Today we’d like to introduce you to Kate Tangney.
Kate, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Let’s just say, I took the roundabout route! I graduated from Bridgewater State University with a degree in Fine Art and Graphic Design. Shortly after graduating, I got a job in a completely non art-related field and moved back to the south shore with my husband. After a few years, I left work to be a stay at home mom to our daughter (and eventually, our son).
While all this was happening, I had stopped making art completely, because I didn’t know how to be a wife and a mother, and an artist all at the same time. The prevailing “wisdom” I had always heard was that being an artist and having a family doesn’t mix. At the time, I wasn’t ready to challenge that idea.
But I always really missed that creative part of myself and I eventually realized that, I was the only one holding myself back. Now, I’m doing what I love and I’m able to share my love of art with my kids. And, that is so rewarding!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I honestly think my biggest hurdle was pushing myself to start! Once I committed to making something every day, it became a habit. That habit eventually grew into a strong creative practice. But getting started is always the hardest part, because I had to get past the roadblocks I had created for myself.
Now, as a stay at home mom of two young kids, my biggest challenge is balancing family time vs. time in the studio. But I’m fortunate to have a studio space in my basement so, I can work whenever I have some time – usually after the kids are in bed!
My biggest piece of advice to anyone just starting out, would be to make sure you follow your passions in life. Don’t wait for the perfect time, because it will never come. You have to be the one to believe it’s possible and then show everyone that you’re right!
We’d love to hear more about Kate Tangney Studio.
My business is Kate Tangney Studio and I create abstract paintings that translate raw emotion into art through color and texture. I think emotion is uniquely universal, feelings of happiness and contentment or grief and anxiety can have such a profound impact on how we view and interact with the world around us. Although my paintings are abstract, they are often reminiscent of the ocean and other natural forms.
My goal is to make work that people can relate to and that will hopefully start a conversation. And that’s why I love abstract painting so much – everyone can see something different and have different reactions to it. There is no right or wrong.
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
One thing I’ve found is that, it’s more important to focus on building relationships than it is to network. I try to start conversations with people who inspire me or who have expertise in a certain area and the hope is to make an honest connection with them, rather than just thinking about what they can do for me. That leads to more lasting connections and more honest conversations. And, I’m very fortunate to have met some very wonderful artists online (mostly through Instagram), as well as local artists who are all very supportive and willing to share advice and expertise!
Pricing:
- $55-$2,500
Contact Info:
- Website: www.katetangneystudio.com
- Email: ktangney@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/katetangneystudio
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/katetangneystudio
Image Credit:
Kate Tangney
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