Most artists dream of having their work shown in galleries and of being recognized for it, but the challenges of showing work and receiving prestigious awards are many. It can be tricky enough to balance an artistic pursuit with an active professional life. Eric Ochocki is one artist who has managed to do all three of these things. Eric Ochocki, a sculptor and visual artist, has just been named the winner of a recent art show sponsored by the Marin Artist Society, located in Ross, California.

Eric Ochocki has been making art for many years. He started out with a BA in art and design, followed by a BFA in sculpture, and went on to earn his MFA in sculpture as well. But though he is passionate about art, he works hard to balance it with a full-time job that requires him to spend most of his time working hard. At Rulon International, where he has worked for five years, Eric Ochocki’s job is to pass the baton between the architects who design products and the manufacturers who make them.

But Eric Ochocki’s passions outside of work matter very much to him, so he makes sure to prioritize them in his life. Indeed, in addition to making art, Eric Ochocki is an avid bocce ball player. Eric Ochocki is currently a member of three bocce ball teams, even serving as the captain for one of them. The Marin Bocce Federation counts Eric Ochocki among its active members.

So how does Eric Ochocki manage his burgeoning art career, athletic endeavors, and a full-time job?

“It’s all about balance,” says Eric Ochocki. “I make sure to spend my time wisely and that whether I’m making a sculpture, playing bocce, or working with an architect on the job, I’m fully present.”

At the Marin Artist Society, Eric Ochocki was excited to be rewarded for just one of his great passions in life. “It’s wonderful to have a chance to share my work with my community,” he said. “Making art is something very solitary, so the chance to share it is very gratifying on its own. The award just makes it that much more exciting.”