A Work in Progress...The Story
I was thinking about Van Gogh today. I've always loved his bold use of color. He sold only one of the 900 paintings he created during his life as an artist. Every time I hear about a painting of his selling for millions, I feel a bit sad, wishing he could have experienced the appreciation his work now has. Artists may be one of the only groups of people who do work for others without pay. Whenever an artist has an exhibit, is invited to participate in a show, or have their work on display at a restaurant or church, they do so without compensation. It is for mutual benefit, of course. The artist gains exposure and the possibility of selling their work and the organization receives free interior decoration. Of course, the difficult part for the artist is that they have to pay for the cost of materials and time. This all sounds like a whine-fest, I realize. But I wanted to be honest about the life of an artist. I often feel torn between being grateful that people want my work on display and wanting to ask for some kind of compensation. It doesn't do much good for my art to sit in stacks here in my home, so I tend to want to get it out there in the public arena in whatever shape that takes. Ah, what a dilemma.
I have had a good year as an artist. For that I am thankful! Now there is a new year of possibility. I have booked two exhibits, am receiving a PLRAC Fellowship Grant to study with another artist and will continue my Painting-A-Day challenge. I thank my husband, kids and you all for your support and encouragement.
I have had a good year as an artist. For that I am thankful! Now there is a new year of possibility. I have booked two exhibits, am receiving a PLRAC Fellowship Grant to study with another artist and will continue my Painting-A-Day challenge. I thank my husband, kids and you all for your support and encouragement.