Jill's blog: blog.jillbliss.com
Jill's website: www.jillbliss.com
Jill's shop: shop.jillbliss.com
Why did you decide to start a blog?
I used to keep in touch with my customers by doing frequent in-person sales events, but had to take a break from those these past 2 years while I dealt with some health problems. The blog is a great way to let people know what I’m up to and thinking about since I don’t see them so often any more. Now my back and shoulders have healed and I’m getting back into doing in-person sales events again!
How did you come up with the name of your blog?
Ha ha! My blog doesn’t have a name, poor thing. At the bottom of the page it says „Jill Bliss is proudly powered by WordPress “ which cracks me up every time I see it!
How has blogging affected your work as an artist?
It functions as a reminder for me – if I can’t remember exactly when I did a certain project, I can check my blog. I hear it’s also a great portfolio for potential clients. I do post each and every project I work on!
What are your favorite artist/designer blogs?
I like to keep up with my friends’ blogs to see what they’re doing. Apart from that, I like to check these blogs when I have spare time:
you thought we wouldn't notice - see who’s ripping off who.
this artist's life - whitney smith - great reminder of the artist life.
my love for you is like a stampede of horses - awesome art.
share some candy - awesome art and design.
Do you have any advice for artists/designers who are starting a blog?
Before you start, think about how much of your private life you feel comfortable revealing. I talked to several other friends who have blogs and asked for advice before I started.
What has been the most positive and inspirational aspect of having a blog for you?
I love it when people comment! Especially when they’re positive comments!
What do you find the most difficult/most rewarding part of having a creative profession?
Being in charge of my own schedule and finances is both a blessing and a curse.
Other than your blog, what has been the most effective way for you to promote your art/design?
Etsy, word of mouth, doing sales events and talking with my customers directly as much as possible! I get as much out of these interactions as they do – I learn so much about how they use the things I make and what they wish I'd make.
How do you maintain a healthy work/life balance?
That’s always a work-in-progress. Two years ago I moved to portland oregon from the bay area, where I was born. That has helped a lot – I no longer have to work 80 hours a week just to barely cover my monthly expenses. I also got a dog six years ago, and she’s great at reminding me to go outside several times a day, and eat at least two meals a day on a regular schedule!
What would you like to accomplish in 2010?
In 2009 my artwork progressed to a new level in the series you see at the beginning of the post: anima. I also began teaching formally and informally. My goal for 2010 is to continue to progress and refine my artwork, my teaching skills, and the rest of my life. It will be an amazing year!
Thanks Jill! I love the peaceful, detailed quality of your artwork, and your studio looks awesome!
