As she wiped away the tears, the artist told me her story. She’d applied for a project that was a perfect match for her work. She had all the right qualifications. She was certain that she’d get it. She even started to make plans for moving forward. But then she wasn’t chosen! It left her stunned, […]
Are You Playing In The Land Of No? Read More »
Is your life’s journey a true expression of your self? Too many people just follow what’s right in front of them, without discernment. They choose what’s easy and available. They don’t realize that we can create our own lives. I think that’s why the public is so fascinated by the lives of artists. We’re
Every Artist Makes This Choice Read More »
One of the first questions I ask aspiring artists is, “What is it that you want?” Invariably the answer has to do with wealth and fame. Heroes named include Damian Hirst and Andy Warhol. And then I sigh, collect myself, and try to explain that when your focus is on wealth and fame you are getting your validation
“But Crista,” the artist asked, “How can I make a living from my art?” “I wanna be wealthy! I wanna live on a beach! I wanna be dripping in jewels! And I want my art to pay for all of it!” Then I reply with something that artist Kiki Smith once told me: “Your art doesn’t exist to support
Is Your Art Making You Wealthy? Read More »
Have you come to a point on your path where you’re considering turning your passion for making into a career as a professional artist? But this is where many artists ask me, “How do I know if I’m ready to work as a professional artist?” I always believe that the answers lie in the questions.
Are You Ready to Become a Professional Artist? Read More »
Investing time and money into a course for artists is a great way to build your knowledge, expand your skill set, and develop confidence. And artist masterclasses, courses and programs are invaluable to artists at all stages of their careers. But how do you decide which artist course is right for you? You may already
Is The Working Artist Masterclass the Right Art Course for You? – An honest assessment Read More »
I went all the way to France to write my book. But that didn’t make it any easier. Chapter One. Page One. The bright white of the paper glared accusingly. How do I begin? At the café, the proprietor noticed the blank notebook and my heavy sighs. He asked what was I writing? I
What Is An Artist? Read More »
It was on September 13th, when she was just 13 years old, that Orelle was struck by a car as she crossed 13th Street. Unlucky number 13. Orelle spent the remainder of her short life in pain, finally finding peace when she took her last breath exactly 13 months later on October 13th, 1932. It
The Ghosts in Our Blood Read More »
I believe that the best artists are Artist Warriors. But instead of taking up arms, we take up brushes and cameras and clay. Artists are warriors of the spirit. Like any warrior, artists must be tested, must be prepared. You must prove your courage and your commitment. Haven’t you seen this is your own life?
Are You An Artist-Warrior? Read More »
It was the last day of the College Art Association conference in Washington DC and I was beat. I’d spent weeks preparing for it. And then 4 long days either in meetings or chasing more meetings. I’d attended sessions, made new contacts, and talked to dozens of artists about their practice. It was a fabulous
How Having Fun Can Save You *no, seriously Read More »