Alumni Profile: Nancie
Owner of ArtDeTriumph & Artful Framer Studios
BFA in painting, class of 1974
Web site: www.NancieKingMertz.com
When you first came to UIUC did you know for sure what you wanted to do as a major/career?
Yes.
What was one UIUC event, memory, person, class that made a substantial difference in your career choices?
Basic Drawing class with Dr. Briggs
What was your first job after you earned your degree?
Floral shop manager
How did you land your first career related job?
I taught as a grad student, and then moved on to become faculty at EIU for 3 years.
Please list all positions you have held since graduation .
- Floral shop manager
- Instructor of art at Eastern Illinois University
- Opened my own gallery & frame shop downstate in 1979
- Moved gallery and frame shop to Chicago in 1987
- Currently own & operate ArtDeTriumph & Artful Framer Studios
What is your current occupation and how did you come to it?
I've been self-employed since 1979. I began framing my work as a graduate painting student, which grew into the business that I currently own—gallery & framing.
What advice would you give to an FAA student who might be interested in your current or past careers?
Work your butt off to make a name for yourself.
What advice can you give an FAA student who is currently undecided about their future career?
To make a career in the arts, you must be fully committed to your discipline. To survive, it must not only be your passion, but your breath, as well.