Many people idealize the profession of being an artist. They imagine the artistic lifestyle to be stress-free, romantic and fanciful.  For, how can creating artwork or a thing of beauty be considered work?

Artwork is work
Yes, being an artist is a wonderful lifestyle, but it truly does take a lot of hard work. So, for Monday’s Motivation I thought I’d share a few reasons why artwork IS work…

  • Artists are self-starters. We have learned how to carve out time each day for making our art. That time might be in the middle of the night, in between loads of laundry, during our baby’s nap-time, or after a full day at a 9 to 5 job.
  • As working artists, we understand the entrepreneurial and business aspects of making a living as an artist. We must promote ourselves and our art, maintain positive relationships with galleries and collectors, we must keep our websites and blogs up-to-date, our portfolios and resumes current, and make time for social media and networking, while leave time for managing our income and paying the bills.
  • Artists must stay fit. Creating art is both a mental and physical activity. We stand on our feet for hours, lift heavy frames, and boxes, use dangerous tools and are aware of our surroundings.
  • We must take time to keep our studios organized and clean for a healthy working environment. 
  • Artists must stay focused. This is a skill, and motivation we have learned in order to stay inspired and in the ‘zone’ while the rest of our world tries to distract us.
  • We must remember to unplug and recharge. In order to stay inspired and creative, it is important to make time for down-time with nature, family and supportive friends.

Did I forget something? Let me know if you have any ‘work’ to add to this list…
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*Be sure and check out board on Pinterest!. I’d also love to meet you on my Fine Art Tips Facebook Fan Page, on Twitter, Google Plus, and on Instagram lorimcneeartist. Please checkout my art too LoriMcNee.com and my fine art prints and notecards.  ~Lori
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