SHANNON AMEY

 

 

1. Share a bit about you and how you became an artist.

 

 

 

 Artist: Shannon Amey, Canada

 

 

 

2. For artists who've always lived in their birth country, how does your homeland inspire your art?

Artists who born and raised in different countries, how do those experiences influence your art?

 

 

As a Canadian native, the vastness of my homeland, stretching from the Pacific to the Atlantic, with its diverse landscapes — from mountains and deserts to rainforests and snow-covered regions — serves as a profound inspiration for my art. The emotional resonance of these places, whether in the mountains or by the sea, becomes the essence of my abstract creations — a  translation of memories and feelings.

While my roots lie in Canada, my life's journey has taken me across the globe. From Korea to Bhutan and the past four years spent in Finland, I currently find myself in Italy, en route to a new chapter in Denmark. Each cultural encounter, whether in colours or textures, becomes a part of my work, creating a tapestry of experiences that transcends borders. The ability to translate my impressions of the world into my art, regardless of my physical location, defines my artistic
journey.

 

 

 

 

 

3. Can you describe your art and your art style? What does your work aim to say?

 

 

My art is predominantly abstract, serving as a translation of memories and emotions, whether they're mine or those gathered from people I've encountered during my travels. Using unstretched canvas offers both practicality and flexibility in shipping. It also empowers clients to choose how they display the art in their private spaces, whether through gallery stretch, museum stretch, standard stretch, or alternative methods like framing behind glass, flat lay, tapestry, or on an easel.

I've compiled a guide for clients, offering insights into diverse ways to showcase art beyond the conventional canvas on the wall. This flexibility extends to commissioned pieces, allowing the end client to curate their own display preferences.

 

 

 

 Original Abstract Painting by Shannon Amey, Canada

 

 

 

4. Who are your biggest influences?

 

 

While my artistic style emanates from within, my greatest influences in the realm of abstract expressionism include Helen Frankenthaler, and Elaine de Kooning. Specifically, I hold a deep admiration for female abstract expressionists from the 20th century. Their contributions to art unfolded in a challenging market, yet they fearlessly produced work that defied expectations.
Their creations resonated beyond societal norms, and I find profound inspiration in their ability to navigate and transcend the constraints of their time.

 

 

 

 

 

5. How has your career developed and evolved?

 

My artistic journey has been a winding road, starting with my education at the Ontario College of Art & Design University in Toronto. I've showcased my work in galleries across Canada and Germany, occasionally in Finland, but my primary platform is online. I navigate a hybrid existence, embracing both gallery representation and self-representation.

While I've spent years teaching art education at various levels, both in the public school system and privately in post-secondary settings, transitioning to a full-time professional artist required diversifying my income. This journey, marked by ups, downs, and invaluable experiences, has led me to strike the perfect balance between art and education.

Within my studio, I create original works and commissions, engage in art licensing, and collaborate with print publishers. Simultaneously, I offer art education and mentorship programs, catering to emerging and mid-career artists seeking to elevate their business to sustainability and success. I serve as a mentor to those aiming to expand, transition to full-time art careers, or
enhance the profitability of their existing ventures. This dual role allows me to not only pursue my artistic endeavors but also contribute to the growth and success of fellow artists, fostering a community where creativity and business intertwine harmoniously.

 

 

 

 

 

6. Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?

 

 

In the next 5 to 10 years, amid the joyful chaos of raising a 2 1/2-year-old and a
nine-month-old, I see my business flourishing. I've laid a solid foundation that I'm proud of, and my focus is on expansion. Planning to offer more courses and mentorship programs for artists, I  aim to enhance my educational offerings.

Maintaining a delicate balance, I intend to continue creating original works while guiding fellow artists on their journeys. My aspiration is to go big with my artistic endeavors, envisioning large-scale paintings, installations, and ambitious projects. One significant goal involves partnering with prominent brands, and I'm thrilled about promising interviews and meetings in progress. Recognizing that such collaborations may take time to materialize, I firmly believe in asking for big opportunities to achieve significant outcomes.

 

 

 

 

7. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as an artist?

 

 

A crucial piece of advice I've embraced is to evaluate the sustainability and success potential of each aspect of my art business. Recognizing the finite nature of time and output, I understood that merely doubling my artistic efforts isn't a sustainable path to increased income.

