2022, what a year! Finally free of lockdowns, it has brought highs and lows for many across the globe. But for one part-time artist in Geelong, it was a time for opportunity, creativity, and the realisation that full-time work plus building a business (without lockdowns) isn’t always the easiest thing.
Let’s reflect on my 2022 in the art-space.
When I wasn’t on the beach or watching the summer of tennis, January was a time for working on my JB Creates goals for 2022. What better way to start this planning than meeting Danielle Weber in her Melbourne studio. Danielle is an industry leading muralist and NFT art pioneer. While I raided her famous snack draw, she was so welcoming in sharing her experiences and processes through building an amazing career in art. In November I was fortunate enough to attend her first ever exhibition where she created the love child of physical art and the new Web 3 space. Check out her work on Instagram @daniellesartwork.
Now that we are allowed outside, it has been great to network and get to know other amazing Geelong/Surf Coast creatives. I was luckily contacted by Jacklyn Foster to be a guest on her podcast. Jackie and I discussed the rise of digital art and the story behind turning my old hobby into a new business. Have a listen here
In April it was celebration time! My best mate was getting married, and it was time to get creative. Moulding my art with one of our favourite hobbies, I created a wine label and put it on one of my favourite bottles as a wedding gift. The best part was he put two on every table for the guests to enjoy or keep. What a night it was!
For those that know me I am a massive sports nut! F1 was back at full capacity in Melbourne and the farewell season for some of my favourite drivers. A bit of a fan boy moment for me was having my art of Sebastian Vettel shared by the Aston Martin F1 Racing Instagram account. The highlight of my sporting calendar was watching the Geelong Cats win the flag live at the MCG. Being commissioned by a friend of some players to gift pieces to two of Geelong’s premiership heroes was the cherry on top. GO CATS!
The World Cup kept me up to all hours of the morning but the greatest sporting spectacle (in my opinion) continued to bless us with moments of madness, upset, love and edge-of-your-seat action. Watching the stands filled with colours of nations regardless of their background swapping shirts, dancing and sharing the passion for football was truly remarkable. Lets not forget the fairy tale ending for Leo Messi and Argentina, one of the best matches ever.
The Christmas period has come to an end, a crazy time for all in retail. Like most artists I find that putting a smile on the faces of customers is always the most heart-warming aspect of building a business. A huge thanks to Katie and Josh at Blankspace Newtown who continue to support me with a purchasing pieces and a table at their pop-up markets throughout the year. Keen for more next year!
Enjoy the summer and what 2023 brings!
Jake :)