An Artist's Midyear Checkup

Now that the second half of the year is underway, July is a great time to review, examine and amend this artist's schedule.

I use a three pronged approach that addresses creative, business and personal aspects of living an artful life. Remember, artists are compelled to do what we do. Questions in each of these areas helps keep the balance. Am I carving out enough creative time to explore, experiment and evolve in my art? Is the business of art taking over? What is my inventory status? Do I have enough down time and family time to keep me grounded? What about social media?

Let's take a look at each aspect of an artist's life.

By nature, we are inquisitive and creative. We can always entertain ourselves with new and fun things to do in the studio or out in the field. Midyear I look at the landscape paintings I have completed and those that are hanging around unfinished. Did I meet the goals that were set at the beginning of the year? For me, I sought to revisit subjects that I had enjoyed a couple of years ago. I also decided to pull back a bit and relax, let the year flow untethered.

In addition, I take a look at my exhibit schedule. This sounds like business. However, the fruits of my creative labor should be out for the world to see and enjoy, not simply hanging in my studio space. Art has the ability to communicate using a universal language that needs no translation. I choose a positive viewpoint and wish to uplift those who see my paintings. I also hope they will raise awareness for the fragile beauty that surrounds us and give pause for reflection on our interactions with the natural world. Yes, I am a tree hugger.

Next is a review of the business of art including sales, engagement with patrons and the public, as well as memberships. Is my personal involvement in the art community enough? Too much? How many entities have asked for a painting to be donated? At this time I reassess my price structure based on available inventory. Can that inventory be marketed further in a unique way? I look at my exhibit schedule again to see if the basics I penciled in at the beginning of the year are still viable. Sometimes a show can be postponed or the logistics become unmanageable. After all, there are only so many hours in a day and artists cannot bank hours to then spend during the unbelievably busy months of September and October. Then there is engagement through my monthly newsletter. Have I received responses from those who follow my art? Should I change anything about the content or style of my announcements. I also engage with social media while trying to keep it at arms length. I am not an influencer nor do I wish to ever be one.

And, this brings me to the last but most important facet of living an artful life. Am I allowing myself enough time to relax, recharge and simply enjoy living? There are so many 'shiny pennies' out there. And FOMO can do a number on us if not careful. Sometimes, mental blinders are best. For me, family comes first, always. Socializing with friends, too. One of my personal favorite activities is swimming. It seems to clear my head and reduce stress. Then I can sleep better. I love reading and recently have returned to knitting, another meditative activity. Getting out of the house is important for me because I work from my studio at home. A simple change of scenery can be like turning to a brand new page and starting fresh.

Thank you for reading thoughts about art on this very hot midyear month.