We had the good fortune of connecting with Bailey Curry and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Bailey, why did you pursue a creative career?
I have used art as an outlet since my earliest memories. I have been very lucky to grow up with a mother that encouraged my creativity and even involved herself in my education to bring more art to myself and my classmates. When it came to look for colleges, I didn’t have enough confidence to pursue an art degree at first. Eventually I realized that art has always been my passion and so I studied fiber art (textiles.) Through the years I have had some success selling my art. I’ve not been so lucky to have it be my sole income, which is the case for many artists, but I am dedicated and hope to become solely dependent on my art.Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think what makes my art unique is the playfulness of my art making practice combined with less common aspects of the vintage aesthetic. Many artists unfortunately are scared to change how they approach making art because they don’t want to lose their audience. This often stagnates growth in the creative process. For better or worse I try not to let those things affect how I make art. I think over time this has led to an even more dedicated community of supporters. I am proud that I have allowed myself the space to explore and build even more ways to communicate ideas, and I am grateful for those who have stuck by me. Getting to where I am as an artist has not been easy. When I was younger I let a lot of insecurity and uncertainty dissuade me from making art. This past year I have learned that it is more a matter of finding your audience. My art isn’t going to be for everyone and I don’t have to force myself into a mold to be successful. What makes me satisfied at the end of the day is that I was true to myself and that others enjoyed my work. What I would hope people experience looking at my work is a sense of warmth and comfort. I want my work to make people feel safe. There are many artists who serve a valuable purpose of challenging people or questioning issues in society. Sometimes though people just need a place to “come home” to, and I hope my work can offer that to them.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
(I have actually never lived in Dallas! I’m not sure I’m capable of answering this. I’m sorry.)The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I think that I am very much a product of my community and the people that I have met throughout the years. This past year I was let go from my main source of income and made the decision to put all my time and attention into making a career from my art. It was through the encouragement of my partner and best friend that I had the confidence to even think about it. Then, it was exposure I gained from friends in the Instagram artist community that really got my work out there to potential buyers. I don’t think I’d be anywhere near where I am now if it weren’t for them.
Website: Baileychristinestudios.com
Instagram: Baileychristinestudios
Twitter: bchristineart
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2ZxZ8VZjLW283ZslbfK7KQ
Other: My online shop – Baileychristinestudios.store