Today we’d like to introduce you to Sally DeMasi.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Sally. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I am a transplant from Silicon Valley, where I worked as a Project Manager for a high-tech company. Fifty to sixty-hour work weeks were not unusual and one day I woke, vowed I would not die at that desk from stress and surprisingly found my nirvana – an Idaho mountain town of just 2500 inhabitants. I soon took advantage of the recreation opportunities of skiing, kayaking, camping and hiking.
I walked away from a lucrative job and uncovered my passion and pleasures of a simpler life. I surprised myself by “retiring” at a young age and learned to pursue what I had always loved, but had not allowed.
Photography now became my daily delight. I began traveling the world to remote destinations alone, using local transportation, mingled and learned about each culture encountered as I photographed life around the globe. I had a secret reason. I would conquer my fears and find courage.
Eventually, I found it! My courage has translated to all parts of my life. Wishing to share this astounding gift with others, I wrote the first book, Courage Quest and included my photographs from these remote destinations.
When I published it, I complained to someone, “But, I am not a writer.”
He retorted, “You have written a book, and therefore, you are.” I took his word for it and since then, each book has led to the next. I wondered why I survived my solo experiences and this curiosity drove me to write Survival Quest – real stories about how the ordinary do the extraordinary.
I kept hearing from survivors “I don’t believe in a higher power”, but something intervened in their crisis and saved them. Yes, Spiritual Quest was written as I discovered how this happened. I explored different belief systems and what is right for each individual to live a full life of satisfaction.
Has it been a smooth road?
My life was full of many challenges raising a teen daughter as a single parent. Financial obligations where always in the forefront and the insecurity of constantly being laid off from all the start-up companies. Many of these positions I worked at were entry level with employees half my age. Proving myself, I rose through the ranks.
Despite the higher profile positions I secured, something was missing. I was an adventurer not able to pursue risk and my love for nature and our environment. I wanted to have time to connect with my family and explore a relationship with my amazing daughter and granddaughters.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into your story. Tell us more about the business.
I am a creative person and simply can NOT do my photography. I have exhibited at venues, have opened a gallery and my photos have been printed in books and newspapers. I am moving from natural scenes to more expressionistic, impressionist contemporary-abstract images. Hopefully, we all evolve and this is my current interest.
My books are sold in the West Coast retail store, Amazon, some additional online stores or directly through my website: www.sallydemasi4.wix.com/quest.
People always ask, “Are those painting, or…. photographs?” when viewing my art. They are usually surprised when I assure them, they are photos. I have a passion for relating bright colors, shapes and creating a final product that resembles fine art with each piece unique.
While writing, I soon realized I was on a mission to assist others to boost their self-esteem. I therefore titled my series “Quest” books. I enjoy being an encouraging force in other’s lives and to give group motivational talks.
My company is unique. It helps others reach their potential through examples from real stories and healing art. It is not difficult; all those answers are within us.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
The digital world offers challenges for photographers. Most people expect they can take their own “Special” photo with an iPhone or an SLR camera. But it is a uniquely talented individual who captures an emotional facial and body gesture – whether sad or jubilant. I often photograph animals and it takes timing and a desire to understand their behavior. Conveying relationships in a composition that will elicit a strong response from the viewer makes these photographs stand out.
My books are self-published – that means I am involved in all processes of creating a book. I write and edit with the assistance of a professional editor, work with a designer for my cover and inside look of the book and then I launch and promote. I love it. Things are changing though. The margin for books is lowering and there are lots of challenges in promoting your book if you are not backed by a corporate entity or well-known producer. I see authors revolting as more promotional avenues are becoming available through the internet. I have created a website for customers to view all my books and photos in one easy click: www.sallydemasi4.wix.com/quest
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sallydemasi4.wix.com/quest
- Phone: (208) 866-6218
- Email: sallydemasi4@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/sallydemasi4
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/sally.demasi.16
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/SallyDeMasi
- Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/7762008.Sally_DeMasi
Image Credit:
Sally DeMasi
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