I’ve said it before, and I’ll keep on saying it.
because it works!
And it is quite simple.
First a question for you:
Do you want to take your art to the next level?
Yes!
- if not - you wouldn´t be reading this, would you?!
When you want to and feel ready to move forward with your art, there are many things you can do - but I want to suggest one simple thing first.
The most important of them all.
It’s completely free and very straightforward:
Spend at least ten minutes on your art every SINGLE day.
Perhaps you’re thinking: Ten minutes... What difference is that going to make?
I promise you that it will make all the difference.
Because you’ve got started.
You’re keeping the kettle boiling.
And in just ten minutes, you can (when you do it every day) actually achieve a great deal.
But, you may be thinking: I can’t manage to paint very much in that time.
And no, you probably can’t.
But when you’re ready to move forward with your art, there are so many other tasks to be done than just "making the art".
Let me give you some examples:
★ You can keep yourself up to date about what’s happening in the art world, both internationally, nationally and locally.
- It doesn’t take more than ten minutes to read an article or two about art.
★ You can receive some training online, absorb artistic impressions, let yourself be inspired and coached by other artists and their or your own art.
- It doesn’t take more than ten minutes to watch some, or all of a training video and keep up your contact with other like-minded artists.
★ You can check to see if you have all the materials you need next time you have time for a few hours at the easel.
It doesn’t take more than ten minutes to check for and order the materials online from home.
★ You can direct your attention to places to exhibit – for example, art associations you would like to showcase your work through.
- It doesn’t take more than ten minutes to send an email out to five different art associations or galleries.
★ You can answer emails from art associations, customers and other interested parties that have written to you about your art.
- It doesn’t take more than ten minutes to send out some friendly and professional replies.
★ You can give a painting varnish.
It doesn’t take more than ten minutes to find the varnish - and varnish you painting.
★ You can update your Facebook, Instagram or maybe your website.
It doesn’t take more than ten minutes to post a picture and write a short text about it.
★ You can frame a paper work.
- It does not take more than ten minutes to frame most pictures.
★ You can work on a sketch - or make 30 quick ones (it's always a great idea to have your sketchbook with you everywhere).
It doesn’t take more than ten minutes and you can even drink a cup of coffee at your favorite cafe while doing it...
You get the idea!
As you can see, there are plenty of things that you can do to keep your artistic practice up and running – even during periods where you don’t have time to produce any art.
You HAVE to prioritise this.
I know from experience that this is exactly what makes a big difference.
It was exactly the choice I made, many years ago with a busy life with small children and a full-time job, next to my love of art.
- And here on my website, you can see where that choice has taken me.
It was right there and then - I began to take myself seriously as an artist.
And it is the exact same way - right here and now - you will begin to take yourself seriously as an artist.
The moment you decide to prioritise yourself and your art.
Every day.
And if you miss a day?
Then never mind; it’s just a matter of getting back in the saddle the following day.
Love, Anne
Anne´s International School of Art
My dog Alfred helping me check if I have all the materials I need.
