Wilo Ayllon

Around once a month I present a conference call titled Artist As Brand Articulations. Last Saturday (you were all invited) I spoke with BYU Professor, award winning illustrator Richard Hull and Ecuadorean force of art nature, Wilo Ayllon. Wilo called in from Ecuador. It was a fascinating conversation about education, artistic integrity, quality, empowerment, inspiration, the challenges of getting paid online in Ecuador and what both these talented individuals learned from taking my workshop. Wilo was part of the first class I presented in Ecuador over a year ago, Richard took the course early this year.

Richard told me when he was still a boy working on the farm in Quincy, Washington he knew that bugs, beans, and bales of hay were not his destiny. In the 5th Grade he found the margins of test papers fertile soil for the germination of his ideas and soon little drawings began to emerge and grow. He found his creativity a much more profitable use of energy. When he left college (Brigham Young University) Richard worked as a graphic designer (1971 – 1987) and at the same time freelanced illustrating for magazines, children’s picture books, and school books. Richard has been teaching at BYU for 23 years and is a respected and much loved mentor. Retiring next year from BYU inspired him to look at what was next for his career and so he signed up for the Artist As Brand workshop.

Richard was pleasantly surprised to learn during the seminar that his love for fishing since he was very young could also become an amazing market for his stories and products! Hence, he has been sketching  hundreds of ideas for a very special project. Hint- Magical fishing lures. He will tell you more just as soon as he gets his social media up and running!

Richard Hull

Both Richard and Wilo spoke about the importance of quality and integrity in art. Richard said, "Quality is vitally important to me when creating my art. It is important for my students to understand this too."

Wilo is a passionate soul who has been involved in so many aspects of art creation it is difficult to place them all here! Sculpture, paint, etching, drawing, graphic design, industrial design, jewelry design, character design, corporative design, packaging design, body painting, tattoo art, animation 3d, traditional animation , comics, creativity, digital retouch, photo production, television production, set design, multimedia web tools develop, communications, silk screen printing, commercial art direction. Crazy!

After the workshop something shifted in him big time and he started making connections in Europe. He recently showed in Switzerland.  Wilo also started teaching a class which became wildly successful on creating art from your emotional life. Then he threw himself into making his Mandalas. Wilo had "an awakening" in his life that opened the door to new explorations of his art. "All ancestral cultures of the world have used the spiritual power of the Mandala, as symbols of protection, well-being, health, balance and as a conduit between humans and the cosmos. The color corresponds to vibrations of light. The speed, length and rhythm of different waves create a physical, psychic and emotional influence over the human.The color spectrum and the sacred geometry of the Mandala can create a harmonious state of peace and equilibrium. Simply contemplate one of these Mandalas for a couple minutes and feel it's effect."

See them here.

Wilo spoke of the challenges living in a country that is near Columbia (with its drug cartels) and how the government is very controlling of  internet commerce. "It is a problem living in a country pretty close to Colombia, we are always under suspect if we sell by internet." He spoke with his banks to no avail, so is forced to open a bank in another country to do his online business.

Needless to say Wilo is on fire and will not be deterred. All of us then spoke about the importance of perseverance, persistence, and taking action.

Thank you Richard and Wilo for your gracious time on Saturday. It was fun speaking with you both. I look forward to seeing your new creations and hearing of your new found success!

Join us for the next Artist As Brand Articulations in October.

To your empowerment and prosperity,

Greg

Having lived as an independent artist for 28 years I can tell you that it takes a serious commitment to yourself if you want critical and financial success.

Lots of talented people over the years have told me how they really wanted to focus on making their own art, but could not live on that income. So they decided they would do some illustration, concept design work, or teach to pay their bills while creating their personal art on the side with the hopes of finding a gallery. These artists have become part of the corporate machine, are still struggling, or have dropped out altogether.

The amount of time, energy and promo it takes to make your mark in any one of those industries is extensive.Doubling them up makes it difficult to find the extra time and creative focus necessary to make sophisticated meaningful art that you love.

Even fine artists who have always relied on galleries or curators to bring in the right collectors complain that even though they do all the right things sales are dismal. I can tell you that playing the role of what licensing expert Maria Brophy calls an art banker (a person who spends their own money and time creating artwork that they then “loan” on consignment) is not good business. There are other ways to sell your work.

Where do you want to place your time, energy and artistic genius? How old will you be when you decide to finally pursue your dream of artist freedom?

Are you serving a design firm, publication, or film/game company to help them build their corporate empire? How about investing in your own unique art empire instead?

Let me show you how to build your own in two and a half days at the Artist As Brand Workshop. See exactly what you will learn on the ABOUT page.

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WOODLAND HILLS WORKSHOP

SILA MEMBERS! IT'S TIME TO STEP OUT OF THE CAVE AND INTO YOUR POWER! I KNOW IT'S A DIFFICULT TIME FINANCIALLY FOR MANY OF YOU. THIS IS WHY I AM OFFERING THE WORKSHOP AT A SPECIAL LOW PRICE. IF YOU USE THE PRINCIPLES TAUGHT IN THE CLASS YOU SHOULD SEE A RETURN ON YOUR INVESTMENT MANY TIMES  OVER WITHIN THE FIRST YEAR. COME ON TEAM, PUMP UP YOUR FORTUNE AND HAPPINESS.

September 17, 18, 19 Friday-2:00-9:00, Saturday & Sunday 10AM- 8PM

With special guest lectures!

Register now for this one time special offer of $225 for SILA members and students.$295 for all others. Enrollment is limited to 20 participants.Sign up ends September 12.All credit cards accepted, payment plans available.

Held at the Holiday Inn21101 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills, CA 913641-818-883-6110Special room rates for overnight guests$99.00 a night with breakfast or $89.00 without.

Society of Illustrator Members and students only

$225.00!

Others $295.00

Please read the REGISTER page before signing up.

Artist As Brand is in the news again!More and more articles in the press are reaffirming the premise that an independent approach to marketing your art is the future of artist sustainability, today. Check out these two articles in the Los Angeles Times,Drive-By Spectacles by Holly Myers, and Honing the art of the sales pitch during hard timesby Tina Sussman.The models of art promotion I learned in school 30 years ago and still perpetuated by Academia and much of the fine art world today are breaking down. Generally creative people do not like promoting their work. We prefer to have others do it for us so we can concentrate on the art. Hence we have agents, representatives, curators, promotional source books, etc. to take the burden off us.Plus it is perceived as bad form in fine art circles if we appear to be selling anything. The smallest hint that we may be marketing, cajoling, or manipulating a buyer into a sale is not tolerated and simply bad form in the fine art elite. Even the sniff of a professional demeanor in the form of a well designed logo can be  looked down upon as being too commercial.However, the reality is that promoting yourself professionally is good business, and fans, patrons, collectors appreciate the connection and the attention! Every aspect of how you present yourself is vital to the zeitgeist of your vision. Elevating your presence tactfully in a sophisticated manner, in your style, reflecting your authenticity, is empowerment my friends. Do not be intimidated by the old guard. You can thrive from your talents financially however you want to. Remember your art will stand the test of time based on it's value in peoples eyes. You do not have to starve to achieve that goal.To your artistic empowerment,Greg

