Friday, August 26, 2011

Some lessons learned

I can't believe it has been so long since I've posted. But, it has turned out to be a great busy summer! Started out with a real vacation to Playa del Carmen, Mexico and when we returned, some fun business projects were coming my way.

My thoughts today are to encourage other artists to work hard, but learn business strategies to constantly improve yourself and to follow your strengths and passions. It's been five years since I left my safe public school teaching job and this summer I have enjoyed a few fruits of my labor in the form of some opportunities coming my way.

I love the written word. Writing has served me well as a teacher and grant writer. I believe because of seeds I've planted and many hours spent networking, people have kept me in mind for some writing opportunities. (Though I am not painting as much as I usually do, I enjoy the creativity of writing too!)

I have been covering the Charlotte Arts scene for KnightArts.org. Check out some of my work here. I recently wrote my first article for Charlotte Viewpoint (though it hasn't been posted yet).

But, best of all, I just won an Arts & Science Council grant to be the first curator of the gallery at Packard Place. Packard Place is a hub for Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Community in uptown Charlotte, North Carolina (currently their building on S. Church Street and 3rd Street is undergoing renovations). This building will be home to many innovative companies and is already establishing itself as an integral part of the business community through it's Meet Ups. (You don't have to be connected with Packard Place to attend the Meet Up sessions.)




I am now working with their creative team on the inaugural exhibition of some of the best regional artists to coincide with their grand opening later this year. (I will share more as it unfolds.)

It is true that we are in the midst of a difficult economy, but this can also be an opportunity to re-evaluate what is working or not, as well as look at your true passions. And, it is always a good time to network, meet others and learn from them too!

________________________________________________________________________________


   "The gallery at Packard Place is supported, in part, with funding from the Arts & Science Council."



Followers