Today we’d like to introduce you to Susan Houseman.
Hi Susan, 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.
My story started when I was a newlywed. I saw a hand-lettered art piece at the store but couldn’t afford to purchase it at the time. So, I went and bought some art supplies I could afford and started teaching myself italic lettering. This is when I realized I needed classes to understand all the different calligraphic styles and hands and the tools to use. This lead me to join a calligraphy guild where classes were either free or affordable. My insatiable desire to learn this new skill lead me to go to a few calligraphy conferences and to pursue studying privately with master calligraphers from around the world.
Up to a certain point I had considered myself a closet calligrapher until one day my husband submitted my calligraphy to Somerset Studio Magazine. Needless to say, I was so surprised when I was contacted and learned that my piece was going to be published in the 10th Anniversary edition! At that moment I felt validated and started calling myself a professional calligrapher. That was more than 30 years ago. Today, I still battle with imposter syndrome, however, when I start talking about my years of experience, I realize I have so much to share with anyone who wants to listen.
My family has always been supportive, and my husband has always encouraged me through the hard times and celebrated my wins. Today, I have added engraving and bottle painting to my portfolio and have worked with many people and luxury brands as clients. This was never on my radar! As a calligraphy artist, I have learned to be open and flexible. I have learned the importance of finding a tribe who speaks your language and to never stop learning.
I do this because I am compelled to bring treasured keepsakes into the world. This is part of my voice. This allows me to feel that I can I make a difference in the world. It’s such a joy to see the expressions on my customers’ faces when they receive their commission. Whether I’m teaching a class and sharing my knowledge, working an on-site event, or an in-studio project I bring my heart, soul, and story to elevate each experience.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I believe that all artists have obstacles and challenges that help to enable and define our direction. It’s common to struggle with imposter syndrome, to feel total inadequate within yourself and your artwork. I’ve learned to put my little judgmental monster in the corner and give it a cookie! Hopefully, you are laughing right now, but it’s true! We all face these obstacles when we let perfectionism run the show. For me, I approach each job with the understanding that I will complete the job first and then allow a small window of time to be obsessive over my work. I learned to love how my flaws make my work mine, perfectly imperfect, and complete authentic.
Other challenges have been understanding how to price my services. Learning how to run a business, how and who to network with to continue to grow my business. My obstacles and challenges led me this year to hire a business coach. I didn’t just pick any coach; I picked a coach that understands the ins and outs of owning a calligraphy business. Her coaching program connects other calligraphic artists, allowing us to have a networking platform of our own.
Everyone has obstacles and challenges, but I firmly believe if you get connected with people who are like mined, have the same goals, and get where you are coming from your growth is faster and less frustrating. Sharing your knowledge and learning from others creates a bond that ultimately lifts everyone up! I have found it extremely rewarding to share my knowledge and how I have overcome my challenges over the years.
My biggest challenge is TECHNOLOGY! Personally, I would rather be doing art than trying to figure out what my SEO looks like for my website. Ah, yes, I look forward to the day I can afford to hire an expert to manage my technology.
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?
My work encompasses a range of calligraphic services. Examples include traditional ink hand lettering using pointed pens, engraving using a micro motor drill on glass bottles and containers, or hand painting/ lettering on various surfaces. This brings an added beauty and meaning to items selected by individual clients and luxury brands. My services enhance brand activation, on-site events, weddings, and other social gatherings.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Calligraphy is my voice! It’s how I speak to the world! I’ve learned that passion, tenacity, and playfulness are essential and to accept mistakes as portals to discovery!
Never stop learning! Take classes, study with other artists and calligraphers! Keep learning!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.susanhousemandesigns.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanhousemandesigns/?hl=en
- Other: https://susanhousemandesigns.company.site
Image Credits
J. Whitmore Photography
