Today we’d like to introduce you to Charlotte Goff.
Charlotte, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
The artistic gene runs in my family. On my mother’s side, my family was involved in the film and animation business. On my father’s side, my great grandmother was an incredible watercolor painter. My family never pushed me to become a doctor or lawyer like other families. They knew that being in the arts was very important because it creates culture.
Living in a small town on the Cape there was not much to do, so I really had to get creative with entertaining myself. My friends and I would build forts, play make-believe and make our own dolls. I remember when I was learning to write, I turned the letters into characters to make the activity more interesting and fun. My family saw my creative ability and so they encouraged I continue down this path.
I originally moved to San Francisco in college knowing that the city encouraged artistic development. The creative culture of the Bay Area definitely made an impact on me. While I was in school, I interned for an animation studio that was run by Henry Selick. They had so many artists making the sets, props, and puppets by hand. It was such a magical place! After that experience, I knew I was heading down the right path.
I went on to graduate school at the California College of the Arts. Originally, I thought I was only going to work animation. I began thinking about the times we live in today, especially San Francisco, where technology is king and everybody wants something now. Everything moves at such a fast pace, when do we slow down? As a result, I began to enjoy making projects by hand. It’s about the journey, not the destination.
Towards the end of my graduate school career, I began advertising my artwork. Through networking, I was able to showcase and sell several of my paintings. Today, I am still making commissioned work, collaborating on projects and working on my portfolio for an art show.
I am currently interning in the textiles department for Pottery Barn.
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?
One thing I know for sure is my inner critic can be problematic. I have moments where I compare myself to others and feel like I am not good enough. But I keep having to remind myself that I am different and that is a great thing!
The best thing I did recently is cut back on social media. As great as it is, I do believe too much of it can be toxic.
I also have goals outside of my art practice. Right now, I am currently training to run a fast 5k time. I love it because I can see and feel the progress. Running also quiets my inner critic and allows me to think more clearly.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into your business story. Tell us more about the business.
I am currently a freelance artist. I specialize in watercolor painting and drawing. I make these sequence movement paintings. These pieces were originally used for my animations, but then I realized they looked pretty cool as a work of art. It’s interesting to see what happens when you break down a moment of time.
My work is within the Americana style. I am focused on positive memories. Since I am from Cape Cod, I love to paint swimmers. I think diving and swimming are such graceful movements and the activity is very enjoyable.
I am excited about what I am doing because I am making everything by hand. To me, products that are handmade feel more personal and unique. This year, I just started making my own watercolor paint. Next, I would love to learn how to make my own paper.
Looking back on your childhood, what experiences do you feel played an important role in shaping the person you grew up to be?
My Grandma Di was my biggest supporter growing up. Whenever there was a problem, she never victimized herself; like a heroine, she faced her problems head-on. She instilled that message in me as well. I remember growing up, I was facing a lot of pressure in school to be a person I wasn’t. I was ready to quit my dream of being an artist because I didn’t think I was good enough. My grandmother gave me the push I needed and told me to never quite my dream. Since then, I kept that determination and drive to be the best I can be. With every decision I make, I always keep her spirit with me.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.charlottediane.com
- Email: c.goff@charlottediane.com
- Instagram: @cd_press
Image Credit:
Madeline Goff, Charlotte Goff
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
