An Interview With.... Jocelyn of New CreatioNZ

Today we chat with maker and photographer Jocelyn of New CreatioNZ

1. Share a little about yourself … what makes you you?
My name is Jocelyn. I’m originally from South Africa, but now live in New Zealand with my husband and three children (2 having flown the coop already!) My whole life has had a thread of creativity running through it. Though I don’t have a formal art qualification, I continue to evolve my painting, photography and surface pattern designs. I am also a creativity coach, helping artist’s overcome their creative challenges. Oh, and I also periodically run expressive art workshops.

2. What inspired you to create your business and how long have you been trading for?
I opened my Etsy shop in 2009, after my niece introduced it to me. Previous to that I had been selling my work in local exhibitions and word of mouth so I was excited for this new online platform as an outlet for my work.

3. Why did you choose the name you did for your business?
I chose NewCreationz as a way to describe my ever evolving art. How each new piece I create becomes a new facet of myself. The name has also transitioned nicely into the coaching side where many of my clients, through the work we do, come away feeling like a new person, ready for a new start. And of course, the NZ at the end refers to my New Zealand identity.

4. What do you sell and what sets them apart from other similar items on the market?
I sell my paintings and photography. My art comes from within and so has a unique touch. I am aware that visual art is subjective, with some loving it and others not. But I am happy with that. When someone purchases a piece, I know they must really love it and that is so rewarding. I also sell my art in other formats, mainly for home decor. It gives my customers a chance to buy a piece of art that has a practical use as well.

5. If you could achieve anything you could imagine (without the boundaries of money or everyday life) what would your greatest dream for your business be?
I would love to have a huge studio where I could invite others in to participate in art making. I am passionate about the process of art and it’s healing abilities and would love to work with underprivileged children too, maybe even start a non-profit, as I’ve had experience working in Fiji the past 5 years teaching art to children in village schools, and love it!

6. Where do you work on your business, and what platforms are you using to sell from (both online or offline)?
I work on my business from home in a spare bedroom that I’ve turned into a studio. I sell through our local art centre and also online with Etsy and Fine Art America and my own website.

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7. If you were starting again on Etsy now what would you do differently?
Maybe create a narrower niche. That's something I struggle with - so many things I want to do!

8. What is the most useful thing you have learned while using Etsy?
To put myself out there. If you want to sell your work you need to show it to the world. You’ve got to feel good about what you make and don’t be afraid to show them something of who you are, so as to build trust.

9. Outside your business, what inspires you?
Nature, especially the beach, random acts of kindness and a beautiful Spring day.

10. If you could inspire the world with a quote, what would it be?
“Don’t ask what the world needs, ask what makes you come alive and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive” Howard Thurman

11. Where can we find out more about your business?
Etsy: www.etsy.com/nz/shop/NewCreatioNZ
Art Website: www.newcreationzart.com/
Coaching website: newcreationz.com/
My new Facebook group for creatives: www.facebook.com/groups/1434599766841399/