Today we’d like to introduce you to Nancy Dobbs Owen.
Nancy Dobbs, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I have been dancing professionally since I graduated from high school. Along the way, I got a college degree, danced with major ballet and modern companies and eventually joined the National tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera. Midway through the run, I was in a nasty car accident and shattered my arm. I started making jewelry as physical therapy and people started to buy it. It grew into a big part of my life (though it has never replaced the performing part!) and I started to style my own photo shoots. I eventually figured out that photo and wardrobe styling is also a real job and have integrated it into my life. I love to do projects in which I can combine my passions and in doing so really create a cohesive story. I have produced several films, stage productions and photo shoots where I have several titles: both in the creative and art departments!
Has it been a smooth road?
No creative path is smooth. Ever.
When you look back, can you point to a period when you wanted to quit or a period that was really frustrating?
Of course. As a creative person, I face rejection and judgment every single day. I am lucky. Because I have so many facets to what I do, if I am struggling particularly hard with one, I am usually able to pivot slightly, concentrate on another, and in doing so, usually work out what’s bothering me in the first place. Because my various jobs are so interdependent upon each other I have found that I just go with the ebb and flow and try not to make absolute decisions.,
What would you tell someone who is just starting out?
Be nice to absolutely everyone. Always. No excuses. Not because of who they may become but because of who they are.
What are you most excited about these days?
I am collaborating on a short dance film with my favorite partner in crime. We co-direct. I choreograph, style and art direct. She is the DP/cinematographer and editor. I love working together. We have beautiful dancers on board and the vision is really inspiring.
Contact Info:
- Website: all social media handles are @nancydobbsowen (FB, Twitter, Instagram)
