Portland Press Herald 2003

LAKES BUSINESSES

Artworks, some made to order

How and when did the business begin?

I have been drawing since childhood, but I never really took my art seriously until about eight years ago. I had wanted to try my hand at oil painting for some time but hadn't done more than talk about it. Finally, my wife came to me and told me that she had signed me up for a lesson with a local art instructor. She also took her Christmas bonus and helped me purchase some art supplies to get started. I was hooked after the first lesson. I took several more lessons and then begin learning on my own. I read every art book I could get my hands on. I have since taught myself how to paint in acrylic and watercolor mediums.

What are the advantages to doing business in the Lakes Region?

It's a growing community. I like the area because it seems to have a slower pace; people here are more relaxed and friendly. It's a great place to create art. I think when people think of Maine art, they automatically think of the coast and seascapes but Maine has many inland sources of inspiration for artists.

How do you plan to expand your business?

I was recently featured in a national monthly publication for a painting I created. This painting is one of several currently available in limited-edition print. I am hopeful that this exposure will be helpful in my ability to market prints of my original artwork.

What is the most fun aspect of your business?

Much of my work comes in the form of commissions, in which I am hired by someone to create a painting of something important to them. I have created everything from favorite places to portraits of loved ones. Probably the best part of being an artist is getting to see the reaction when the owner gets to see the finished piece for the first time.

Is there anything unique or significantly different about your business?

I think that creating art is different than most businesses because it doesn't feel like work. I believe that most artists create art because they love doing it. Being able to make a living as an artist is a fringe benefit.

How would you describe the business climate here?

As far as the business climate in the Lakes Region is concerned, it is definitely improving. As more and more people choose to live farther out from the city, opting instead to commute to the Portland area, the Lakes Region population continues to grow. I think that this has been helpful to many businesses located in the Lakes Region.

What are the challenges/advantages to running a small business?

The biggest challenge to running a small business for me is that I have no staff. I perform all of the business functions, everything from production and sales to bookkeeping and advertising. Wearing all those different hats can be very time consuming. The upside to managing all aspects of a business is that I have total control over it's success.

Where can people who are interested in seeing your artwork find it?

My artwork can be found at the Little Sebago Gallery and Frame located in North Windham and on the Internet at www.coffincreations.com

Portland Press Herald January 2003-