1. Create a professional website
2. Create a PayPal account
3. Help plan an art 'open house'
WEBSITE - this was pretty fun because it not only helped to legitimize my mom as an artist but it was an opportunity to collect, in one place, all of her paintings and actually categorize them, which had never been done before. I used a site called Big Black Bag, which is used specifically for artists. And, after a solid month of layout, online tutorials and photographing and organizing, we launched her site: http://www.jonirussellart.com/. What was so exciting too is that we were able to use her Reiki practice as a way to help distinguish her as an artist with a twist. The site so far has gotten great responses. Now, we need to figure out a way she can manage and update the site long term.
PAYPAL - This was relatively quick but critical step. Currently, the only way one can pay for a painting is by writing a check or handing out cash. Not very 21st century. Now, with this PayPal option, we are hoping to open doors and new avenues for folks to pay for my mom's great work.
OPEN HOUSE - This is still a bit ongoing because the open house hasn't happened yet. But, we set a date and created an eVite as well as a flyer so we can plug in email addresses and get the word out. The Open House is her chance to showcase all of her artwork in a personal setting.
I know with more time we could have done more - like connected her with organizations that can provide professional development and training for artists and recommended art and wine festivals she might consider displaying her work at.
But now, with the help of a family friend - Courtney Smith - my mom has a professional business card with a link to the website and she can finally feel proud about her artwork and begin to be the advocate that she should be.
JEN'S THOUGHTS:
I thought that this was great challenge. I am now writing on this blog 6 months later and can see the impact this challenge has had. The art show happened and really, we had nothing to do with it except for making Joni set a date and designing the evite. She did all the work- the presentation, the pricing, the food and the drink. The show was a great success and about 5 paintings were sold that day. Since then, it seems her art is constantly being looked at and shopped. She has sold a total of 9 since the show! She has always had some stacks of art just lying around and they aren't there any more.
The best part of all of this is seeing Joni realize that her work is valued and appreciated. I am sure it is boosting her confidence as an artist.
