We had the good fortune of connecting with Mary Thrailkill and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Mary, every day, we think about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I never thought that I would have an art business. I just loved creating and painting things that brought a smile or joy to others. What really pushed me was taking an entrepreneurship class with my college roommate – my project at the end of the semester was to have an art booth at the spring farmer’s market. I learned a lot by designing cards and prints, figuring out packaging, and my brand. I’m definitely still learning as my business continues to evolve from that first market.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Painting happy, fun, & bright work – those are my favorite adjectives people have used to describe my watercolor notecards and paintings. I love creating things that people want to share with others whether it’s a notecard they send or a painting in their house. My most popular designs this past year were the 2022 calendars for Georgia and Washington DC. It was really fun researching and painting all the little locations and activities for each month, while also learning about format and how to market it to retailers. I’m very excited about the calendars I’ve started for 2023 – so stay tuned!
When I look back at where I started, I wouldn’t say it was an easy path. It was more of me having to adapt to changes and different opportunities. It’s not always smooth building your own art business, and I am definitely still growing – you never know where every opportunity will lead and what each new project will bring.
I hope that people see my passion for art and creativity through my designs and will follow along on my art journey!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Places to eat. I usually stay home (hi Netflix), but when I go out for something that doesn’t involve errands, it’s most likely for food. My top choices are Asian food – I frequently haunt Korean BBQ or Cantonese restaurants. But closer to me, there are ramen bars like Jinya which are yummy as well.
Lastly, ever since I went on a short vacation to Cancun, I’ve been dreaming about the tacos I had there – homemade corn tortillas and fresh pineapple and cilantro toppings. If you can’t travel there and get the real thing, I suggest looking for authentic tacos near you – my favorite is al pastor. I have yet to find a really good place near me, but there is a place in Marietta that I can’t remember the name of (sorry). Tip: you know they’re the real thing when the tacos are at least $2.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A lot of people. I can’t name them all – but I wouldn’t be here if they hadn’t pushed, encouraged or supported me. Whether it was listening to my grand ideas, buying my art work or coming to my booth at markets, I truly appreciate it.
I want to thank my roommate who put me into that entrepreneurship class. Thank you for getting me out of my comfort zone and for challenging me to pursue a different path for myself. I needed that extra push.
Next is my mom, who tirelessly listens to me when I am stressed or frustrated and helps me figure out where to go next. Sometimes it’s hard to see past the obstacles in front of me and to see the bigger picture, so thank you for helping me do that.
I also want to thank my other roommate who drove long hours and woke up before dawn to help me run my booth at many summer and fall markets. We sat through many rainy, windy and just plain hot mornings together.
Website: marythrailkill.com
Instagram: @marythrailkill.artdesign
Facebook: @marythrailkill.artdesign