Meet Trailblazer Colleen Williamson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Colleen Williamson.

Colleen, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started Kisco Print Shop in 2014. And as a former marketing exec, I wanted to delve into my creative passions while still being able to spend time with my family. My self-made brands include art prints that are bright, vibrant and modern.

I never received formal training in the art world, so I forged my own path in combining colors, patterns and shapes to create unique pieces of art. My background also includes the creation of my own clothing label that was inspired by my time spent at a frenetic New York City showroom that housed accessory labels such as Kate Spade, Me+Ro and Slane & Slane.

This month, I am launching a new art company, www.TheUnionArt.com  The Union’s goal is to make art accessible and affordable to all while keeping the exclusivity of art intact by making limited-edition $12 printable art.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Unfortunately, I’ve learned a lot along the way! I’ve learned that it’s important to make contacts and network, network, network! It’s exhausting, but in the end, will pay off.

And speaking of overall path and direction, I like to stay away from using the term “woman-owned” business, etc. – I am a person who owns a business and it doesn’t matter if I am a man or a woman – I’ve worked hard, I have strong work ethics and morals and I have believed in myself from the beginning. Anyone who does this, whether it be man or woman, is a rock star in my book!

I also want to encourage those in the beginning of a business to reach out to others for support – join entrepreneur groups, etc. Lean on your friends and family for feedback and support as well – my family and friends have been my biggest supporters and critics and it has helped me get to where I am today.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Kisco Print Shop & The Union – what should we know?
Sure! I have two art companies that I am very proud of – www.KiscoPrintShop.com and most recently,  www.TheUnionArt.com

I believe with both companies, I am able to cater to everyone in terms of art needs and budget.

It takes a lot of time to create recognition around your art. It has helped me tremendously to partner with companies who have a larger marketing budget and network than I do. One of my most successful partnerships is with Minted. As a result of this partnership, sales and exposure of my work has increased exponentially. Today, some of my pieces hang in really cool places Cosmopolitan headquarters in New York City and projects by Emily Henderson. My art has also been featured in Domino Magazine, Redbook Magazine and Rue Magazine to name a few.

What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman just starting her career?
Don’t look for an easy way – it’s all about hard work. Network, network! Meet as many people in your industry as possible. Don’t give up if you really believe in your product/company. To build a successful business from the ground up is overwhelming and frustrating at times, but with determination and drive, your vision can become your reality.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.kiscoprintshop.com and www.theunionart.com
• Email: mcleanwilliamson@gmail.com
• Instagram: @kiscoprintshop and @theunion.art

                                                                                                                                  Image Credit:
Mark Labriola, Brand Viva – he did the personal photos.
The one with the orange background is from the offices of Cosmopolitan taken by RUBEN CHAMORRO
And the one with the navy blue wall is taken by Zeke Rueles
And the rest are by me, Colleen Williamson.

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