Working the Net - A Visualization Process

Rather than getting continually flustered, frustrated and overwhelmed in my quest to learn how to effectively network and market online, I decided to visualize a new approach. A more relaxed and productive one- technically and mentally speaking. Using personal images from a past trip and 4 unsuspecting bracelets, I shall illustrate:

Stone Pathway from Chinese Garden in Portland, OR

In my effort to grow and market my work, I want to better comprehend the networking and marketing possibilities that are out there. I just don't want to feel shattered or crack-up in the process- again mentally and technically speaking.
So what steps do I take...besides patience?

Zebra Black/White 4 pc Eclectic Bangle set

I keep an mind open. Purge outdated thoughts and attitudes with more productive ones. Get more mental RAM as a result! Continue to seek, research, read, apply and utilize the vast online, and APPROPRIATE resources that are available. Allow for and enjoy the learning curve. Networking and marketing decisions are not always easy nor are they always black and white. There are factors to take in consideration. For instance, these wonderful bracelets come in an array of colors, styles and textures.

Japanese Garden in Portland, Oregon

So..with this new visualization and attitude, I see myself, online networking and online marketing start to flow and flourish, naturally. May my art and business follow. I love seeing green again.

Those who can... do. Those who can't ...learn.

I recently spent two afternoon sessions with Jason Loper, a Chicago handbag designer and owner of ZolaJonesDesigns, to help me understand and execute some tricks and shortcuts to setting up my blog. It was extremely helpful. Technically speaking, of course. The process is actually fun when you have a great and experienced teacher. Thai food and sweets help!

Ta Da. Namaste. Hallelujah. A visual of one of my Good Luck hand painted Buddha boxes.
I must admit I am growing more confident and comfortable with all of this. Two four letter words that I definitely like to use now with more frequency are blog and edit. I have a lot of new work to photograph and upload to both my website and blog. In the meantime, get a peek of my new wood bangles at his store. So... get ready and fasten your seatbelts.... there's more to come.

O.K. Jason actually loaded the graphics this time. And the seatbelt is from one of his handbags. But I watched and took notes. As the saying goes, when the student is ready, the teacher appears. All you have to do is ask.

The No Artist Left Behind Act

Technically Speaking......

I started 2009 with a goal and a Blast Off. Actually, many goals but one that really needs to be met...SOON! TECHNICALLY SPEAKING @#*!?#, I am not good. And because of that, my lack of skill and knowledge is impeding the growth of my online presence. It was no truer that a few minutes ago. I accidentally deleted my first blog entry going through and deleting the drafts. Scream.

The title, To be a Functional Artist ...and the decision whether to continue was about my coming off the 2008 One of a Kind Show Chicago. This was my second year doing a show of this magnitude and quality. I had been an Emerging Artist in 2007. I was wiped out from the show on every level but what better time to write when the emotions are raw. I was really questioning and doubting whether I wanted to, or could, continue creating functional art and do everything it takes to make it grow. How bad do I really want this? With the looming recession and not making my all my expenses this time, I was disappointed and somewhat discouraged. Breathe.

The artist lifestyle is HARD work, long hours, lots of sacrifice, not much money- at least in the beginning. But it can be fun, rewarding and very fulfilling. I spoke of the beautiful, passionate, and talented artists I had met (my new heroes); the overwhelming respect, awe and inspiration I felt being surrounded by them and by the incredible art they produced. I listened and spoke to artists who could not pay their bills, had their utilities turned off, had not sold anything the entire show. They offered words of encouragement, and insight with regard to booth layout and design, respecting the process, that it takes time to really grow. Anyway, it was really good and it ended with an astounding YES!! I will continue to paint, create, grow, learn and market my art. The riches I took away were not in my checking account this year, but instead with the people, the experience and artists I met.

Now that you are caught up and I'm not crying anymore, I will begin No Artist Left Behind... technically speaking. Because technically speaking, no artist or any business can afford to not understand, be up to date, literate, skillful, and technically adept in this day and age. It is necessary and I do not want to be left behind. That is one of my goals for 2009- to have greater vision, motivation, organization, and promotion, remove blocks and have confidence to grow my art. Grow from part time to full time.

So how am going to do this? Well, first, I signed up for Alyson Stanfield's Blast Off online class at artbizcoach.com. Technically speaking, I would create a direct link to her site but don't want to take any chances...The course assignments are all online, provides you with online insight and marketing tools and venues, you post comments and are accountable. Technically speaking, how perfect is that? I am in Day 6 of the course and so far so great.

I am a little embarrassed about what happened. But just think, pretty soon, in the not too distant future, you will see beautiful and fun pictures of my work and others, links to other people's websites (ARTISTS! and retailers) and maybe a few technically speaking #@@?!$. O.K. I am going to post this. Who's laughing know?
Please let it be me.
Thanks for reading!