We had the good fortune of connecting with Rose Kochanek and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Rose, career-wise, where do you want to be in the end?
I hope that I will be able to self sustain myself solely through my art one day. Being my own boss and pursuing my own visions appeal to me much more than freelancing for others. At the moment I am not able to do art full time, but I hope that as I continue to expand my craft, learn more about business, and grow, I will reach success slowly but surely.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My business, Owlieart, mainly sells creepy stickers. I have a sticker line of animals made out of skulls, as well as a line of phobia art which I am very proud of. I am also proud of how everything I produce is made from home and is not outsourced. It’s been a long road, but I am proud that I was able to create products people enjoy. I thrive on all portions of the process from creation, to business, to distribution. What sets me apart from other artists…? It’s the different mediums I can work with. From digital, to watercolor, to stop motion, I am very versatile in how to bring my own nightmares to life.
There were many challenges on the road, mainly because my art is so niche and creepy. It doesn’t appeal to a wide audience so I end up making art I don’t enjoy for commissions. Recently I have been trying to stay more on brand to what I enjoy, and it has not only made me happier but I feel way more productive.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
La has tons of cool places to go, but the activity I enjoy the most are escape rooms. There are TONS of escape rooms in LA, and I have done over 50 of them! The well built ones are amazing to play as they are great for a bonding activity. In fact, I have a friend that visits me every once and awhile and our main activity together are these rooms. That, and we love going out for ramen in little Tokyo. Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate a shoutout the the people who have shaped me to who I am today. This includes my friends, family, and teachers who have stuck by my side and guided me through thick and thin. Even when I was hesitant to dip my foot into the art world, they encouraged me to do so. I would never be here if it wasn’t for their support.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/owlieart/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4f6u-k3Ufcq1rRjdz1TJ1A/featured
Other: etsy :https://www.etsy.com/shop/Owlieart?ref=shop_sugg