Artists Need Other Artists
I am of the generation that remembers a time before answering machines, mobile phones, email and text messaging. Before technology, artists would meet in local restaurants, cafés and bars to discuss the latest art trends and network with each other. The thrill of these face-to-face interactions, the heated debates, discussions, the sharing of information and the development of deep and meaningful relationships, all happening at all hours of the day or night, was truly something to be nostalgic about. Every time you got together with other artists, it was an exhilarating experience.
Artists Help Each Other
Incredulously, artists still managed to get into galleries, sell their work and have profitable careers without technology. The resilience and resourcefulness of these artists, forming informal ‘groups’ within the community and establishing many working partnerships, is truly inspiring. Exhibitions were organized, publicized and well attended before social media and email. There were probably higher attendance rates because people had to go to an exhibition to see an artist’s recent works.
Technology Helps Us Find Each Other
I embraced technology and the Internet in the early nineties after seeing its potential to get my work seen by people worldwide. In the early years, the combination of old-school face-to-face meetings and the use of technology bolstered my career and brought me attention beyond my geographical limitations. Collectors were also seeking out new artists using technology. It was an exciting time.
The Best Of Both Worlds
I am a web marketing specialist because of my decades of experience marketing my art. This experience includes the use of traditional marketing techniques such as print media, local exhibitions, and word-of-mouth. Combined with the old-school techniques I learned years ago, I have an experience that only some have.
And you know what? It’s still just as exciting.
Quote Of The Day
“The Group had no formal organization; we had no officers, and as we had no money we did not need a treasurer.”
~A. Y. Jackson ~
