It was another one of those 'driveway moments' this morning, listening to Scott Simon's story on NPR's Weekend Edition about Denver artist Bob Ragland. Bob has been supporting himself as an artist for over 40 years. His attitude about recessions: "People will spend money no matter how hard times are. People will buy less, but they will buy better."
As you listen to this inspiring four minute story you will find yourself agreeing with Ragland and it will restore your belief in yourself: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=98754589
At the NPR website I found comments by Chicago artist, Joyce Owens, with her reflections on the Ragland story and her own ideas about making a living as an artist: http://monroeanderson.typepad.com/joyce_owens_on_art/
"Tough times never last. Tough people do." Bob Ragland
And, on that note, I came across this article from the Fort Myers News-Press about artist Chuck O'Neal, 77, who I know has been paying his bills a long time with his art. He was one of the first people we met when we started doing art fairs, and it was a pleasure to find he is still at it and doing fine.
Here's the link: http://news-press.com/article/20081227/NEWS0119/812270308
Everyone who makes a comments on this post will be entered into a drawing to receive a fr*e copy of my e-book, "Getting into Art Fairs: 20 Questions Answered". The best response will be the winner. Deadline: midnight December 31. Let us hear from you!
I think artists are like plumbers & electritions..They need to serve the needs of their community. They need to provide a service to their commumity. The trick is to keep your own artistic entegraty while serving their needs....and wants. You have to be adaptable to survive.
I have been doing shows for 40 years & I find my self becoming more diverse...to survive. I do more historic festivals with low entryfees, & better sales with less compitition.
Dave Huebner
This was a great interview with Bob Ragland!! He is right, you just have to go with the flow and adjust to the people. If people really want something they will find a way to get it.... even in hard times.
Here are examples of artists keeping their heads while all those around them are losing theirs. These are scary times but staying focused will help us prevail. Thanks for the reminders and inspiration.
Comments
I have been doing shows for 40 years & I find my self becoming more diverse...to survive. I do more historic festivals with low entryfees, & better sales with less compitition.
Dave Huebner
adela
Joyce Owens