We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Clayton Swartz. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Clayton below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Clayton with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
I believe I was born with the work ethic that I have. However, I also believe part of having a good work ethic is loving what you do. Throughout my life I continue to do work that I love, so I am able to work hard and put in the long hours that are needed.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a professional artist and own Swartz Gallery in Pinellas Park. I create aluminum inspirational sculptures for individuals, businesses, and corporate and public art. My sculptures are unique because I also paint them in vibrant and translucent colors. I finish them with an automotive finish which gives them a lustrous shine and allows them to be displayed indoors or outdoors. Some of my most popular themes are sea life and ocean inspired, hearts, and abstract sculptures. I create sculptures in a variety of sizes including large scale and both wall sculptures and freestanding. I am always creating new sculptures and sell my work in my Pinellas Park art gallery, website shop, and at select Florida Art Festivals.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The three skills that have helped me the most to be able to sell my artwork is a willingness to learn to create, market, and sell my art myself. Although I attended college and earned a bachelor’s degree in fine art the real learning came by doing and trial and error. Overtime I learned how to perfect my sculptures so that people would buy them. In my early years I was a DJ and made electronic music and learned how to market myself by creating promotional material, graphics, and website design. This helped me tremendously as I continue to design brochures, take photos, and manage social media and my website. Thirdly, learning to sell my work did not come easy. I spent my early years listening to other artists who were more successful then me and also listening to audio books on how to better sell my work. My advice is to work hard on your craft, be original, and to be a life long learner.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
My wife, Rachael, is the person who helps me overcome challenges and be successful. Having someone to bounce ideas off of, brainstorm, and to pick you up when your down is very important. Everyone needs someone to help them move forward in difficult times.
Contact Info:
Website: www.claytonswartz.com
Instagram: swartzart
Facebook: swartzgallery
