About Russell Studios
Many artists and crafters begin their careers as hobbies or passion projects. The early days are full of opportunity, potential and joy. However, the challenges of running a small business can stifle that early excitement. We want to help creatives realise their potential, reach their goals and develop sustainable careers.
We do this by creating the conditions and opportunities for artists and crafters to launch successful and sustainable careers, turning their talent into trade.
Our vision is to unleash the regenerative impact of creativity across the North.
Values:
Integrity - Know and do what is right.
Respect - Treating others the way you want to be treated.
Servant Leadership – Serve the common good.
Responsibility - Embrace opportunities to contribute.
Community – Independence without isolation.
How we got here
When Hannah Billingham set up as a professional artist in her home studio her business began to grow quickly. However, she encountered a number of challenges:
She spent more time on admin and promotion than creating work.
She encountered significant stress in juggling all the challenges of a small business and creative practitioner.
She was quickly running out of space in her home.
It was difficult to access high-quality facilities to create the best possible work, or maximise client engagement.
Loneliness was an issue when working in isolation at home.
This all led to the challenge of burn out and fatigue.
However, a creative career doesn’t need to be this way. The career of an artist or crafter should provide the opportunity for a successful and fulfilling career minimising these challenges.
We exist to make this ambition a reality.