For three and a half years The Orange  County Register newspaper hosted an online forum called The Arts Blog. This Blog was a refreshing look at all things artistic in OC and beyond from a generally straight up conservative publication. Richard Chang was one of the inquisitive writers for this Blog and has been with the Register for a decade. Sadly, the Register recently retired the The Arts Blog but Chang keeps his eye on the creative scene with articles for the Entertainment section of the paper. He specializes in visual art, but also covers general arts and entertainment subjects, such as movies, TV, film festivals, the Orange County Performing Arts Center, etc. Chang currently contributes to ARTnews magazine,  teaches an arts and entertainment journalism class at UCLA, and is a proud member of the Asian American Journalists Association.Having lived as an artist in the worlds of publishing, film and and fine arts (One of my first illustration jobs was commissioned by the Register back in the early 80's!)  I wanted to hear a reporter's perspective on the state of the arts as well as his thoughts on artist sustainability.

Greg Spalenka: Recently someone mentioned my Artist As Brand workshop was akin to more of a social movement than just a class on artist empowerment and financial prosperity. Do you feel that your reportage and writing viewpoints could fall into the category of a social movement? For instance could you be considered a champion of the arts, or do you feel your strength and purpose is to focus a critical eye on a subject?Richard Chang: It’s hard to say that one person’s writing could be akin to a social movement. Maybe Karl Marx, or Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath” come close. Maybe.I do feel that I document the arts and artists around me, and that I shed light on efforts that otherwise would not get widespread attention. I’m particularly interested in ethnic American art – Native American, Latino, Asian American, etc.

Personally, I am a champion of the arts, but I’m also a journalist and a critic. I have to be careful not to give the public the impression that I’m frequently taking sides in one issue or another. Even in a highly subjective field such as visual art, it’s important for me to maintain some kind of objectivity.So, while I do share a passion for the arts with my readers and subjects, I have to keep a critical eye and distance to a certain degree. I am not an activist.

GS: Do you love being a reporter and writer? What are you committed to? Are you attracted most to the arts and entertainment fields or is there another facet you would like to explore?

RC: I do love being a reporter and writer. I feel that I was born to do it. I am committed to shedding light on darkness and allowing the truth to find a voice. “Comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable,” as they say. I am probably most attracted to the visual arts field, but the reality of my job is, I have to pay attention to popular entertainment. We can’t ignore the subjects that most readers want to read about. That includes TV, movies and celebrities. As part of my beat, I do cover independent film. But I’d like to explore that field a bit more. Sundance here I come!GS: How do you define artist empowerment?Believing in yourself and your ability is a huge part of artist empowerment.GS:Believing you can create awesome art is a start! What is the most amazing form of art you have experienced and written about?RC: That is a difficult question. I have to say, I’m kind of old fashioned. I love painting. There’s nothing like a fantastic Kandinsky, Basquiat or O’Keeffe. I’ve had the privilege to see and write about each one of them.GS: Art is like fashion, it changes and morphs throughout the years. Writing too. How would you describe artist sustainability in terms of historical longevity and in the context of making a living from your art? RC: I’m not exactly sure how to answer the first part of that question. As for making a living, it’s undoubtedly a difficult venture. You have to have mentors and advocates. You have to have awareness of the marketplace. It’s good to have champions of your work. You need to be your own champion. But constantly plugging your own work and self-promoting can be wearying – both for the artist and for the audience.If you’re serious about being a successful visual artist, you need to be represented by a gallery. And don’t stop working.GS:Historically artists have used the gallery system as a way to showcase and sell their art. At one time the gallery system was king but that has changed within the last decade. What are some alternatives you have seen?RC: Obviously, the Internet has had a major impact on the way art is viewed, discussed and even purchased. One can simply go online to see an artist’s work, converse about it and buy a piece or two. There are also websites such as artnet.com where you can learn more about an artist’s background and participate in online auctions.Still, nothing beats seeing work and meeting an artist in person. Alternatives to the gallery system may be venues such as the Festival of Arts, the Sawdust and Art-A-Fair, as well as swap meets.GS:Most art colleges focus on teaching conceptual and technical image making skill sets with an eye on preparing artists for the publishing, gallery, and entertainment industries. Have you seen alternatives to these corporate models? What about the challenges writers face in this regard?RC: Sure, there are alternatives. Some art colleges focus on basic to advanced visual art skills, without much attention to corporate industries. I’d say the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is a good example.GS: My question really pertains to venues for selling your art beyond publishing, gallery, and entertainment industries.RC: Well, as I mentioned above, art fairs and swap meets are viable alternatives. Municipal art centers sometimes have salon shows where you can sell your work. Also, getting your stuff online and selling it there. But make sure the site and company are reputable.For a great account of the conceptual critique class, read the chapter “The Crit” in Sarah Thornton’s “Seven Days in the Art World.” It’s hilarious and illuminating.As for being a writer, yes, there are professional pressures as well. Don’t we all face them?I think you have to be practical to a large extent, get your stuff published and get paid. Otherwise, you can write all you want, but you won’t make a penny.GS:However, the publishing world is changing dramatically and traditional income outlets for writers are disappearing. What are some alternatives to getting paid from your writing without going through the established publishing industry? For instance how could you, Richard Chang thrive financially doing what you love now without working for the Register or similar publishing venue? RC: An alternative to the established publishing industry would be self-publishing a book or writing for a blog or website. Unfortunately, very few blogs and websites actually pay. If one has considerable Internet know-how, one can create one’s own website and collect revenue through advertising. But that takes a lot of work, much of it not related to writing.I imagine the Internet will play a bigger and bigger role for writers, as iPads, Kindles and mobile devices take over the world, and the printed word becomes more and more obsolete. The writing field is changing constantly, and the news isn’t always great for writers -- or content producers, as they’re sometimes called. If I had all the answers, I’d be rich. But I don’t, unfortunately.GS:It appears sometimes as if the changes are coming faster! I have observed over the last two decades the walls breaking down between the so called fine art world and popular art culture. The Low Brow art movement and artists like Takashi Murakami are examples of this. What is your opinion of this evolution? RC: Honesty, I think it’s great. Art needs to grow and expand. “Low Brow” art is fantastic. Murakami has kind of spun out of control, but he’s still got talent. I can still look at his stuff. In order for a field to stay relevant, it has to evolve, change, adapt and take on new movements, high and low.How does it benefit the artist?It benefits the artist because there’s no longer a strict definition limiting what an artist can do or be. He or she can do or be anything.GS:Lastly, please offer some pearls of wisdom for artists and creative souls everywhere.RC: It may sound cliché, but follow your heart. Follow your passion, your vision. Fulfill your destiny.Don’t let the naysayers get you down. Remember, rejection is part of the process. Persevere.Enjoy the process. The journey is just as important as getting to your destination.Thank you Richard for your thoughts on the state of the arts. May you continue to shed light on the creativity that is born in Orange County and the world.To Artist Empowerment and Prosperity,Greg

I created the Artist As Brand Workshop to see artistsalign their authentic visions with financial success.It works!See what Art Professors, Professionals, and College Students are saying about the Artist As Brand Workshop Here.

