Classes for the Summer

In my previous post, I listed some short-term goals. One of those goals was to find a class over the summer. Well, I believe I found two. I'm not sure if I'll be taking both, but we'll see. Educational funding is tight right now for schools in NJ. They're both weekend workshops running 9-5 and cost $195 which isn't bad.

The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts is offering an Introduction to Landscape Painting course towards the end of May with Frederic Kaplan that sounds interesting. I also like the looks of a Monotype Workshop with Lisa Hamilton that is in mid-June. I've not taken classes with either of these instructors so that will be a new experience.

Taking continuing education classes is one of my most favorite things. I wish I could do it more often.

Goals, Accountability and Progress

I mentioned previously that I have been reading Eric Maisel's book Creativity for Life: Practical Advice on the Artist's Personality, and Career from America's Foremost Creativity Coach. Because of this and other readings, I have put together a simple list of short- and long-term goals for myself regarding my art production. I feel I needed to post this to be held accountable on some level and to provide an avenue of feedback from those of you who have traveled this path before.

Here's what I've developed so far. I think it's fair to say that I'll be moving additional goals (probably more short-term ones) onto my list as they get crossed off.

Short-Term Goals                               

1. Use sketchbook regularly to record thoughts, inspiration and painting ideas
   This seems rather straightforward for an artist, but I know I need to be more disciplined about taking it with me everywhere.
2. Paint at least 3 times per week
   This goal is a biggie and something I've been procrastinating about for far too long. I know once I get into the groove I'll exceed my 3 times per week. My suspicion is that I'm afraid of making this commitment, but I know it's essential to get where I want to be.
3. Collect/Purchase items for still life paintings   
   I have some things already planned. I just want to have more items on hand. I've taken a lot of stuff into school so I'll need to bring some of it home.
4. Gather personal photos for paintings
   I have a few photos I want to use as resources for pieces I have been wanting to do for a while now. I'm going to start a filing system.
5. Find and attend local arts group
   I need to research this some more for my locale.
6. Find and sign up for class over summer (funding permitting)
   Funding is a big concern here. My hope is that I can get my school to foot the bill. Though, with the cuts made in State funding, purses are tight.

Long-Term Goals

1. Paint 50 small canvases by January 1, 2011 (39 weeks as of 04.04.10)
   I think this is a manageable goal. Time will tell.
2. Post paintings for sale (ebay and etsy)
   I believe I have these accounts set up. Does anybody have recommendations for which is better, easier, more reliable, etc.?
3. Sell at least 50% of my inventory by January 1, 2011
   I can't comment on this one since I need to develop more of an inventory.
4. Find alternate venues for selling my inventory (art fairs, craft shows, community arts shows)
   This goal requires research on what's available.

Instead of listing them as a straight list of 10 goals, I decided to break them out as short- and long-term so I could hang them up on my wall and cross them off as they are completed or sufficiently routinized. I want to avoid feeling overwhelmed since I'm given to that when I've got a schedule hanging over my head. I will post a progress report at the beginning of each month (again, for accountability).

Thoughts on my lists?

Christ the Lord is Risen Today

The Resurrection, Rembrandt van Rijn, 1635

On this beautiful day when Christians celebrate the resurrection of their Savior, I'd like to recommend you take a moment and enjoy the wonderful works of art that have been created commemorating this event.

I recently heard a woman on the radio chastising Christian apologist Ravi Zacharias for believing in something like the resurrection when the four gospel accounts were so contradictory. The apologist amply answered her protest.

For those who have similar concerns about the validity of the resurrection accounts as recorded in the four Gospels, I encourage you to read this harmony of the resurrection accounts.