As a passionate runner, I find myself outdoors, navigating the trails of Phoenix 3-4 times a week, covering 3-5 miles each time. There’s something invigorating about the fresh air and the rhythm of my heart pounding in sync with each stride. I relish these moments, not just for the exercise but for the camaraderie shared with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Every year, as the New Year rings in, I witness a familiar scene during my runs – an influx of new faces, all fueled by their resolve to get fit. It’s a January phenomenon, where the mild Phoenix winter welcomes these bursts of newfound enthusiasm. However, as the weeks pass, the crowd dwindles, and the regulars, my familiar companions, remain. This annual cycle has led me to a realization about goal setting and achievement, particularly in the art world. It’s not just in fitness but in many aspects of life, including art, where the focus on immediate results often overshadows the commitment to consistent strategies and processes
As we welcome the New Year, a time traditionally for setting goals and aspirations, I find myself pondering a different approach that could be transformative for artists. As an art gallery owner, I’ve observed the intense focus artists often place on specific achievements – be it a successful exhibition, a certain number of sales, or gaining gallery representation. However, this year, I propose a shift in perspective: emphasizing the importance of the process and systems set up to achieve these goals, rather than the outcomes themselves.
The Importance of Process in Artistic Growth
In the art world, it’s easy to get caught up in the end results. However, the true essence of growth, both as an artist and a professional, lies in the process – the daily routines, the methods of exploration in one’s art, and the strategies employed in marketing and outreach. It’s these systems and processes that build the foundation for sustainable success.
Setting Up Systems for Success
This New Year, I encourage artists to focus on establishing and refining their systems. This might mean developing a more structured studio practice, creating a consistent routine for updating an online portfolio, or setting up a regular schedule for social media engagement. The key is to create processes that support your artistic and professional growth.
The Art of Marketing and Promotion
In the context of marketing and promotion, it’s not just about the number of exhibitions you participate in or the galleries you approach, but about the strategies and systems you develop to present your work effectively. How you research potential galleries, network, and build relationships are all part of a larger system that contributes to your overall artistic journey.
A Call to Reflect on Your Artistic Systems
As we step into this New Year, I invite artists to reflect on the systems and processes that underpin their artistic endeavors. How have these systems supported your growth and what changes could further enhance your creative and professional journey?
I am eager to hear your experiences. How have you developed and refined your processes in art creation and promotion? What impact has this focus on systems rather than outcomes had on your work and career? Share your stories and insights. Let’s inspire each other to value and refine the journey, not just the destination.