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| celebrating 3 years of business! Woo-hoo! |
HIP HIP HURRAY!!!!
As I walked across that stage, back in 2011, college diploma in hand,
I set an intention
to go forward with my dreams of sharing my art, owning an online
boutique and to turn what I do into a service - not to glorify me, but
to glorify Christ.
I remember that day so vividly...I remember feeling my spirit soaring above all expectations, limitations, and discouragement. Creating art was no longer optional- if I was to continue thriving, it was something that MUST be done.
That's why it's so natural/intuitive for me to incorporate inspirational and motivational words or phrases in my artwork.
I LOVE what I do for a living!!!
Every month, I write down a
list of accomplishments. Whenever I feel, even a little discouraged, I whip out that list and read every line (out loud!) to motivate myself and to re-establish my purpose. I went back to visit some of these and re-discovered achievements I'd lost track of...
To name a few:
* I've had over 50+ art exhibitions (mostly solo and a few juried ones)
* 15+ speaking engagements (via demonstrations of my art process, private workshops, elementary and college events, mentoring & tutoring programs, radio, film, and online interviews...)
* Landed my first, commissioned project to
illustrate Sneaky Snakes, my 1st children's book (I loved it! I hope to do more, soon)
* Designed and completed 3 large murals
* Initiated and COMPLETED my very 1st,
30-day illustration challenge AND was approached by a gallery director to have an exhibit, showcasing each one!! (I'm thinking about doing this challenge again, this year...
stay tuned...are you willing to join me, if I do???)
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Needless to say, I am "proud as a peacock" of my many accomplishments and goals!
photo credit: Ariel-Rose Mattive |
So...how did I achieve all of this? I'll share with you my
3 Success Tips:
1 * Accountability is important! I find that it helps to run ideas by my creative tribe and get feedback on my projects. Don't isolate yourself! You'd be surprised just how many people are genuinely curious about what you're doing! Explaining your process could help restructure or clarify your initial idea(s). Try it!
2 * * Establish deeper connections. Embrace the opportunity to develop new friendships with kindred spirits in other career fields than your own. I've made it my priority to know a little bit more about my collectors, fans, and followers of my art.
Great places to start: Online art groups (Facebook, Flickr, Yahoo, etc.), community outreach programs, church events, or simply, get to know your neighbors!
It can be exhilarating when someone proclaims their love and appreciation for what you do and propels you into more opportunities you probably wouldn't have explored. ( Like the time I
assisted in a photoshoot and got to meet the legendary Mr. Harry Belafonte!! Yeah, true story ;) )
3 * * * Continue your learning quest. I'm so thankful to have an abundance of sparkly creative desires! I've learned how to 'sift through' and decide on which projects complement my current focus.
Be curious about the things that interest you; seek out people who you think might help you on your learning quest OR point you in the right direction. Above all, KEEP ASKING QUESTIONS!
I've been following
CreativeLIVE during my career as an artist, designer and photographer. (I use this site, often, to cultivate myself as an entrepreneur to develop and master a wide-range of skill sets.) Their free broadcasts and workshops brings the experts to you, no matter what skill level you may be at. (I recommend this as a great resource (
and no, I'm not getting paid to say this!), if you don't mind taking online workshops, which typically, lasts from 2-3 days.)
Another resource I like to utilize is
smART History:
a multi-media web-book about art. I can't get enough of Art History...
I want you all to know that I'm very grateful for all your comments, well wishes, love, generosity, feedback, etc. you've given me to help make my business what it is today. THANK YOU!! I appreciate y'all sooo much and I'm blessed to have God's favor upon me.
In essence:
"Be
clear about what drives you. Don't succumb to external definitions of
what success is supposed to look like. Rather, dig deep to uncover and
honor what truly fulfills and serves you." ~ quote by Jennifer Lee, artist coach
Go ahead and claim YOUR bragging rights!
What are some of your accomplishments/goals/intentions YOU are most proud of, so far, this year? Share away! I read every comment ;)...
