You may have heard that ‘self-confidence is the foundation of success’. Here at the VAA, we know this to be true. However, like with many things, this is easier said than done.

It’s unlikely your confidence will improve overnight, we wanted to take the time to show you what can happen when you take the leap and put faith in yourself. This month’s featured member, Caroline Boff, provides insight into the heights you could reach with a little more confidence.

Caroline Boff is an English artist, based in the Greater Manchester area. Self-taught, Caroline paints in vivid colour across a variety of styles. Just over a year ago we had a chance to discuss Boff’s art practice, today we have a chance to reflect on how the previous 12 months has propelled her business.

 

I have certainly seen my confidence improve. This is largely thanks to my increased knowledge in the art industry. I feel that others around me have seen this change; during a recent chat with my mentor, Karen, she described me as ‘walking into my confidence’. It’s a great feeling.

I still feel that I will never retire, I adore what I do too much. Since my last interview, I have learnt so much about myself. This has been visualised through the art I create. My work is a visual representation of my life, emotions, and adventures. You know what they say, knowledge is power, having this knowledge has made me feel more in control of my life. That power has been translated through my art and people seem to love my work: that feeling is amazing! Inspiring others motivates me to create, I still work hard, I’m determined, and I love it!

 

Funnily enough, what I found hardest was not deciding how or what to paint, instead it was what to do next. I’m one of those people who is happiest when I’m working. Something I find difficult is lulls, quiet times, or even times of uncertainty. I like to know what is on the horizon. Occasionally, you must deal with what can feel like constant rejection, until you’re finally accepted. I don’t mind the chase.

I believe if you take your career as an artist seriously, you can grow as a person. Creativity and opportunities fluctuate, as an artist you need to be prepared for the hard work it takes. I’m proud to say I’m learning to navigate the storms with joy and a glint in my eye.

The VAA has given me my mentor, Karen, for which I am incredibly grateful.

Karen has simultaneously acted as my navigator and anchor. Her wise words have stayed with me and helped me along the way. Not only has she given me direction, she has also illuminated my path.

Karen’s insight is absolutely brilliant, truly like gold dust! Similarly, the VAA has acted as a foundation that I can really rely on. It gives me confidence knowing that they have my back, providing me with vital advice, opportunities, and information.

The marketing tool which has helped me the most would be my website. Not only has it given me credibility, I find it helps me to document my work and achievements. I even use it sometimes to decide the direction I want my next painting to go. It is a great inspiration and I receive so much from it both directly and indirectly.

I’m most proud of galvanising my art business and artwork into what it has become today. I have put in a lot of hard work and enjoyed this journey. It feels empowering to be able to stand tall and proud as a legitimate artist. I have also achieved appearances in the best publications in the world. It feels like I’m living a life beyond my wildest dreams already!

Caroline’s Bio over the last 12 months

November 2020 to January 2021 Joined Easel, 4 Art Technologies, Circle Art Foundation etc.

February 2021 Artist Talk with Global Art Advisor Carolina Conforti Art Advisory published on Vimeo and https://www.carolinaconfortiadvisory.com/art-talks

2021 My Art Featured in Floreat, Rugbeian Society

2021 Began with VAA mentor Karen Van Hoey Smith.

2021 Became an artist with the global design firm M Moser, New York

2021 Artwork ‘The Dance Off’ won the Coup de Coeur, Art Certificate – international art competition

2021 Taken on by Tin Man Art – London and Hampshire art advisor and gallery

2021 Became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce

2021 Became Mhist’s first patron.

2021 Exhibiting at Spectrum Miami with Artavita

2021 Featured Virtual Reality exhibition ‘The Importance of Colour’ with Discover Art Placer

Upcoming:

2022 Exhibition with South Art Dealer, LINKEDINYC, ‘Women of the World’, Tribeca, New York

2022 Interview plus artwork on the cover of Floreat.

2022 Feature in the Collector’s Choice, China.