Today we’d like to introduce you to Misty Kelischek.
Hi Misty, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I first became interested in painting back in Asheville. The salon I worked at was surrounded by galleries. I think it was the first time that 2-D artwork felt relevant to me. It started out as a hobby, which turned to a side hustle and then turned into a career.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I have approached growing my art business as though it were a second job. I make the most of the time provided in any given day and have stretched my teacher salary as far as it would go to get it off the ground.
There have been plenty of times that I longed for a trust fund or a wealthy spouse. I have persevered despite the lack of generational or matrimonial wealth. I’ve never had the privilege of throwing someone else’s money at my passion to see if it would all work out.
Having to build this business on my own has shown me how committed and strong I am.
Aside from the logistical and financial difficulties, one of the hardest parts for me is the stop-and-go nature of creating. When I have a good span of time to work on my painting, my skill set and imagination grow exponentially. When it’s just a few minutes here or an hour there, I feel rusty and unskilled.
Another struggle is self-neglect. I feel like I’m on the precipice of having way more control over my schedule and, therefore over my ability to be physically active and fit. Between the day job (teaching) and the dream job of becoming a full-time artist, it’s easy to push myself to finish one more painting rather than stop and exercise. That’s been taking a huge toll on me lately, and I’m really looking forward to being done with that chapter of entrepreneurship.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a fine art painter who specializes in a self-proclaimed style of magical realism.
I paint small animals and insects native to the area alongside bubbles and orbs that give a luxurious, modern feeling.
I’m most proud of being a self-sufficient artist. I’ve gotten this far without a formal art education. I suppose that’s easier to do now than it’s ever been due to the unlimited amount of resources online. I have been able to learn from the best instructors in a way that’s making art schools obsolete. It’s funny to say that, but it’s true!
What matters most to you? Why?
I feel like every action has a resulting reaction and therefore it is important for me to create works with integrity. I am very cautious about setting something negative loose on the world. I refuse to create more suffering and won’t depict that in my work.
I strive to offset the oppression we sensitive souls feel by bringing joy and thoughtfulness to life on canvas.
My collectors tend to be deep thinkers with a strong moral compass.
That’s where I need to resonate. It matters just as much as kind words do.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ilovemisty.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/misty_kelischek_artist/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php/?id=100064559327042
