On becoming a paid artist with Olivia León
On becoming a paid artist with Olivia León
A peek into the artists creative process, tips for aspiring artists, and much more.
Welcome to the latest edition of Hustle Global! This interview features my dear friend Camila who goes by the artistic name of Olivia León for all things artwork-related. Olivia’s story is inspiring for anyone interested in exploring their creative side or learning more about what it takes to become a paid artist.
We talk about:
✅ Olivia’s creative process and how she overcomes blocks.
✅ Where she finds inspiration.
✅ Monetizing art.
✅ Top tips for aspiring artists.
And much more.
Read on for the full interview! 👇
Hustle Global: Can you walk us through your creative process? How do you go from a blank canvas to a finished piece, and what are some of the key stages or techniques involved?
Olivia León (OL): My creative process starts with tidying up my workspace, which helps me connect to the emptiness of the blank canvas. Next, I put on my headphones and choose a relaxing, lyric-free playlist - lately, I've been enjoying lofi music.
I begin by loosely tracing lines on the black canvas with a white pencil, focusing on proportions and the distances between shapes rather than the details. Once the elements are in place, I start painting. My attention is on choosing colors that create a balanced and serene composition.
Finally, I add shades, reflections, and small details. I avoid overthinking to stay connected to my creative side, finding that my best art emerges when I paint with an emotional mindset and let go of perfectionism.
HG: What inspires your art? Are there specific themes, experiences, or artists that significantly influence your work?
OL: A lot, really. It takes me days to decide what to paint, often much longer than the painting process itself. Since I started painting, I’ve used Pinterest to save and organize my ideas. I also make sure to pack my underwater camera when traveling to swimming destinations. Most of my art begins as a photograph I take of my friends.
I find inspiration in impressionist and post-impressionist artists like Van Gogh, Monet, and Sorolla. They all use blue in a poetic and evocative way, with water being a significant theme in their work.
HG: How do you stay motivated and overcome creative blocks? Are there any particular routines or practices that help you maintain your creativity?
OL: I discovered that going for a walk helps me step away from the canvas and clears my mind. When I've been painting for too long, it's better to take a break and revisit the work with fresh eyes the next day. Additionally, visiting exhibitions and galleries is incredibly inspiring, as it exposes me to different styles and techniques.
HG: What challenges have you faced in monetizing your art, and how have you overcome them? Are there any particular lessons or successes that stand out in your experience?
OL: As a newcomer to the art scene, I am always learning and growing. A significant recent lesson is the importance of staying connected with fellow artists. We support and learn from one another, celebrating successes and offering valuable feedback. While finding my niche can be challenging, staying true to my artistic voice, rather than mimicking trends, has helped me attract an audience that appreciates my unique perspective.
HG: Can you tell us about a specific piece of art that holds special meaning to you? What was the inspiration behind it, and what do you hope viewers take away from it?
OL: All my artworks hold a special place in my heart, but if I had to choose one, it would be Sisters. This was my second painting as Olivia, and it brings good memories of my sister and me swimming in the Philippines. I like the simplicity and dark, deep colors of this piece, which similarly represent the connection and shared experiences between us.
See Sisters in person 📆
If you’re in Amsterdam, see ‘Sisters’ live! It’s part of a group art exhibition held in Amsterdam from 5 to 8 September 2024 by The Holy Art Gallery. Get tickets here!
Before we go…
HG: What’s your go-to book/resource for learning how to sell your art?
OL: I enjoy listening to podcasts like The Josie Lewis Show and How to Be a Better Human. TED Talks about art are also excellent resources, and I find inspiration in reading biographies of artists I admire.
HG: What does the word “hustle” mean to you in the context of being an entrepreneur?
OL: To me, "hustle" in the art scene means finding peace and joy in following my passion, regardless of financial rewards. I highly value having found an outlet that sparks my creative flow, rather than viewing art solely as a source of income. By staying true to my craft, I can connect with others who share a similar sensitivity and appreciation for art, removing the pressure of sales and enjoying the journey as a new artist in a more fulfilling way. As a personal goal, hustling means balancing work with self-care to fuel my creativity and motivation.
HG: What advice would you give to other artists considering entrepreneurship? Are there any common misconceptions or pitfalls you think they should be aware of?
OL: Don't be afraid of rejection or judgment. Like beauty, art is subjective to the eye of the beholder, so stay true to your unique style rather than trying to satisfy others. Value authenticity over trends.
Stay humble and connected: engage with other artists and attend art fairs and exhibitions. Building a network within the art community opens up numerous learning opportunities and potential collaborations.
Price your work confidently. Research the market, consider the time and resources invested in creating your art, and don't hesitate to price it at a fair value.
About Olivia
Olivia León is the artistic name of this Spanish-Filipino designer, who ventured into the arts scene in 2023. From her home in Amsterdam, Olivia draws inspiration from the underwater world, transforming it into acrylic paintings on black canvas. She aims to capture the depths of the ocean, which she sees as a reflection of the hidden layers of our emotions. Olivia’s paintings evoke quiet, peaceful scenes, inviting the viewer to connect with the artwork on a deeper level.
Find Olivia’s art on her website olivialeon.art and follow her on Instagram @olivialeon.art.