In three days you will accomplish the following:• Connect your art deeply with your truth, creating a markso authentic and profound it embodies a timeless power.

• Unlock the secret to your personal niche markets andthe fans/patrons/collectors who are hidden there.

• Introduce your vision to individual art collectors aroundthe world through targeted marketing techniques.

• Build an independent Art Empire that can create incomefor the rest of your life.

• Align with other like minded individuals to establisha MasterMind expanding your Art Empire.

• “See” your career five years into the future.

• Join an elite team of Artist As Brand graduates whoare embracing the future of Indie Art prosperity, today.

**********

Sign up for this one time offer of only $225 for SILA members and students now.Enrollment is limited to 20 participants.

September 17, 18, 19 Friday-2:00-9:00, Saturday & Sunday 10AM- 8PM

Sign up ends September 12.

Held at the Holiday Inn21101 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills, CA 913641-818-883-6110

Special room rates for overnight guests$99.00 a night with breakfast or $89.00 with out.

All credit cards accepted, payment plans available.

Special Guest Lecture by social media master & botanical perfumer Roxana Villa.

Please read the REGISTER page before signing up.Learn more about Artist As Brand on the ABOUT page.

Two free interactive opportunities for creatives to learn about the status of their art community and hear what you can do to make it more profitable for yourself.1. FREE- San Diego Artists take this Survey.2. FREE- This Tuesday, August 17th at 5:30 PM (PST) join me, and fine art publishing expert, event creator and champion of the arts, Mark Murphy, as well as sculptor of the fine and popular arts, Alfred Paredes (Alfred is an Artist As Brand graduate) for a conversation on artist empowerment and sustainability. We will talk about what has been learned from the survey and how to live abundantly from your talent. The call is about 45 minutes long. Questions at the end.Call this number: 1 (917) 522-2999Phone participant PIN: 907313#Not FREE, BUT PRICELESS! Turn your talent into gold.Sign up for the San Diego workshop.Peace and ProsperityGreg

Whenever a new idea is born it can be greeted with awe, disdain or simply, "What?" When the synapses in my brain aligned to create a class on artist empowerment and prosperity it was crystal clear as to the concept and worth of what I was manifesting. However, the idea of Artist As Brand is so unique to any education taught in any school, college, or university out there that it's understandable that there are some questions about what it is I teach exactly. This post is going to clarify the principles/manifesto of this course (some call it a movement) and exactly what value you will receive from your three days and $295.00 (tuition for 2010 only).

What is Artist As Brand?ARTISTart·ist [ahr-tist]–noun1. a person who produces works in any of the arts that are primarily subject to aesthetic criteria.2. a person who practices one of the fine arts.3. a person whose trade or profession requires a knowledge of design, drawing, painting, etc.: a commercial artist.4. a person who works in one of the performing arts, actor, musician, singer; dancer, public performer.5. a person whose work exhibits exceptional skillBRAND[brand]–noun and verb1. kind, grade, or make, as indicated by a stamp, trademark, or the like.2. a mark made by burning or otherwise, to indicate kind, grade, make, ownership, etc.3. a kind or variety of something distinguished by some distinctive characteristic.4. to impress indelibly.5. a brand name.The essence of these two words together can be defined thus... a creator who has made their mark! The goal of Artist As Brand is to connect the individual to their purpose, art and prosperity. Connecting your art deeply with your truth creates a mark that is so is authentic and profound it embodies a unique power. Align this vision with your individual collectors through targeted marketing techniques and you begin to build a one of kind Art Empire that can sustain you financially for the rest of your life.Some fine artists scoff at the word brand. Whether you like the word or not all visionary creators throughout time who have made their mark on humanity are brands. They are remembered for their impact on the collective consciousness of the planet and many are household names.I call the Artist As Brand workshop an artist boot camp because it is a highly focused three days with the intention of aligning and defining (in some instances re-aligning and re-defining) the purpose and direction of an individual's career path. We start deep in the heart and move outwards connecting your talent to your marketing, patrons and collectors so there is perfect alignment. The knowledge for this workshop is derived from 28 years working as a professional artist inside and outside of the publishing, film, and gallery industries as well as teaching higher education.The following is what all participants will be learning in three days and what they will leave the workshop with. Individuals work alone and in groups.DAY ONE. DECLARE YOUR PURPOSE- You will learn your Core Virtue. Knowing your core virtue is the first step to establishing a foundation which your career is built upon. This intimate part of yourself is a driving force in your life, it goes deeper than your art. Declaring your core purpose aligns your heart with your art in a profound manner.- Design a personal logo/heraldic shield to represent your Core Virtue. You create a simple image that will represent what you just learned about yourself.- Design a Vision Board. This template is defined by everything you love in your life, what turns you on and keeps you motivated as a unique individual. The Vision Board creates the niche markets that will be your domain, and will make up your one of kind art empire.- Practice the art of the Blurb. You learn how to introduce and represent yourself to people. Most artists do not have a clue how to speak with others about who they are and what they do. This exercise is designed to increase your confidence and generate interest in who you are and what you have to offer.-Every workshop will include special guest lectures by esteemed  individuals who encompass the Indie Art Spirit. Guests include art writer Peter Clothier, licensing expert Maria Brophy, social media master & botanical perfumer Roxana Villa.DAY TWO.  PLAN YOUR BRAND- Design your art and product line. We look at artists who are successful in this area, and new approaches to making income from your art. Then we define what art and products can manifest from your Vision Board.- Create an innovative marketing blueprint that integrates high tech and high touch medias. We look at these two very different but synergistic marketing models. You learn how to best utilize these promotional mediums.- Learn the simple yet powerful art of business and commerce. Are you an art hobbyist or an art professional? This is a short lecture on straight up, common sense business practice. If you are selling art you are a business, start acting like one.- Connect with artist entrepreneur leaders. Creating community and hooking up with those who are successful will keep you inspired and in the company of great people.DAY THREE. EMPOWER YOUR PROSPERITY- Commit to sustainability. You will design a five year marketing strategy that takes a serious look at your finances, living situation, and overall goals personally and professionally. What is possible? Connecting to your BHAG.- Recognize the potential in team building, and the power of a Mastermind. Your peers can be some of your greatest assets from a personal, professional and moral support capacity. You will start this process right in the class!- Conceptualize a product ready for manufacture. We begin to look at the details of what its going to cost in labor, time, and materials.- Review- In addition participants will have access to other career enhancing promotional opportunities only available to Artist As Brand students! Some of these details can be found on the ABOUT page.Now you are ready to create your own Art Empire! I hope this info helped clarify the purpose and design of my class. Come on join the Indie Art Revolution! Sign up for a class near you today.“See what participants are saying.To your artist empowerment and prosperity,Greg

