Multifaceted life of an abstract artist: balancing creativity and business

Abstract painting by artist Claire Desjardins.

As an abstract artist, my life revolves around colors, shapes, and the free flow of creativity on canvas. But, let me tell you, painting is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to my job. There's a whole world of other responsibilities that I juggle on a daily basis to ensure that my artistic journey keeps moving forward. From the practical aspects of preparing artworks for shipping to the intricate realm of marketing, every facet demands attention and dedication.

The art of preparation: packing, shipping, and organizing

Once I've poured my heart and soul onto the canvas, the journey is far from over. Preparing my artwork for its journey to its new home is a meticulous process. I carefully wrap and pack each piece, ensuring it's shielded from any potential harm during transit. And let's not forget the organization aspect. I've developed a logical system for storing finished artworks, making it effortless for the person handling shipping to locate sold pieces. This ensures that every artwork embarks on its journey seamlessly, reflecting the care I put into its creation.

Artwork storage and scanning area.

Capturing the essence: photographing and scanning

Sharing my artwork with the world doesn't stop at the physical piece; high-quality images are essential in today's digital age. I invest time and effort into capturing the essence of my work through professional photography and scanning. This attention to detail allows me to represent my creations authentically in my online portfolio and marketing materials, bridging the gap between the tangible and the digital.

 

Original abstract painting "It's Cosmic" photographed in Claire's studio

 

Navigating the spectrum of marketing

Ah, marketing – a realm that requires both creativity and strategy. The amount of time I dedicate to this aspect might surprise you. Crafting compelling blog posts with fresh and engaging topics is no small task. I want my audience to not only appreciate my art but also connect with the stories and ideas behind it. Sending out newsletters keeps my supporters in the loop, fostering a sense of community.

And then, there's social media. Instagram, Pinterest, and even LinkedIn have become my virtual galleries, showcasing my art to a global audience. Each platform demands a unique approach – the visual appeal for Instagram, the curation for Pinterest, and the professional edge for LinkedIn. I must admit, I've grown fond of the business side of things, where I can interact with fellow artists and potential buyers.

Abstract artist Claire Desjardins uses social media platforms, such as Instagram.

Speaking of social media, I recently jumped onto the Threads bandwagon – the latest platform to capture the digital realm. It's always exhilarating to explore new horizons, although it also adds another layer of management to my digital presence.

Surprisingly, as much as I value Twitter, I've decided to let my presence there dwindle. Sometimes, a strategic retreat is necessary to maintain a healthy balance in the face of the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Abstract artist, Claire Desjardins, working a live charity auction on stage at Strangers in the Night 2017.

The balancing act

While the business side of my artistic journey takes up a significant portion of my time, I'm keenly aware of the need to strike a balance. I've come to realize that, just as my art flourishes through a harmonious interplay of colors and forms, my life thrives when I manage the ebb and flow between creativity and business. The two are not adversaries; they're partners in the grand symphony of my artistic career.

So, the next time you gaze upon one of my abstract creations, know that behind it lies a world of effort, from meticulous organization to strategic marketing. My journey as an abstract artist is an intricate dance that blends the strokes of a paintbrush with the strokes of a keyboard, resulting in a tapestry of creativity and commerce that defines my artistry.

Claire's paints and easel: the organized clutter of a creative.
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2 comments

Hi Claire, thank you for your insights into the dance of a self employed artist. I am just starting out on this journey with much excitement. Regards Jilly

Jillian Billington

Hello Claire, I very much enjoyed your balancing act blog. We certainly wear many hats as a self employed artist. Hopefully one day I will be successful enough to get some help!

Huong

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