Amy Frank is a Victoria based artist, public speaker, writer, and mental health advocate. I met her in her studio the evening before the Fairfield Art Studio Tour. Seeing her work and they way she creates is captivating. It was a joy to step into her world for a little while.
"My Art is therapy. I create to free my mind and heart from mental health issues. I’d be creating whether people bought it or not. I’m just grateful there is an interest in my work."
Ok, let's begin...
First of all tell us who you are!
Amy Frank, Artist.
What do you make, create, or sell?
I create original works of art that I turn into cards, prints and throw pillows.
Where can people find you online?
How and when did you first start your craft?
I’ve been doing art my whole life. It started as a form of therapy when living with undiagnosed bipolar disorder but has evolved into a career.
What has been your favourite creation so far?
I have too many favourites to list just one! Two off the top of my head are Fledgling (left) for my parrot Saba and The Northern Lights (right).
What is your favourite part of your creation process?
I like sketching and colouring. Watching an idea come to life excites me every time. A favourite part of my business however is public speaking. I love sharing a slideshow of my work alongside my story. Q & A afterwards is a most favourite time. I love connecting with people and making new friends through my art.
Aside from the tools of your craft, what is the most important thing for you to have when you sit down to create?
I need peaceful instrumental music or a great audiobook.
Do you create full time? How much time do you spend on your craft?
I do create full time. I can spend anywhere from 5 hours to over 100 hours on a single piece (depending on the size). I can’t work more than 8 hours a day drawing however and certainly not in a single go! These days I’m usually only clocking in 2 to 4 hours of drawing time a day however. It really depends on my mood and how busy my life is in other endeavours.
Any tips for others starting out in your creative field?
Art is an incredibly hard way to make a living. I’d suggest having a day job or other means to make money and then do art as a side job if you’re interested in selling your work. Marketing is also very important. Take business courses, learn the business side of things.
Amy would like to thank everyone who’s supported her along the way, friends, family, ex boyfriends, family and friends of ex boyfriends, teachers, counsellors, doctors and so many strangers.
Her ability to share, advocate, and be brutally honest and vulnerable about her experiences with mental health is an invaluable insight to her strength, creativity, and determination.
So many aspects of Amy's journey resonates with my own and reading her blog, listening to her talk 'The Art of Mental Wellness', and seeing her art makes me feel honored to have the opportunity to have worked with her.
I'm sure that Amy's career will continue to go from strength to strength. You can follow this talented, multi-faceted artist's creative journey online here.
Are you an artist, crafter, or creator wanting to level up your branding for this coming season?
Get in touch and let's collaborate on a fresh new look!
Or book a Market Mini Session for a short photoshoot at a market or event of your choice!