Spalenka

A big thank you to all the Orange County talent who took the time to add their opinions to this survey on the state of the arts. This questionnaire included responses from fine artists (painters, sculptors, photographers, etc), illustrators, concept designers and animators for film and games, graphic designers, and  individual art empires.Download this PDF for the resultsWhat was learned?1. The majority of you have your own art empires (75%)! I am curious about those art empires! A smaller percent were in publishing, film and game industries, graphic design.2. 100% of you were up and running in your line of work. Of the that amount 40% were having a difficult time, or just starting.3. At least a few of you were doing very well.  Almost half were getting by in their art careers and 61% were struggling and/or changing their direction altogether.4. Half the Illustrators were doing good enough, a little less than half were unhappy with the state of their industry.5. Not many Film and Game designers, animators, etc. in this survey. Two were doing good enough. One was looking for more fulfillment.6. The Fine Art group was doing very poorly and were looking for some art prosperity.7. Who felt they were living and working from their heart and doing what they love? Most  were living from their heart “part of the time.” There were some whose lives hovered around their heart.8. Who was ready to take their life, creativity, and career to another level of fulfillment?  The majority by far were open to taking their abilities to new heights, and 4 decided to take the Artist As Brand workshop to explore their potential.CONCLUSIONSThis slice of the Orange County art community tells us that about half are doing well enough to pay their bills, while the other half are struggling and/or looking to start over.I applaud the talent that is weathering this downturn in the economy. For the rest of you creative art spirits who are struggling, be the change you wish to see in the world. That change starts with you of course.The economy will always go up and down. Our goal is to implement a strategy now that will take advantage of the new upswing, as well as minimize the results of a down turn in the future. Its important to remain pro-active, so do something!Most of you were living from the heart part time. My question is why not all of the time?! Living from your heart is vital for creative/financial sustainability and happiness. Yes, it is is possible to live from your heart all of the time. This paradigm shift in awareness is powerful and profound, because it is really core to who you are.Learning your Core Virtue is the foundation of the Artist As Brand workshop. For some students it is the most important part of the class. Professional illustrator and recent workshop graduate Katy Betz states, “Deciphering my Core Virtue has given me radical entrepreneurial energy!”More Testimonials.I am curious about those individuals who are creating individual art empires. Who are you and what are you doing that is bringing you prosperity? Speak to me and I will share your story! I am sure many artists would love to hear about your success. Please contact me directly.Peace and ProsperityGreg

Steam Punk was big this year.

Just returned from another whirlwind San Diego Comic Con. Planning and running a booth for this event is a lot of work. I learn something new every year and will be sharing some booth insights soon. One thing is for sure, Comic Con is about images. Art and stories come to life in millions of different ways here, but sometimes it is the people emulating existing popular art icons or creating their own that become the show. Here are a some fun ones that came to my booth or were hovering nearby.

The super heroes were young...

and not so young.

They were different colors...

Did I mention Steam Punk was big this year?

More Wild Costumes here...

Then of course there are the artists and creative types of all kinds. Here are a few...

Chatting with the amazing Rick Meyers

The incomparable Barron Storey with Claire Mckean

Mistress of the art spirit, Tara McPherson.

Comic Con is full of revelations, curiosities and inspiration galore. More about Comic Con in my next post. Come visit next year.

Peace and artist empowerment

Greg

Bee Prosperity for Flowers of Fortune Art Card Set & Game

It's that time of year again when the world of popular art culture collides with the city of San Diego. I have been frequenting this event since 1990. I was part of Allen Spiegel's booth ASFA for many years and then decided to trek out on my own and acquired a booth. Preparing for this event takes weeks sometimes months, and when it is over takes a solid week to recover. It costs money to create product, pay for the booth, hotel, meals, etc. hence the investment can be large. Not much sleep is allowed, everyone is running on reserves of nerve energy as meetings and parties go into the wee hours. Then you get up early to man your booth, sell your wares and conjure up new fans and patrons. The cycle starts up again for four days straight.

Even though Comic Con is a lot of work most exhibitors return year after year, because of the events vitality. Seeing my artist friends come from all over the world to hang out for a week is inspiring. I love the show and tell facet.

Gracing the Dawn for Flowers of Fortune Art Card Set & Game

Setting up a booth is an art unto itself. Read this article on Roxana's Illuminated Perfume Blog about our strategy for this years booth. Every year we strive to make it more interesting than the last. My other goal is to out do what I manifested the year before in art. This time I have created and devised a Limited Edition Art Card Game! Called Flowers of Fortune (website coming soon) there is a scratch off game facet where participants can receive my posters, prints, card sets, and cash. The odds are very good in that there is a prize for every 40 cards. However everyone is winner as fortunes and special quotes are waiting beneath the scratch off designs.

Roxana formulated a beautiful perfume to accompany the Gracing The Dawn card. Come to the booth 5553 and experience this exquisite essence. You will swoon. (Illustrators area) Enter through the double doors of Lobby G, near Starbucks, the booth is on the right front wall. Look for the Shabby Chic booth with the Gracing the Dawn banner.

Don't forget to attend this! I am moderating an Artist As Brand panel discussion Friday 23, 6:00-7:00 RM 8, with Arnie Fenner, Mark Murphy, Ciruelo, Tara McPherson, Donato.

See you all soon!

Art and Empowerment

Greg

Produce Your Own Unique Art Empire!

See what Art Professors, Professionals, and College Students are saying about the Artist As Brand Workshop Here.

FIND ART GALLERYAugust 6, 7, 8 Friday-Sunday 10AM- 8PM1640 Superior Ave. Costa Mesa, CA 92627

With Special Guest Lectures by writer and art critic Peter Clothier, licensing expert Maria Brophy, social media master & botanical perfumer Roxana Villa.

Please read the REGISTER page before signing up.

Learn more about Artist As Brand on the ABOUT page.

Greg Spalenka

In this high tech world it can be easy to forget the importance of human connection. An infant and mother understand this crucial bonding, and as we grow this personal connection to touch and intimacy never really leaves us. In life our relationship to others reflects how successful we are at communicating our passions, desires, ideas. Union is key.

In business and commerce this facet of interconnectivity is called networking. In art networking we endear ourselves to our peers, fans and patrons to help build our art empires. Our supporters become the mortar between the bricks. I am always on the lookout for alignments, new connections and venues where I can meet extraordinary individuals. I contacted Peter Clothier whom I learned about through his lecture at LCAD. Though we initially met online which culminated in an interview of him for my Blog we also recently had a lovely lunch together. It is truly wonderful to meet like minded souls in person! We realized our viewpoints were deeper than expected and are now talking about collaborating on some workshops.

