As I am getting ready for my last travel day in January, a bit weary from nights in hotels and days in trade show booths, I got to thinking about my business. I feel so fortunate with everything in my life — my family and friends, my home in the Northwest, and my wonderful art business.
While packing my suitcase I found myself creating a mental list of why I do what I do and more importantly, why I love it. You spend so much time and energy on work, why not find something that fills you with passion instead of filling you with dread?
Here is my list of “5 Reasons I love Art Licensing”
- I get to create art, use my imagination and play with paint every day.
- When I am at trade shows, I have the pleasure of meeting some of the nicest and most talented artists who “get” what I do. And because everyone has their own style, we can help each other and not feel threatened or competitive. There is room and a place for everyone.
- I’m the boss of me. I steer the ship, set the course, and decide what I do or don’t want to do. I don’t have a manager putting demands on my time or energy without my input – everything I do is my choice. (Sometimes I have to remind myself of that… so don’t you forget it either!)
- I get butterflies in my stomach and a big smile on my face when I “visit” my art in stores. It is such a thrill to see your creations go from your head to your paper and finally end up on products on the shelves of stores.
- Finally, although I work more than many people with more traditional jobs, my time is flexible and 98% of the time I am more than happy to be doing what I do. Who can ask for more than that?
Here’s to hoping you find the excitement, passion and joy in how you spend your days!
~ Tara
You summed it all up very well, Tara! I’ve always said, I’m not getting rich, but I am making a decent living making art without having a “real job” ~ what’s not to like???? (But you’re right – there are times it seems we work much harder than those with “real jobs” 🙂
Enjoyed reading your blog post, Tara. Reminds me I need to get back in there and finish some art projects! 🙂
Having been managed and been an “upper” manager (there’s actually more management at every level), I love being the Captain of my own ship.
It’s sometimes not as secure as the large steady paycheck I used to get, but the fact that I’m sitting in my studio today illustrating race car characters for a greeting card line makes up for it.
I love reading your blog and knowing you’re out there doing this, too.
And hey, look at how many people are being thrown overboard from the big ships these days! Yes it’s harder but very rewarding.
Tara
Hi, Tara. I can relate to this blog post. Having spent 14 years in Corporate America, I now have the freedom to build my own creative business. And yes, I don’t have to be worried about being laid off during these uncertain economic times.
Tara.
I love your 5 reasons on why I want to be in licensing…especially today when I have to make a decision on signing up for a booth at the Las Vegas licensingexpo this June. It is a major step for me but one I have waited for a long time.
Lollie
Ok Tara, you asked in your e-mail “Here are my 5 Reasons I Love Art Licensing…. what are yours? ” So, I thought I would post them here since you got me thinking about what drives my passion for art licensing.
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5 Reasons I Love Art Licensing
I love the process of product development. It is a thrill to start with an idea or image, expand it, grow it and refine it until it becomes something new and different. Figuring out how to present and market a new product concept is an exciting puzzle to piece together.
I love alternating between the fast pace deadlines and long hours painting new art licensing collections in my studio, while listening to music that inspires creation. Being able to set my own schedule and follow my dreams is a major plus to running my own design studio.
I love creating designs that will impact and inspire others that eventually find them at retail. Reaching into and touching strangers lives with love and hope is a pure delight.
It is an incredible feeling to wake up every morning, knowing you are your own boss. I have an incredible sense of passion and purpose for a specific vision for my brand, “Something to Cherish.” I love being able to earn a living creating, painting and designing images and graphics that solve problems and meet needs for the companies with whom I choose to work.
And most of all it is the wonderful plethora of people I meet along the way. It is the art directors and designers and fellow artists I am privileged to know and work with. They inspire me to be better, to reach for new heights and are a complete joy to collaborate with, even on the most challenging projects.
Thanks Tara for your great advice on how to present myself at any upcoming trade shows.
I look forward to meeting great contacts and having fun at the Las Vegas Licensing Expo as well.