8. Why a Graphic Designer Waited Until 50 to Launch her Artistic Career: Michelle Vella
January 24, 2024 | interview by Nada Jones
Toronto-based artist Michelle Vella is known for her colorful big eye portrayals of pop culture icons. Since childhood, she’s always been considered a talented artist. After graduating with a Fine Arts BA, the starving artist stigma didn't sit well with Vella so she made a choice to pursue art-related careers (and some not so related) instead. In the end, this allowed her to develop skills in sales, marketing, and business.
After 10 years of running her graphic design business, Michelle knew it was time to make a career change. At 50 she decided to pursue art full-time. Just as she began to doubt her decision, an email came through that confirmed her career choice and catapulted her pop art success.
In this episode, Nada sits down with Michelle to discuss how Instagram launched her career as an artist gaining the attention of Diane von Furstenberg, W Magazine, and British Vogue.
Michelle gives tried and true advice about growing your social media following, the importance of IRL engagement with your community, and developing an identifiable point of view. She also shares the mantra that helps her not to dwell on the negative and keep moving forward.
Listen on Apple Podcast | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcast | Or right here!
Check out Michelle’s website full of her iconic big-eye portraits. And follow on Instagram: @michellevellart.
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