My conversation with Will Edwards got very philosophical, so those of you who like heady talks will enjoy this one. (It went kinda long, so I split it into two parts.)
Among other things, we talked about:
- Life as art: “You can turn budgeting and making money into an artistic endeavor. You can turn the writing of a proposal or even the paying of your bills into an artistic expression. And the more that my life centers around that kind of paradigm, the more I find everything feeds into that.”
- Music as a business: “You have to decide whether you want to be in business.” (Yes, many of us have a goal of making a living from our art, but that’s not the only way to be thriving artist.)
- The surprising pleasures (in hindsight) of less-than-ideal financial situations.
Like many thriving artists, Will has multiple income streams. He’s figured out how he can help people using his skills (web development for artists & musicians) to create ongoing income while retaining his sanity.
Will’s skills in the more lucrative sides of his business have made him a much stronger musician, arranger and songwriter. Don’t underestimate the power of the “non-art” things you take on to affect your art in a positive way!
My favorite quote: “You will become what you do every day.” (In other words, wanna be an artist? Make art!)
Will’s biggest regrets: missing out on an opportunity because he was afraid he wouldn’t do a good job. A great reminder to not let fear get in your way. Remember, whenever you’re pushing yourself to try something new, fear is a normal part of the process. If you’re never feeling any fear, you’re probably not growing!
You can find will at http://willedwards.net and http://willedwardsconsulting.com
Click the links to play, or right-click to download.
Will Edwards Interview – Part 1 (48:49)
Will Edwards Interview – Part 2 (40:38)
