More thoughts on being an Artist

In the previous post, I was pondering over what it means to be an artist and ended my thoughts with practical steps to take you from being "an artist in your own mind" to becoming an actual artist, a practicing artist.  A day or two after writing that post, it was "open studio" week-end, where, referring to a guide, you can hop from artist studio to artist studio in your local area, and further beyond, if you wish.  I think my writing gave me impetus to get out and visit a couple of real artists....  Then, yesterday, at a track meet,  I ran into a parent who is also a painter.  And now I may be begin to contradict my previous statements.

Actually, the artists I met in their studios were indeed practicing artists, and thus fit into my definition of what it means to be an artist.  Seeing their work and their enthusiasm, I also learned first hand a other bit of advice to give myself and anyone else who is as excited about receiving my advice as I am.


And here it is: interact with other artists.   This goes against my inner hermit nature, but I can tell it's good medicine.  So, in addition to finding subject matter, choosing a medium, getting the necessary supplies, and finding a market or outlet where you can eventually show your work,  I neglected to include seeking human contact with other artists. 


I joke not when I refer to my inner hermit nature.   I am happy when I am alone in my cave.   But a part of my brain knows that getting out in the sun for a little vitamin D and human interaction is also good.  And I have a wife who sometimes gives me a shove.


Here is what I re-learned.  There are artist leagues in my area. Their members meet and have group shows to display their work.   My wife has tried to nudge me toward them in the past.   But I had other things to do, and my cave was too cosy.   So I won't mention this again until I've joined one in September.... But the advantages seem to be many, including additional opportunities to show, motivation and inspiration from others. But I said I wouldn't mention this again, so there.


I met this parent at the track meet.  I didn't know he was an artist until I ran into him at a show we were both in a few years ago. You should see his paintings.   Anyway, he hasn't been painting for awhile.   What with son in baseball, daughter in track and everything else that comes flying at you in life.   He said he likes to think of himself as in a germinating phase.   Here's where I contradict my previous posting.   I consider him an artist.   Who knows if he'll ever return to the canvas.  I think he will.   But
I consider him an artist.  
You should see his paintings.    
I believe there is some truth to what I say, but nothing holds fast.  


There are no rules in Art.  

See David's artwork at goodrichink.com