Ideas about art and business and creativity for young artists and old ones too but it’s the young ones who ask…

• If someone wants to buy your art only hand it over when it has been paid in full
• Contracts are good. Get everything in writing when making a deal.
• For any commissioned work, always get at least half up front.
• It’s ok to do things for free but don’t give yourself away all the time. Your time is valuable.
• ‘Exposure’ is good but so is eating and paying the bills.
• Don’t be afraid to say no when it comes to selling your art for less than you want for it.
• Trust yourself and know when to walk away.
• Selling art feels like you are being supported but just because you haven’t sold anything lately doesn’t mean you aren’t any good.
• Even the most successful artists suffer from self-doubt. Just do your best.
• Your friends are usually terrible critics.
• Your partner should be your second biggest fan (second to YOU).
• You are good enough but you can always get better.
• Beware of tropes.
• Your best work will always be done when you’re sober.
• Straight lines are best made with a ruler.
• A string, a tack or piece of tape, and a pencil will give you a perfect circle.
• If you see something in your painting that you want to change – change it. Otherwise, it will nag at you every time you look at the painting.
• Sit and draw people in real life. Don’t just draw the pretty ones.
• If you wear headphones when you paint, invest in a good pair.
• Look for natural spectrum light studio lights – they will give you the best light.
• Make sure your studio has plenty of sunlight. Caves can be depressing to work in.
• A great painting takes time. Don’t be afraid of taking the time.
• Love what you do and what you make.
• Practice makes perfect.