All artists, especially Christian artists want to know how to sell their art! I mean come on, without selling your art most artists don’t have the ability (or space) to keep making their work unless of course they have another income stream that funds their “art habit”.
So after making and selling a lot of art over the years I’ve come to the understanding that there are essentially 2 primary ways to sell your artwork as an artist:
You sell it directly to your clients or
You pay someone else to sell it for you ie: gallery, designer, strategic partner, referrals
Regardless, SOMEONE has to:
develop relationships with potential clients
offer the work in a desirable way
respond to market trends in aesthetics & presentation
price the work in a way that’s competitive and profitable
complete the transactions
deliver or ship the work and potentially install
If you’re the kind of artist who only wants to make work in the studio and not deal with marketing/sales, then you must find a good gallery or broker to represent you. Realize this costs – usually 50% of your retail price. However, they are doing most of the work to sell your art. Hoping your work will sell, doing social media only or simply putting your art on one of the hundreds of art websites online is NOT a strategy.
If you’re the kind of artist who enjoys selling direct to your clients, then realize you are equally an artist and an entrepreneur. You’ll need to develop a marketing strategy with multiple outlets, testing and measuring results as you go. There’s no silver bullet. Without cultivating both sides of the equation – being both artist and entrepreneur – you’ll live in constant frustration.
Or of course… a combination of both ie: selling direct and utilizing galleries, partners, etc. Over time, you’ll discover a combination that works best for you, your personality and your profitability.
A question I hear all the time goes something like this, “Matt, how do I start charging more for my work? I seem to be around a lot of people that don’t want to pay anything for what I create.”
I always answer with, “Listen, that’s really not your issue. That’s their issue. You’re just in front of the wrong people.” This of course leads to the obvious follow up question, “Well then, who ARE the right people and how do I get them to pay me what my art is really worth?” I remember hearing years ago that the price for anything – your time, your artwork, any business that you have – is really based on two things:
The Uniqueness of the Service or Product You Provide
The Difficulty in Finding Someone to Replace You
And it’s this second point that I want to focus on for a minute. The difficulty your clients or potential clients will have in replacing you – what you do and the way you do it – really points to the whole idea of uniqueness in the marketplace.
Ask yourself a few questions, and be honest, like your art depends upon it:
Beyond surface generality, how unique are you in what you do?
How difficult would it be to find somebody that essentially does the same thing you do?
What makes you special in the marketplace?
Over the years as I would think about increasing my prices, I would take a look at other artists who were able to really get top dollar for their work in order to learn their secrets. And the one common denominator I saw in play every time was uniqueness.
Uniqueness for Artists is a Two-Sided Coin
Artistic uniqueness is comprised of many factors, but in the end you can break it down into two major categories. The first of course being the individuality that you express through your art, but the second layer of uniqueness that seems to key for so many successful, thriving artists is the depth of connection you cultivate with your potential audience.
You see, the more people know, like, and trust you, the more they’re willing to let price be one of the least important factors when determining a potential purchase. Unique artwork left on a shelf in a store will eventually sell, but unique artwork combined with a personal relationship with the artist turns an art buyer into an art lover and art lovers into raving fans of your work.
That’s where selling art and being an artist becomes really, really fun. And this way of bringing together my artistic uniqueness, combined with a personal relationship with my clients keeps me free from the never-ending cycle of price wars played daily on Etsy and other similar websites. Sure, you can play the game of trying to put your art on as many online portals as possible in order to get the price down as low as possible with the hope of making it up on volume. If you are called to be a “production center” or an “art machine” then I say go for it.
But for me and most of the successful artists that I’ve had the pleasure of mentoring, we long to create beautiful and meaningful works of original art that are appreciated and purchased by people who love us, like what we do, and are willing to invest in those relationships. This only happens when artistic uniqueness is intentionally connected with developing relationships with your clientele or potential clientele.
So if you’re struggling with trying to get people to pay top dollar for your creations, then I would encourage you do a little self-assessment:
Is what you’re creating high quality, masterfully executed and artistically unique?
Is the way that you’re interacting with your clients special and engaging?
Are you doing things that set you apart from other artists or following the crowd?
The more you cultivate mastery, quality, uniqueness and relationship, the more you’ll be able to raise your prices over time. And the best part is your clients will be glad to pay because they’ll feel like they’re getting something really special. Guess what? They are, YOU! I hope this has been a big encouragement to you. If this article has been a blessing to you, take a moment to share it with a friend.
As an artist and a mentor to Christian artists all over the world, I love to answer questions! Recently on social media, Karen asked me “Matt, as an artist, how do I transition from basically copying the work of artists I admire into a place where I’m actually developing my own voice as an artist?”
This is such a great question and one that I hear often. Over the years I’ve come to understand that if you want to thrive as an artist, then you have to embrace and develop the uniqueness that God has planted on the inside of you.
Three Stages of Development for Christian Artists All thriving artists grow and develop their talent, skill, and voice over time. It’s rarely, if ever, an instant process. Most often this artistic journey progresses through three distinct stages: Awareness, Awakening and Autonomy.
Awareness is the first stage of this journey. It is in the Awareness stage that you’re starting to understand and embrace the things that inspire you artistically. It’s a journey of discovery, where you discover for yourself the new and uncharted shores of creativity, style, and technique that are just begging to be explored.
Awareness is where you begin to wake up to all the possibilities that are out there for you creatively. And over time, as you begin to process through all of the artistic options, a transformation begins to take place as your artistic voice begins to awaken.
It’s in this Awakening phase of your journey that you begin to gravitate towards a style, an aesthetic, and a creative medium that starts to define who you are artistically. And with that kernel of creative focus, mastery begins to develop.
As you narrow your creative focus, your skill begins to mature, and you start expressing your talent in ways beyond the mere emulation of artists you admire. It’s during this Awakening phase that the words of your unique creative language begin to form, and your artistic voice begins to emerge.
As you move from Awareness through Awakening, you eventually arrive in an artistic place I call Autonomy. This is where all the inspiration you’ve absorbed combined with your creative faithfulness and dedication coalesce into a fully formed artistic voice that is uniquely your own.
Now I know some of you are thinking, ‘this place doesn’t exist for me,’ or “I’ll run out of steam long before reaching this creative promised land.’ If this is you, I want to give you four steps that will help you today no matter where you are in your journey as an artist who loves Jesus.
Step One: Cultivate Inspiration
“I don’t have any inspiration. I get to the studio and I don’t know what to do.” Every time I hear this, it’s a telltale sign that they are not cultivating inspiration in their life.
