Woman-run business profile: Divinity INK

The Internet makes it easier for artists to reach out to customers outside of just selling at trade shows, craft fairs and also helps customers online find these artists pages where they can buy drawings, paintings, gifts and more from artists.

Today, I would like to share with you the profile of an artist who turned her graphic art into the form of t-shirts, hoodies, and stickers available for purchase online.

Tara Jueckstock of Divinity INK started her online graphic art business because she always knew she was going to be an artist when she was growing up and getting in trouble for drawing in school just motivated her even further to follow her passion. Tara has been drawing since she could hold a crayon. As she grew up, she decided on getting her art degree at community college and earned some recognition for her artwork through school projects, selling at a few conventions. Some of her art has even been used as designs for tattoos! Her art is unique because it's both cute and creepy, quirky and insightful. If someone bears a slightly twisted sense of humor, they'll find some of the phrases to be humorous. If not, at least the artwork has a catchy vibe to it.

Over the years, Tara says, she has spent a decent amount of money on art supplies, but the main supplies, including her sketchbook, ink pens, markers, etc,  weren't a large investment to start her business. She also used a computer, scanner, and image editing software to further manipulate her designs.

She was inspired to get her business off the ground by finding that people were generally interested in what she does and also her "random fits of sarcasm that beg for creativity." Her work is always evolving and she is constantly adding new works. She always keeps an open mind to suggestions as well.

When asked what advice she would give to other women who are interested in starting their own business, she says "Do it!" But also cautions them to have a safety net, because your business won't take off immediately. She says that networking, promoting your business and maintaining ties with past customers while finding new ones is important. Also, asking for help from coworkers and family by giving them a free sticker and/or business card helps. Tara suggests that depending on your business, wear your own product "because if you don't want to wear it, who else would?"

You can currently purchase art from Tara at her online shop http://www.redbubble.com/people/divinityink or email her at requiem_into_revelation AT yahoo.com 
Also, check out her facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/DivinityINK