Today we’d like to introduce you to Tamara Clary.
Hi Tamara, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I have always had a passion for art. From a young age, I knew I wanted to be self-employed and pursue a career as an artist. I am from a small town, Emporia, Virginia. My mother recognized my artistic talent and enrolled me at St. Mary’s in Raleigh for high school, where I fell in love with the city.
I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration from Virginia Commonwealth University and later obtained a degree in Art Education from Meredith College. After completing my studies, I moved back to Raleigh, which has been my home for almost forty years. During this time, I continued to participate in art workshops and retreats, both locally and abroad.
I spent many years working as an art teacher for Wake County Public Schools and Wake Tech Community College. In 1997, I launched my first business, TC ARTWORKS, INC., specializing in commercial interior design, furniture refinishing, cabinet refinishing, kitchen remodeling, creating artwork and murals, and professional decorative finishes for hundreds of homes and businesses in North Carolina, New York, and Virginia.
Throughout the years, I faced many challenges, including the aftermath of the 9/11 tragedy and the financial crash of 2007. In 2016, I responded to the community’s needs by opening my first art school for tracked-out and traditional school children, as well as adult workshops.
Unfortunately, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I had to close my business due to mandatory shutdowns. I then moved to Charleston, SC, where I worked as a bartender and waitress for a year. As I reorganized my plans, my parents began to inquire about the reopening of my art school. In 2021, I returned to Raleigh and reopened my business, Creating My Art, LLC.
We are an art school offering a wide range of classes, including traditional art, digital art, art retreats, and workshops for all ages, from K to 99. My goal in life is to ignite the artistic spark within everyone.
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?
Being self-employed comes with its own set of challenges. You take on multiple roles within your company, including marketing, managing social media, being the boss, mentoring your staff, and handling financial responsibilities. Recognizing what skills you lack is crucial for running a successful business. If there’s something I don’t know, I can either learn from others, find a mentor or hire a specialist.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
For over three decades, my professional focus has been in art. What distinguishes me from others is the extensive knowledge I have gained in my sixty-one years as an artist, entrepreneur, teacher, and professional artist. I am committed to continuing my learning and growth as both a professional artist and a business owner.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I collaborate with local and global art organizations, other local entrepreneurs, and gain support from my staff, clients, and other business owners. Years ago, I learned the importance of surrounding myself with people from whom I can learn and who I can support.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://creatingmyart.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tamaragclary/