“So Matt, how do I cultivate inspiration?” Immerse yourself in all things beautiful and creative. Read books, go to the movies, go hiking in the woods, visit a museum or an art studio. Worship, immerse yourself in God’s presence and turn your heart toward His. Surround yourself with images, songs, experiences and people that move your heart.
And when you’re there in that space, feeling the inspiration starting to flow, learn to be a faithful steward of those experiences. Write it down in your journal, flip open to a fresh page in your sketchbook, do something that’s going to preserve the moment and allow that inspiration to start marinating on the inside of you.
Step Two: Develop a Studio Practice
“But Matt, if I don’t have a studio, how can I develop a studio practice?” A studio practice is primarily a state of mind and an alignment of your priorities.
The location where you create art, at home, in the shed, or in an art studio, is much less important than the conscious decision to regularly invest your time in the process and practice of creating, and that leads us to our next step.
Step Three: Create A Lot of Work
So many artists never find their unique voice because they don’t consistently create on a daily basis. I’m not talking about jumping into striving but I am encouraging consistency. Never underestimate the power of a doodle to cultivate inspiration and foster your talent.
Nothing replaces experience when it comes to cultivating your talents as an artist. Experience is born from the intentional and consistent application of your artistic skills over time. There is no quick fix or shortcut to skill mastery.
Step Four: Review, Refine, and Repeat
“Review, refine, and repeat, what does that mean exactly?” That means when you create a piece of work, you need to look at it critically and ask yourself a few questions like:
• What did I do in this piece that I loved? • What did I do in this piece that I don’t love? • What could I have done better? • What could take this piece to the next level?
You get the picture. This isn’t about beating yourself up or comparing yourself to other artists, this about raising the artistic bar for yourself.
Then with the “Review” done, it’s time to “Refine”. Intentionally make note of what you’ll keep, what you’ll change, and what you’ll try in your next piece. Then create that piece and “Repeat” the process.
Eventually you may consider inviting others into this process, people whose artistic opinions you trust. Ask them to speak into your creative process. Now I know that sounds scary, but this process, overtime, will cultivate and strengthen your skills and talents while at the same time giving you the time to develop and express your artistic uniqueness to the world.
I hope this has been a big encouragement to you. If this article has been a blessing to you, take a moment to share it with a friend.
I get this question quite a bit, “what in the world does being an artist and creating art have to do with the Great Commission?” Or better yet, “What does art have to do with savin’ souls and seein’ people come to Jesus?”
These sorts of questions always seem to highlight a lack of understanding about what it means to walk in the fullness of God’s Kingdom.
Another way to approach this question would be like this, “Do we all have to look, act, and do Kingdom life in exactly the same way to be effective for God?” Well, I’m happy to say that the answer would be a resounding “no”.
All of us are in this beautiful symbiotic relationship as the body of Christ. A relationship where each one of us brings a different and unique expression of God not only to each other but also to the marketplace, as well as to the whole world. It’s through our uniqueness, the way God created us, that God chooses to use us as He touches and interacts with people in beautiful and life-changing ways.
This is the way the Kingdom was designed to work. We are not the ministers of a come-and-see gospel, but rather the ambassadors of a go-and-tell movement that God put inside of us by the power of the Holy Spirit.
When Jesus died, He didn’t just die just for your sins; He died to restore you into the fullness of the Kingdom so that you could be everything that God designed you to be. And upon embracing that, God calls us to go forth to uniquely express His glory and His mercy and His love in the Earth.
Maybe the real question needs to be, “What do I have to offer? What can I do uniquely in the Earth to reveal and release God’s Kingdom so that other people who may never grace the door of a church, have a myriad of ways to experience the light and life and love of God?”
Think about that for a second, because when everybody does that – business people and teachers, people in government and even artists – we ALL fulfill the Great Commission. And the best part is we’ll be doing it while embracing the unique design and gifting God has placed within each of us.
That is what art has to do with both the Kingdom and with the Great Commission. It’s us – you and I -using our God-given creative vision and talents to do our part in seeing billions and billions of people come into the harvest in our generation.
I hope this has been a big, big encouragement to you. Take a moment right now to say, “God, thank you for making me uniquely who I am so that You can be glorified through me.”
Also, if this article has been a blessing to you, take a moment to share it with a friend. Thanks for reading!
In the world of acrylic artistry, Sandra Lett’s story is a testament to the transformative power of faith, creativity, and mentorship. For over 20 years, Sandra had been a dedicated acrylic artist, but her journey was filled with moments of self-doubt and anxiety. This engaging article, penned by artist and mentor Matt Tommey, explores Sandra Lett’s remarkable journey and the profound impact of the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program.
A Legacy of Artistry Sandra’s artistic journey began in her grandfather’s lap as a child, where she watched him paint with wonder. Her mother and aunt, both talented artists, surrounded her with creative inspiration. Art was in her blood, and her passion for it was undeniable.
The Paralyzing Fear Despite her artistic talents, Sandra experienced paralyzing moments of fear and anxiety. She worried about not having enough clients, producing the right kind of art, or being accepted as an artist. These anxieties cast a shadow over her creative spirit, leaving her feeling empty and uncertain about her future.
Embracing Matt’s Mentorship Sandra’s life took a profound turn when she decided to join Matt Tommey’s Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program. Matt, known for his expertise in both the art and business aspects of the art world, became her guiding light. He provided invaluable advice on both business and faith, blending practical wisdom with spiritual insight.
The Revelation of God’s Design One of the most significant revelations Sandra received from Matt was the understanding that she was a child of God, uniquely designed to create. This divine perspective transformed her outlook on art. Knowing that God had designed her to paint on her canvas filled her with a profound sense of purpose.
Overcoming Anxiety and Finding Joy Through her mentorship journey, Sandra’s anxiety faded away. The fear of not being accepted gave way to the joy of communing with God through her art. Her creative process became a spiritual experience, and her newfound perspective on painting breathed fresh life into her work.
Thriving in God’s Kingdom Today, Sandra Lett proudly declares herself a thriving acrylic artist in God’s kingdom. Her artistic journey has taken a remarkable turn, with numerous commissions and unexpected buyers from her YouTube channel. Financial blessings have poured in, and Sandra sees doors opening to new opportunities.
Join the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program Sandra Lett’s journey is a testament to the power of mentorship, faith, and creativity. If you’re an artist seeking to break free from self-doubt and anxiety, the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program might be your path to transformation.
