tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16974036.post-80339878605043226972008-02-06T12:56:00.000-05:002008-02-06T13:24:40.160-05:00I read an <a href="http://www.careerbuilder.com/JobSeeker/careerbytes/CBArticle.aspx?articleID=773&amp;lr=cbbell&amp;cbRecursionCnt=1&amp;cbsid=7f17ae8f01b1433cbd1f3ab291437913-255598714-X4-2">article</a> this morning stating that being an Artist is one of the 10 sexiest jobs and it got me thinking. It goes on to say that being an artist is sexy because artists are doing what they love and that they're not necessarily in it for the money. For how many of us is this true?<br /><br />I've always been an artist and I always will be. True, I <em>don't</em> make much money from my art at this point and I do have other jobs that pay my bills. I do art because I love it and because I grow unhappy if I don't create. I feel like a part of me is missing when I go too long without a paintbrush in my hand. I feel that way right now actually as my muse seems to have been on sabbatical lately. I am eagerly awaiting the return of my creativity and motivation and I hope they come quickly!<br /><br />When I do create, am I truly creating what I love? I <em>want </em>to because things begin to feel forced to me when I attempt to create someone else's vision. I am happiest when I am creating whatever strikes my fancy at the moment. I do admit that I believe that I must cater to the public's whims somewhat. I know that the "standard fantasy staples" such as unicorns, merfolk, dragons, etc. are popular and I am working on getting some art incorporating these staples in my portfolio. But, I want them to have my unique twist to them as well. I want them still to be recognizable as mine.<br /><br />How about you? Do you create what you love or do you create what you think will be popular and will sell well? Where is the happy medium? I mean, we are artists because we love it-right? But we still want to make money at it too. I know I do! One day I hope to make art my fulltime job. Some artists are lucky-they <em>do</em> realize their dream of creating whatever they want, the public loves what they do and buys their work. They are making money and living happily doing what they love.<br /><br />How difficult is it to get to this point? What does it take? How many of us will make it?I guess it take a lot of hard work, determination and faith in one's self. That last one is the kicker-<em>faith in one's self. Belief</em> that we can achieve this goal if we really want it bad enough. And, oh yes, really thick skin. ;)<br /><br />Until next time you sexy artists you!<br />Kelly Smith<div class="blogger-post-footer">Please post comments to this post directly to my actual blog or I will not be notifed of them. Thank you!</div>Kelly Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17936506476668705147noreply@blogger.com