Art life...
there's definitely more to it that meets the eye. Do you picture me in my studio each day, happily flinging paint around? That DOES happen, but not nearly as much as you'd think! In order to get my art "out in the world" and continue to grow as an artist there are so many more things that need to be done. The obvious ones (social media, this newsletter, website maintenance) and then there are the not-so-obvious ones like time for researching/learning/refining techniques as well as all the items that require the dreaded P word. PAPERWORK. Ugh.
If I want to expand my reach for sales I need to both apply to and maintain relationships with the galleries I'd like to represent me. Each one has different requirements to be on top of - how & when to change out art, volunteer hours, cross promoting, public events. Additionally there are new opportunities to show my work, enter competitions, join art groups, apply to public art projects as well as residency programs. Some are highly competitive, some less so, but they each have their own set of requirements that need to be meet. Gathering, selecting & sizing images. Updated copies of bios, resumes, artist statements. Written project proposals. The list goes on.
I don't often mention the things I've applied for - one because the disappointment of rejection isn't quite as big if it's only me and perhaps a friend or two who know what I'm up to. So far this year I've struck out on every application! Will that stop me from trying again? Probably not! I've never gotten a show, project or residency that I didn't apply for!
Next week I will find out if I was accepted into a paint-out. I'm only semi-hopeful but really wanted to try. They are allowing not just painters but also said "illustrators, digital artists, ceramic artists, fabric artists – all are welcome!" I've never done a live paint-out and would love to participate! I don't know if lack of experience and using "other" media will work against me. But there was only one way to find out!
I'm also applying for another public art project. I've done a similar one so I feel a bit more confident about it but, again, who knows if they'll like my design, my background or even if they'll be in a bad mood because of someone named Lynne and I'll take the brunt of it. (I often joke when I've judged art competitions that the results are only for that moment in time. Another day, different weather, another mood, hunger or even my underwear not fitting right...ANYTHING can influence a decision!)
I wanted to be more transparent about my art life. Just showing off pretty pictures and telling you all the rosy stuff isn't exactly accurate! (Although, please, enjoy the cute little hedgehog below! Because hedgehogs are adorable!!!) I'll let you know in future newsletters how these (and other) opportunities pan out.
With love from your randomly creative artist friend,
Lynne
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