Post #150262 by beachin on Wed, Mar 30, 2005 6:30 PM

You are all amazing to me! Your comments are really causing me to think about what I do for a living!

As far as selling art, they should teach artists how to sell their art. They focus in college on how to make quality art, but nothing about marketing, demographics, or business techniques. I've checked out a book in the library to beef up on the holes in my education.

Prior to this I was a secretary for 20 years. I supported marketing directors, executives, and CEO's of Fortune 500 companies. Luckily, I watched and learned how the guys I supported conducted business. Unfortunately, none of them were self-employed or small business owners. This is all new to me.

You guys might be my current classroom on how to succeed as a "professional artist" vs a person who makes art. It's truly a different animal. One thing that I have learned tonight, is that I need to be more flexible. Another lesson is that I need to know what I want more: to support myself with my art or to make art just for my taste.

I have to really look closer at what my goals are for my studio. Believe me, you are all causing me to be honest with myself. That is something no instructor has ever done in my years in college. That is a lesson that (I think) is more important than any lesson in light, shading, or workmanship.

I appreciate the investment you are all making! It's a gift that will keep on giving.