While painting is something that I can’t imagine being without, there are times when it is hard work and there are times that I would rather be doing something else for the moment.  Being left brained helps in that I naturally prefer to be organized, work within a schedule and set deadlines for myself.  I was raised with a strong work ethic and usually just getting in the studio and getting started is enough to get me motivated. I also keep a note book where I list short term and long term goals, various ideas and sketches/photos of future paintings.  My notebook helps keep me on track and moving forward.  I try to have several shows or competitions lined up throughout the year to encourage me to paint something new and hopefully exciting.  I also try to donate several paintings each year to various worthy causes.  Another thing that I find helpful is to paint some smaller paintings while working on a larger one.   This allows me to satisfy my need to complete a task while not rushing the larger painting. I also am a member of an internet watercolor group that has monthly projects to help motivate the members to paint something new and different and I maintain an art blog (www.vickigreene.blogspot.com) where I give away a free painting each month.  The support and sharing of creative ideas from my internet artist friends is a wonderful way to stay motivated. 

Art Core: How have you handled the business side of being an artist? 

I believe this is one of the most difficult areas for most artists.  Most of us would like to completely turn this area over to someone else to take care of but it is as much of a part of the artist life as creating art.  I do attempt to keep the business part as simple and stress free as possible.  I try to set goals and not overload myself with deadlines that fall all at one time.  Because I also work a part-time job that is not related to art, I find that staying organized is extremely important.  My previously mentioned notebook is very useful for this.  I try to review my long term and short term goals at least several times a year and adjust them as needed.  My sister encouraged me to start a spreadsheet and it has been a tremendous help with keeping up with details.  I can look at my spreadsheet and know at a glance how many paintings I have, where they are at, the size (unframed and framed), the price, if they have sold and all related information about the sale, any prizes or awards received, etc. It only takes a few minutes each week to keep the spreadsheet updated and it can save hours of frustration.  I put all of my receipts in a binder divided by month and I create separate folders in my outlook for correspondence.  My husband and biggest supporter assist me with my framing, transporting and hanging paintings when needed.