I’ve committed to some personal challenges this year. Last year I focused a lot of my time into making art for my solo exhibit. Now that that is behind me, I’m trying to make-up for some of the time I spent doing studio work. Its a good to spend time in the studio. However, now I have all this art in my possession, I need to get it out in the public and hopefully purchased.

This is the business side of making art, it is an entirely different skill set. Since the start of January (today is the 9th day), I have placed a collection of art work for sale into the hands of a local gallery. Two pieces were entered into consideration for an upcoming show. Five pieces were sent to the Fayetteville (NC) Arts Council for use in their exhibit opening January 25th. Three more are waiting on me to complete the finishing touches to submit to another call for entry with a deadline at the end of the month.

Its a little mind boggling to think that I have so many pieces of work, but that’s my outcome of 2018. Last year,  I dedicated the time to create. I’m still kind of struggling to get back into the swing of studio time, but I need to allow myself time to re-focus. The business stuff needs to get done too.

Being a professional artist is an ebb and flow of focus. You always have to keep an eye on short- AND long-range plans. You also have to keep your mind on the business at the same time you’re creating. Its a switch of left and right brain thinking. I feel a little awkward at times, like I’m on training wheels learning to ride a bike. There are always plenty of sudden starts and stops and collisions. However, each morning I remember that it is a new day. I have the opportunity to pick-up where I left off and start fresh with new vigor. Today is always a good day.