How do you define success as an artist?

Success means something different to everyone… and in the world of art, it often can’t be measured by numbers. Here’s how some of our team members define success on their own terms.

Margaret Pendleton, Events Rental Director
“If you feel love for the thing you’re doing or creating then you’re successful.”

Geri Nonnewitz, Community Ambassador
“I struggled with self worth for a long time, as it related to my art. I had a startling realization in my late twenties that I didn’t actually care about monetary success. I just wanted to have the ability to inspire others to do better. I want every single person who sets out to be an artist to at least be inspired to do better. Not better than me necessarily but to do better. As long as you continue to strive to improve you’re a successful artist.”

Matt Brown, Wood Studio Manager
“Love what you do while keeping the stress of life at bay = success.”

Scott Krenitsky, Hot Glass Studio Manager
“Paying your bills by doing what you love.”

Jesse Futter, Marketing Director
“For me, success really depends on the project. Sometimes, just finishing something is a victory in itself. Other times, the real success lies in the process… especially when I’m learning a new skill. As long as I’m pushing myself to try new things and keep growing, I consider that a success.”

Nikki Vitchner, Glass Technician/ building 6 manager
“There are several ways you could look at that, I think it’s a combination of mastery and passion in your work/style and being committed. You don’t have to be a full time artist to be a successful one though. I think just being able to create and express freely is success in itself. That’s a hard question.”

Jericho, Controller
“When you have connected with other people”

Paola Mateo , Youth Programs Coordinator | Art Instructor
“Personally, feeling fulfilled in the world of art. I don’t create for profit. Don’t get me wrong, it’s nice to make a few dollars and have someone appreciate the years of learning, work and patience I put into a piece. At the end of the day what brought me to art was the emotion evoked behind a work of art; the connection of knowing that there are people who share your sentiments, feel your pain, and being able to perfectly illustrate and bring to life the complexities of human emotion. Making art, teaching art, watching others make art and being surrounded by it is where my grounded joy resides.”

Want to hear more stories from our team? Stay tuned for more from our “Staff Questions” series, where we dive into the creative journeys, inspirations, and dreams of the people who make GoggleWorks what it is today.