Meet Britt Jones Art
FOUNDED BY
THE INTERVIEW
Written by Boston Women’s Market & Britt Jones
Boston Women’s Market: Can you tell us a bit about what led you to begin your journey with your business? Was there an aha! Moment?
Britt Jones: In addition to being an artist, I am also a fifth grade teacher, and for years, painting has been what has brought me back down to earth after stressful and overstimulating days. After many years of using art as a means of personal meditation, I began posting my paintings to Instagram. People I knew started reaching out asking how they could purchase my work. This was before I had ever thought of my art as something that could make money, but this definitely got the ball rolling. I created a website and reached out to markets and stores in the Boston area. And thus began what is now the business that brings me so much joy! Since then, it’s been constant learning, reworking, and improving.
BWM: For many women starting out in the entrepreneurial world, there can be a lot of self-doubt. Do you have any personal stories about how you conquered self-doubt? What guidance would you give to others?
Britt: Self doubt is certainly unavoidable when starting a business, especially when there are already so many brilliant artists and artisans putting their products out there. When I was just starting out, it was easy to wonder if I had anything new to bring to the creative table. However, a friend reminded me of something very simple that helped with these feelings. They reminded me that someone will not buy something unless they feel like they need it or that it will bring them joy. So whether someone feels like they need your art or they feel like your art will bring them joy, you are making something important for someone else. For that reason, even a single sale feels special and validating to me. If you are just starting out and things feel slow, just focus on that one sale and how your product matters to one person.
BWM: Many women begin their small business journey as a way to seek fulfillment they may not be getting in their 9-5 job. Others aren't sure where to begin and need help "digging deeper" to find what it is that fills their cup. What are some steps someone can take today to begin that journey of discovery?
Britt: When you let yourself sit without technology and turn off the outside world, what are you drawn to? What is your voice or your body or your hands naturally inclined to do or make? Follow that inclination! For me, when I have a day with nothing to do, nothing brings me more joy than making a total mess of paints and canvases and brushes. I believe that every person has something that will give them that joy, and sometimes all it takes is turning off the outside world for a bit. So many makers I meet today say that their business started during COVID, and I definitely understand why. Oftentimes, from boredom comes creativity. So, let yourself be bored more often!
BWM: Do you have a favorite moment so far with your business? Where you really felt like you were on the right path?
Britt: Yes! My favorite moments are always listening to a customer discuss with their friend or partner which painting calls to them most. I’ve overheard people talk about how certain paintings remind them of loved ones or places they’ve been. It’s always so cool to realize that I can make something that evokes memories and emotions in others. That’s what makes me want to keep doing what I’m doing.
BWM: How have you continued to manage the growth of your business while also finding time and ways to invest in yourself?
Britt: After starting my business I became very caught up in the need to create more art for the sake of creating more products to sell, rather than creating art for my own meditation. That is the dilemma that I am reminded of with this question. For many makers, I think there has to be a balance between creating for others and creating for ourselves, otherwise we might get burnt out or lose passion. I absolutely love investing time into my business and creating art for others. It is one of my greatest joys. However, I have to make sure that I also give myself time to make art that is silly and weird and just for me. I’ve been getting better at making the time for that.
BWM: From one small business owner to another, what is your favorite go-to business tool or resource you can recommend to our community?
Britt: For me there has been no better resource than the people I meet at markets around the city. Talking to other vendors and makers always leads to new ideas and business tips. Women business owners are always so eager to help each other which I absolutely love. I’ve found out about so many new opportunities by just talking to other people with similar business goals. Also, many of my retail opportunities have come from meeting shop owners or people with interesting connections who stop by my booth. When you sell at a market, you never know where it will lead you or what will come from it, and sometimes all it takes is a conversation.
BWM: Anything else you'd like to share?
Britt: Creating something that I get to share with others is the best feeling in the world. I would encourage everyone who has a craft to put it out there and see what happens. “There’s no time like the present” might sound cliche, but take it to heart!
