Art business in today's economy

I long for the days when I could just lazily paint fun artsy stuff. Everyone would gush over it and say, "You should go into business for yourself." After years of resistance...I listened. In the last year  I have learned to be bold and tenacious in ways I never thought I could. There was a time when I would meagerly mention that I do art, now I am always looking for opportunities to flash my products. Being a business owner has taught me that it's okay for someone to say "no", because the next person might say "yes". This economy has given me a tough skin that some artists might not be too well known for. However, I think every artist has more guts and moxie than they give themselves credit for. Go to one good art critique and you will know what I am talking about! So to all those who have thought about the impossible only to be met with your own fears of rejection. I will tell you this right now..."NO"...there you go. Not to bad, right?! There will be many that tell you that horrid little word...but perseverance will eventually payoff. After all we only get one shot on this big party ball don't leave early, don't under dress, don't forget to dance and laugh...but most of all show up in the first place!:) Rusti

Big Things Happening!

It has been a busy last couple months! I am gearing up to expand my retail space at HomeSpun Treasures in Camarillo as well as my retail presence at boutiques. I am still adding stuff to Etsy as I think that is a great spot for people to shop to find quality artsy gifts. I entered two art pieces in the contest for the Stawberry Festival Poster Art. Unfortunately I did not win. :( That's okay because I still plan to have a vendor booth there in May. I will be doing my custom hand print art, so make sure you stop in to see me! Did you see that I started selling WebKinz in my shop? I love those little guys! The website is fun for the kids to play at (umm and mommy, too!). Hee hee! Anyway, stay strong in this crazy economy...remember to enjoy what you have, work hard for what you want, don't complain about what you don't have and be proud of what you have accomplished!