Mark Murphy whom I just interviewed is another alignment with who I am collaborating with. Roxana my wife and I are part of his Survey Select exhibition opening this Thursday, and I am presenting an Artist As Brand workshop in San Diego in conjunction with the show.

Two fantastic networking opportunities are coming to California. The  Illustration Conference is this week in Los Angeles!  Artists are coming from all over the US to this event. I will be there networking and meeting awesome new people. Who else is going?

How about the largest event for popular art culture in America?! The San Diego Comic Con is held next week July 21-25. I will be there at my booth 5553 and moderating an Artist As Brand panel discussion Friday 23, 6:00-7:00 RM 8, with Arnie Fenner, Mark Murphy, Ciruelo, Tara McPherson, Donato. My new  Flowers of Fortune limited edition art card set and scratch off game premiers at Comic Con too, (and at FlowerFortune.com on July 21) where you can win one of my giclee prints, other printed items, and up to $1000.00.

Events like Comic Con increase your fans and patrons. 125,000 people move through the doors of this convention in five days. Imagine if only one in every one thousand people stopped by your booth. Being a part of this event for over 20 years has taught me the value of  growing your support group in venues like this.

Some people will argue that it costs too much to be a part of these gatherings. All promotion has a price. This is an investment in yourself.

Events like these are important to the artist for exposure, new ideas, inspiration, sales, support, and new connections. Like the mother and her new baby, union and bonding with your peers and your buyers will bring you closer together. Technology has it's place, but remember the importance of face to face.

To artist empowerment,

Greg

Brendan Monroe (detail)

I have known Mark now for many years, watching him rise as a graphic designer, publisher of fine art books, event designer, artist, and now film maker. The one thing that has always stood out for me about Mark is his commitment to championing the artist. He is always ready to raise that flag and wave it for someone he believes has a uniqueperception.Mark is putting together a huge exhibition called Survey Select (Private opening July 15) with 55 artists from around the world. It's really more of a multi-media event as the show is only one part of the festivities. I am presenting anArtist As Brand Workshop at the gallery space/museum in San Diego, with Mark, Roxana, and other possible guests. It will be awesome!Mark took a moment during count down to the opening of Survey Select to answer some questions about his inspiration and what he loves!GS : Tell me why you love what you do.Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio puts you in the state of mind to get things done. Grey weather for most of the year encouraged me to discover space that allowed creative freedom. My life long mission has been to collaborate with creative minded clients, archive living artists and create inspired exhibitions for the public. Oh yeah, I love to design for clients, book publishing and film industries.

Matt Furie featured in the next Scribble Film

GS : Tell me a little about your "Scribble" documentary.Scribble.08 was filmed in 2003 capturing the heart and soul of the Southern California art movement. It was more than a film, it was a historic moment that needed to be captured on film, as the Clayton Brothers were inspiring a new generation of artists that included Jeff Soto, Martha Rich and Camille Rose Garcia. Scribble.08 was filmed with DV cams with friends piled into a Jeep fighting through 8 hours of highway traffic over the course of 2 weeks. TenStories backed me with editing support and MANUOK scored a great soundtrack. The public response has been great and the film has been featured at the Kent Film Festival in CT, DocuWest in CO and New Film Director’s in NY. Volume two is in production featuring Souther Salazar, Mark Todd, Esther Pearl Watson, Matt Furie, Shawn Barber, Kelsey Brookes and many others.

GS : You have an awesome art exhibition, "Survey Select" opening July 15th in San Diego with artists from around the planet. What was the inspiration for this show and what makes it different from your other venues?“Survey Select” is an exhibition that celebrates Narrative Art and 55 fine artists from around the world. The exhibition is a modern day salon that introduces the public to visual storytelling, critical writing, live performance, films and a workshops held in the space over 8 weeks from July 15-Sept 5. “Survey Select” looks to inspire new thinking in the world of contemporary art by establishing a select grouping of talented artists free of intellectual labeling.

Beautiful Loosers, Scribble.08 and 7 films featured during double feature film nights

What makes “Survey Select” is uniquely different from past exhibitions, “Heaven and Hell,” “Dialogue,” “SuperHero” and Miami Art Basel exhibitions, because it is a museum installation that features a conceptual space that houses art, educational materials, films and supporting artists who specialize in fragrance, interior, creative writing and musical design. Eight weeks provides everyone the opportunity to travel to San Diego and participate in the exhibition.

Traveling artists featured at workshops and Survey Select receptions

GS : You will be on my panel with Arnie Fenner, Ciruelo, Tara McPherson, Donatoduring this coming Comic Con (Friday, 23, 6:00-7:00PM. Room 8 ) for a discussion about artist empowerment and sustainability. How do you define artistic empowerment?Artistic empowerment starts with invitation and continues with purposeful exchange. For me, sustainability comes from public and private support. The art world is riddled with folks who look to make investment or turn on an investment, and for me it is more about soulful exchange. The honorable exchange is to archive living artists in books, films, exhibitions and critical essays. You never know what you are onto, and history beyond my years will be the final judge. (You can see more in my personal manifesto).

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Scott Daniel Ellison : Shawn Barber : Mark Todd

GS : I am presenting an Artist As Brand workshop at your gallery in August in alignment with your exhibition. How would you define a brand? Do you consider yourself a brand?

Brand is a notion for the complete package that starts at the core of who you are. If it is applied to a product, it is the essence of a product, and if it is a person, it is about where you come from and what you are about. Brand is really a corporate word for “soul.” Yes, I am a lifestyle kind of an artist. It is all encompassing, all moments of each day, the opportunity to exercise the left and the right side of my brain. I think I am much better at the creative side.

Tasha Kusama : Miss Van

GS : What do you feel artists will gain by taking this course?The course will help me take a moment to reflect on the process and progress of my career and offer a concentrated moment to enhance and focus. I look forward to the opportunity to take a moment for myself, which typically, almost never happens. For artists, I believe that the course will help redirect focus and assist in the narrative of their personal pursuits. Very important facts when it comes to explaining what it is that you do to others, especially museums, collectors and galleries.

Mark Todd featured in the next Scribble Documentary

GS : Any last pearls of wisdom?

Pursue your inner creative at all times. Take a moment to enjoy.

Thanks Mark! I will see you soon at your opening ofSurvey Select, at Comic Con and for my Artist As Brand workshop!

To empowerment and prosperity,

Greg

Learn the secrets to creating your own unique art empire.Bring clarity to your life, art and prosperity.

See what participants are saying about the Artist As Brand Workshop Here.

With Mark Murphy and the “Survey Select” Art ExhibitionAugust 20, 21, 22 Fri-Sun 10AM- 8PMWonderbread Factory 171 14th St. San Diego, CA. 92101

With Special Guest Lectures by art publisher/producer/film maker Mark Murphy, writer and art critic Peter Clothier, social media master & botanical perfumer Roxana Villa and more.

