©2009 Emily Clarke, Showing a Little Leg. Oil on masonite, 24 x 36 inches.
It’s easy to get caught up in the tsunami of advice, marketing tools, and social media messages. Take time to remember what is most important.
It’s the annual Memorial Day post – a few days in advance. Slow down and make sure you’re on track with these reminders.
Remember that you can’t do it all. You can only take one step at a time. Don’t punish yourself for something you should have done a long time ago. Just look forward and know you’re doing the best you can.
Remember to be consistent. Your success will be the result of the habits and routines you put in place for your studio and marketing time. This is our focus in the Blast Off class launching 1 week from today.
Remember that it’s about the art. Without the art, you are not an artist.
Remember to get out of the studio. It’s important for artists to be part of the world and the larger community of artists. Your art is nourished by your daily encounters.
Remember to listen. Your art, your blog posts, and your marketing will benefit from a good ear. Hear what people have to say before you speak over their voice or object to their words.
Remember your manners. It’s too easy to send a terse email without a signature. And it’s inconsiderate to overlook that thank-you note because you’re “too busy.” Show your professionalism by expressing abundant appreciation and gratitude.
Remember those who are struggling. Help an artist at the beginning of her career by showing her how to set up a page on Facebook or inviting her to your art association meeting. On a different note, don’t forget all of the people who have been affected by natural disasters recently and help if you’re in a position to do so.
Remember to persevere. Your successful art career won’t be built in months, but will take years. Prepare yourself for the long haul.
What do you need to be reminded of?
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Definitely a set of great reminders. Especially like the first point about not being able to do it all. I think for those of us starting out…with all the resources and to do’s …the long path ahead… it might seem like we are so far behind that it is futile! Have to remember it’s one step at a time.
Linda: It’s easy to feel that way. All you can do is persevere and do your best. You have to start somewhere.
awesome tips. thank you so much for sharing. exactly what i needed to read today!
~ lisa
Happy to hear that, Lisa!
I frequently need to be reminded that I can’t do it all. A side-shoot of this is that I need to be reminded to stop putting my hand up and volunteering!
I like to remember to keep track of my deadlines and to keep in contact with other artists. I started a group of artists and we meet once a month to critique each others’ art and encourage each other. Sometimes it seems like too long to be out of my studio but it is always worth it to remember that I am not alone.
It is hugely important to say “Thank You!” – I have heard a major collector speak fondly of an artist who took the time to send her a thank you note (and small artwork on paper) after the collector hosted a reception for the artist at her home. This was so exceptional that she tells everyone that she shows that piece to.
It means the world to someone to hear “thank you” or to be told how great a job they did, especially if they did that task voluntarily.
Caroline: Yes, you must stop volunteering. I gave a good friend a notepad with the saying “Please save me from volunteering again.”
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Alyson, what a fantastic set of reminders. I need them!! I need to be reminded to keep in touch with others. I am NOT an island.
And, as usual, your timing is impeccable.
Thank you!!
Love hearing that. Thanks, Tracy!
Alyson,
Thank you for this post!
Your advice has a remarkable overlap to four personal axioms:
• Art is foremost. I need to put in the work and make the best art I can.
• People are people. Collectors, gallery owners, curators – they’re all people who appreciate respect and personal connection.
• All of my marketing efforts should show off my artwork in its best possible light, and associate value with it.
• Some things are not worth my time. (It’s okay to say “No” sometimes.)
Wonderful list, Brennen. How do you use this? Just memorize it? Do you post it somewhere?
Alyson – Re: four personal axioms
I have them printed and taped inside my sketchbook.
Thanks for these reminders. Helps me to see that “one step at a time” is my friend!
Yes! We did that on day 1 of the workshop, which you were unable to attend. I made people repeat that first statement: I can’t do it all.
I agree with Tracy….as usual, your timing is impeccable!
Thank you so much for all you do Alyson!
Linda: I love it when the stars align and you get the right message at that time. I feel that way about some of the newsletters in my inbox.
Very timely post for heading into the long weekend. What do I need to remember most…GET OUT OF THE STUDIO. I work a full-time job at the moment and I feel like I have to take every moment and be inside, creating. Your post reminds me that I need to take some time off, socialize and re-charge my batteries. Thanks!
Mary-Michael: It’s hard to work, work more, and then socialize. But it’s good for you.
And, hey, I have a cousin (1st cuz once removed) named Mary-Michael.
I’ve been trying to organize and prioritize. Your reminders that come in the email are always appreciated. Thanks!
Becky: How do you do that. Just take time out?
Thanks as always for your wonderful insights!
Jennifer: I love seeing your smiling face here. I love seeing it even more at Noa Noa over coffee.
Thank you Alyson. Lovely words.