Kim Bland from the Wirral decided to pursue her dream of becoming a self-employed artist, after rediscovering her passion during the pandemic. (Read Kim’s full story here)
Kim began painting to support and uplift friends and family members who, like many others, had struggled with their mental and emotional wellbeing throughout lockdown. Inspired by her house renovation, Kim began to recycle scrap OSB board as her canvasses and got to work.
After contacting the Women’s Organisation with her concept, Kim was assigned a one-to-one meeting with experienced business advisor, Paul Rittenberg. Together, they broke down her business plan into manageable pieces and set some realistic and reachable goals – one of which was to enter an exhibition this year – a concept Kim admits was daunting, having not done anything like this since leaving university 20 years ago.
After submitting her work into an exhibition at the Williamson Art Gallery and Museum in Birkenhead, her piece ‘Old Man’ was selected as the winner of the Kriterion prize 2022 by the public vote. Kim now has several more exhibition pieces lined up and is accepting commissions for her work.
Kim says: “I am so proud of my achievements so far, and if it were not for Paul and the amazing team at The Women’s Organisation, I don’t think I would have gotten here as quickly, if at all”.
Paul said: “It’s been a pleasure supporting Kim on her journey to becoming her own boss as an artist. On behalf of myself and The Women’s Organisation, I would like to congratulate Kim on winning the prestigious Kriterion Award at the Williamson Art Gallery – a much-deserved award that gives due recognition her talent.”
Kim is looking forward to starting her business soon. To enquire about commissioning a piece of work from Kim, contact via Instagram @kim_bland.art
If you’re looking to start or grow your business, get in touch with the Enterprise Hub now via enterprisehub@thewo.org.uk or call 0151 706 8113