Please read the REGISTER page before signing up.

Learn more about Artist As Brand on the ABOUTpage.

Tuition- $295.00

Students- $250.00

Samantha Walker

Owl Prints on TinClient: VIP International

When I submitted the BYU Artist Survey a few weeks ago I received an email from an artist who felt she had created her own Art Empire. I was curious. I checked out Samantha Walker's story, and social media. I was impressed, and decided to share her journey of creative perseverance and prosperous love affair with licensing.

"After graduating in 1994 I was frustrated, yet determined to make an active living in illustration. I did not build my art empire overnight...but rather it has been a surprising journey including many "mini careers" that paralleled my art along the way.  I quickly quit my first job out of college at a graphic design service bureau just two months after I started. I realized that I was just part of an assembly line printing and proofing other people's art finding no time for my own."

She ran off to Montana, Colorado, then Japan with her husband making folk art wood crafts and selling them at craft shows.

Samantha Walker

Pear Prints on TinClient: VIP International

"After the birth of my first child...I stumbled into the scrapbook product market...creating more with graphic design skills rather than my illustration. Okay...I didn't exactly stumble into scrapbook product licensing...I built a product line proposal, researched various scrapbook companies, then found the one that I wanted to target. I flew across the country from Washington state to Atlanta to attend a trade show where it took me 10 tries to get a moment with the president of the company to view my proposal.  Did I mention I have severe anxiety?  I did this anyway despite my nerves because I am such a determined person.  We signed a 3 year renewable licensing contract.

Eventually,  I sold my home decor business to dedicate more time to my suddenly booming scrapbook product line. The scrapbook market bottomed out and I scrambled to think of new ways to market myself, as my income from scrapbook products was dwindling (I still design it, it just doesn't pay like it did.  The exposure alone has brought so many opportunities that I will continue to do it, and it helps me build my brand.)  I truly believe that downturns can produce upturns if you work your angles right.  My angle was debt and hunger...didn't like being there."

Samantha Walker

Digital Die Butterfly BasketClient: Silhouette America

"I networked like crazy, and then one of my other illustrator friends told me of a fabric company looking to license local artists.  I introduced myself to this company, and I got a licensing contract designing textiles for quilt fabric.  Meanwhile, I had a whole portfolio of die designs that I had done for another company that pretty much used and abused me, and so I revoked my designs, and called their competitor. Which turned into another solid licensing contract for an electronic die company. With all these successes, enjoying what I was doing, and money being much better, I still felt like there was even more that I could offer...something a little closer to my heart.

Then it dawned on me...I found that I could combine my textile designs with my simple die designs and invent an illustration style unique to myself--something very marketable as well. My new style caught the eye of a home decor company and they became interested in working with me and offered me a licensing contract doing my own line of home decor items. Not so surprisingly, creating home decor products fits so well with my other past experiences. Recently, I added a rubber stamp licensing contract to the mix as well."

Samantha Walker

Enchanted Garden Fabric LineClient: Riley Blake Designs

Licensing can work if you hold onto your copyright and you construct a contract that will procure you a healthy percentage of the company's sales, otherwise you are better off doing it yourself.

"I own my copyright on everything!  I just sell limited usage rights. At this point in my life, being a busy Mom of 3 little kids ages 8, 4, and almost 3...I am grateful that I have other companies selling my designs for me.  I do get competitive royalty rates and I'm happy with what my designs bring in. This continues to be a remarkable journey, which I hope will someday lead to even more opportunities.  I think when I am able to work faster and more efficiently (I'm always looking for ways to streamline my design process in Photoshop and Illustrator) I want to look into doing a children's book, look into stationary and greeting cards, and possibly create a conceptual editorial portfolio as well"

Kokeshi Paper and Sticker Collection

Creative Imaginations

"I am also grateful for the struggles and hard times. Without those challenges, I may not have been as motivated to think of new ways to market my work.  Even though I feel I've built an Art Empire, (which I am defining as a good solid income, constant work, and recognition within the industries which I work) I feel that my illustration and my new empire is still in its infancy with so much potential as there are so many areas that I have yet to tap into."

Samantha is an eloquent writer and has much to share! I encourage all of you to continue a dialogue with her. You may find your calling in the world of licensing! Go to her

Blog.

Thank you Samantha for your tireless commitment to creativity and the art spirit!

To artist empowerment!

Greg

I am off to Provo, Utah to present a Workshop. BYU canceled my workshop for low enrollment, but a group of inspired and courageous artists would not take "No" for an answer! So I am flying out today to bring Artist As Brand to the SpringHill Suites, Thursday-Saturday.

I have much respect for individuals who are willing to confront the fear of change in their careers and in themselves. Transcending old ways that do not serve us are like breaking bad habits. So many individuals remain stuck for so long they forget the art of reinvention!  I know how difficult this is as I am in the process of reinventing myself at this moment too! Our spirit wants to branch out and rise up. May we remain aligned with this purpose and grow with it's magnificence.

This group of creative souls appears ready for the transformational bootcamp coming their way. Lets see how they do!

I will post updates!