Visit Matt Tommey’s Mentorship Program to explore how you can become a part of this life-changing program. Just as Sandra discovered her purpose and creative fulfillment, you too can unlock your potential as an artist.
Don’t let fear and uncertainty hold you back. Join the program and step into a world of creativity, abundance, and artistic joy. Sandra Lett’s story is proof that your artistic dreams can thrive in God’s kingdom.
Hey there, my friend, and welcome to my first blog post in 2020. Can you believe it? Oh my gosh. We made it. I’m really glad that you’re here and I’m so excited about all that this year has for you, for me, for everybody that’s walking in God’s Kingdom.
It’s going to be an incredible year and I just wanted to start off this year with a little series. You’re going to be noticing “a thread” moving through the blog posts and podcast this January. I’m really trying to help you get started, get on the right path and get on a focused on everything that God has for you.
In this post, I really want to jump into this whole concept of taking yourself seriously as a Christian artist and asking yourself, “is this a year I’m finally going to do that thing I’ve been talking about or am I going to keep going around the same old bush, doing the same old thing, expecting different results?”
You know, a lot of artists do just that… talk and hope but never act.
I’ve done that in different seasons of my life too. I would wonder why I was getting the same results I’d been getting and yet my actions didn’t change. It can be frustrating.
I know you this to be the year that you start taking yourself seriously and really embracing everything God has for you as a Christian artist. So in this blog post, I’ve got a few tips I hope are going to be helpful in that regard.
Think about it. If everybody wants different results and if everybody wants to take themselves seriously, living the life that God called them to live – that abundant, incredible creative flow, Kingdom-oriented, abundance, experiencing life – then why aren’t they doing it? Why are they able to live that life, execute on those dreams and really take themselves seriously? Well, there are several reasons. This isn’t an exhaustive list, but let’s start with this one: Some artists just don’t believe they can.
Some Christian Artists Don’t Believe They Can
Maybe they’ve been told their whole life, “you can’t do it, you’re not good enough, you’re not this enough, you’re not that enough.” They simply have a belief system – a core belief – that they can’t do it.
Maybe they have never done something significant in the past. Maybe they’ve tried things and failed. And maybe that failure has paralyzed them to the point where they’re just unable to move forward. Maybe you can relate to that, too. I know a lot of Christian artists do.
Some Artists Don’t Think They Are Worthy
Many others struggle with another common roadblock, not believing they’re worthy to succeed. Think about that for a second. Maybe it’s the way they grew up, the relationships that they’ve had, or the experiences they’ve walked through in their life. Maybe they struggle with their thoughts about God and what humility, or even pride is supposed to look like as a Christian. It can be any number of things. Thoughts and fears like these can lead this person to reject taking any credit for anything in their life and worse yet, not wanting to enjoy anything in their lives either. Unfortunately, they have this underlying lie that’s churning inside of them all the time saying, “You’re not worthy to succeed. You’re not supposed to succeed. You’re supposed to let everybody else go first.” Ultimately, the person who listens to and believes this lie ends up completely paralyzed emotionally, spiritually and creatively.
Many Christians Don’t Understand How Change Happens
Thirdly, there’s a lot of artists out there that believe a lie about how change is supposed to happen in their life. I teach a lot about this concept in my books and mentoring program and call it “mailbox mentality”. You know how this works. We wait, hope and beg (because that seems spiritual) and then just sit back and tell God, “Okay, you do it. I’m waiting on you.” And when it doesn’t happen in our timing, we switch to another common strategy that includes working, sweating and striving on our own. You know what, my friend, that’s not how the Kingdom works. We align with God’s Kingdom when we embrace who God’s called us to be and step out in faith by cooperating and co-laboring with the Holy Spirit. If you have a fundamental misunderstanding about how change happens – that somehow it’s all up to God and has nothing to do with you – then you’re going to be waiting a long time and probably be very frustrated.
It’s Not About You… It’s About the Kingdom
Finally, many Christian artists struggle with is the idea of taking themselves seriously and consequently are never able to make forward progress in their life. A lot of artists in this place feel completely alone in their church, in their family, and maybe even in their local area. They don’t know anybody else that understands what it means to be an artist, much less be an artist who loves Jesus and is intent upon pursuing the power of the Kingdom in their life. That “aloneness” can feel overwhelming, stifling and paralyzing.
But here’s the good news! Taking yourself seriously isn’t about you at all! It’s about what God’s put inside you! It’s about His Kingdom flowing through you. As you do that, your ability to accept yourself and God’s design on your life increases. You start to step into a divine flow! For many artists – maybe even you – that’s why you’re reading this post today. You want to take God’s call on your life seriously and you want that flow. Not only that, but you want to be a part of a community of other artists who really “get” you and understand what it means to be an artist, to love Jesus, and to pursue everything God has for you.
The great news is that you’re in the right place and 2020 can be YOUR year! 2020 (and this new decade) can absolutely be the time that you start to take yourself seriously and pursue everything that God has for you.
Regardless of what you’ve believed in the past, this is a new year! The very fact that you’re reading this post right now proves that you want everything that God has for you as an artist and that is so exciting.
I also believe it proves God set you up. How you might ask?
You see, God’s got something incredible for you. He ordered your steps to be reading this at this time, and you’re here by divine appointment. The only thing you have to do is say “yes” and start walking.
You Are Not Alone!
Here’s my promise to you. If you’ll walk with me this year, pursue God and pursue your calling as an artist this year I promise, you’re going to start to see some incredible breakthrough in your life. Your story is going to change, big time!
How do I know? Because I hear it all the time from artists who are in my Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program or listen to the podcast or read my books. Artists that start taking life seriously. Artists who are no longer living on autopilot, but have really started pursuing the Kingdom and their calling as an artist.
Make 2020 your breakthrough year! I’ll be here every step of the way and I can’t wait to hear your story!
In the world of art, the path to becoming an artist can be filled with self-doubt and uncertainty. Margie and Lonnie Johnson’s journey is an inspiring tale of how mentorship, faith, and a shift in perspective can lead to newfound confidence and blessings. In this engaging article, artist and mentor Matt Tommey narrates the transformation of this talented duo and invites you to join the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program.
A Childhood Dream As children, Margie and Lonnie both shared a dream – to become artists. The idea of creating art filled them with wonder and excitement. However, as they grew older, self-esteem issues and societal expectations began to cloud their artistic aspirations.
Art as a Hobby Like many aspiring artists, they received well-intentioned advice that art was something nice to do as a hobby. The prevailing notion was that a “real” career should take precedence, and art could only be a fallback option if everything else failed. The idea of pursuing art as a primary career path wasn’t encouraged.
