Art studio thriving in Mundelein
An interview with Dawn Drury, owner of Just Your Art Creativity Center in Mundelein.
Q: Describe your business. What do you do?
A: Just Your Art Creativity Center is a unique art studio that opened before most of the other “byob” painting shops around. We have evening classes, day classes, private instruction, summer art camp and open mic/ open paint evenings.
Q: What made you start your business?
A: I have taught art for years. I wanted to bring a variety of people together to enjoy the creation of art to produce an interest in the arts and a place for friends to get together.
Q: What has been the most difficult obstacle in running or starting a small business?
A: The most difficult part in running a small business is advertisement. It is difficult to know who to target for this type of venue.
Q: What do you enjoy most about operating your business?
A: The things I enjoy most about running my business is seeing my customers leave happy with what they produced. Any age comes in being skeptical (especially adults) with proper instruction and the right tools they leave with a feeling of accomplishment.
Q: Is this what you pictured yourself doing when you were young?
A: I pictured myself as a teacher when I was young. This is my opportunity to show people how to learn to see the things around them in a different perspective.
Q: What keeps you up at night?
A: Coming up with new ideas keeps me up at night. I get a great idea for a new painting or way to introduce it to my customers. The next thing I know I am in my studio trying it out.
Q: If you could give one tip to a rookie business owner, what would it be?
A: One tip I would give to a rookie business owner would be to persevere. It is difficult having a business in such a difficult economy. If you love what you do the chances are you will succeed. The trick is to carefully consider what you offer and stick with it.
Ÿ Every Monday we feature a small, suburban business. We want to hear about yours. Contact us at kmikus@dailyherald.com.
Just Your Art Creativity Center
Address: 446 N. Lake St., Mundelein, Il 60060
Owner: Dawn Drury
Business opened: November 2011
Website: www.justyourart.com