Today we’d like to introduce you to Kate Williams.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have been around art my entire life. My mom taught art, and I remember doing crafts in her classroom after I finished my homework. As a child, my favorite pastimes were reading, coloring, drawing, and painting. I took all the art classes I could throughout school and college. I’ve always found joy in creative pursuits, teaching, and sharing whatever I can with others. In my twenties, I have worked in minor teaching positions and have been drawn to teaching painting. After working several part-time teaching roles, I realized that I could start my own small business teaching painting around Salt Lake Valley. I set up a small office/ home studio and used my savings to buy an inventory of art materials and build a website, starting with the basics. Owning my own business has taught me so much about managing books, inventory, and relationships, and has infused me with the courage to make new connections. I found myself researching businesses and calling event managers all over Salt Lake City. Without having a public studio of my own, I’ve traveled around Salt Lake, teaching out of bars and coffee shops. I have worked with Red Butte Garden for over a year and have taught at the Gallivan Center and Ken Garff University Club. With each new relationship and event, I feel more purposeful. I often see beginners come into my classes feeling unsure and leaving with a newfound confidence. I feel very humbled and encouraged playing my part in sparking the love of art and creation in others.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There has been some struggle in establishing my business, but I’ve had a lot of help along the way. When I first began, I didn’t know the first thing about paperwork, taxes, or registering with the state. I was lucky to turn to my friends and family who helped me set things up. I’ve also been able to connect with experts in various fields where I lack experience. I’ve found people are very kind about sharing their knowledge and experience. I’m really grateful to all the people who helped me!
I didn’t anticipate that I would spend more time managing marketing, books, and emails than I do painting. This is all part of the process and is a healthy stretch out of my comfort zone. Since I started The Art Nomad, I have still worked regular jobs, taken classes at university, and have struggled to juggle a work-life balance. My business is still small, but I’ve kept it at a scale that I can manage as I continue to grow my skill-set and gain more confidence. I have hopes for growth and expansion in the future!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I currently teach painting to beginner and intermediate students. I come up with original paintings to teach them and offer classes at venues around Salt Lake. I want the classes to be affordable and flexible, which is why I haven’t ventured to teach multi-day or multi-week curriculums. I create paintings that are beginner-friendly, with the goal that it is beautiful and possess enough complexity that the students are challenged. Usually, my classes are one-time events designed to take 2-3 hours. I don’t want my classes to be overwhelming, unapproachable, or too expensive. I want to encourage students of all ages and experiences to see their artistic potential and leave my classes with a painting they can be proud of!
I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve created with venues as well as students. Over the course of each class, I watch my students relax, laugh, and ease into the flow of painting. I’ve always wanted to be a part of a greater community and find my way to contribute. I love giving people a reason to get out of the house or learn something new. I really enjoy creating a friendly environment.
While students can sign up for paint classes with many other businesses, my mission is a little different. I like to come up with original buildings that incorporate composition, and color theory, and take inspiration from the environment. My classes are more in-depth than an average paint-and-sip experience, but more approachable than expensive workshops. I want students to feel that they’ve created something beautiful without being daunted by too much theory. As I look forward to expanding, my mission is to connect people who want to learn art, and introduce them to the love of painting!
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Every individual has something special to bring to their community, city, and environment. It’s a constant journey of self-discovery as we learn how to express ourselves and our ideas. My greatest fulfillment as an artist, teacher, and business owner has been connecting with people and watching them light up as they create something of their own. People are built for creativity, connection, and community. As I grow, I ultimately want to use this as my purpose and compass. I hope to be on the lookout for ways to bring people together and give them the confidence to embrace their curiosity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://artnomadstudio.com/
- Instagram: @artnomadstudio
- Other: Eventbrite: The Art Nomad
