Leah Nadeau
Leah Nadeau
Contemporary Abstract Painter/ Artist
Ann Arbor, MI
www.leahnadeau.com
instagram @leahnadeaustudio
facebook
pinterest
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I’m an abstract artist, mentor and creative coach.”
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
I began my creative journey in high school with creative writing and journalism. It wasn't until college that I really took a liking to fine art. In college, I studied contemporary art history and I was really fascinated by learning about the American art movements. I graduated from University of San Francisco in 2013 with a degree in Media Studies, and then I went on to graduate in 2015 with a Masters Degree in Film Studies at a university in Wales. While living in Wales I picked up a paintbrush and stuck with it since- I've just never put it down. I generally paint for 8 hours a day. I'm super dedicated to being the best painter I can be. In addition to painting, I'm also highly active on social media. I met several women through instagram and have been mentoring about 10 women for about 5 months. I truly enjoy getting to know each of these talented women while helping them navigate their art business.
FOR OTHER PEOPLE IN YOUR FIELD, WHAT DO THEY USUALLY LACK?
I think some artists have a hard time starting a project. When I want to get something done I announce it to my Instagram followers- I feel like I don't want to let them down. I think telling people about what you're trying to achieve is a good way to set your intentions. I have a Facebook group, Empowering Creatives Collective, and every Tuesday we talk about what we want to achieve for the week. I think saying your goals out loud to others makes it real.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
I'm working on my latest series of paintings "The Modern Theory Collection"
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
I consider my art to be contemporary abstract expressionism, because I channel my energy and emotions through my art. I am highly inspired by the abstract expressionist school and seeing the art from that movement in person was what first triggered my passion for fine art. I'm currently working on a collection of 10 paintings that will embody my style as an artist.
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
I would love to focus on mentoring the most for 2018!
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
The social media and admins side of my job gets a bit overwhelming at times. If only you could just paint!
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
I would have them do instagram posting, photo editing, and any admin work. But I'm pretty particular so I'd have to go back and re-edit the photos to make sure they're just right!
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
I would have said that just because you don't like a painting doesn't mean someone else won't love it. Art is very personal, the painting has to call to a person for someone to buy it.
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
Financial advice, most likely. I'd love to learn more efficient ways to run my business.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
Honestly I'm always looking for friends or ways to collaborate. If you like my art just send me an email. I'm always looking for influencers to help promote my work!
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
I love doing one on on creative consultations. I'm a people person. I just love getting to know people and helping others so it's a great job for me.
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
For a one on one creative consultation I charge $54.99 for 35 minutes of screen time and 25 minutes of studying up business' website and overall social media presence.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
hello@leahnadeau.com or leahnadeau.com
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
Never stop dancing!!
This member profile was originally published in January 2018.