SINCE the last time I had the time to sit down and write in this blog, I find myself like many others in self-isolation and practicing social distance from others. Like many other creative people, my livelihood has come to a standstill which many of you are experiencing some of the same things in this moment as well….What to do?
We need to keep ourselves in check, look at options and alternatives for our creativity and source of income in times of crisis. My daily routine now consists of deciding on whether to go to the studio which is closed to the public, or remain within these 4 walls to create something and make alternative plans on how to move my work more online by studying those that already have an online presence and sell online. Looking at competition that have similar product and look at the different ways these individuals have set up shops, and the different ways they try to move their creative products thru online sales and social media.
We are the first to feel the crunch and downward turn to sales online and off. But I think that it is essential that WE, as a creative community can support each other even in small amounts of moral and financial support of our community, patrons and supporters. My main focus until now has to be online through social media to provide an idea of my work process, day to day progress and creating a space for myself that before was not there.
Important is to start to create and grow an online presence whether social media, online store or art network. Whatever stage each of you are, beginning to focus more on the digital world of art is essential to create and produce and experience with new ways of moving your creativity and sharing it within the creative community.
Many of you can be cynical or scared about having your ideas of artistic expression stolen or copied. I use to think like that also….. My frame of mind has changed after I came to certain conclusions and facts about commerce and online presence: There will always be some other maker that is better than you,more successful than you, or sells more than you do. Well, stop comparing yourself to those people that have similar expressions of creativity as yours, Use these creators as inspiration and not competition. We each will move ahead at our own pace, some faster than others. The experiences will be different and what we should take from this is that it is IMPORTANT to share our online/offline experiences with others in order to make the artistic community stronger by sharing info and your experiences…
The ego of the artists, makers and creatives is the first thing that kills creativity. We, as individuals are all different and we need to learn about our limitations and work on them.
Most artists are not good business people. Learn how to hone in on the all around skills and make them better. Learn to be professional online as well as off. The sooner you start, the better and more control you will have over the financial success of your creative endeavors online and off line .
The common law of no loss/no gain rings true especially in a moment as this pandemic. I hope that many of you dwell on the things that I have just written, and consider them when you feel that you are ready to commit. We all have our priorities at the moment, but the creative output online should also become a priority when you have the time to think and research it. ALL at your own pace. Be well and hoping that my next entry will be sooner than you expect….
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