Today we’d like to introduce you to Carrie Caldwell
Hi Carrie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Growing up, I was always interested in the arts, specifically photography. As a young adult, I fell into the fortuitous situation of dating someone whose mother was a portrait photographer, so I began training with her. As time went on, I eventually started my own photography business, which is still going strong 20 years later!
In 2018, I was invited to show my work at the Artists’ Guild of Spartanburg gallery. After the show, I joined their board and eventually became the Arts and Outreach Director for the organization. After serving the Guild for several years, I moved to Ridge Gallery. My job there is to book local artists, hang shows, and help host the artists receptions.
Giving artists an upscale space to showcase their work, and helping them bring their dreams of displaying their work in a museum like setting to fruition, is one of the most fulfilling jobs in the world!
When I’m not working at the gallery, I’m doing my photography work and teaching yoga.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of they biggest struggles for me, and many other artists, is dealing with impostor syndrome. When you have an upcoming show or you’re sending an album of photos to a client, it’s so easy fall into the trap of thinking that your work isn’t good enough; but, once you see the smiling, supportive faces viewing your work, you realize that there was no reason to worry.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
One of the things that I’m known for is my relaxed attitude. I’ve always been pretty chill, but starting yoga in 2004 took my laid back attitude to a whole new level. After taking classes for a couple of years, I began teaching. Now I lead about 5 classes per week, ranging from fast paced hot yoga to slower, stretch classes.
The chill vibe that yoga helps me attain, translates into my artistic work. If I’m shooting a wedding, photographing a family with a gaggle of children or am helping an artist prepare for a show at the gallery, my demeanor usually helps set the folks that I’m working with at ease.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love the artistic community in Spartanburg! Whether you’re interested in visual arts, music or theatre, there is something for you in town. There are several arts organizations in the area, but they all support one another, giving a general feeling of camaraderie, not competition.
I also adore the quirky, scrappy vibe that artists in Spartanburg have. While we do have a lot of amazing artists in town focusing on traditional fine arts, we also have a contingent of creators making unique, fun artwork that is entertaining and accessible for folks who may not be able to afford the high price tag that comes with purchasing a large-scale, fine art piece. Spartanburg truly provides something for everyone!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.carriecaldwellphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carrie_caldwell_photography/
