Case Study #4: Olivia Alexander

Olivia Alexander is an award-winning, Australian acrylic / mixed-media artist and has been a part of the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program for over 4 months. This is her story...

What was your life as an artist like before becoming a member of the Artist Mentoring Program? What was your biggest roadblock?
I’d experienced moderate success both locally and internationally but had come into period of frustration financially and in my career direction. We also moved interstate and I had to begin connecting and networking all over again.

What prompted you to become a part of the Artist Mentoring Program? Specifically, what were you looking for?
I felt incredibly isolated and alone. I had no one to ask career advice from and felt close to quitting. I was looking for a supportive group of likeminded people as well as a mentor with God’s perspective on creative ministry and business.

Since becoming a member, how has your life changed? How have you experienced breakthrough?
Within one day of being in the group things began to change. I had felt like I couldn’t continue the Art career journey but within a short time the fog began to clear. My faith level has risen. I now realise that I was trying to make my art business a ministry which was creating confusion in me. I’m learning how to find my clients in a targeted way.

What's been your biggest "Aha Moment" that was a real gamechanger for you while in the program?
Learning what my Unique Selling Proposition is. Then using that to work out where my buyers are. Doing the 21 day Road to Breakthrough and Artist Inventory was a challenge but an incredible game changer for me too.

What would you say to encourage other artists who are currently in the Artist Mentoring Program along their journey? To artists considering becoming members?
Just keep going but at the pace you need to. Don’t feel pressure to rush. We are all different and at different stages. The Lord’s yoke is light not heavy. If you’re thinking about joining and you’re serious about your art, then take the plunge. It’s worth every cent and more! I can’t even begin to tell you the amount of info available in this program!

What's on your horizon? What are you dreaming of and moving toward in this next season?
Establishing myself in my new state of Queensland. Also starting workshops from my new big studio. The income from that will enable me to solo exhibit again and continue more international work.

Find out more about Olivia at OliviaAlexanderArt.com

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