Legal Intel: Savvy Artist Recognition

Arts Professions Recognition Act

Bill 75 Statutes of Alberta  2021

Get a copy here

To be a professional artist requires a juxtaposition of artistic talent, dedication, adaptability, business savvy, networking and serendipity.

`Artists are valuable and professional members of society'  

                                                     --Bill 75 Government of Alberta

Seven Steps for Consideration:

1. Develop Your Skills: Dedicate time to honing your craft. Practice regularly, experiment with different techniques and styles, and seek feedback from peers or mentors.

2. Build a Presence Online: Establish a strong online presence through a website or portfolio platform, social media, and online art communities. Share your work regularly, engage with your audience, and network with other artists and potential clients.

3. Attend Art Events and Exhibitions: Participate in art exhibitions, fairs, and events to showcase your work and connect with fellow artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts. Networking can lead to valuable opportunities and collaborations.

4. Market Yourself: Develop a marketing strategy to promote your work effectively. This may include creating a brand identity, utilizing social media advertising, collaborating with influencers, or reaching out to galleries and art dealers. Actively pursue opportunities to exhibit your work, collaborate with other artists or organizations, and participate in residencies, competitions, and grants.

5. Learn the Business Side: Familiarize yourself with the business aspects of being an artist, including pricing your work, negotiating contracts, managing finances, and understanding copyright and licensing agreements. Consider taking workshops or courses on art business and entrepreneurship.

6. Persist and Adapt: Building a career as a professional artist can be challenging and may require perseverance and resilience. Be prepared to face rejection and setbacks along the way, but also be willing to adapt, learn from experiences, and evolve as an artist.

7. Stay Inspired and Creative: Nurture your creativity and passion for art. Stay curious, continue learning, and draw inspiration from your surroundings, experiences, and other artists. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for sustained artistic growth and fulfillment.

Here are some great observations on how art gets made --Sourced from Amazon:  

A short and easy read with a simple message-- 

Don't be afraid to put yourself out there.

Artist Intel

4 Favorite Easels that will get you in the vibe outside and inside.

Written by: Jammin Jane

 Painting from life allows artists to directly observe the subject matter, capturing nuances of color, light, and atmosphere that may be difficult to replicate from photographs or imagination alone. This firsthand experience can lead to more authentic and dynamic paintings.

The sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors can stimulate artistic inspiration and encourage experimentation with different techniques and approaches

Painting en plein air requires artists to work quickly and decisively, honing their observational and technical skills. It encourages artists to focus on essential elements of composition, color mixing, and brushwork, leading to growth and development as painters.

Painting outdoors allows artists to immerse themselves in nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the natural world. This connection to the environment can be spiritually and emotionally rewarding, influencing both the artist's work and personal well-being.

The immediacy of painting on location can imbue the artwork with a sense of vitality and energy that may be lacking in studio work.

Lets take a look at four classic easels for plein air painting sourced from Amazon:

French Easel

This classic wood design combines a sketchbox, easel, and canvas carrier in one. It's versatile and sturdy, suitable for various mediums. Look for ones with adjustable legs for stability on uneven terrain.

                             

Tripod Easel

Lightweight and easy to set up, tripod easels are great for quick outdoor painting sessions. They come in various materials like aluminum or wood.

Pochade Box

These compact boxes hold your canvas or panel while providing space for supplies. They're excellent for smaller works and travel-friendly. Some models come with tripod mounts for added stability.

Studio Easel

If you don't mind sacrificing some portability for stability and versatility, a studio easel might be ideal. They can accommodate large canvases and offer adjustable angles for comfortable painting. Look for features like tilting mechanisms and sturdy construction.

Consider factors like weight, size, setup time, and your painting style when making your decision. If possible, try out different easels in person or read reviews from other plein air artists to find the best fit for your needs.

Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and seek recommendations from other artists to gauge the performance and durability of specific brush models..Personal experiences from fellow artists can provide valuable insights into the suitability of any kind of easel  for your artistic needs.