Validation

I took off most of August to tend to visitors which meant that my studio was also occupied. As I reviewed the upcoming exhibits and fairs I felt stressed that I had not spent more time in the studio.

Then I created some pieces for Aurora Rose which brought me back into that zone of flow and zen, and their reception of the newbies made me feel better.

As I shared photos of pieces in progress and completed, the earrings not placed in Aurora Rose Boutique were quickly claimed by my friends.

Another friend who had placed a pendant on hold a few months ago was able to send her check in, and I happily shipped her piece off.

Then I got birthstone orders from a repeat customer for two fall birthdays, which has me excited to create custom pieces reflecting family members.

A day later, my Etsy store got an order from someone whose name I didn’t recognize.

Out-of-town visitors admired one of my musical pendants so much they took it home.

It is super-exciting to make sales, because it validates that my creations resonate with people.

 

All artists struggle with the economic viability of pursuing their passion, so having this sales boost is giving me hope that I can eventually create a steady income stream and truly make a living at this (rather than depleting savings and looking for freelance gigs).

So please put your money where your mouth is and buy from local artisans. Praise is wonderful and being complimented on one’s work is always affirming, but making a sale, no matter how small, is cause for happy dances and joy that words alone cannot generate.

I will showcase my inventory at the Ravenswood Art Walk October 5 and 6 and am hoping for lots of happy dances behind my table in the big tent.

Meanwhile, Art Lakeview will host my Malachites at Powell’s Bookstore. PerficalSense Studio has an encaustic show coming up, about which more details will emerge in the coming weeks.