Episode 9: Austin Fabinski: Pursuing A Dream

It was fun getting to know Austin Fabinski! He was so honest and open about the challenges he’s faced as an art teacher and an artist – never enough time or money, a learning disability that made school difficult, and lack of business knowledge. Austin faced those head-on and took a leap to pursue his dream of being an artist.

Austin with his work from the 31-Day Challenge

Austin Fabinski is an artist from the Detroit Metropolitan Area in Michigan. He earned his BA from Oakland University with a K-12 Art Education certification. He has been teaching art to all ages for the past 5 years.

In 2019 he quit full-time teaching to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a full-time artist. He currently teaches private and small group art lessons and spends most days in the studio painting.

His work is focused on animals. They are where he finds the most joy. Austin works primarily in acrylic and watercolor, as these media allow him to paint quickly. He offers his original work along with prints and commissions.

When Austin is not teaching or painting, he spends time at the gym, walking his dogs, on the lake, or just hanging with friends and family.

I love how open he was about working multiple jobs just to stay afloat and the frustration of earning more as a part time server than a full-time teacher. Ugh. 

I also keep hearing from artists I speak to and from other podcasts I listen to, how helpful mentors and coaches can be. I’m so glad Austin’s mentor in business has helped him with the shift to full-time artist and I hope he hangs in there through this pandemic. If you’re in the market for layered animal paintings, pet portraits, or fun color theory shirts, go support Austin! 

Austin Fabinski at work in the studio

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One Comment

  1. Kim
    May 9, 2020

    Your podcast was awesome- Austin you are a very talented artist , If I had room at my house I would love some of your art

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