If an artist desires to find out who they are in the art world, they must find their own voice. They must create the discipline to do the work–the hard work–work that is truly interesting and has longevity, work that is authentic.

Do you have the discipline of being with your artwork whether you feel like it or not? Or do you rush off to the studio only when you have an inspirational moment?

I sometimes see art in the galleries and I say to myself, ‘I can do that.’ Haven’t we all? But it was that one particular artist that placed his/her picture on the gallery wall that had the original inspiration; and if I copied their painting style and technique because it excited me, soon my excitement would wane. Then I would have to visit another art gallery. Don’t get me wrong, many artists have found their voice by learning from another artist–both in style and technique–but if they became notable, they found their own unique voice. Think of Thomas Hart Benton inspiring Jackson Pollock. Their voices were miles apart from each other, yet they were both great artists.

My advise to any inspiring artist willing to take on the discipline of finding their artistic voice is to get your work out there. Do what it takes to be seen. Hang your work in local businesses, coffee houses, libraries, anywhere you can be seen locally. Start there and remember, making it as a working artist takes selling yourself.

For further information about getting yourself exposed in the art world I posted three very valuable tips on a previous blog that might interest you. To go to that specific page, please click on the picture to the right >>>

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I held the drawing for the last give-away on July 16, 2012. I filmed it and sent it to YouTube…watch it…you’ll enjoy it.

To see  the drawing, click on picture>>>