Thursday, August 27, 2009

some major changes

The White Dress #5 (sold)

I've thrown my hands in the air. Working as a full-time artist is no longer feasible. I've given everything to my art, and there's nothing left. The painting will continue, but at a much slower rate. At moments like this, it makes me seriously question my talent, and even my sanity.

I'm once again filling out job applications and sending out resume's. I won't let the electricity get shut off, or the kitties go hungry. There's no way to raise the funds to attend those festivals I'm just dying to participate in this year. Nope. It's time to put this art thing aside for a bit, and focus my energy on a steady paycheck. When I get back on top of my finances, I'll try once again. In the meantime, I won't be accepting any more commissions (sorry for those on the wait list). Any extra time will go to my own work.


It's such a shame that the living artists in our society are not supported better and valued. We don't get unemployment benefits and most can't afford healthcare. When you factor in the hours spent creating and promoting, most artists earn much less than minimum wage. Art is the first thing cut out of school budgets, yet artists produce the most cherished objects in a society's
history.

A new mini (4x4") painting, available for purchase:

5 comments:

shinenlite said...

So sorry to hear that things are so tight again that you have to put your painting second to earning a living. You are so good and should be able to do both at the same time. You deserve it.
I will pray for Jeff to find something he loves that pays BIG BUCKS so you can get on with your love of painting.
xoxox
"mom"

Joanne Licsko said...

Marni,
Taking a job will alleviate much of the stress, and you will come back to your painting stronger, with fresh insight.
In you last paragraph, you spoke for all of us. Well said!

Staceyg said...

Marni! I'm so sorry to hear that you're being put into a position to put a hold on what you love so much, and are so very talented at! Please don't ever second guess your abilities, darlin'! You're amazing and your artwork definately reflects that!
Best of luck on whatever path you choose, and the Irishman and I will always be thinkin' the good thoughts for ya!

Miss ya!

Stacey

Rainey J. Dillon said...

Hi there. I understand exactly where you'r e coming from,,,been there! Don't fret pet it'll ALWAYS be within you . Just give yourelf time to get the boring neccessities sorted & come back with an 'Artful Vengeance' full of gusto & ideas that will build up in your minds eye whilst you rest your brushes & who knows all this may make your art even more OF YOU

Hugs & hope you'll drop by
Rainey

Jen Beaudet said...

I just found your artwork on etsy and thought I would check out your blog. As another artist in a similar situation, I feel your pain and am so sorry about you having to stop painting as much. You are so talented and don't ever doubt that! I have another job and dream about the day I can paint as my career but it hasn't happened yet and I'm not going to hold my breath. Your thoughts about art and how it's not valued and appreciated is so right on. It's not right and I hope it will change someday. Good luck with everything.Jennifer:)