I mean....Seriously.....

"If you want to work on your art, work on your life." Chekov

It's time to take the business of my art of seriously. I feel and have felt like I am losing credibility with myself, family and probably others since January 1. I think the word "hobby," which is seriously not bad and "presently" true for me, really did a number on my head. Having just written this, I know so. I genuinely want to put the FUN back in the functional art I create.

I have stymied updates to my website, Facebook, esty, blog, marketing to brick & mortar stores...you name it. I need new photographs professionally shot for posting, shows and marketing. I do have a show coming up in October (and hopefully more) and a nice order due.

I have literally had a blocking, or tightening sensation in my throat because I have been creating less. It happens from time to time. Seriously. If you know chakras, this area, or fifth chakra, reflects the energy of self-expression. Believe it and listen when your any part of your body tries to tell you something or needs to be released. Verbally, physically, emotionally, ARTISTICALLY...

I haven't been ALL that serious because I still laugh, smile and maintain perspective between chokes. I've have been taking Chekov's advice and working on my life- new job and social life. That is what summer is about. Summer, like life, can be too short.

With my fifth chakra officially now open, I declare myself beginning anew,"UP" and ready to get down to business - making and marketing art. Unleash new ideas. Move on to NEW blog themes. Reconnect and recommit to my Muse. Have new pictures to show. Seriously.

"The stringent requirement of a sustained creative life is the humility
to start again, to begin anew. It is this willingness to once more be a beginner
that distinguishes a creative career."
Julia Cameron, The Artist's Way

Getting in the Game

The waiting is over. My colorful mind is no longer spinning in circles. I will now share my new beginnings.

"Blue Orbit" Box
Acrylic and texture paint, wood

• I am soon leaving my current job surrounded by lots of art and challenging clientele for a new location within the same industry-hospitality. I don't have to take on a third job that I don't want so I can continue making art.
  

• I am also going to be a contributing writer/blogger for artsavvy.com
  

• I now have a brand new laptop computer!! No longer will I feel like the artist left behind because of my outdated software and technological handicaps. No more excuses. No more holding back.

• I am dedicating more of myself to creating and marketing my art.
  

*********

Alright, so what exactly changed? Where did this new fire, or agni in Sanskrit, in my belly come? Was it:

• Watching the Olympics? Seeing and hearing about the athlete's hours, months and years of training, sacrifice, attitude, visualization techniques? The medal ceremonies?
  

• Watching and listening to the Oscars last weekend and hearing two winners accept their Academy awards:

Mo'nique was asked if she ever envisioned herself winning an Academy award and

her response was a resounding YES! "Why get in the game if you don't imagine it?"
and

Peter Doctor's acceptance speech for the movie "UP" on the inherent value
and importance of being creative and making art: "It's not a waste of time."

• Getting my taxes done and knowing going in that these past 3 years were not my best, that I was closing in on my window to show a profit like I had before or otherwise risk being classified as "hobby."
  

The envelope and answer please: ALL OF THE ABOVE.
I believe the fire in my belly just needed to be fanned some more. It's game time. Whatever it takes......

I will be the artist formerly known as hobby.