Some Musings Upon Launching as an Artist
My regular readers know that I often manage to work a Sci-Fi reference into my columns. Because I’m a Geek.
The title is a line from the film “Contact”, starring Jodie Foster as a woman searching for signs of extra-terrestrial life. Her father shows her how to move a radio dial veeerrry slowly in order to hear the frequencies in-between.
I say this line to myself when patience becomes essential. Life can be like this, with a need to slow down, to tackle the To Do List one item at a time, and to capture additional steps hidden amongst the main ones.
A useful concept when tackling something big – like moving to Asheville as an artist – is to think about the “small moves.” Baby steps, one paint-drip-covered shoe after the other. I fell in love with this area on my first visit years ago, but there was much research to do. My files at home eventually contained a relocation guide from the Chamber, artist, gallery and art group brochures, local resource pamphlets, and copies of all regional publications. I also reached out to locals via the web in order to ask questions about Asheville.
It’s important to learn about the art-related businesses here. As a tourist, I went to every single venue that was open, and immersed myself in this cool mountain town’s mix of art and commerce. One summer I was here for an unexpected extra day that turned out to be during a River Arts District Studio Stroll. It was an amazing, bustling and energetic bonus visit, and by the end of that day I needed more room in my suitcase.
A note about studio-visiting etiquette. I have worked in a few studio and gallery environments the last few years, and it is amazing how many folks don’t look at the art at all, and just walk right up to the artist (who is usually in the middle of working), asking things like “How do I get my work in here?” and then walk right back out. I’m not suggesting that one pretend to look at art they’re not interested in before initiating a conversation, but rather, just chat with artists (and the staff, who are also busy), when one really does appreciate the art. It’s much more genuine, thus allowing true connections to be made.
Another way to learn more about artists is through their websites. Read their statements and blogs, and note their professional affiliations. Many of the questions one might ask may already be carefully answered in writing. And an art association website could be the most appropriate avenue to inquire about membership fees, studio availability and seasonal sales activity.
It’s also important to establish what one is bringing to the party. Are your branding, business and marketing plans set? Do you have a unique identity to share with the world? In your communications, are you providing your business card or e-card to your new contacts? Asheville’s a small town, and these folks could very easily turn out to be your new business associates, studio mates and best allies once you’re here, so it’s important to stay in touch.
Say all these small moves have led to the Big Move. Or, like many, you’re already here. Read everything – and support the advertisers, as many of them are artists, as well as professionals who offer art services. Plus, they are our local friends!
Attend as many events as possible. Take marketing classes and business workshops. Have shows. Support your colleagues. And, most importantly, create your art every day!
A thoughtful progression is a perfect way to consider all potential steps along the way and to stay the course! When one is launching (or re-launching), those Small Moves – where one is detecting new things in the spaces in-between – can really add quality to the journey. I’m wishing you much success – and I look forward to seeing what you do!
If You Go: Illustrations by Greg Vineyard will be on display November 1-30 at True Blue Art Supply, 30 Haywood St., downtown Asheville. Opening reception takes place Friday, November 1, from 6-8 p.m. Free and open to the public.