Show and Tell

Its ok to be a show off sometimes

Ok what’s stopping you from posting your art online or entering an art show ? What’s preventing you from bringing your beautiful creation out for the world to see ?

I admit that I can get a bit relaxed with the whole idea-and I have to reflect back to a time when I was full of jitters to display my art in person. I will not suggest it’s easy at first..

Online sites truly lubricated the way for me initially as I didn’t have to physically face any judgement or scrutiny. I’ve always been pleasantly surprised that feedback has always been positive and helpful and well..kind.

In speaking to another mixed media artist recently she helped me tap in to what can be positive about posting one’s work regularly. If you are not in a gallery or participating regularly in shows-it’s an opportunity to be seen !

We may have learned the wait and be discovered by a dealer or gallery owner (the gold standard).. But truly how will anyone see your work if its hiding in a closet in your home?

Its also a way of learning who responds to your art and to what art in particular. This can be invaluable although not scientific (some people are just being nice- but that’s ok too isn’t it?) If you are enjoying what you make-chances are that attraction becomes contagious to your viewers. Another side benefit is that you inform other people in your life about your commitment to making art.

This can also be a way of connecting an image or post to your web page..or an announcement of a sale etc. So even if you don’t participate in a gallery show or art event in public- you have access as do others to your own personal gallery . You are your own curator.

when I post my art it helps me keep a running record of my practise and see my art through a slightly different lens. The likes are a side benefit .. the comments even better -and the knowing people are at least looking-if only for a fleeting moment in time!

last weekend I attended a local artist’s studio tour and it reminded me of the benefits to the artist to share a bit of their process, their working space and their finished art to with those who are interested enough to attend. It’s not only about the sales.

Working in isolation an artist needs a bit of exposure and feedback to fuel creativity.

Following other artists online and commenting on their art also helps us all grow. Also if you new to or are not familiar with social media - liking other artists work and putting hashtags in your description encourages others to take a look . This is not a plug for more social media time - and I continue to promote “ non aimless scrolling” . Your art belongs on any of the platforms available now -equally to those artists you might admire.

Most of what you post should be art focused if that is your mission. although I have a photo of Gracie my hound above in a tongue out pose-90% of my posts are art related.

Energizing oneself by participating in a show, a tour, a sale -and even stepping out of your comfort zone can benefit hugely. For myself -I often am motivated by simply knowing I can post a photo of something new I’m working on. It becomes cyclic in that. I make to show.. show to make.

There are ways of sharing online too…Maybe you can film yourself painting or sketching - this is so much more easier to accomplish than in the past! (You only need your phone! )Perhaps you can show off your materials, your working space (even if it’s a table!)- your audience is interested in who you are as an artist! you can even dive into that closet and photograph your older gems - posting something from your past artist self might kick start your desire to make more again!

If a website seems too daunting then “online “can mean having your own Substack newsletter space too.. This is definitely a platform where creatives gather ! If you used to be a blogger then this should offer the same benefits -an ability to share your thoughts, process and images you find pleasing or that relate to your work. (I’m not plugging this platform either..but I do enjoy it!)

You may discover the simple act of posting brings rewards. It need not be about numbers of likes or followers but simply about showing your art to the world .

As usual..I welcome your responses and thoughts!