The Three-List System That Helps Artists Stay Focused and Inspired
How do I stay productive as an artist without burning out?
The Three-List Habit That Keeps My Creative Life Sane
As artists, we juggle so much more than people realize. Some days feel like a beautiful flow… and others feel like we’re drowning in all the things we should be doing. For years, I tried to fit everything into one day—create, market, plan, ship, dream, build. And honestly? I burned myself out.
Then something simple shifted everything.
The Tasks We Enjoy
The studio time. The experimenting. The freedom to make a mess and follow an idea just because it feels right. These moments remind us why we’re artists in the first place.
The Tasks We Need to Do
They’re not glamorous, but they keep the engine running: emails, website updates, organizing, shipping, marketing. I may not love these tasks, but I know they matter.
The Tasks That Build the Future
These are the quiet, powerful tasks—applying for opportunities, refining your portfolio, planning ahead, building relationship...
Embracing Our Health Struggles, Inspiring Artists Everywhere
How can artists prioritize their well-being while pursuing their creative passions?
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I wanted to take a moment to share a personal story with all of you. You see, I know firsthand the challenges that many artists face when it comes to living with illnesses, diseases, or other conditions that can impact our ability to create. For me, it's been a 16-year journey of grappling with vertigo – an inner ear malfunction that sends my world into a spin from time to time. It's a condition that comes and goes in seasons, and unfortunately, I find myself in the midst of one of those seasons right now.
The Genie in a Bottle Analogy
In coping with my vertigo, I've developed a unique perspective on my situation. I've come to affectionately call it the "Genie in a Bottle Syndrome." You know, like the genie from the Aladdin tales, except mine isn't granting any wishes. Instead, it barges into my life, disrupting my family time, studio work, and business endeavors. So, I've learned to put that geni...
The Power of Saying No: Empowerment in Your Artistic Journey
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How can I navigate the challenges of balancing opportunities and time commitments in my art career?
I have a confession to make. It's hard for me to say no. I'm naturally a "yes" kind of guy. When someone asks me to do something, I find it difficult to turn them down. But here's the thing: saying yes always comes at the expense of something else. Every time you choose to do something, you're inevitably choosing not to do something else. It's a trade-off we often overlook in the pursuit of artistic growth.
The Growing Artistic Journey: An Influx of Requests
As our art careers flourish and our connections in the art world multiply, we find ourselves being asked to participate in various projects and events. It's both exciting and overwhelming. Opportunities knock at our doors, presenting us with chances to make a difference, to contribute our talents to noble causes. Take, for instance, when a non-profit organization reaches out, requesting a donation of our artwork for their cause...
Studio Time: Finding Your Rhythm as an Artist
How can I determine the ideal amount of time to spend in the studio as an artist?
Have you ever wondered about the ideal number of hours you should spend in the studio each day? When I was an art professor, I used to get asked this question a lot. But let me tell you something: there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this. The key lies in embracing the seasons of your creativity and finding your own unique studio rhythm.
The Myth of Minimum or Optimum Hours
As artists, we often have a burning desire to immerse ourselves in the studio, to lose track of time and let our creativity run wild. However, it's important to recognize that creativity has its own ebb and flow. There are times when we need to dedicate countless hours in preparation for a show, pushing our boundaries and refining our craft. But there are also seasons where stepping away from the studio can bring tremendous growth.
Embracing the Seasons
Let's face it: life as an artist is dynamic, just like the changing seasons....
Embrace Mondays and Release Your Creative Force: A Guide for Artists
How can I stay motivated and focused on my art career?
If you've ever found yourself dreading Mondays, I have a little secret to share with you. Lean in closer—I love Mondays, and let me tell you why.
Carefully Aiming Your Bow
Mondays are like that moment when you carefully align your bow, preparing to take aim at your target. It's the start of a new week, a blank canvas waiting to be filled with your artistic endeavors. So, embrace this day with open arms and an adventurous spirit.
Shooting Arrows at Your Goals
As the week unfolds, it's time to unleash your arrows—one after another—with unwavering determination. Each arrow represents a step toward your dreams, and Mondays give you the opportunity to set your sights on a specific target.
Visualizing Your Goals
Take a moment after the weekend's respite to visualize what you want to achieve during the week. What is your number one goal? What's that one target you must hit? Imagine it clearly, feel the excitement bubbling within yo...