One piece of advice I’ve shared with artists over the years is to establish a reputation locally before expanding into new markets—you know the people, and you have existing connections.
But what happens when you relocate and need to start over?
How do you build that reputation in a completely new community?
That’s exactly what my guest, Joan Chamberlain, experienced when she moved from Dallas, Texas, to Eugene, Oregon, in 2022. I’ve enjoyed watching how Joan has increased her visibility in her new community—doing live painting, getting involved in local events, and finding much more happiness in both her art and life.
In this episode of The Art Biz, we discuss:
- The positive impact the move has had on Joan’s art practice and why she insists that location matters for an artist.
- The challenges and benefits of transitioning to a new art community, and how volunteering helped her make key connections in Eugene.
- How Joan found her niche and is excited to develop more work in that direction.
- Her informal audience research to find the best market for her work, including the potential for reproductions.
Whether you’re thinking of moving or looking for fresh inspiration in your practice, this episode offers practical insights and motivation.
Listen
Mentioned
The Dundee hotel
Steven Pressfield, Put Your Ass Where Your Heart Wants to Be
Quotes
“The only Zen you can find on the tops of mountains is the Zen you bring up there.”—Robert M. Persig
“I’m one of those people with too many ideas and I’m easily bored and want to move on to the next challenge.“—Joan Chamberlain
“The biggest spark really was when the Supreme Court overturned Roe and I was in Texas and I thought, I can’t live here anymore.”—Joan Chamberlain
“When you’re 69 it’s easier to ask now. I don’t have much time left. I’m like, just go for it.”—Joan Chamberlain
“Place does matter and maybe other people know that. It took me moving to realize how, how much it affects your mood, your energy … even your sense of abundance or scarcity.”—Joan Chamberlain
Watch
Related Episodes
These episodes touch on what it’s like to reestablish your art business in a new location.
About My Guest
Joan Chamberlain is happiest with a tool in her hand, so it’s no wonder that she has spent the majority of her life both creating art and practicing dentistry. She retired from dentistry in 2016 and pursued freelance illustration, focusing mainly on culinary themes.
In 2022, after moving from Dallas, Texas to Eugene, Oregon, she discovered that she had serendipitously landed in the center of a vibrant wine culture where she could expand on her fine art practice that features wine and related subject matter.
In her new home, she is enjoying a personal artistic renaissance facilitated by the natural beauty of her surroundings and the welcoming arts community.
Follow Joan on Instagram: @joancdesigns
