Being a professional fine artist is more than just having fun and goofing off. It means you need to work hard and never give up. Just like any other business owner, you have to keep pushing yourself to improve. Sometimes, you don’t feel like doing the work.
Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
Being in your should Studio is Your Priority: The time and effort you spend creating in your space is the foundation of your art business. Without new artwork, there are nothing to sell, no originals to exhibit, and no growth as an artist. You must make time and effort to create.
Entrepreneurship Isn’t for the Faint of Heart: Running an art business involves more than just creating, it’s about perseverance. There will be moments when you don’t feel like creating art. The question is, will you be led by what you should do, or will you give in to your emotions? Emotions can be tricky and unreliable, so it’s essential to push through, even when motivation is low.
Balance Hard Work with Inspiration: Sometimes, even when you don’t feel inspired, you need to knuckle down and push through. But there are also times when it’s okay to take a break. Taking a nature walk with your sketchpad or just stepping away for a bit can help refresh your mind. Don’t wait too long, but taking an artistic pause can give you a fresh perspective. You’re not an android, and breaks can lead to new ideas and gives you the modifation to create.
Avoid Energy-Draining Activities: Be mindful of tasks that drain your energy but don’t directly contribute to your art. Things like brainstorming SEO keywords, watching too many art videos, or letting time slip away while working from home can derail your productivity. For me, sometimes the simple act of taking a praying, taking a morning walk and getting fully dressed flips a switch and helps me get motivated to work.
Avoid Energy-Draining Vampires:
Try to avoid certain people or groups that could be energy vampires. I have joined art groups before and did not see it at the time, but the result was a series of meetings and gatherings of folks with a different mindset concerning art, the business of art and creativity. They were not serious about art or developing a positive and mutually supportive relationship with other artist. They only wanted others to pour into them, and they often valued time spent in gossip, a negative mindset and a hostile environment. Try to join groups that overall belief in moving forward in a positive manner, not just composed of extreme negativity with a bad work ethic and mindset.
Find the Balance: You’ll need to work hard, but also be flexible. Know when to push through and when to step back for fresh inspiration. Most importantly, make sure that your studio time is not compromised, as it is truly the heartbeat of your art career.
Enjoy Your Artistic Journey
Being an artist is an exciting journey. It comes with lows and highs. The important thing is to keep going. Work hard when you feel inspired, but also take breaks when you need them. Always come back to your special space where the creativity happens. The world is waiting for your art and unique voice.
So, grab your art supplies and let your imagination flow. Create something wonderful that speaks to you. Remember, you can do it! Your journey is amazing, and everyone is excited to see what you’ll make next. Hope you have a creative day!
Resources:
Books:
"The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles" by Steven Pressfield
"Art, Inc.: The Essential Guide for Building Your Career as an Artist" by Lisa Congdon
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