To read part 1, click here. To read part 2, click here.
Cendrine Marrouat: What are the main challenges that you encounter as an independent artist?
Mark Giesbrecht: I would have to say exposure and time. It’s very hard managing and getting both, plus having to find the time to be creative as well. Setting up exhibits for my artwork, writing and self-publishing my novellas, along with performing and creating my music all takes a toll on me. It gets pretty exhausting having to juggle all of my passions properly while running a part-time guitar building and repair business as well. But when I see, hear, or read the comments from the people who are moved emotionally by what I do, it makes everything worthwhile.
CM: Any advice for someone who would like to follow your path?
MG: Patience and determination. I can’t stress that enough. Things just don’t happen overnight. But if you follow your emotions and do what makes you feel alive, everything seems to fall into place. Sure, there will be moments of discouragement... but that’s life! You just have to roll with the punches.
CM: What is next for you?
MG: Well, I’m mainly focused on creating new paintings and gaining more exposure for my artwork across Canada and the rest of the world. I’ll be achieving this through hosting more exhibits and by creating a website tailored specifically to my artwork. I’ll also be anticipating the release of my novella on February 23, 2011 and aim to finish two more novellas by the end of next year. And in-between all of that, I will be performing my music in as many random places I can. So all in all, I’m going to be keeping myself pretty busy with the things that I love to do.
CM: Where can people find more information about you and your work?
MG: It’s all on Myspace for now. I love using Myspace to spread the word about my work simply because Myspace is very easy to use and millions of people use it. On that page, there are all the links to find my art, information on my book, my music, and my guitar business.
CM: Would you like to add anything else?
MG: Again, I would just like to say thank you very much for having me and that it has been an honour and a pleasure speaking with you.
End of the interview.
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Cendrine Marrouat is a freelance writer/reviewer, published author and translator living in Canada. Official Website: http://www.cendrinemarrouat.com
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