FrontporchFolks.com has interviewed TheMerryBird for the Front Porch Spotlight this month. Check out the interview posted on Frontporch the week of October 12th!
[Business]
* Your stippling process is a fresh alternative to brush. What led you to this art form?
Actually it’s a funny thing, stippling. This style is a relaxing art technique of pen and ink. It’s not “free” but reflects static and kinetic energies at the same time. I guess a little bit of scientific thought comes to mind.
* The artwork is very detailed. does it take a long time to do each one?
It depends on the subject matter. It can take a long time to complete a drawing if it’s very detailed, ie. pets. (the hair can be a challenge!).
* Do you use a graphics program or physical media?
I use different pen sizes, colors and inks. I usually create the master image by hand and have it printed on note cards or invitations. Recently, I began entwining graphic programs with pen and ink images. It’s a lot of fun and I’m sure in time my style will evolve into something different.
* Are your designs one-of a-kind or can customers order stock images?
So far a limited edition of each motif has been printed. Customers can order CUSTOM motifs but usually orders are of what is available on www.themerrybird.com
* What was your most challenging custom order?
Ad design is the most challenging to create, but wedding invitations rank high up there on the challenging list. Brides like things a certain way and they should get what they want!
* Who is your ideal customer?
The ideal customer is one that is excited about what The Merry Bird offers and wants a note card or invitation not found in stores!
* How long does it take to deliver a finished product?
If a motif or note card is in stock it takes One week for delivery. If the work is custom or personalized it could take up to 3 weeks to have ready to ship. Everything depends on the time of year and what the customer needs and wants. Logo design takes 1-2 months or more, ad creation has a 2-5 day turnaround and E-cover and Book Covers design take 4-6 weeks to complete properly.
* Will your business be affected by the current state of the economy?
Yes, as a small business owner I know the state of the economy affects the way people will spend their dollars. Most people pull back spending on frivolous items and non – necessities. But as long as entrepreneurs exist, businesses will need logo’s, ads and other design work to propel out there!
[Personal]
* How did you decide to start your business?
The Merry Bird has been out there for a long time. It wasn’t until recent years that I had time to reflect on how I wanted to go about building it and make it official. The web has made all of this possible as marketing, networking and viewing is much easier than if I had to do all of business searching by foot.
* Is this your primary business or is it more of a part-time endeavor?
This is my primary business.
* Do you have formal training in art and/or graphic design?
Natural from birth, painting, sculpting and drawing has been part of me, innate. Formally, I have a BA in Art History, and Studio Art. After graduation from college I continued my Art education with graphic design courses, photography and computer art. Right about now I wish I had a business degree too!
* How did you come up with the name Merry Bird?
The Merry Bird refers to two things: a man’s “flitting” woman, and a waltz from 1871.
* Where do you see the Merry Bird in five years?
I see The Merry Bird making full time income and gaining greater exposure with authors, publishers for book cover design, with small/big businesses for logo creation and identity and eventually in your local store as an invitation or note.
* Do you have any advice for aspiring graphic designers?
Once you start your dream of becoming a designer, don’t stop, not even for a moment!
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