Today we’d like to introduce you to Ari Williams
Hi Ari, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started selling at comic conventions when I was a sophomore in college. It was an online ad for a local con and I was already an avid con goer. So I took a shot in the dark and applied. I ended up getting in and doing that convention, as small as it was, had to be the highlight of my year. I was absolutely hooked.
From then on I took on more and more, some local some across the country. I made some dumb financial decisions at the beginning but I eventually got the hang of it. Now, I have gotten the opportunity to travel to all different kinds of cities and make money while doing it. It’s a little addictive.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely not, I made some stupid financial decisions at first. Coming off my first convention which was so successful despite the quality of my work at the time, I was cocky. I had the high of the adrenaline and I felt ready to take on the world.
My next con was in Miami, and if anyone knows anything about Miami, it’s stupid expensive. I sunk over 1k into going, the table, the hotel, and the flight. I barely made any of it back.
That was humbling.
But it also spurred me on to make better things, improve myself, and be a better artist.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m primarily an animator, that’s what I went to school for after all. But I’ve built a career off of illustration as well. I make stickers and prints for comic conventions and sell them to fellow fans. That’s really what pays the bills, but I love collaboration between artists.
The best part about doing conventions is meeting so many people and being able to share passions with each other.
I think I try my best to combine my love of animation and my convention work often, I try to be creative in my products and my work. I want to set myself apart from the market and focus on niche ideas that don’t have a lot of attention.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Partaking in any networking events are very important. Even if you know absolutely know nobody, it’s absolutely worth it to go.
I’ve been able to connect with a lot of people by just showing up and by continuing to show up, people with start to recognize you.
It takes time, but tenacity is your greatest weapon.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ariliesewilliams.art/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comet.juice/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arija-williams-2806551b5/
