Today we’d like to introduce you to Finnley J Kirkman.
Hi Finnley J, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
The long of the short is – I’ve always had a drive and passion for making things. From micro magazines made of folded paper with drawings stapled in the center for my barbies to a massive painted mural that cover the walls of the video rental store, I worked at in college. I always knew I wanted this to be my life… fortunately or unfortunately, the journey to get to this point wasn’t as direct as I thought it would be. C’est la vie. What ultimately got me to this point of creating full-time was constant adjustments. I know it helped always having a good sense of where I wanted to end up – and trusting eventually it would happen if I stayed true to myself.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. In a lot of ways, for me, one of the biggest struggles is balance.
It’s not the ‘balance’ that social media keeps telling us we need in life, rather the balance I’m suggesting is the internal negotiations that went on inside my mind that kept me from moving past logic, fairness, and right/wrong.
Looking back, I notice that a lot of my forward motions got lost in the conversations with myself around these topics.
It’s easy to talk yourself out of following your dream, especially when it’s unconventional and you’ve got bills to pay.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a self-taught multimedia artist flirting with the complex power dynamics “native to woman’s work”.
Perhaps what sets me apart is my years in the service industry, working in homes, taking care of all types of people. I’ve gained a unique perspective on the interpersonal dynamics within a multitude of relationships. It’s shaped my perspective, and my work is in direct dialogue with these experiences.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
If you’re someone who connects to the work I make or the work any other creative makes, of course purchasing a piece is the most direct way to support. I do my best to always have work my friends can afford at every show, and if it is out of range, I’m open to doing payment plans.
However, I know even with a payment plan buying a piece of artwork isn’t a viable option for everyone. In that case, I think a close runner-up for giving financial support is showing up. Whatever that means to you. I think when you believe in something or want to know more about it… show up and share.
Pricing:
- 20$
- 1200$
- 10,000$
- 500$
- 800$
Contact Info:
- Website: finnleyjkirkman.com
- Instagram: @finnjk
Image Credits
All images of quilts can credited to: Mason Kuehler
