A few things I have learned as a self employed artist

There are a few things I have learned as a self employed artist. Two of the most important are unless you are already generating a lot of income, you should have multiple revenue sources and you should surround yourself with experts, especially in the business fields.

Multiple revenue sources also means creating more passive money making scenarios... like selling a product online while you sleep. I do think we should not overextend ourselves, and that these different things bring us more pleasure than not. (Meaning the work fits us.)

Finally, we should really educate ourselves as to how business works... and I mean learning from people that are successful. If you can't hire someone or are not in those circles, then read Art Calendar Magazine or other business materials. There are numerous books and programs for artists. But, stick with it. We should all have some consistency to our business practices the same as we do with our craft!

One of the cool things about being an artist in Charlotte, N.C. is we have great resources here through our North Carolina Arts Council (www.ncarts.org) and our local Arts & Science Council (www.artsandscience.org). They both offer excellent professional development in the business of art!

This economy is rapidly changing. Look at what is already working for you and what is not... and think about why. When we learn from the good and bad and others who have gone before, it seems we get "there" quicker. I hope we all get there soon!

Professional development is important!

Call it Continuing Ed or Professional Development, it's important to improve one's self in all businesses and the arts are no exception. Actually, it could be argued that we need that kind of training even more in the arts.

College preparation is changing, but I know many folks with art degrees and little business training to help them market and plan strategically for success. With that said, artists can be some of the best business people because of their creative problem solving skills and their passion and connection with the 'product' (their art).

Even though I really enjoy the business end of art, I still need reminders as well as learning new skills in this area. I am grateful for organizations like North Carolina Arts Council, Arts and Science Council and Creative Capital for understanding and doing something about the lack of business training in the arts fields. (See www.carmellajarvi.com LINKS page for more info.)

I am very excited to be attending the one day Creative Capital workshop at Penland on September 10. One cannot beat the $40 fee for a day's instruction with this group!! Additionally, I love to share marketing and strategic planning with other artists and this fall is no exception.

I will be teaching a marketing mini-workshop at the Fort Mill Art Guild on October 17. Here's the link... http://www.fortmillartguild.com/classes/jarvi.htm. (And, if you're just getting started with the business of art, I'd highly recommend an Art Calendar subscription. It's a business magazine for artists and an excellent investment!)