Meet Carolyn Powers | Artist, Designer, and Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Carolyn Powers and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carolyn, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I’ve always been a worker bee. Being busy and working hard is part of my dna, but it can also have a hugely negative effect on my life. Owning my own business means that I do everything. Literally everything. From concept to design, production to photography, social media, inventory, billing, accounting, customer relations….it’s a heavy load. I think it’s what kicks a lot of incredible creatives out of the game…it’s almost taken me down than once.

The only way to tackle all the tasks is with time management. I’ve spent the last few years working really, really hard on work/life balance, organization, and workflow. The ever growing need for a larger internet presence, better photography, stronger video work….it all takes learning and practice, the game is always changing. I’ve often felt crushed by the weight of all these demands.

Finally, after years of constant busyness, I’m starting to prioritize mediation and time to quiet my brain. It’s not just small business owners and artists who need these things, the world we live in now is a constant cacophony of content and stimuli. If we hope to maintain our sanity, those moments of rest are really the most important. I read a study that showed that people who got more rest and dreamed more were far more creative and more effective problem solvers the next day, as opposed to those who worked longer hours. Doesn’t that say enough? Rest, people, it’s what will get the job done in the long run.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My work as a multimedia artist requires me to wear many hats. My functional concrete casting and sculpture work is my primary focus, making beautiful pieces for the home. Living in a rural area, photography and styling of my work is what brings it to the outside world, so I have spent a lot of time honing my skills in that area. This has led me to more and more freelance work, helping other small businesses show their work to the world. I’m really proud of my growth over the years, my mind is constantly coming up with new product ideas, new techniques, and styling ideas.

To become good at your craft, you really have to dedicate time. Lots, and lots, and lots of time. Lots of failures, lots of trials. I’ve certainly done that, but I’ve also found that becoming multi-talented (or working towards it) helps with my process. I spend time cooking, learning a new language and reading about other artists. All these skills and learning opportunities tie together to foster a more creative environment.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
– Start the week at Outer Range Brewing, since it’s right off I70 on the way to my studio.

– Hikes up on Boreas Pass, Mohawk, Wheeler, and Burro

– Green Chile Mac n Cheese at the Canteen

-Cocktails at RMU

– Pizza at Tin Plate

– Drive over Hoosier to Buena Vista 4 Mile Rec.

– Lots of deck time in our woods to watch for moose, foxes and bears.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Morgan Betz of Red Pup Films (my partner and better half) is really, really good at enjoying life. He has helped me see, over many years, that life is too short to spend worrying. I’m still working on that, but having a partner/sounding board to support and encourage your journey can help a lot.

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Website: www.carolynpowers.com

Instagram: @carolynpowersdesigns