What It’s Like Being a Type A Artist in a Type B Art World

Born in Hong Kong to Indian parents, I’ve moved between cities and continents my whole life — from Atlanta and Berlin to my current home in Lisbon. My creative practice is rooted in a traditional technique I first encountered at 16: woodcut printmaking. But instead of prints, I carve directly into painted MDF panels, blending the structural precision I love with a more instinctive, textured form of expression.

It’s a balance I’m always chasing — in art, and in life.

Tanisha Raj the Type A leaning Artist

Before becoming a full-time artist two years ago, I spent over five years in management consulting. I have a business degree, a sharp eye for strategy, and a deep love for structure, clear goals, and a well-organised calendar. These days, I split my time between studio work and freelance consulting for NGOs and corporate clients. And while my art has evolved into something deeply fluid, symbolic, and intuitive… my personality still leans Type A.

There’s no HR department in the art world. No linear career ladder. No one to tell you if you're doing a good job. So what happens when a planner, perfectionist, and colour-coded-calendar enthusiast decides to become an artist?

I spoke more about that journey (and my process as an artist) in this interview with Celeste Gottfried. But here, I’m sharing a slightly messier version: what it’s actually like to be a structured soul in a nonlinear, vibes-based world.

1. There's No Career Ladder, Just a Spiral 

Corporate me: "Here's my 5-year plan."

Artist me: "Here's my mood for the week... maybe.

Turns out, there's no 'next level', just sideways moves, random bursts of growth, and occasional emotional breakthroughs.

2. I Plan Everything... Including When to Be Spontaneous

I still work as a freelance consultant occasionally. Which means, if I want to maintain my creativity while I'm on a project it has to be scheduled. And no, it doesn't always show up when it's supposed to. Still, my calendar includes art blocks, snack breaks, powerpoint time for clients, and the occasional identity crisis.

3. I Miss Validation. So I Give It to Myself Now

There are no quarterly reviews in the art world. Just me, whispering "good job" to myself after finishing a piece... and then immediately doubting it. Gold stars now come in the form of likes, comments, or me choosing to celebrate my own work.

4. My Inner Critic is Loud. But Also Weirdly Motivated

The same work ethic that helped me blitz through consulting presentations now fuels deep dives into "how to price your art" and "is it too late to start an email newsletter??" see all the functions-marketing, sales, operations- as limbs of a small business. The only catch? I'm the entire org chart. Send help.

5. I Like Control. Creativity Doesn't Care.

Art shows up late. Leaves early.

Has no respect for Gantt charts.

But honestly? The best work always comes when I finally loosen the grip.

If any of this resonates with you (the tension between structure and spontaneity, clarity and chaos) just know you’re not alone. Whether you’re a Type A artist secretly craving messiness or a creative soul learning to love spreadsheets, there’s space for both.

You can find me on Instagram @carvedbytanisha. And if you’re navigating a similar shift, I’d love to hear your story.

Tanisha in action - Photo taken by Caroline Hancox