My Creative Thursday over at Design for Mankind

March 25, 2008

I have to admit I’ve been away from the computer almost all day. I’ve been having such a nice, unexpected Tuesday "off" playing with the lovely Cathy and sweet Annabelle. Photos to follow...But in the meantime my blog post for today is over at the fabulous Erin’s blog, Design for Mankind. Erin has been sharing this series called "the dailies" over on her blog, 19 posts so far. Each "daily" features creative ladies who photo journal an entire day and share it as a blog post. It is such a fun way for the readers to see how we "really" spend our day~ and for me, I can see ~ so, this is what I do all day (besides just rescuing Garbo from the tree)! I decided to record a Creative Thursday, seemed appropriate, don’t you think?

And it seems that my daily schedule in this post has stirred a discussion on "how do you leave the corporate world exactly to pursue a lifestyle business in the creative arts? ~ especially financially!" I get it! So often, everything looks good on paper, but how are these people, of which I am now present company, REALLY supporting themselves, and are they REALLY supporting themselves, and really making a living as artists? I’m thinking a podcast might be good way to answer this because there’s so much to say on this subject alone. In fact most of my podcasts are in part dedicated to this topic, because in every podcast I choose to talk about a step I took and continue to take to make the leap and keep on leaping. I remember how desperately I wanted the to know the answer to that very question even 1 year ago. And I was so grateful to anyone and everyone who would share with me, how they made that transition. I’m happy to share as much as I can on this subject, because of just HOW much I wanted to know. I will also post a comment at Erin’s to add to the discussion, that I will share here as well. I’ll be back soon...

You can read my post over at Design for Mankind, right here. Thank you again Erin!

*Edit* March 26 ~ Ok, so I’ve now officially left 3 "book" sized comments over at this post. I seem to have a lot to say this on this subject...too much to post here as well, but let’s just say the podcast is being written!

Comments (12)

Ahhh, I LOVE your comment, Marisa. So well thought out and VERY helpful for the struggling artists out there! Thank you, my dear--- it was SUCH a pleasure getting to know you better! :)

Posted by: Design for Mankind | 03/25/2008 07:36:01 PM

i am sitting here with tears in my eyes. i have been worrying so much about money. and then i begin to question the value of my paintings and it is so hard to see how much everyone else is selling. i guess maybe if it were just me, no husband nokids. maybe it wouldn't worry me, but i doubt it.

thank you for this, i needed to read this, i have to continue to believe one day i will make a living off of my artwork. for now - i will continue to create and take odd parttime jobs, freelance design and find ways of marketing my artwork. your the best. and the next couple of days i will go back and read through all the comments.

you rock.
k

Posted by: kelly | 03/25/2008 10:07:50 PM

Marisa - thanks for your advice on Design for Mankind. I'm not struggling yet, but I'm still in corporate wasteland and eager to get out. I guess that is what spurred my question - how to be happy financially, mentally and creatively. I think many artists and designers are looking for advice and help on this question. Can't wait to hear your podcast on this - thanks again!

Posted by: Diana | 03/25/2008 10:42:23 PM

that was terrific. really helpfull to 'see' how other artists are making it work. you are an inspiration!! ( wow, so nice to see leaves on the trees too!)

Posted by: debbie | 03/25/2008 11:04:16 PM

I really enjoyed your day of photo journaling. what patience you have with your cat too. h ;) you are truly an inspiration. I love all of the negative space in your painting with such cute characters to share the space. I love the idea of starting the day by journaling. the computer tries to suck me too early quite often! Thanks for sharing.

Posted by: Handmade Julz | 03/26/2008 03:16:04 AM

Thank you so much for sharing your daily routine....it might sound strange but it's fun to see the "real" person (as real as we can get virtually, right?). And PLEASE do share what you can about making the switch from corporate to creative? I am in the midst of struggling with that and have no idea where to turn. You are so wonderful to share the way you do. :)

Posted by: Nannette | 03/26/2008 11:13:01 AM

I really love this! Just one question I wanted to ask you, do you do all your own marketing?
On Michaels recent show he talked with Steven Pressfield and it was suggested artists have help to market their work. What are your thoughts on this?
Can't wait to hear from you.

Posted by: Niki | 03/26/2008 11:51:23 AM

Hi Marisa, just wandered over here from Design for Mankind and I must admit I am hooked! I adore your artwork and I really love the bursts of colour and endearing characters you create. I am still in the corporate world but am hoping and working towards making my art/craft my sole vocation and I look forward on catching up on your podcasts and archives for much needed advice on this making this happen too!

Posted by: Jhoanna | 03/26/2008 08:00:55 PM

Check out those toenails! Very fancy!

Posted by: Sueee | 03/27/2008 01:20:28 AM

This is such an important topic and you have a lot of great insights about this - so happy you are sharing your wisdom.

Posted by: Swirly | 03/27/2008 12:01:23 PM

Hey Marisa, for keep sharing knowlege. I am always learning learning from you!

Posted by: outi | 03/27/2008 07:33:11 PM

Marisa,
Thank you for sharing your inspiring creative thursday. As a child , art was part of me everyday and as I tried to do other things, my art always was my true love.
Being fearless and learning that "ugly" is better than nothing. So to all you artists, just start, be fearless and go for what you love with passion.
You look so happy! Love your style and ease!
Patricia

Posted by: patricia | 03/28/2008 10:09:48 AM