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STEP I:
Artistic Evaluation
Excerpted from
Promoting Art with Integrity
Artists communicate through their art and usually have something
special to say. An artist's self-expression stems from the
subjective matters of taste and personal knowledge and ultimately
opens the creative door to original art that will expand and test
the artist's character and abilities, give the viewer a path into
the artist's psyche, and become the main focus of the promotional
process.
Artistic Creativity
The first objective
is to develop unique artwork of high quality in composition and
technique. Here are three suggestions for achieving this.
Survey colleges and universities
Seek innovative art departments with contemporary on-campus
galleries; take courses from the best art instructors, while
developing future contacts.
Be self-motivating
Work even when you are not inspired; set aside time to be in
your studio even if you do not have a plan (just being among your
unfinished works will lead you in the right direction); act on the
artistic ideas nesting in your brain.
Produce quality art
Attract the viewer with your artistic statement; have
patience while your art matures; refrain from marketing your art
strategies until you develop a distinct style.
Progress Evaluation
The second objective
is to evaluate your progress. Introspection is the key. Most people
are too busy to take time from their daily routines to think about
why they do what they do. The following questions and exercise will
help develop the skills you need to find out who you are, where you
have been, and where you want to go.
Ask questions
What are your artistic methods?
What are your concerns?
Why did you choose your medium?
Are you happy with your current palette?
Can you envision how your art will evolve?
Are your goals realistic and attainable?
Can you take rejection?
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Mom
& Dad - Together Again
2005,
cardboard, 19"x23"x19"
Make notes
Thoughts become clearer when you see them on paper. This
exercise will help find the purpose of your art and assist you in
learning and documenting relevant data about your artistic
techniques and career. Keep a pen and pad, index cards, or scrap
paper in areas you frequent: various rooms in your living quarters,
your car, and your studio.
Devise a sorting system
Use labeled envelopes; there is no limit to the number of
topics you can amass. Jot down your note and then sort it; each
thought will be placed in the appropriate envelope heading.
Suggested envelope headings
Art Process: Themes, Technique, Color, Medium.
Art Exposure: Solo, Invitational, and Juried Exhibits,
Public and Private Collections, Awards.
Biographical: Education, Professional Experiences, Goals,
Volunteerism, Organizational Affiliations.
This sorting exercise will organize your ideas and give you a new
perspective into your past, present, and future. Use these notes
when writing your resume, artist's statement, and preparing to speak
about your art to the public.
Be your most severe critic
Be objective; distinguish between your best and merely
average artwork.
Be unbiased when deciding if your art is worth presenting to the
public.
Consider how each individual piece of art reflects on your total
output;
Be patient and systematic
Be aware of the response generated by your art.
Choose an art market (geographical area)
Gather many points of view
Be curious; research all facets of art.
Visit art galleries and museums.
Read avidly; study art history.
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