A Struggle with Confidence Margie and Lonnie’s journey was marked by a struggle with confidence. They questioned whether they could truly make a career out of their art. The fear of not being accepted in the art world loomed over them, hindering their creative potential.
Discovering Matt Tommey’s Mentorship Around eight years ago, in a low point in her life, Margie stumbled upon Matt Tommey’s book study on Facebook. The book study was centered around Matt’s book, “The Heart of the Artist.” It was a pivotal moment, and Margie knew she needed to be a part of it. She drove to Asheville and attended the study, where she met incredible Christian artists who would change her life forever.
Finding Their Community Margie’s experience in the book study was transformational. She felt an instant connection with the artists she met and realized that she had found her community. It was a place where art, faith, and creativity intersected, and it marked a significant turning point in her life.
A Shift in Expectation Being a part of Matt Tommey’s Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program brought about a shift in Margie and Lonnie’s expectations. They began to expect blessings and favor from God. They understood their identity in Christ and believed that God wanted to take them to new levels of success in their artistic endeavors.
Embracing New Thoughts The mentorship program introduced them to new thoughts and concepts that Matt encouraged. They started to use words like “favor” and “blessing” in their vocabulary. They understood that God did not intend for them to be starving artists; instead, He loved to bless and favor His children.
A Journey of Financial Blessings The shift in expectations and newfound confidence bore fruit. Financially, Margie and Lonnie saw a remarkable transformation. In their first year, they didn’t sell a single piece of art. However, after joining the mentorship program, every First Friday event resulted in sales. Their faith in God’s blessings was reflected in their growing success.
Join the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program Margie and Lonnie Johnson’s story is a testament to the power of mentorship, faith, and a shift in mindset. If you’re an artist struggling with self-doubt or looking to take your creative journey to new heights, the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program could be your path to transformation.
Visit Matt Tommey’s Mentorship Program and explore the opportunity to be a part of this life-changing program. Just as Margie and Lonnie discovered their identity and confidence as artists, you too can experience a shift in your creative journey.
Don’t let fear and uncertainty hold you back. Join the program, embrace new thoughts, and expect blessings. Your artistic dreams can thrive, and God loves to favor His children.
Watch as Julie, a fiber artist from North Carolina, shares her story of transformation inside Matt Tommey’s Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program.
Imagine having an undeniable passion for art but being held back by self-doubt and life’s complexities. Amy Smith’s story is a testament to how determination, guidance, and faith can transform a passionate artist into a thriving creative. In this captivating blog article, artist and mentor Matt Tommey narrates Amy’s inspiring journey and invites you to join the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program.
A Lifelong Drive for Creativity Amy Smith’s artistic journey began with an innate drive to play with paint, colors, and patterns. She embarked on her creative path years ago, initially working with jewelry and glass beads. However, in recent years, she transitioned into the world of mixed-media art, where her passion truly flourished.
The Struggles and Challenges While her artistic journey was fueled by passion, Amy faced her fair share of challenges and struggles. Life, with its complexities of raising a family and taking care of aging parents, added to the mix. However, the biggest challenge Amy encountered was her lack of confidence and fear of diving deep into her artistic desires.
Finding Guidance in Mentorship Amy’s transformation began when she joined the mentoring group, Created to Thrive, led by Matt Tommey. At the outset, she had little faith in her skills and doubted her abilities. Nevertheless, she chose to follow the steps laid out by Matt, regardless of her self-doubt.
A Remarkable Turnaround Amy’s dedication and perseverance paid off. She diligently followed the guidance provided by Matt in the Created to Thrive program. The results were nothing short of remarkable. Today, she stands as a testament to the program’s effectiveness.
Flourishing Artistic Career With newfound confidence, Amy’s career as an artist has blossomed. She now teaches classes in her studio, and they are in high demand. She even has an artist residency opportunity in her hometown in Virginia, a large end-of-year show invitation, and a speaking engagement online. These opportunities were beyond her imagination before embarking on her transformative journey.
Recognizing Her Calling Amy’s journey not only helped her recognize her skill but also her calling. She discovered that her art was not just a side pursuit but a divine calling. Creating art became a collaboration with the Creator Himself, and she feels His pleasure when she expresses her creativity.
Join the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program Amy Smith’s story is a testament to the power of mentorship, faith, and determination. If you’re an artist struggling with self-doubt, seeking guidance, or looking to unlock your creative potential, the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program is your pathway to transformation.
Visit Matt Tommey’s Mentorship Program and explore the opportunity to be a part of this life-changing program. Just as Amy found her confidence and calling, you too can embark on a journey of self-discovery and artistic flourishing.
Don’t let doubt hold you back. Join the program, follow the steps, and watch your creative journey transform. Your passion for art can lead to abundance, and together with the Creator, you can thrive as an artist.
Everyone has passions in life, and for Trace Chiodo, it’s art, golf, and fishing. This engaging blog article narrates Trace’s incredible journey from being an artist with financial struggles to thriving under the mentorship of Matt Tommey. Discover how the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program transformed his artistic career, and learn how you can embark on a similar journey of creativity and success.
A Lifelong Passion for Art Trace Chiodo’s artistic journey spans an impressive 25 years. Starting as a graphic designer, his love for art evolved into digital art, digital illustration, and photography. Trace’s art is a fusion of his lifelong passions for golf and fishing, creating unique and captivating pieces that resonate with art lovers.
Overcoming Financial Hurdles Before joining Matt’s mentorship group, Trace faced a significant hurdle: financial uncertainty. He needed clarity on where his income would come from and how to navigate the art market independently. Trace realized the importance of gaining focus and understanding the art world from a personal perspective, rather than working for others.
Kingdom-Focused Artistry What drew Trace to Matt’s mentorship group was its Kingdom-focused approach. As a firm believer in living by faith, Trace wanted his art to reflect his faith-driven lifestyle. He sought to become a Kingdom artist, aligned with God’s purpose for his life. Matt’s guidance offered the perfect blend of artistic and spiritual growth.
Transforming Lives Through Mentorship Joining Matt’s group marked a turning point in Trace’s life. Here’s how his life changed:
Studio Space: Trace now has his own studio space, a crucial milestone for any artist. This dedicated creative space allows him to fully immerse himself in his work.
Additional Income: Through the mentorship program, Trace unlocked new income streams, providing financial stability and freedom to pursue his artistic passions.
