
- Instagram: @wildinsideco
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