For as long as I can remember, art has been a strong influence in my life. It has been an escape from the daily rush of life and an outlet for me to let go of tension. There were times in my life when my art has taken a backseat to other obligations, but has always been there when I needed it to express myself without words. There is truly something magical that happens when the pencil touches the paper or that first brushstroke is placed upon the canvas. My entire world is transformed for that brief moment in time, when I become part of the masterpiece in mind, body and soul.
From a marketing standpoint, I've never given much thought to pursuing art as a career. So many artists simply cannot make a decent living especially in times like these where buyers tend to stray from the larger, more expensive pieces. Oftentimes, buyers sway toward the less costly works of art that do not enable the artist to make much profit. Graphic and commercial artists seem to be the most successful in recent times, mostly due to growing computer influence but to me, that is not having creative control. Fine art (painting, drawing, sculpture and ceramics) enables me to capture the essence of the subject without having to use a computer to manipulate and transform the piece.
For obvious reasons, attending a fine arts school to further my artistic goals is an option that I've been considering, yet it still does not guarantee that I will be able to land a position after graduation. Then not only would I still be forced to work in an unrelated field to pay my bills, I would also be stuck with student loan debt like so many other artists I know. I am aware that sometimes you have to take risks to get what you truly desire, but for now, that is a leap of faith that I am not yet ready to take. So for now, to sooth my yearning artist soul (and put a little extra cash in my pocket), I have decided to take another avenue. My plan for the moment is simply this: to make art. It doesn't matter where or how I do it, but it simply must be done! With a little creativity and planning, perhaps marketing my work will not be as difficult as it seems. I've already gotten several leads just from word of mouth and advertising locally. Now I've created my own website which has also been very exciting!
My new art studio space is in the midst of a remodel and I can hardly contain my excitement to finally have the room to create! I have a brand new studio table waiting to be put together but until then, my dining room table serves as my space. I am currently working on an acrylic painting for a dear friend of mine, and the creative juices are flowing! I only wish I could spend my entire day doing what I love, instead of working in my unfulfilling job that currently pays my bills. At least for now, I am content in knowing that I am keeping art alive in my life, as it's always been in my heart.
So ladies and gentlemen, keep me in mind for that next piece of artwork you wish to purchase! I can work with you to create a one-of-a-kind, personal piece that truly reflects your personality and taste. I encourage you to give the gift of art to your special someone or to yourself! In the words of Jim Morrison of The Doors, "O great creator of being, grant us one more hour to perform our art and perfect our lives."
