Today we’d like to introduce you to Martine Barjon-Shannon.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Martine. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Growing up in Miami, I’ve always been a part of magnet art programs and clubs (I attended Norland Middle School and Michael Krop Sr. High). I followed my passion for art at Florida State University where I received my degree in Studio Art and Sociology. Upon graduation, I committed a year of service is an AmeriCorps member for City Year as an interventionist.
While I was completing my year of service, I was fortunate to give birth to a beautiful baby girl. I then pursued my artistic endeavors by becoming an art instructor at Painting with a Twist for a few years. My experience with that job helped boost my confidence and creativity.
I then moved to Japan with my husband and daughter in 2015. While he played basketball overseas, I wrote and illustrated my book inspired by my daughter. “Mickalo Elepho” is a story about an adventurous little elephant that imagines doing thrilling things during her daily activities. From being a superstar singer to a deep sea diver, there is nothing she cannot envision. This book encourages young children to actively read and continue dreaming.
Because I have been invested in the art for all my life, I never chose a specific medium (which can be a blessing and a curse). I enjoy all aspects of art from drawing, painting, digital illustration, photography and graphic design.
I opened an Etsy shop “Tini Time Creations” selling digital art, invitations, geofilters, custom painted jackets and more. I am currently a work-from-home mom, running my shop and constantly creating art. I am so grateful to be able to do what I love for clients all around the world.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Nooo way… the road to get to where I am is rough. The biggest thing that holds me back, is fear and doubt. The constant fear of being a “starving artist” has held me back a lot. It wasn’t until I realized that with consistency and patience if you do what you love and believe in your craft, the money will follow.
Being a work-from-home mom is also a struggle. Kids can be SO demanding. While working on a project, I constantly get interrupted for “snacks” and to break up silly sibling squabbles. Working on a schedule and having a great husband is what makes working from home a little less challenging.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Tini Time Creations focusses on making our client’s vision come to life. What sets me apart from others is the fact that I am so multifaceted in art. I do it all. I draw, paint, do digital illustrations, abstract work, portraits and more.
It can be a blessing and a curse because I am not “known” for one specific thing and some people may not recognize me by a particular style. I do like the fact that because of my wide-ranged of artistic abilities, I never get bored. I loved to be challenged and work with a variety of people.
It’s hard not to get attached to everything because I put my all into my craft. I am proud of having return customers and clients who come to me through word of mouth. It shows that I am doing something right and making people happy with my services!
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success to me is based on my personal goals. Yes, I do want to make lots of money, but it means nothing if people aren’t thrilled with their pieces. I, for instance, I aim to have a growth in sales every month while acquiring five-star reviews. Customer service is very important to me because a lot of my clients are through word-of-mouth, good reviews or social media posts from happy customers. It is very gratifying to have repeat customers!
Being an Art Basel showcase artist was a personal goal of mine since that has happened for me, I am aiming towards even bigger events. I plan on having a solo exhibition in the near future. I like to write down my goals monthly.
Contact Info:
- Website: tinitimecreations.etsy.com
- Phone: 305.417.1138
- Email: tinitimecreations@gmail.com
- Instagram: @martiniiitime, @tinitimecreations, @skethcedbytini
- Other: https://sketchedbytini.wixsite.com/portfolio
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