Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Lustberg.
Hi Anna, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in the ’90s and early 2000s in Teaneck, New Jersey, a suburban town that’s minutes outside of New York City. As a kid and in my teens, I loved cartoons, reading, and playing softball, but I was especially drawn to dancing and visual arts. I would write stories and illustrate them, and I also took ballet classes and danced in performances at school. Looking back, it’s clear that expressing myself came naturally and was also important to me.
My eyes were opened to a career in art the summer after my high school graduation when I attended a Pre-College Graphic Design program at the School of Visual Arts. It was a three-week design program that pushed me creatively and culminated in my first exhibition ever, in NYC of all places. To say I was inspired would be an understatement. I’d gotten a taste of learning from and presenting my work among highly talented people.
After I earned my B.A. in Communication with a minor in Art at UMass Amherst, I spent some time in Boston and back in New Jersey working many jobs – mostly as a graphic designer. Eventually, I was able to move into New York and began organizing exhibitions in contemporary art galleries; I started as an intern and worked my way up to the Gallery Director position. Working with emerging and established artists inspired me to put my own artwork out there, and I’ve been pursuing this creative career ever since. I found and made my way to what I always wanted.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I was always happy to be working at any job or opportunity, but none of it was smooth. I often worked at small or family-owned businesses that didn’t have a Human Resources department or a clear path for growth, which meant I performed above and beyond in my roles but wasn’t paid adequately for the level of my contributions.
The greatest lessons are born from struggles, so I appreciate all of the experiences. I now know how to navigate tricky workplace situations when it comes to dealing with clients, employers, and colleagues alike. I know how to make a lot happen with a limited budget and understand the importance of working on a strong team that feels they have a stake in the efforts. I am more aware of my talents and am better able to draw my boundaries in both professional and personal settings.
These lessons wouldn’t have been learned if it was all “smooth sailing”. I don’t think work is meant to be easy, and success isn’t smooth for anyone. The value is in the lessons you take away from every single win, failure, and effort.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a creative entrepreneur who specializes in illustration, graphic design, and professional development for emerging artists through my startup, Studio 3 NYC. At this point, I am most widely known for my artistic endeavors but I am most deeply known to the artists I’ve consulted with to help build their brands and expand their opportunities. My purpose in creating and pursuing anything I do is to strengthen connections with others.
I take pride in founding Studio 3 NYC, where I am able to combine my gallery and leadership skills and utilize my network to advise and build with artists. I’m proud that I can provide value to my community.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Seek help and mentorship. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own, and you don’t have to have it all figured out. Seek advice from people who can guide you in the areas in which you want to grow. It’s more exciting when you build with others. No one becomes successful alone.
Having a supportive community of friends/colleagues who also do what you do is motivating, helps you learn, and increases your opportunities. Every connection is important – in most industries, it’s a small world – so maintain positive relationships. Keep your word, follow up, and execute those ideas.
Contact Info:
- Email: hello@annalustberg.com
- Website: http://annalustberg.com
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/annalustberg
- Other: http://studio3.nyc
Image Credits
All photos by Justin Muñoz. All illustrations by Anna Lustberg.
