As an artist, I can say that the only thing better than a
fabulous gallery, is a fabulous gallery at the beach! After dropping off a
bunch of new work at Arts on Douglas Gallery, I stopped and took some time for myself
with a walk with the birds, the breeze and the waves. I got filled up with new
ideas and inspirations from the textures and sounds. I got energized by the
bliss of the kids playing in the water and the patience of the surfers waiting
for the next great ride. I love the ocean. And I am so grateful for the people
at Arts on Douglas.
Being an artist can be so exquisitely blissful. I've always
said, “Any day in the studio is a great day.” But it’s not always easy having a
career as an artist. When you're used to making a nice living with your work
and a “bad economy” hangs on for over 5 years and counting, the ugly face of
doubt starts appearing in the strangest of corners. Galleries are facing the
same problems as artists, yet the rejection letters from them are stinging a
little more than usual. I need to find
new ways to get my work out in the world.
I try to remember the many reasons I admire Georgia O'Keeffe
including that fact that she sold a big commission to Elizabeth Arden (the
cosmetic queen) in the 1930's for $10,000. In 1932, the average salary for a
textile worker was $423! I believe that anything is possible. By definition
that includes complete catastrophe and outright miracles. I’m choosing
miracles. So I'll continue my search for representation in new galleries, I’m
looking forward to the next check in the mail and I will always practice
gratitude for the wonderful things I do have- like the great galleries that I am in and stopping for soft sand.
