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.
