Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacqueline Smalley.
Jacqueline, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I began my artistic journey after my daughter Paige was born in 2007. My husband and I didn’t have a lot of money at the time as we were young, new parents. We had a friend who happened to be a fantastic photographer offer to take our family pictures for free as she wanted to experiment with a new camera. I obviously wanted my house to look perfect for this photo shoot, so I picked up a 16×20 canvas, along with all the materials needed for the project, and began to paint an abstract painting for my daughter’s nursery. Once the photos were completed and shared with us, we shared them with our friends on Facebook. My husband’s employee saw the painting and asked where we purchased it as she wanted one for her new grandchild. I was taken back with so much gratitude. And this is how my story began. I soon started taking custom orders and began going to people’s homes, listening to their stories, and painting custom pieces that make them happy and match their decor. Today, I am still able to do what I love by creating artwork and mak9ing people smile. It is a dream come true.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When painting custom pieces, I think it is crucial to have clear communication with your clients. When you are creating art for others, and getting paid for your work, its important to know who you are creating a piece for. There will absolutely be times that maybe your vision isn’t aligned to your client’s vision. But I find that if you can communicate clearly, and ask all the right questions, it definitely helps prevent misunderstandings along the way that makes everyone’s job a little easier. I have been so fortunate that my clients have been so wonderful to work with. However, like anything else, communication is the key for a successful business and relationship.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My art is one of a kind as each original painting embodies everything my client desires for their special space. What sets me apart from other artists is my dedication to include all aspects of my customers’ personalities, life experiences, and environments into a single painting. By deeply listening to my clients and understanding what is important to them, I am able to incorporate their feelings and purpose into my work, creating a treasured piece they can cherish for the rest of their lives. .
What was your favorite childhood memory?
I have quite a few favorite memories as I did a lot of modeling and acting when I was young and got to experience and meet some unbelievable icons while I in New York City being photographed for Teen Magazine winning a National Modeling contest. But of course, memories always lead to home. For me my top of the chart, most favorite memory will always be the smells and the warmth’s of my grandparents’ home. My grandmother would make the most unbelievable fresh Italian suppers as she was Sicilian. I would skip school just to go my grandparents’ house to eat and go for long walks to the park with my grandpa. No success or materialistic stories will ever beat those memories.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.etsy.com/shop/jacquelinesmalley
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacquelinesmalleycustomart/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacqueline.smalley
