I have been fighting the dilemma of being "creative" and functioning in the "real" world since I have been 19. Mistakes and lessons learned the easy way and the hard way. I feel I have a lot to share from the trenches in this struggle. And the struggle is not over either. It would have been really nice to have had this (deviantArt) kind of outlet/connection along the way and is great that it does and can exist now. I might have been a better mother and a more accomplished artists. Instead, I was not part of the 'artist' community because I had children and I was not part of mother's groups because the kids were not my only focus. Add my "professional" day job (before I made my decision for the arts), well you see where this is going. and such was life and such is life.

More like what is the key for being noticed as a serious artist?

How does one get INTO the mainstream art world? does one want to?

How do you approach galleries to show your work? Particularly, those galleries beyond your home city.

Do you go to them or do they come to you?

How do you make connections?

Do they teach this stuff at your art school or college?

As a self proclaimed independent artist, I had many art classes, but no degree. I never understood the in and outs of the "art world". I'm into the painting aspect of the art, not so much the business aspect. However, I realized I cannot count on anyone to help with the Business so I have to do it myself as well. This is not really a problem, but I would really rather be painting.

Most HATED quote from this past weekend: "oh you sold a painting, I guess we could to think of you as an artist now." This wouldn't be as bad, Had I not been painting for over 20 years AND had the 2 paintings not sold over 6 months ago AND I told this person as soon as it happened."

I am serious artist. How do I tell the world? Why do I need to? How do we make them look?

Houseparty this weekend Sunday, November 8th.

If you get the opportunity to check out this wonderful film, do so. It is for artists, by artists and those that support them. Particularly about having you and your art taken seriously and worthy.

"Who Does She Think She Is?" a film by Pamela Tanner Boll

[link]

Well, well, well. Life is a roller coaster. But I keep getting back in line for the next ride.

Another day show behind me. Another sale in my pocket. Not bad and truthfully quite exciting didn't think it could happen.

And now another step to solidify for me that "yes, I am an artist". I'm in discussions for some studio space. The last time I tried to do something it just didn't work out at all. I about gave up on the idea altogether. But this time, it looks like it is going to happen. The space is within walking distance from home so that is a big plus. Better yet though is that I'm able to barter for rent. I can use my other skills to contribute to the cause/building/space/ community and rent is adjusted. The rates are a steal to begin with. But still, since I have more time than money this is a no-brainer.

Being able to paint in my home studio is still going to be primary. However, I have had a couple of projects on ice because of space concerns. This should help take care of that and bring those projects to a close. We'll see how it goes. 6 month lease can't be that bad, can it?

Here's to the old romantic notion of creating in an old warehouse loft ~wine glass lifted~

Peace to All

How do artists deal with them? What I am asking about is the requests for donations of your artwork (painting in this case)for you to donate towards their cause; Either for an auction or for you to donate the sales that come from it. Since the last (and first in six years) art show, which amounted to ONE sale, I have been asked THREE times for such a donation and not even to causes I'm passionate about and where others would not even know my positions.

I've not been in such a situation before. I don't even know how I feel about it. Ok maybe a little. I think that some artists themselves are in NEED of donations. (I'm lucky enough to have a patron aka spouse)

Do these donations make sense? You know, like, get your name out into the greater community. Advertisement. Or just plain karma.

any thoughts on the subject? strategies for dealing in these situations?