As an artist who follows the inspiration as it strikes, https://clarkhulingsfund.org/finalists/etsuko-ichikawa/ (Etsuko Ichikawa) works in a variety of media from performance, sound, and film to glass installations, sculpture, and drawing. She’s known for her http://www.etsukoichikawa.com/Artist-Detail.cfm?ArtistsID=141 (pyrographs) and http://www.etsukoichikawa.com/Artist-Detail.cfm?ArtistsID=252 (aquagraphs), or drawings made from fire and water. She’s also a https://clarkhulingsfund.org/grants/ (2015 Clark Hulings Fund Business Accelerator Grant Finalist).
We had a chance to sit down with Etsuko and talk about her next career move as she rebrands herself and her artwork. Her nearly hour-long interview offers an insightful look into public art commissions, the importance of vetting galleries before you work with them, and how to tackle brand management even as your career evolves.
Re-Branding Your Art and Business:Following the inspiration vs. following the money
How to maintain the momentum of your career without losing your soul
Marketing and sales as key components of your business plan
Controlling and budgeting for your artwork
Breaking into new mediums as alternative sources of revenue
Creating sustainable financial systems out of your art career
Changing the direction of your work can result in more value being placed on your ‘limited edition’ products

Project Management in Public Works Commissions:Know the mission behind your commission
Collaboration with organizations, architects, and engineers
Use public works as an opportunity to reach beyond the gallery and meet new audiences
Public works and grants as alternative sources of income

Audience Building:Incorporate a performance element in your artwork
Don’t be afraid to include your audience in your process
Attend events as shameless promotion of your work
Network amongst local galleries, get your face out there

Galleries:Creating & maintaining relationships with galleries
Vetting galleries you want to work with
Establish trust with your gallery
Cutting ties with galleries without burning bridges
Galleries vs. art fairs

Future Directions:Re-Branding and ending previous works
Feature Length Films
Keep an eye out for http://www.etsukoichikawa.com/Exhibit_Detail.cfm?ShowsID=353 (Radiating Echoes – What is Beautiful?) 
Determining what is really important in your life’s work?