Roles of a Glass Artist
As a glass artist, I had good intentions to focus solely on creating art, but I quickly realised that my role encompasses so much more than I ever imagined. Making accounts for only about 10% of my work—there are so many other roles to juggle!
Project Manager
The festive season means staying organized is crucial with many events on the horizon. Planning timelines is tricky for me, especially as I tend to be time-optimistic! Technology isn’t always my friend when it comes to organisation. What works for me is a printed monthly calendar and a trusty pencil for making adjustments as needed.
Zero gantt charts or PM apps
Technology isn’t always my friend when it comes to organization. What works for me is a printed monthly calendar and a trusty pencil for making adjustments as needed.
Financial Director
I handle my expenses and income through a pink (yes, pink!) bookkeeping spreadsheet. Pricing is a learning curve, and I’m slowly figuring it out with the help of a mentor. While I still have a long way to go, I’m getting more comfortable with the numbers.
Purchased from Fluent Finance - Etsy
Marketer & Branding Officer
Marketing myself on Instagram is a constant effort. Between a 32-hour workweek, family responsibilities, and long car journeys, I try to stay consistent. Fortunately, those car rides are my time to listen to art-related podcasts, like Art Juice and Creative Kind, which keep my inspiration flowing.
Website Consultant
I recently updated my online store and gallery to keep it fresh. I’m committed to ensuring my website stays current—no letting it go stale! I've even started adding rotating GIFs of my pendants since I can't use video.
And yes, I’m also my photographer, lighting technician, and set stylist!
Distributor Supervisor
Packing and posting orders, as well as delivering items to a local gallery, makes me appreciate the logistics of my business. There's much more to running a creative business than meets the eye!
Communications Specialist/Bursary Writer
Writing is a larger part of my work than I ever expected. From artist statements to event applications, I’m constantly refining my words with tools like Grammarly and ChatGPT. This month, I applied for a bursary to develop my portfolio.
Network Coordinator
Instagram has been a great platform for connecting with other artists. Recently, I was invited to join the East Dartmoor artist collective Granite Elements, and I've even been asked to set up a local craft business group.
Studio Supervisor
Managing my studio space means juggling a dining room, kitchen, and utility room! I’ve also been doing a full stocktake of materials and supplies, a task I’d never anticipated.
Summary
These are just some of the roles I fill daily. In addition to being an artist, I’m also a salesperson, customer service rep, curator, and much more. Every day brings new challenges and learning opportunities, but I’m growing both as an artist and as a business owner.