Maintaining Momentum in an Evolving Art Career

As an artist who follows the inspiration as it strikes, Etsuko Ichikawa works in a variety of media from performance, sound, and film to glass installations, sculpture, and drawing. She’s known for her pyrographs and aquagraphs, or drawings made from fire and water. She’s also a 2015 Clark Hulings Fund Business Accelerator Grant Finalist.We had a chance to sit down with Etsuko and talk about her next career move as she rebrands herself and her artwork. Her nearly hour-long interview offers an insightful look into public art commissions, the importance of vetting galleries before you work with them, and how to tackle brand management even as your career evolves.Re-Branding Your Art and Business:Following the inspiration vs. following the moneyHow to maintain the momentum of your career without losing your soulMarketing and sales as key components of your business planControlling and budgeting for your artworkBreaking into new mediums as alternative sources of revenueCreating sustainable financial systems out of your art careerChanging the direction of your work can result in more value being placed on your ‘limited edition’ productsProject Management in Public Works Commissions:Know the mission behind your commissionCollaboration with organizations, architects, and engineersUse public works as an opportunity to reach beyond the gallery and meet new audiencesPublic works and grants as alternative sources of incomeAudience Building:Incorporate a performance element in your artworkDon’t be afraid to include your audience in your processAttend events as shameless promotion of your workNetwork amongst local galleries, get your face out thereGalleries:Creating & maintaining relationships with galleriesVetting galleries you want to work withEstablish trust with your galleryCutting ties with galleries without burning bridgesGalleries vs. art fairsFuture Directions:Re-Branding and ending previous worksFeature Length FilmsKeep an eye out for Radiating Echoes – What is Beautiful? Determining what is really important in your life’s work?