Exhibition Success: Trace expanded his reach beyond local art centers and started exhibiting his work more widely. His unique artistry began attracting a broader audience.
Increased Interest: More people are discovering Trace’s art and expressing interest. His pieces are resonating with art enthusiasts, leading to greater recognition and appreciation.
Trace Chiodo – A Thriving Artist Today, Trace Chiodo stands as a thriving artist, a testament to the transformative power of mentorship and faith-driven creativity. His journey reflects the core principles of the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program, where artistry, faith, and guidance come together to create remarkable success stories.
Join the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program Are you an artist yearning to transform your creative journey? Do you seek financial stability, recognition, and a deeper connection to your faith through your art? The Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program, led by Matt Tommey, is your gateway to a thriving artistic career.
Visit Matt Tommey’s Mentorship Program today and discover how you can follow in Trace Chiodo’s footsteps. Unleash your creativity, find financial stability, and thrive as an artist with the guidance and support of this transformative program.
Don’t let financial hurdles or self-doubt hold you back. Join the program and embark on a journey where your passion for art aligns with your faith, leading to a fulfilling and thriving artistic career.
Discover the remarkable journey of Deborah Nell, a passionate acrylic artist who found her calling in the mesmerizing world of abstract art. This engaging blog article explores her artistic evolution, the challenges she faced, and how joining Matt Tommey’s mentorship program led her to thrive as both an artist and a Christian.
A Love for Acrylic Art on Yupo Paper Deborah’s artistic journey began when she was introduced to acrylic painting on Yupo paper by an abstract artist. Captivated by the fluidity and movement of the paint, she discovered a unique talent within her. She saw images within the paint and made it her mission to bring those images to life, whether through acrylic pours or painting on Yupo paper.
The Road to Becoming a Serious Artist Deborah’s commitment to her craft deepened in 2013 when she decided to pursue art seriously. However, like many artists, she faced challenges in her artistic development and business growth. She reached a plateau and felt isolated as a Christian artist. Deborah knew she needed to break through and sought guidance on marketing and expanding her artistic horizons.
Finding Support and Community The turning point in Deborah’s artistic journey came when she became a member of Matt Tommey’s mentorship group. This decision connected her with hundreds of other Christian artists who shared her passion and faith. The support, guidance, and camaraderie she found were invaluable.
A Transformation Through Art Mentorship Here’s how Matt Tommey’s mentorship transformed Deborah’s life:
Practical Skills: Deborah gained practical skills in website creation, marketing, and connecting with art enthusiasts. These tools empowered her to take her art to a wider audience.
Recognition and Exposure: Since joining the group, Deborah’s art has garnered significant recognition. Her work was featured on the cover of an online magazine, and she was interviewed for an art magazine. Her art resonates with a growing audience.
Workshops and Impact: Deborah has been conducting workshops, leaving a lasting impact on those who attend. Her workshops receive rave reviews, with attendees eagerly awaiting the next one.
Confidence and Identity: Most importantly, Deborah discovered her true identity as an artist. She became confident in her artistry, embracing her uniqueness and the message she conveys through her work. Her faith is now intertwined with her art.
Embracing Identity and Purpose Through Matt Tommey’s mentorship program, Deborah learned a powerful lesson: knowing who you are and having a strong relationship with God reflects in your art. She found her authentic voice as a painter, choosing to be true to herself and her calling. Deborah’s art is a reflection of her identity and her connection to the divine.
Join the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program If you’re an artist seeking to overcome challenges, find your identity, and thrive in your artistic journey, Matt Tommey’s mentorship program is your path to transformation. Visit Matt Tommey’s Mentorship Program today and embark on a journey of artistic and spiritual growth, just like Deborah Nell.
Don’t let doubts or isolation hinder your artistic potential. Join the program and discover your true identity as an artist, guided by faith and creativity. Your journey to thriving as an artist begins here.
What was your life as an artist like before becoming a member of the Artist Mentoring Program? What was your biggest roadblock? Unfocused, sporadic, insecure and unmotivated. I let EVERYTHING be a road block for me: time, lack of inspiration, fear of rejection, even spending money on supplies!
What prompted you to become a part of the Artist Mentoring Program? Specifically, what were you looking for? I had been challenged by my dying Mother to pursue my art, followed quickly by a friend who wrote a book about living a fearless life in Christ. About a week after I read the book and decided to pursue my art without fear – an ad for the Artist Mentoring Program came up on my Facebook page and I signed up for the trial week. After a couple of days I signed up for the program because I was so impressed with the resources and it was a perfect fit for me.
Since becoming a member, how has your life changed? How have you experienced breakthrough? Before I had no vision whatsoever of being a professional artist, let alone even being able to admit to most people that I was an artist. Now I have vision, focus and a plan to pursue an art career. Before it took me years to finish anything. I have a pencil drawing that I’m happy with but it took me nearly 10 years to complete. Now I have so many ideas and have committed myself to spend time on my work, that I’ve been able to finish a painting or two every month – even with a full-time job. Before I was afraid of rejection and only my closest friends even knew I was an artist. Now I’ve had my work in 2 community shows and 2 professional juried shows in the past 8 months. I know this all sounds like a pretty radical change. I can’t hardly even recognize my own life. This all is a pretty amazing breakthrough for me!
What’s been your biggest “Aha Moment” that was a real gamechanger for you while in the program? Realizing how much fear I had about my artwork as I went through the 21 days of breakthrough.
What would you say to encourage other artists who are currently in the Artist Mentoring Program along their journey? To artists considering becoming members? We’re created in the image of our Creator. He really does have a plan for our lives that includes the creativity He has gifted us with. This program really helps you discover the Lord’s heart for artists, how to grow as an artist and the possibilities of having a career in art, along with tools to accomplish that.
What’s on your horizon? What are you dreaming of and moving toward in this next season? I am dreaming of transitioning from my current full-time job into being a professional artist. My plan is to paint, paint, paint and develop my style and a cohesive body of work.
Starting Mid-May, 2018, you can connect with me via my new podcast, “The Thriving Christian Artist”. It’s for artists who want to bust through roadblocks that have held them back for years, create the art they love and live the life the they know God created them to live as an artist in His Kingdom.
During each season of the podcast, I’ll be sharing encouraging teaching and inspiration from my own journey as an artist plus interviews with both emerging and established artists in every creative medium who are thriving artistically, spiritually and in their business.
You can listen, subscribe and review my podcast via iTunes, Stitcher, GooglePlay or my website by heading here.