The key lies in a thorough analysis of your business—identifying what contributes to profitability and joy and what doesn't. To optimize, I prioritize and enhance elements that bring both joy and financial gains. Simultaneously, I identify tasks that don't align with my preferences and either outsource them or eliminate them entirely. This balance ensures that my artistic pursuits are not only sustainable but also aligned with personal fulfillment and financial success. By asking, "Is
this sustainable, and will it help me be successful?" I've forged a path that allows me to thrive creatively and professionally, acknowledging the value of strategic choices in the evolution of my art career.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8. How do you balance your personal life and your art practice?

 

Balancing personal life with an art practice involves recognizing and valuing your role as a professional artist, not just a hobbyist. Treat your art as a career, committing dedicated time much like you would for childcare or office meetings. Schedule your studio time, administrative tasks, and website development with the same level of commitment.

Even during busy periods, small, consistent steps add up over time. Allocate at least 30 minutes a day to your art, fostering progress in manageable increments. Set up a permanent studio space to avoid constant setup and teardown. Implement time-blocking techniques, making appointments with yourself on your calendar and setting alarms and reminders to stay focused.

 

 

 

 

9. How do you balance social media and your art creation?

 

Balancing social media and art creation requires discipline, and my rule is simple— I allocate only 10 minutes a day to social media. Here's a tip for everyone grappling with this challenge: instead of trying to juggle multiple platforms like LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, pick one that aligns with your comfort zone. Consistency is key, whether you choose to show up
once a day, once a week, or every other day.

Consider platforms like Instagram that allow automated cross-posting to Facebook, giving you a presence on two platforms effortlessly. Set a timer during your allocated social media time, and stick to it. If, for some reason, you can't make it that day, don't let it become a source of stress — it's not the be-all and end-all. The emphasis is on a focused and consistent approach rather than spreading yourself too thin across various platforms. This strategy ensures that
social media doesn't overshadow your art creation time, allowing you to maintain a healthy balance between online visibility and the core of your creative practice.

 

 

 

 

10. Can you share your favorite quote and what it means to you?

 

"Art is the breath of life, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Embrace
the canvas of existence with bold strokes of passion, for in every stroke lies the power to redefine and illuminate the masterpiece that is your life." - Frida Kahlo

 

 

 

 

11. Do you have any advice for aspiring artists or those thinking of starting an art career?

 

For those aspiring to embark on an art career, my advice is to actively seek mentorship andbimmerse yourself in a community of like-minded individuals who champion and uplift you.
Surrounding yourself with supportive people who believe in the viability, profitability, and possibility of an art career is paramount.

Being in the company of those who cheer for your success becomes a powerful force. Collaboration over competition is a prevailing ethos in the art world—artists genuinely want to help each other succeed. Engaging in mentorship groups offers the chance to build a network of individuals invested in your success. It provides a platform for collaboration, a space where artists can share insights, tips, and tricks. This shared wisdom helps navigate your path and accelerates your journey, minimizing the need to learn from personal mistakes and setbacks.

The beauty of mentorship lies in the collective experience it brings. Having guidance not only elevates your confidence but also propels you further, faster, toward a successful and profitable art career. In this supportive environment, you'll find inspiration, encouragement, and a sense of camaraderie that can transform your artistic aspirations into tangible achievements. Embrace the power of mentorship and community, recognizing that your journey is enriched when shared with those who genuinely want to see you thrive.

 

 

 

 

12. Where can people find your art?

 

 

Explore my art at shannonamey.com or follow my creative journey on Instagram. On my website, you'll find free guides and workbooks designed for artists. I'm thrilled to announce a new mentorship program, with applications opening soon.

Stay tuned for exciting opportunities like free online workshops and webinars, accessible by subscribing to my newsletters or artist alerts. I'm particularly enthusiastic about my current project—I'm in the process of writing a book tailored for artists.

Feel free to reach out through my website or Instagram—whether it's a message, email, or direct contact, I'm usually prompt with responses. I genuinely appreciate hearing from everyone, so please don't hesitate to connect with me. I'm here to share, guide, and engage with fellow creatives on this exciting artistic journey.

 

 

 

Contact Details