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Is My Art Influenced By What Sells Or What My Heart Wants To Paint?

Let's face it, sales in the art industry have seriously fallen off from the good old days. At least that is the case for me. I mean, I am still selling and at times pretty well, but not as frequent as back in 2008. I can't quit the day job because painting is my day job and my night job and my weekend job. Work hard and you will survive. This is my philosophy.

 

Why I am writing this post today though, its in reaction to sales dropping off. I find that I am focusing, not all the time, but at times on what paintings are selling. Back in 2004, I used to paint whatever popped into my head. I really had no direction and my art was selling like hot cakes! I find myself now thinking too much. Should I paint another cat or mermaid? They seem to sell. Then my creativity suffers. I can't force myself to paint something right? But, I have to pay bills. Its such a mental struggle, that I actually find myself fighting with myself. Does anyone else have these feelings? These feeling of doubt and what direction to travel?

 

Right now, the way I am feeling at this moment, is to paint what I WANT! I like to keep it fresh and colorful with no constraints whatsoever. So, go ahead then, do that. But wait, what if it doesn't appeal to my collectors? Who cares just paint what ever is in your head. But I am scared, what if my sales drop this month, do I have to look at getting a real job?? Yikes, what is an artist to do. 

 

Here is a painting that is fresh off my easel and fresh out of my head. I know here on FASO, my artwork really doesn't seem to fit with all of the great fine artists here, but it is a friendly place. FASO has always treated me like a princess. Anywho, back to the painting. I love it. I think its da bomb. I will hang it in my bathroom if nobody else likes it......

Thank you for listening and feel free to comment. 



Comments

4 Responses to Is My Art Influenced By What Sells Or What My Heart Wants To Paint?

Hi Tracey,
Your art is "da bomb".
I feel your fear about paying the bills and trying too hard to make what the buyers may want.
This is what I have come to the conclusion about all that..
My inspired moment is what comes to me from the heart. I paint for my enjoyment first. My gift for painting has been given to me for a reason and I should not doubt it. The bills will get paid..God will see to that.
Keep painting with the joy you do.
Love, Deb

Thanks Deb. You are so right.....I thank you for taking the time to post and leave your kind words of encouragement. That's pretty much what I am doing and it seems like the right path for me.
Sending lots of peace, love and creativity your way,
Take care,
Tracey Ann

I loooove your crazees. I am inspired by your marketing skills! I paint profusely, have a studio, and show in a gallery, but don't think I'm techy enough to venture into the online sales. I am now on the board of our struggling local animal rescue and think perhaps we could benefit from some online marketing. I love that you have many different venues, and your format seems to cover all the bases of questions on selling, packing, shipping, and lay away(niiiice idea). Thanks, Sandy

Thank you Sandy. I always appreciate nice comments from fellow artists. Good luck with your adventure into the online world of selling. I wish you much success in your endeavors.....xoxoxo