How did you get your start?
I worked in magazine publishing for years and was miserable but like so many people I didn’t know what else to do. I went to a lecture on color psychology and it blew me away. I was so fascinated by it. So, I quit my job and started taking courses in color psychology, color theory and design. My goal was to become a color consultant, advising clients on the appropriate color schemes for their logos, products etc. The color exercises for my classes involved painting with gouache and I discovered that I have a pretty steady hand for painting small details. And…I was hooked.
Do you have any formal training?
No, just the courses mentioned above.
When and why did you create your business?
I started painting in 2002 but I was still doing some publishing consulting on the side. I’ve been a full-time artist for about two years and have never regretted leaving the publishing world. My time is my own now and I absolutely love what I do.
Has it changed at all since you began? How?
When I first started I thought the only way to sell art was in a gallery. But the online art world has really taken off. And it’s much better for artists. We can keep the prices reasonable and not have to depend on getting into a gallery to show our work. And we can reach a lot more people. But I do work with great galleries too. So, having both is good.
What is the best part of running your own business?
Being in control of my own time. Sometimes this is a downside because I’m easily distracted but when I think back to those 9-5 days in that beige office and where I am now, it always makes me smile.
and the worst?
Probably the business part of it and not knowing exactly how much money is coming in from month to month. That part is still new for me and I’m still adjusting.
You create so many wonderful pieces. Where does your inspiration come from?
I’ve always loved art and design with hidden or unexpected details. I try to do that in my own work.
Who is your favorite indie designer?
I love the artist Luke Chueh. Some of his work is very dark but it’s also cute and I love that combination.
What was your most recent indie buy?
I bought a piece from artist Walt Hall for my son Sam’s room. He’s only 10-months-old but I’ve bought several pieces for him. It makes me happy.
What one thing couldn’t you live without?
Nothing really comes to mind. I only need my family and friends.
What will you be wearing come summer?
Well, now that I have a baby I feel pretty good if I can just manage to take a shower so hopefully my clothes will at least be clean!
What music/books/magazines are you into right now?
I don’t have much time to read but I’ll buy Juxtapoz or Domino if I pass a newsstand. I usually have my iTunes on “Party Shuffle” but in heavy rotation are Calexico, Bright Eyes, Gorillaz, Sean Hayes and Radiohead to name a few.
You’ve been very successful at selling your designs online, what advice would you give to other designers that are just starting out?
I got this advice from someone else but it’s so true. You have to have your eggs in many baskets. Even if they are small baskets. It all adds up!
Where do you hope you/your business will be in 5 years?
I hope I still love what I do and I hope my work keeps changing and is still challenging to me.
Do you have any new projects on the horizon?
I’m painting now for a show at Lab 101 in Los Angeles in September. And I’m getting ready to launch my large 13″ x 19″ flat prints and prints on wood.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received regarding your business?
When I first started out and was showing my work to galleries I was told by one gallery owner that I had to have an MFA to show in L.A. It was upsetting at the time but my amazing friends reminded me that it was just one person’s opinion from one gallery and to keep putting myself out there. And I did.
Site: www.melissamoss.etsy.com + www.melissamossart.com