I recently had the great pleasure to sit down for a wonderful conversation with my friend, Libby John who hosts the “Art & Faith Conversations” podcast. We talked about my new book, Created to Thrive along with alot of the back story that has brought me to where I am today as an artist.
Listen to the podcast here or by searching “Art & Faith Conversations” under Podcasts on iTunes or Stitcher.
What was your life as an artist like before becoming a member of the Artist Mentoring Program? What was your biggest roadblock? I struggle with a lack of confidence as an artist and as a person in general.
What prompted you to become a part of the Artist Mentoring Program? Specifically, what were you looking for? I was looking for a bridge, a pathway from being an occasional paid artist to becoming one who truly was living an Artist’s life, using my work to connect to others and connect those people to the heart of God. I also wanted so much to really make art my business.
Since becoming a member, how has your life changed? How have you experienced breakthrough? Before discovering Matt Tommey and the Created to Thrive group, I was creating here and there and truly lived in a state of discouragement and a deep lack of confidence. I not only experienced this in the area of being a creative, but it bled into other areas of my life as well. Or, now that I think of it, it may have been the other way around. When I read Unlocking the Heart of the Artist, I felt comforted that someone really knew where I was in my journey and the roadblocks I was experiencing. I then began to discover through Creativity According to the Kingdom, there was an amazing connection and influence that Creatives have and this began my seeking the Fathers heart in a new way. When I became a member of Created to Thrive, the Lord really began a work towards becoming a joy filled artist, the one He created me to be. Now, I approach my studio time, like quiet creative time with The Father. I’m able to boldly explore and accept grace to fail and my confidence has increased in how I put my work out there. The Created to Thrive Mentoring group has changed my approach to my art and to my life.
What’s been your biggest “Aha Moment” that was a real gamechanger for you while in the program? The biggest Aha moment for me was when I was standing in the shell of my , in process, studio space realizing that my husband I are ,together, investing in me as an artist. That i am a thriving artist even though I may have a low income or no income week. Money and acceptance wasn’t the defining thing that made me a Thriving Artist anymore. It was more about the source of inspiration and provision. That studio build was the game changer.
What would you say to encourage other artists who are currently in the Artist Mentoring Program along their journey? To artists considering becoming members? I would say that the journey is worth it. I am discovering that the process is so rich and we are always, in some way, in the process. I think of this every time I finish a piece. When it’s done, it’s just done and it’s for someone to enjoy. Someone will purchase this piece and there’s value in that, but what I received in the process of collaborating with the Great Creator while creating it is truly priceless. These are the experiences that propel me forward and change me forever. The learning and growing in skill and communion with the Lord is the best journey and others benefit from what’s learned here as well because that informs the next piece I create. This group, Matt as leader and the other creatives here, all the insights and sharing is all part of the journey. Matt shares wisdom and experience that has catapulted me through things that would’ve had me stuck. I’m so grateful.
What’s on your horizon? What are you dreaming of and moving toward in this next season? I’ve learned to say no to good things in order to make room for the great. I have a vision for my website and I’m in the process of creating 20 original pieces for a store opening in a few months. I’m also designing interiors and will be having my first home gallery show this Summer. The connections and relationships in recent days have me dreaming with the Lord and seeing big doors open.
Connect with Tina on Instagram @tinalawvercreativellc and FB TinaLawverCreativeLLC
What was your life as an artist like before becoming a member of the Artist Mentoring Program? What was your biggest roadblock? I’d been “breaking through”, winning awards, selling my large paintings for over $1000. Six mos. before joining the Matt’s mentoring group, I dropped it all to be a caregiver, prayer warrior, & patient advocate for my husband to survive a life threatening health challenge. As he began to mend, I was personally bankrupt. I joined this mentoring group and was healed physically immediately. I felt & SAW myself in the flow of the river of God that is this creative mentoring ministry.
What prompted you to become a part of the Artist Mentoring Program? Specifically, what were you looking for? I was thirsty for life and was drawn to drink of the living water here. Also, I was excited to think I could make an income from painting.
Since becoming a member, how has your life changed? How have you experienced breakthrough?
Before joining, my painting and my life were very introverted, insulated, and safe. I used to be very quiet and shy. Now? I’ve found my voice! I’m a work in progress, but I’m much more outgoing, scheduling and organizing art events as a board member of a large art organization, sometimes writing, and my artwork is bolder & morphing. I thought I joined the program to learn how to make my art into a business. I bumped hard into Him, as He is interested in my heart, not my bank balance.
What’s been your biggest “Aha Moment” that was a real gamechanger for you while in the program? The 2017 GOA event was the game changer for me. I went scared and timid but emerged confident, joyful, more determined, and free! My husband attended, also, and was totally restored physically, emotionally, and spiritually to better health than his pre-health challenge status! Praise be to God!!!
What would you say to encourage other artists who are currently in the Artist Mentoring Program along their journey? To artists considering becoming members? Matt is called to mentor and help artists grow into God’s purposes for us. Each artist is responsible for his/her forward progress, with the freedom to set one’s own pace according to His purposes. Most beneficial is the focus on creating art from the heart, the heart increasingly attuned to the source of creativity, our Creator God. Matt’s ministry is one of God’s big keys in this season for the release of heaven into the earth-realm through the arts.
What’s on your horizon? What are you dreaming of and moving toward in this next season? I dream of greater release of God’s creativity into & through my painting in the next six months. I’m learning better time management so I can be more involved with encouraging others, sharing excitement about painting, and sharing the love and power of Christ’s love through it all.
Olivia Alexander is an award-winning, Australian acrylic / mixed-media artist and has been a part of the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program for over 4 months. This is her story…
What was your life as an artist like before becoming a member of the Artist Mentoring Program? What was your biggest roadblock? I’d experienced moderate success both locally and internationally but had come into period of frustration financially and in my career direction. We also moved interstate and I had to begin connecting and networking all over again.
What prompted you to become a part of the Artist Mentoring Program? Specifically, what were you looking for? I felt incredibly isolated and alone. I had no one to ask career advice from and felt close to quitting. I was looking for a supportive group of likeminded people as well as a mentor with God’s perspective on creative ministry and business.
Since becoming a member, how has your life changed? How have you experienced breakthrough? Within one day of being in the group things began to change. I had felt like I couldn’t continue the Art career journey but within a short time the fog began to clear. My faith level has risen. I now realise that I was trying to make my art business a ministry which was creating confusion in me. I’m learning how to find my clients in a targeted way.
