Artist Launches Art Business While Being a Full-time Nomad
In October 2013, artist Thaneeya McArdle gave most of her stuff to Goodwill, put the rest in storage, and became a full-time nomad, roaming across the US and abroad. While on the road, she was busy working on her coloring book line.
Amid the excitement of publishing her new books, such as Live for Today Coloring Book, Hippie Animals Coloring Books, Nature Mandalas Coloring Book, and many more, McArdle she spent two years traveling the world with her husband and business partner. Together, they explored Oahu, San Francisco, and parts of Australia and New Zealand. Things started to get a bit hectic when more projects and more deadlines began piling up. “Many times, life often felt more like work than play,” McArdle says. In addition to her coloring books, she was also creating art for puzzles, calendars, jewelry, and other accessories. “All the while, I was aware that being too busy as a working artist was an extremely “good problem” to have, so I didn’t mind buckling down to get the work done. Although it was hard at times, overall I was grateful to be in that position.”
Free Spirit Coloring Book
These 30 whimsical art activities, from magic lamps and unicorns to dance shields and teepees, will tempt you to go your own way with carefree color.
All the while, I was aware that being too busy as a working artist was an extremely “good problem” to have, so I didn’t mind buckling down to get the work done.
~ Thaneeya McArdle
McArdle completely believes that art and travel go hand in hand. “Both art and travel offer us new opportunities for self-exploration, as well as exploration of the world around us. For example, experimenting with color and materials when making art is a way of exploring our immediate environment, while traveling immerses us in new surroundings and cultures, inviting us to explore the wider environment.”
For artistic entrepreneurs who are looking to grow their art business while still enjoying the pleasures of travel, she has this advice: “Learn as much as you can! The Internet offers a treasure trove of useful information, such as online classes, forums, articles and blog posts where people discuss and explain how they managed to “make it” in their chosen field. These days there are so many ways to launch – and sustain – an art career via the Internet, so if this is your dream, I encourage you to do as much research as you can about what steps you need to take to reach your goals!”
Today, McArdle has over 25 books as well as an assortment of merchandise such as calendars, clothing, mugs, prints, notebooks, and many other accessories available. She and her husband now reside in Florida where they are closer to their family. When asked if they would consider picking up and taking their work on the road again, McArdle says she says the idea is still on thetable…but for now, she’s continuing to focus on her coloring books!
Other Titles from Thaneeya McArdle
Follow Your Bliss Coloring Book
Discover 30 empowering art activities to start you on your journey to coloring contentment, from blossoms and butterflies to sacred symbols and inspiring words.
Christmas Coloring Book
This charming Christmas coloring book features 30 fun and playful art activities that take you on a festive journey of patterning, shading, and coloring.
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