Kimberly Zukley’s Journey from Graphic Design to Full-Time Artist: Building a Sustainable Art Career

In this episode of The Art Coaching Club Podcast, host Hayley Price interviews artist Kimberly Zukley, who shares her path from graphic design to a successful full-time art career and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

Kimberly Zukley’s Background

After studying graphic design at the University of Mississippi, Kimberly Zukley worked in Atlanta before transitioning to a full-time painter in Mobile, Alabama. She began as a freelance designer but shifted entirely to her art career eight years ago.

Developing Her Style and Process

Kimberly describes her artistic style as more about process than a fixed aesthetic. She emphasizes that patience is key in developing one’s style and voice. She reflects on the value of creating authentically: “Just putting yourself out there, creating what speaks to you and what’s personal to you is the differentiator in your work.”

Her experience in graphic design has informed her approach to painting, but she remains flexible in her creative evolution, allowing her style to shift naturally.

Overcoming Creative Ruts

When discussing creative blocks, Kimberly suggests viewing them as signals to step away from the studio. She stresses the importance of recharging by engaging in non-artistic activities. Maintaining hobbies outside of painting helps her balance creativity and avoid burnout over the long term.

Marketing and Business Strategies

Kimberly highlights the significance of email marketing and how it saved her business after losing access to her Instagram: “I lost my Instagram for a little while... that’s when I knew I had to shift. I started going hard on the email list. That is the most valuable thing to me now.” She advises artists to build direct connections with collectors through email lists, not relying solely on social media.

Looking ahead, Zukley plans to focus on licensing her work, creating more passive income streams to support her artistic freedom. She encourages artists to break down their financial goals into manageable pieces.

“Figure out how much money you need to make in a year and work backwards. Break it down: how many pieces a month do you need to sell?”

Future Plans and Authentic Marketing

Kimberly shares advice on the importance of showing up authentically. She reminds artists not to worry about annoying potential clients with marketing efforts: “If somebody’s annoyed by your marketing, they’re probably not going to buy your art anyway.” By embracing email marketing, artists can build sustainable businesses while maintaining their creative integrity.

Conclusion

Kimberly Zukley’s interview offers practical insights for artists, from overcoming creative blocks to diversifying income streams and embracing email marketing. Her experiences emphasize the importance of authenticity, patience, and building lasting connections, providing a roadmap for artists aiming for both financial and creative success.

Learn more about Kimberly here.