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Name: Doug Rugh
Age: 32
Company Name: Doug Rugh Illustration
Company Address: 37 Gosnold Road, Woods Hole, MA 02543
Type of Business: Illustration
Years Incorporated: 3
Previous Job: Scientific Illustrator
Education:BFA (Honors), Rhode Island School of Design; courses at Maryland Institute College of Art, Old Masters Studies

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1. What is your official job title? Is there a more whimsical description that might be more accurate?

Freelance Illustrator

2. What was the inspiration for starting your own business?

many historical and contemporary fine artists who also were illustrators

3. What makes your company unique?

The nature of the business makes each illustrator unique.

4. How did your college major / graduate school degree help prepare you for your career?

developed "artist's eye" and increased technical skill and knowledge

5. What necessary career information was missing from your studies? How did you pick up those skills and information?

I needed specific business knowledge of the field: fee structures; direct mail/promotions; negotiation; and legal issues. I was able to learn through research and peer guidance.

6. What difficulties did you encounter starting your business?

limited outreach: long ramp-up time with printing and advertising

7. How many hours do you work in a typical week?

50-60, plus one-two weekends a month

8. What three things are most frustrating about an entrepreneurship?

• job insecurity (feast or famine)
• difficulty in forecasting advertising results
• limited capitalization for expansion (equipment, pursuing other markets)

9. What three things are most rewarding?

• all growth helps oneself
• love of visual arts
• being creative and making decisions

10. What three things are most fun?

• drawing and painting
• pleasing clients
• studying

11. How do you handle work stress?

I try to keep regular work hours, always do good work, and take long walks with my dog.

12. How big a role does technology play in your career path?

The fax machine is essential. Computers are useful tools, but still not necessary.

13. How do you distinguish yourself from others in your work?

Style, skill, service, and intelligence

14. What advice would you give to budding entrepreneurs?

Be artistically well prepared and make sure you begin with enough capital and business knowledge.

15. Which popular song best describes your working life?

none given