What’s been your biggest “Aha Moment” that was a real gamechanger for you while in the program? Learning what my Unique Selling Proposition is. Then using that to work out where my buyers are. Doing the 21 day Road to Breakthrough and Artist Inventory was a challenge but an incredible game changer for me too.
What would you say to encourage other artists who are currently in the Artist Mentoring Program along their journey? To artists considering becoming members? Just keep going but at the pace you need to. Don’t feel pressure to rush. We are all different and at different stages. The Lord’s yoke is light not heavy. If you’re thinking about joining and you’re serious about your art, then take the plunge. It’s worth every cent and more! I can’t even begin to tell you the amount of info available in this program!
What’s on your horizon? What are you dreaming of and moving toward in this next season? Establishing myself in my new state of Queensland. Also starting workshops from my new big studio. The income from that will enable me to solo exhibit again and continue more international work.
What was your life as an artist like before becoming a member of the Artist Mentoring Program? What was your biggest roadblock? I have been a creative all my life. I’m gifted in many areas and mediums. I tried other creative business ventures but nothing ever stuck. I always seemed to get labeled Hobbyist or Crafter. And because I never completed school with an art degree I felt the odds were against me.
I knew that I was an artist and as a Kingdom Creative it was a calling but art as a career just seemed like a nice idea and not reality. I used art for my personal enjoyment and as a Therapeutic practice for inner healing which resulted in physical healing. I would create to give away and had always hoped to “sell” my work. I had to debunk the myth that I couldn’t be successful or thrive without a college degree. Understanding that it was OK to make money with my gift was what I had to overcome and believe that I could thrive at it!
What prompted you to become a part of the Artist Mentoring Program? Specifically, what were you looking for? Timing! I wanted my art to have purpose and I wanted to make money from it! I needed permission…to be an artist. I needed business direction. I needed a business mentor! I wanted to join when it was launched but distractions kept getting in the way. Honestly I saved the link to the group, registered for GOA in January of 2017 but lost sight of the vision and never went through with the purchase until I made a business decision that was proposed by a friend. It seemed fun and a great way to make money. It was a thousand dollars investment and there went my GOA money! The first week I made that decision I woke up sick everyday thinking “what have I done?” And because of the amount of work it took to make it work. The cold calls, false enthusiasm etc. Exhausting! I would cry and literally grieve the time it was taking away from me creating. Up until this time I had continually spent regular studio time co-creating with the Lord but was holding the value of my art at a very low place. So I got another email from The Worship Studio and saw another add for Created to Thrive and knew immediately that it was what I was supposed to do to take my gift and business to the next level! I cancelled my other business venture, returned the product and got my refund. I immediately signed up for CTT the next day and then paid for my GOA registration. Thank you Lord for letting it all work out! I had about given up on my dream as an artist and then I joined Created To Thrive.
Since becoming a member, how has your life changed? How have you experienced breakthrough? Since joining Created To Thrive my life has been enriched by creative and business knowledge. I’ve gained greater spiritual insight and encouragement and have been given a creative faith family. I have finally found my TRIBE! I have experienced breakthrough in my confidence as an artist. I used to think I was good but not great. I used to see my gift only to be given away and not valued to sell. We artists are the go to “volunteers” for everything creative at churches and schools. But that is not the case anymore. I see my art as valuable and worthy of money. I am worthy! I used to feel “different” like an outsider as an artist and that it was not “Godly”, especially in the body of Christ. But now I know that I am one of His chosen artisans who He has chosen to FILL and Helps me to grow my skill. He has chosen me to bring Heaven to earth. He has chosen me to release and display His glory!
What’s been your biggest “Aha Moment” that was a real gamechanger for you while in the program? That is a no brainer. It was almost instant. I immediately felt the permission to be who He created and called me to be as a Kingdom Artist and that it was OK to make money at it. The long time prayer for an art and spiritual mentor was answered! Once I had that permission it was game on! Thank you for that and for the affirmation of my gift!
What would you say to encourage other artists who are currently in the Artist Mentoring Program along their journey? To artists considering becoming members? It is an investment not another monthly bill. It is worth every penny and more. Don’t lose sight of your WHY and the important part that you have to play in further advancing the Kingdom of God. Do trust yourself and the gift He has entrusted to you. Be diligent to work the program and grow your gift. Stay focused on your vision. Keep connecting with Him and trusting Him in the process. Just stay the course and ask yourself HOW BAD DO YOU WANT IT!?!
What’s on your horizon? What are you dreaming of and moving toward in this next season? Currently I am working on what I am calling My Kingdom Fine Art Collections. Paintings Inspired by explorative play and His insight. As well as trying to complete a book or two. I’m dreaming of the day I publish my books and the people that will they will help. I am dreaming of my work being accepted into shows and being viewed by many then selling for high end prices. Also to see the impact my paintings will have on people. Resuscitating them! I also have loved fashion and interior design since I was a teen. My hope is that I can turn my paintings into fabric one day and maybe even make some “Dionne White Branded items” in my fabric. I am currently having a professional logo and brand mark created. Which I am very excited about! I’m also seeing some type of “creative spiritual coaching business” down the road. It seems to be evolving and this has been a desire of my heart for years since 2008 and I launched my personal ministry in 2016. My heart is to help others persevere empowered so that would be along those lines and just continuing to paint and display His glory!
Deborah Nell is an acrylic artist who has been a part of Created to Thrive for over 9 months. This is her story.
What was your life as an artist like before becoming a member of the Artist Mentoring Program? What was your biggest roadblock? I was doing OK as an artist but in a way I was treading water. I wasn’t going backwards, but I wasn’t going forward. Pretty much maintaining what I had accomplished. I knew God had more for me but I didn’t know how to get to the next level of growth as an artist. I’ve been selling my art since 2007.
What prompted you to become a part of the Artist Mentoring Program? Specifically, what were you looking for? Out of fear of not having enough finances I took a part-time job and it was a total disaster. I realized I’m at a point in my life that I cannot work for someone else. I need to focus on my art business. It was at that time that I saw Matt’s post on fb about his mentoring group. I knew I had to give it a try. I knew I was going to be leaving my part-time job and wanted my time to be used wisely. Matt’s group seemed like the answer.
Since becoming a member, how has your life changed? How have you experienced breakthrough? My confidence as an artist has really grown since I’ve become a member. It’s an inward work that didn’t happen overnight but is definitely manifested by the increase in my prices, by the increase of invitations to exhibit I’m receiving. I’m putting into practice the many practices Matt teaches us. They are 90 day planning, visualizing my goals, daily prayer time, daily studio time, learning to network to name a few. Today alone I finished 4 miniature paintings to submit to an art show, met with 3 other artists to plan an art event in a nearby city where our work will be showcased, received a commission, sold a print on Fine Art America. I feel as though I’m in harvest season! I am very excited about all the plans ahead that God has for me and my art.
