Hello, hello! What a wonderful site, I look forward to learning from everyone and sharing what I've learned over the years as well. I've been incredibly fortunate and thank-FULL to have supported my family for the past 22 years as a professional artist/freelance illustrator.http://www.freelanceillustrations.com
But the time has come to be out among real people, I've felt like a shut-in after so many years working in my home studio. This summer I began traveling and camping my way around Lake Michigan doing Plein Aire paintings-I'm in LOVE! It's been thrilling to find an aspect of making art that's so invigorating and inspiring for me after so many years of making art for a living .
Now begins the process of finding the right shows to sell my paintings. I think this site will be the key. From what I can tell everyone seems very friendly and willing to share information. One of my favorite things about doing art shows-is meeting the other artists and learning what they're passionate about. I look forward to being part of this community.
In-joy
Lynda
Replies
Hello, Lynda, and welcome. Sounds like you are about to embark on a new chapter in your life. It will be hard work, but very exciting. Have you started working on a show schedule for 2011 Yet? I'm sure you will have many question as you move through this year. Feel free to post your questions any time you need help. You will find the people here are very willing to help you.
Jacki B
Hi Connie & Jackie,
This decision does feel like a bold step, but it feels like the right step. I just applied for my first outdoor show-the Krasl Art Fair in St. Joseph. I spent several daze painting and camping there last summer and it was the most peaceful, blissful, rejuvenating time I remember carving out for myself since becoming as a perfect circle to apply to that show in particular to start. I hope I'm accepted. I love SW Michigan and would love to live there someday.
I'm looking for a few more shows for instance the Custer St. Fair in Evanston the weekend of June 18-19. Any firsthand knowledge of that show? I'm concerend about over committing and not having enough work to sell . Becasue this will be my first season selling my oil paintings I don't have any way to guestimate. Any tips? Suggestions?
Sincerely,
Lynda
Welcome, Linda. Your background is similar to many of us in this business, a lifelong interest in the arts and earning our livings at various areas of the arts. Living in Michigan you are going to find a multitude of shows, plenty to keep you very busy and maybe I'll even meet you at a show.
This is an invigorating business, it takes strength, good health, courage, persistence and talent. I look forward to your being an active member of this community. You might join the "painters" group on this site to find even more like-minded people.