Alison Baird1



1. When did you first start Fine Art Supplies, and what inspired you to do so?

Fine Art Supplies opened in July 2005, I was working in administration and attended the CSU Summer Art School, we found it difficult to purchase art supplies in the city, and I thought it was a good opportunity to open a business in Wagga Wagga. 
2. How much has your business grown over the years?
The business has a strong clientele and enjoys a reputation for service and extensive range of art supplies. The business has also reached a stage of brand recognition when people think art supplies, they know where to come.  
3. Do you find it hard to compete as a local business owner with ever increasing online shopping?

We have recently launched our own website to remain competitive, but of course retail has definitely slowed down.   4. Do you create pieces of art yourself? If so, which styles are you most inspired by?

I love creating art, but of course don’t have a lot of time to play! I love drawing, colour and texture. Fred Williams is one of my favourite artists, love Elwynn Lynns work, Margaret Preston and Margaret Olley – I love Australian art!  
5. You have quite an extensive range of supplies. Do you always order the same brands or do you mix it up and try some new things out?
Usually order the same products, but keep an eye out for new exciting products! Always listening to what the public is looking for as well. 6. Are you involved in any arts related projects or exhibiting outside of your job?   The last two years I have been busy coordinating the Wagga Art Prize Inc, and I support many local art groups.   7. What are the most effective ways you and others promote Fine Art Supplies to the public? Support, sponsorship and word of mouth are the most effective ways of promotion.  
8. What would you say are the benefits of running your own business? 
The benefits of running your own business are the total self satisfaction and pride that you have, and the friends that you make. Its fun working your business and being passionate about it, you don’t mind working hard for yourself!

9. What is your favorite part of your job, and do you have any highlights?

Lots of highlights, the repeat customers, the friends I have made, but winning the Wagga Business Chamber Golden Crow Award in 2009 and!!! 2010 for Excellence in Customer Service was totally awesome!!!   10. Has Fine Art Supplies ever sponsored an exhibition or artist of any kind?

All the time! We find sponsoring local and regional art shows most beneficial form of advertising. We sponsor local schools, Wagga Art Society, Wagga Show Society, CSU students, TAFE Graduates – wherever we feel its relative. 
  11. There is a Fine Art Supplies Facebook page, do you find that has helped to promote your business notably?

I find its more an information hub, it’s a point of contact for the business, with direct links to our online shop or general inquiries.

12. Have you ever won any awards for your business?
Fine Art Supplies very proudly won the Wagga Business Chamber Golden Crow Award in 2009 and!!! 2010 for Excellence in Customer Service – to me the most prestigious section of all! 

 13. Do you provide any other services apart from selling art supplies? 
I hope that I give my customers sound art advice and inspiring ideas! I encourage ‘show and tell’ with their artworks. I love bouncing ideas around with customers, sometimes its beneficial to brainstorm ideas or for me to show them different products that could be helpful to their art practice. Fine Art Supplies has become an informative art hub for artists to find out what is happening in the area and they are welcome to promote their business on our notice board. 

14. Last but not least, what are YOUR favorite art supplies?

Mmm, difficult….perhaps the Sennelier Oil Pastels and the Sennelier Traditional Drawing inks – utterly delicious!
     


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