What’s been your biggest “Aha Moment” that was a real gamechanger for you while in the program? Although there are many, I would have to say the biggest “Aha Moment” has been that as I believe what God shows me… I begin to see those things come to pass in reality. I’m no longer chasing after things… opportunities are coming to me. People are trusting me to do things I’ve never done before, like create a personalized prophetic acrylic pour painting. I can’t tell you the number of times in the last few weeks that people have said they trust my wisdom and my creative instinct. I think it’s because I’m now trusting it. I am trusting God for everything I need. I’m believing for more than I can imagine. I recently saw the movie “The Greatest Showman”. God was speaking to me about taking risks and believing in others and myself. There are several scenes where the outcasts that PT Barnum brings together are afraid that people will laugh at them. He tells them they will not laugh at them, they will see them as beautiful. I found my heart literally swelling during this movie. God was affirming the calling on my life to bring beauty into the world and see the beauty in others. To have the eyes to see and then express that beauty in my art. I know that being a member of Matt’s group has sensitized my heart to see in a new way the opportunities that are available to me. This group has given me the courage to say “yes”, I want to go all out and am willing to give this art calling my all.
What would you say to encourage other artists who are currently in the Artist Mentoring Program along their journey? To artists considering becoming members? When you say yes to the step in front of you it prepares you for the next step. The journey of an artist begins with that one step. You may not know how you are going to get to where you want to go… or even know where you want to go. But God does know the way and He uses this group to bring others alongside you and Matt to guide you. You can live the life you dream of. God gave you those dreams and wants you to work with Him to fulfill them.
What’s on your horizon? What are you dreaming of and moving toward in this next season? I have an art reception coming up where 21 of my new acrylic pour paintings I created in January are on display at a local church. I will be speaking and giving out my greeting cards to all who attend. I will also be selling my greeting cards of the works that are for sale. I will be part of a studio tour in October. I’m one of four prophetic artists that will display and speak about our work as well as give a workshop at an art even in April. I’m planning on giving a 2 day acrylic pour workshop this year. Have applied for 3 new larger art festivals in August. Might be speaking about my art in San Clemente, CA when I visit my parents and family in August. I even submitted my work to be featured on a billboard in Los Angeles. If it is chosen… that’s incredible exposure! I’m anticipating my sales to almost double in this coming year as we enter into the busy Spring and Summer season. I just keep seeing it happen.
Donna Arnold is a mixed media artist who’s been a part of the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program for over 9 months. This is her story.
What was your life as an artist like before becoming a member of the Artist Mentoring Program? What was your biggest roadblock? I had a full career as a high school art teacher, then ran my own art school for a number of years. Following a move to a new city in retirement, my main artistic efforts were directed toward local and regional art competitions. I had made most of my money as an artist by teaching and my perks by being juried into shows.
What prompted you to become a part of the Artist Mentoring Program? Specifically, what were you looking for? In a new city I didn’t have a network from which to pull students nor places to exhibit and sell my work. I joined a local art organization but it was mainly a social group. I didn’t know how to promote my work or myself. I knew I needed help in using social media effectively, needed a new website, needed to learn how to market. And, I needed encouragement that I was worthy of the time, effort and money it would take. I became willing to make the commitment to the mentoring program because of the Christian foundation that proved to be authentic.
Since becoming a member, how has your life changed? How have you experienced breakthrough? First, the effect of Matt’s teaching and the other available materials have greatly boosted my self worth as an artist. I used to just see myself as a teacher. Now I know that the work I produce is of high quality and marketable. I had previously had a web site that was costing me a pretty penny a year and got zero traffic. At Matt’s suggestion, I contracted with Jeremy to help build a site that could build traffic. My primary marketing tool was to post my work on Fine Art America and that netted me the sale of one pillow and one print and they got most of the money. I began posting my work on FB and Instagram and writing blog posts on my new website. Matt’ s teaching about cultivating the people I knew began to pay off.
What’s been your biggest “Aha Moment” that was a real gamechanger for you while in the program? I have had two breakthroughs. First, I promoted some classes in my home studio which led to successive sessions throughout the summer and fall. I also used an area of my studio to display work for sale – and the students bought it! At the same time I applied to and was juried into a co-op gallery in the heart of the arts district of the city. At my suggestion we had a holiday open house and I used the same promotion techniques I had learned so far. The day of the event, I had more of “my people” come through the door than I could have imagined, I sold more in that one day than I had the year before! And because of the additional exposure, I have been asked to teach a week-end workshop for the Watercolor Society of Indiana in the spring.
What would you say to encourage other artists who are currently in the Artist Mentoring Program along their journey? To artists considering becoming members? The Mentoring Program is definitely worth the investment for personal growth. I still have a lot to learn and know the resources are available – if you take advantage of them and do the work. I don’t know any other place to find the quality of instruction and resources. What’s on your horizon? What are you dreaming of and moving toward in this next season? I need to build a newsletter on Mailchimp, create some video pieces for social media, prepare for a solo show at the gallery and keep up with studio production.
I’ve encountered many artists over the years who really struggle with stepping into thriving because they don’t understand one foundational concept: convergence. Thriving isn’t simply doing one or two things well, but rather doing the right things well at the same time, over time.
Although that might seem like a juggling act – and it can feel that way some times – it’s not as out of reach as you think.
Here’s what typically happens with artists. They get two out of the three areas but forgetting that third, continue to struggle. For example, artists who are great artistically and have a strong spiritual connection end up having only a hobby or ministry because they don’t pursue the development of their art business. Artists who are great artistically and have a strong business sense often flourish in the marketplace with their sales but sometimes lack a deep spiritual connection and sense of life in their art practice. Then there’s artists who are deeply connected spiritually and have built a business but their artwork is lacking, leading to immature work and frustration.
For artists who want to pursue their art in the marketplace in the context of their relationship with God, thriving happens when they are growing artistically, spiritually and in their businesses. Each feeds the other and provides momentum for the journey. This place of convergence is what I call your “sweet spot” and it should be a goal for every artist who wants to thrive spiritually, artistically and financially.
This place of convergence is the focus of my artist mentoring program, Created to Thrive. Click here for more information on how to be a part.
