Nostalgic Folk Artist Carol Roll Shares Her Business and Marketing Strategies

Carol Roll, artist and owner of her business, Nostalgic Folk Art, uses her inspiration and soulful kinship with the time frame of the early 1900's to create beautiful and unique sculptures from paper mache. One of the few great women who succeed in the business aspect of primitive arts, this amazing artist brings antique styles flashing forward to the new millennium. Between her artistic skill, her business savvy, and her marketing strategy, this astonishing woman's artwork is pushing her always onward and upward in the world of rustic art.

A true "starving artist" at heart, Carol often finds herself is often so involved in the process of creating that she forgets to eat food or drink anything for hours on end. The starvation ends with her forgetful hunger however, as her sculptures continue to gain in both popularity and demand through her many commercial outlets. From her own website to Ebay, this artist has employed numerous venues for marketing her craft.

Intrigued by this artist's beautiful and exceptional pieces, I asked her for an interview which she gladly obliged. After taking precious time from her business and creative efforts to answer many noteworthy questions, Carol has gracefully shared several precious pieces of her life and business with our readers below.

How did you first find your artistic niche with this technique and subject matter?

I have always been interested in art, and began drawing during my classes at school, focused more on arts than education. Though I always got good grades, and succeeded in the workforce, I could always be found doodling away. When hurricane Charlie hit in 2004, we were out of electricity for several days and I really began working on my paper mache figures. I had seen other artists' work and thought, "I could do that!" Soon my figures were getting attention and so it goes.

What has inspired you to create these pieces?

While part of my success in this art form is my love for fine art, I also think that my work reflects my love of innocent times and people. I love antiques, primitives, folk art and humorous children, and often find inspiration from those sources. I feel I should have been born in the early 20th century.

Numerous artists have also inspired me, but even more than my peers, I find that I am primarily inspired by vintage publications. My pieces often come from inspiration that I gain by leafing through old books. I also find that I gain a lot of ideas from reminiscing through my impish memories, as well as watching little tots interact and play.

Do you ever find that you get artists block?

Yes I get blocked and its is so frustrating.

What message would you like for your work to convey to men, women and children?

My work has no message except to smile or laugh, or to remember someone or something in your past. Many of my clients also find my work appealing just because it goes with their antique, prim, home decor.

Are you working on anything for your business at the moment?

I am always working on something. I am like Delta Dawn waiting for someone to buy multiple pieces (which has, in fact, happened on occasion). I also dream that perhaps some manufacturer will see a piece and want to mass produce it. I am working on a marketing project to this end. With a son in college, that would a nice addition to my revenue! I know though, that I couldn't mass-produce everything because part of the charm that I take pride in, is knowing that my work has been specially handmade.

Do you have any favorite pieces that you have created for your business?

I have favorites but because my work is all-original I keep adding to my favorites.

What is your favorite medium to work with when creating art for your business?

I work primarily with Paper mache, as I love the rough texture. I would love to learn how to sew as well.

What advice would you give to an artist just starting out in the business?

I know this sounds cliché, but love what you do no matter what obstacles you may face in business or marketing. Artistically, do what possesses you. And thank God always. I have realized that a lot of artists have huge egos, but I have also learned that art is for everyone. There are many ways to paint a rose; no one owns that. I am happy when someone is inspired by my art. That is enough for me!

Can you describe a typical day for you when creating your sculptures?

I may work 3-6 hrs a day and during that time I may or may not eat or drink while working. Working on marketing for the business is a big portion of my work.

Where can our readers find you on the Web?

Feel free to check out all my links!

http://www.nostalgicfolkart.com/shop/

http://www.glitterandgrunge.com/index.html

http://www.mikesarttruck.com/

http://www.sewbythesea.com/artisticseasideembroideryinc/

http://www.hotmetalmama.com/

http://todwellinprimitivethymes.typepad.com/