Is fate tied to intention?Have you ever noticed that it seems inevitable at times when specific people pop into your life? It feels as if the universe is pushing both of you together. This happened to me recently with Peter Clothier. By his own words, he is a reformed academic, now fifteen years in recovery, he has returned in recent years to teaching, in mostly non-traditional ways: in workshops, continuing groups, and individual coaching and mentoring for artists and writers. I missed his lecture at LCAD last semester, though some of my students made it and enjoyed him immensely. When Clothier's PERSIST: THE BLOG auspiciously jumped into one my Google searches I realized we had strands of art spirit glue connecting us. I contacted him.This man is committed to exploring the possibilities. Look at all his social media. All of it is fascinating. Check him out. You will definitely learn something!His Website.Blogs:TheBuddhaDiaries.comHuffingtonPostPodcast:The Art of OutrageHis new book Persist: In Praise of the Creative Spirit in a World Gone Mad with Commerce is a collection of musings on the art of the creative process.Needless to say, Peter is channeling the goods. He has a presentation and book signing at the Napa Valley Center for Spiritual Living, Sunday May 30. Go!I asked him if he would be kind enough to answer some questions that I have recently been serving up to college students, faculty, Chairs, etc.He graciously agreed! Enjoy.Greg- Where in the individual does art reside?Peter- In the mind, which is everywhere--heart, brain, body, bones, eyes...  The mind is the whole package, working all together.G- How do you define artist empowerment?P- It's self-empowerment.  No one is going to give it to you, nor even teach it to you--though the teacher can help you find it.  It comes only with time, through experience and growing familiarity with the medium and inner knowledge out of which we speak.  This is what we mean by an artist's or a writer's "authority."G- That sounds like living from the inside out. Lovely. How would you describe artist sustainability?P- I wrote a whole book about it--or a series of essays which came out as a book this year.  It's called "Persist."  Persistence is the ability to sustain one's vision and one's sense of purpose, despite all obstacles--and there are many of them in today's culture.  Again, this is a quality of mind.  It can be developed through a regular practice of discipline.  My own practice is meditation--an excellent model for the creative process.G- Meditation is part of my spiritual practice too, and it definitely informs my creative life. Most art colleges focus on teaching conceptual and technical image making skill sets with an eye on preparing artists for the publishing, gallery, and entertainment industries. What could be some alternatives to these corporate models?P- If I were to write an art school curriculum--and I won't be doing that, I quit academia twenty years ago!--I would be sure to include two elements that are most frequently forgotten.  The first would have to do with the value of discipline and practice, and of training the mind to focus on those things I want it to do rather than allowing it to wander off on its own whims and fancies.  The second would have to do with the holistic quality of the human experience.  This sounds a bit romantic, but it's not intended as such.  Our educational systems tend to concentrate on the activity of the brain, and too often to cut us off from other parts of our lives which are equally important: the emotional, the physical (yes! the body!) and the spiritual.  An integrated vision must incorporate all four of these elements.G- Focus and balance is a key to understanding ourselves, and our art. But in the context of living in a corporate world what can an artist do to weather fluctuating economic factors?P- Breathe.  I actually mean that seriously.  In our anxiety and our drive to "succeed," we forget to do this and we choke on our own needs and ambitions.  For the vast majority of artists, the reward is unlikely to be financial.  If you make a painting with the thought of selling it, you're probably in the wrong profession.  The trick is to follow one of the great Buddhist teachings, and learn not to get attached to outcomes.  If you're an artist and you need money (don't we all?), look elsewhere.  If you happen to be one of the fortunate few, congratulations.  And don't forget to keep "persisting," not only in your studio work but also in the pursuit of your goals outside the studio.  Just don't cling to a single notion of success, especially the financial one--because it may not happen and you have to keep doing it anyway.  Because you're an artist, aren't you?G- Keeping your eye on your integrity and your personal vision is vital to peace of mind and creative longevity. However I am also an advocate of making a living from your talent. Personally I think you can have your cake and eat it too! Now how big your cake is depends on you! I have observed over the last two decades the walls breaking down between the so called fine art world and popular art culture. The Low Brow art movement and artists like Takashi Murakami are examples of this. What is your opinion of this evolution? How does it benefit the artist?P- I don't care to make that distinction.  Art is art is art.  If you're out of the mainstream, you're probably on the right track!G- My sentiments exactly! Any final pearls of wisdom?P- How about: "Read my book?"  That's where I keep my pearls.  In a nutshell, see my previous answers.  To paraphrase Lewis Carroll's Father William, "I have answered six questions and that is enough... Don't give yourself airs.  Do you think I can listen all days to such stuff?  Be off, or I'll kick you downstairs."Cheers!Now that was English humor!Thank you so much Peter for your insightful answers. I am grateful fate threw us together. Of course I am sure intention had something to do with it! We shall have more conversations about the world of art and its evolution. Peter and I may align on an Artist As Brand workshop in the future. In the meantime peruse his Website, Blogs, and books. Knowledge and wisdom are timeless.To empowerment and our kindred purpose,Greg

I recently picked up a magazine calledFIND in the LCAD library. It was a free publication, small in size 5"x7" but exuded a vital art spirit. Featuring a very cool cover by Rick Rietveld and filled with artist imagery that piqued my interest, I decided to contact the Founder/Publisher Neight Adamson to find out more. I found in Neight a kindred spirit, a champion of the arts. I asked him to tell me a little about himself and his mission.

Greg- Neight, please share a bit of your artistic journey.

Neight- I have always been extremely passionate about art. I started by scribbling, doodling and drawing on everything I could get my hands on. When I was enrolled at Brooks College in Long Beach, I met a teacher named Mike Hanson (now at the Art Institute of Orange County) who inspired my way of thinking and helped me take my art and design to a whole new level. After college I couldn't find a design job for the life of me but found a job at the Wyland Gallery in Laguna Beach, learning everything an artist needs to know about marketing oneself. On the side, I freelanced with companies like Nike, Hurley, Alpinestars and Chronic Tacos, specializing in advertising and illustration. I began learning the art of business and how to maintain a creative mind set in a cut-throat society. Branching out on my own, I began piecing together my own design studio with Chronic Tacos as my biggest client and unlocking the door to the glamorous world of marketing. As well as using many different artistic mediums to market my ideas, I planned on bringing artists, spectators and buyers together to share in their ideas and give everyone an opportunity to network and grow as an artistic collective.

G- Sounds like you are into artist empowerment too! Tell me about your FIND Art Magazine.

N- FIND Art Magazine is working to build a local art community by bringing local artists, galleries, companies and spectators together into one "Found" space. It is a tool for artists to show their Art to thousands of people. FIND Art Magazine is released every 2 months and is dedicated to promoting and showcasing all different mediums of artwork within each issue. It is sized conveniently to 5x7 inches leaving each page open to the possibility of being framed. There are millions of artists out there that have not had an opportunity to show their art to very many people at all. It is completely free for artists that are chosen to participate in the art show and is also free to the public. The philosophy behind FIND is two fold: One to create an art community where artists can inspire each other, and two, offer a platform for undiscovered talent to have their name and artwork exposed.... The initial response has been phenomenal and we're getting a ton of new submissions every week.

Advertising in the magazine is great for art driven companies. We even offer special discounted rates for individual artists and galleries.

G- You own a gallery that works in concert with the magazine, correct. Tell me more.

N- The whole idea of the magazine is to advertise the artists that are going to be a part of the FIND Gallery exhibition (Costa Mesa, CA.). The same artwork that's in the magazine is in our gallery too. A 5X7 print in FIND might be a five foot oil on canvas... The plan is to grow the magazine, expose more artists and showcase their work in a gallery setting while actually establishing a point of interest within the community.

