Meet Sarah-Jane Cook, the small business owner of “Roustabout Art” based in Adelaide, South Australia.
Meet Sarah-Jane, the small business owner of “Roustabout Art” based in Adelaide, SA. She runs a fully equipped ceramic studio in a beautiful backyard environment near Semaphore Beach, Adelaide. In her ceramics studio, she makes and creates individual, whimsical ceramic artworks that are sold throughout the world. She also runs ceramic workshops for members of the community and NDIS clients. Clay has an amazing power to heal which she loves to share with others.
“The best thing about having assistance from Many Rivers, especially from Leigh, is that it I am able to concentrate on the business side of things as well and not just the creative side which is more of my expertise. Having a business coach like Leigh is fantastic. He assists with the business plan and shares ideas for growth. I feel at ease discussing my plans with him anytime, and he always gives his honest and expert advice.”
Read more about Sarah-Jane’s business journey so far:
Sarah-Jane’s Business
I’m Sarah-Jane Cook, an artist from South Australia and my business is called “Roustabout Art”. In my ceramics studio I make and create individual, whimsical ceramic artworks that are sold throughout the world. I also run ceramic workshops for members of the community and NDIS clients. Clay has an amazing power to heal which I love to share with others.
I wanted to start my own business because I love art and believe it’s not just about creating beautiful things, but also about improving mental health. By offering accessible art workshops, I aim to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Art is therapeutic; it helps my clients practice mindfulness. One of them, who’s struggling with her health, finds my classes more helpful than her other appointments. It boosts her confidence too.
Working with Many Rivers
I found out about Many Rivers through an employment agency.
I’m getting mentoring from Many Rivers through my business coach, Leigh Atkin. We worked on creating a business plan and a cash flow. Right now, that’s what we’re focusing on.
“The best thing about having assistance from Many Rivers, especially from Leigh, is that it I am able to concentrate on the business side of things as well and not just the creative side which is more of my expertise. Having a business coach like Leigh is fantastic. He assists with the business plan and shares ideas for growth. I feel at ease discussing my plans with him anytime, and he always gives his honest and expert advice.”
Did you get a loan from MR? How did you use the loan?
I didn’t get any loan yet but might consider it in the future.
Do you have any current employees? If so, how many employees? Are they full-time or part-time?
Right now, it’s just me. I work from my home studio where I create all my pieces and also hold classes and workshops.
Biggest Challenge
The biggest challenge so far has been grasping the business aspects and managing everything alone while staying focused. Also, dealing with frequent cancellations from clients facing mental health issues has been tough. When they’re not feeling well, they often cancel classes, which is something I’m learning to handle.
Biggest Success
For me, the biggest success is seeing how much people benefit from my workshops. It makes me proud to know that I’m offering a space where they can feel better through art. Helping others is a big part of my business, and I see it as a significant achievement.
Biggest Change
To be able to work from home and my work my own hours. Be in charge of my own schedule and timetable.
Future Goals
In the future, I aim to expand my client base and have a larger space for workshops. Currently, my home studio can only accommodate 8 clients, so I’d like a bigger venue elsewhere. I also want to sell my artwork there, hold exhibitions, and offer more workshops.
Thank you, Sarah-Jane for sharing your business journey with us. We wish you the best of luck with future endeavours and business success.
If you would like to stay updated with Sarah-Jane and her small business, follow “Roustabout Art” through the following links:
Website: https://www.roustaboutart.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoustaboutArt/
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