G- How would you describe artist sustainability?N- When the the signature at the bottom of the canvas is worth as much as the artwork itself.G- That is a nice way to put it! Tell me about your upcoming shows and where can people find your magazine?N- Our closing show for the current issue is actually this Saturday, May 8 giving people a last chance to see the artwork before we take everything down for the next issue. The next Issue will be released by the 21st of May with the opening reception for the exhibition on Saturday, June 12. The magazine can be found at all the art driven locations that we can find: art schools, art supply, tattoo, fashion retailers, edgy restaurants, advertisers, etc.G- Thank you Neight! You are a true patron of the Art Spirit.After realizing our visions for artist empowerment were similar it only seemed natural to connect the FIND mission with the Artist As Brand workshops! Neight and I are formulating a powerful alignment that will bring some awesome value to anyone taking the workshop. I am talking amazing promotional opportunities.We have decided to set up an Artist As Brand Workshop at the FIND Gallery August 6, 7, 8 (Fri-Sun, 10AM- 8PM). Stay tuned for more details.Neight is looking for artists to be included in the FIND Art Magazine and gallery. ContactFINDfor submission instructions and advertising possibilities.PeaceGreg

I am honored to have Douglas Rushkoff answer a few questions about artist empowerment, sustainability, and living inside or outside the corporate model. Rushkoff is one of today’s most engaging and perceptive commentators on the impact of technology and media on organizations and society. A globally recognized thought leader on marketing and Internet culture, he explores how communications affect our lives. Rushkoff is a professor of virtual culture at New York University.Roxana came across Rushkoff on an Etsy speaker series and suggested I might like to hear him. I immediately felt a kindred spirit. Here was an individual who understood how the box of corporate culture really stifled much of the entrepreneurial spirit in people. Artist's became locked into this system too. It is time to wake up and throw off those shackles.Rushkoff is a social media master. His ten best-selling books on new media and popular culture have been translated to over thirty languages. They include Cyberia, Media Virus, Playing the Future, Nothing Sacred: The Truth about Judaism, Get Back in the Box: Innovation from the Inside Out and Coercion, winner of the Marshall Mcluhan Award for best media book. Rushkoff also wrote the acclaimed novels Ecstasy Club and Exit Strategy and graphic novel, Club Zero-G. He wrote a series of graphic novels for Vertigo called Testament, and is currently working on another book for Vertigo as well as a new series of graphic novels for Smoking Gun Interactive.His latest book,Life Inc.: How the World Became a Corporation and How to Take It Back, is an astute examination of the moment in history that currency was centralized and society moved away from local trade and bartering. He demonstrates how corporate culture has literally changed human values and profoundly altered the way we now relate to one another.This Friday and Saturday, April 16-17  at the Newport Public Library he will be presenting one of his dynamic lectures. I will be there Saturday. Come join me!Rushkoff was gracious enough to answer a few questions about some issues I believe are important to all artists. This is an opportunity to comment and possibly start a dialogue with him about how the world of commerce is changing as well as your opportunities in it. So jump in there.GREG SPALENKA: In your national best seller Life Inc. you talk about the how the corporate world reduced an individuals self worth. Artists like to think that they are not part of an industry, but the gallery system and the blue chip elite in particular has its own rules and regulations. How would you define artist empowerment?DOUGLAS RUSHKOFF: Honestly, empowerment for an artist is probably the ability to which s/he can work independently of the marketplace. An artisan can always look at what is useful in the short-term, and just sell a pretty teapot or t-shirt. But an artist usually needs to think in longer cycles, and this might mean creating work that isn't deemed valuable by the marketplace for a decade or more - especially if the work is critical of the status quo. Most people don't want to spend money undermining their world view.So empowerment either comes when the artist can generate enough income regardless of market considerations - or when the artist can learn to live without constant income and recognition. It's not necessarily an easy life, but many poor artists are more empowered than wealthy sellouts.GREG SPALENKA: Most colleges and universities teach art making skill sets with an eye on preparing artists for the publishing, gallery, and entertainment industries. What would be your suggestions for artists graduating with this mind set and do you feel its sustainable?DOUGLAS RUSHKOFF: You mean for artists who decide to become commercial designers instead? Nothing wrong with that, but it's not one's real work. It's no different from an artist working as a bookkeeper or bed salesman. Whatever pays the bills. In some ways, it's harder when you use your craft for some corporate purpose, because you can fool yourself into thinking you're a working artist, when you're really just an artist, working.On the other hand, if you keep the extra work related to your artistic field, use it as zen training. I know great painters who worked their days or nights as scenic artists on soap operas. So they still work their technique, their brush strokes, their perspective tricks, all day long. And then they do their real work when they've got the time. But at least the commercial work isn't so much about conceiving ad campaigns or packaging, and much more about flow.GREG SPALENKA: I stress in my Artist As Brand™ workshops the importance of creating a solid fan and patron base over time, hence creating multiple streams of income. Are artists better off handling fluctuating economic factors inside or outside the corporate system?DOUGLAS RUSHKOFF: Diversify.Thank you Douglas, for your insightful answers! I have some questions around a few of your answers which I will place in the comments. I look forward to your presentation in Newport Beach. I hope to see some of my creative colleagues there too.In Life,Greg

***FOLLOW UP***

Photo by Eve Villa Nuehart

Just returned from a packed house at the Newport Public Library where Douglas gave a stellar presentation focused mainly on the concepts of his book, Life Inc.: How the World Became a Corporation and How to Take It Back Close to two hundred people listened intently as Douglas explained the history behind the rise of the corporate empire. Its a story of power, greed, and suppression of independently owned business and commerce. In the 1200's a model of corporatism emerged which in essence is still with us today.The upside is we are finally beginning to see changes in this system as people embrace their own possibility and manifest new models of personal business. You see it in our farmers markets, online shops like Etsy, and in creative markets where the hand made object is making a comeback.Douglas made the comment that, "Solutions are small." I loved it. Keep it focused, intimate and doable. One step at a time will get you there. These are principles I teach in my Artist As Brand™ classes. In the visual arts we see the concept of simplicity throughout the design world.People asked him what we could do to change a system that has been around for so long and is very powerful. Douglas responded that change is possible through "community value creation." When we empower the community one individual at a time by inspiring and supporting local projects a holistic model of power emerges. Over time this new paradigm of economic potential will give corporatism some serious competition.  It may knock them out or force them to change their paradigm too. Wow! I recommend picking up Life Inc. it will open your eyes.I had an opportunity to meet with Douglas for the first time. He signed my Life Inc. book, and we talked briefly about possibly aligning our forces. Ahhh, what does this mean exactly you may ask? Stay tuned my friends!PeaceGreg

In November of 2009 Parade magazine printed an article called Can Art Save a Mall? by Susan Fine. When too many stores came up empty at a large mall in the St. Louis area the owners decided that instead of demolishing it they would offer the spaces to artists for $100 per month, plus utilities. Art galleries, a dance studio, museum, etc. were created. Not only did it give arts groups a home it also increased traffic in the mall for the other stores and restaurants. I bring this article to your attention because its exactly this alternative approach to artist promotion every talented entrepreneurial soul can embrace.

In this instance the owners of the Mall took the initiative, but creatives can do the same by starting their own venues. Consider this group of frustrated artists disappointed with the size of the San Diego Comic Con (its gigantic). They are producing their own more intimate convention called Creator-Con. Here is an interesting take on this new venue on the Blog Cartoon Brew. The power of an idea whose time has come can manifest quickly if  desire, focus, and energy is placed behind it.

Start your own alternate showcase, gallery, convention, art faire, artist workshop, etc. What are some cool ideas you have thought of or heard of recently? How about some artist marketing brainstorming?

To artist empowerment!

Greg