Are you an Artrepreneur?

I'll preface this with the acknowledgment that I have been very pensive for the last week. After yesterday, I think I understand why and wanted to share my thoughts. I know I'm being guided along the path I'm on.

Currently, I'm reading "Success Now! for Artists" by Renee Phillips. She provides great guidance and insight for managing the business of art. Not something I think most of us artists want to deal with, but we really must if we ever want success...I think.

Even though I've worked with glass for over 20 years, I didn't start our official studio until almost 2 years ago. And the business has come a long way in that short period of time and I feel we've been very fortunate.

My husband and I realize that getting a business started takes time and there are initial start up costs. As you can imagine, we have been operating in the red since the studio started. The good news is that for the most part I have all the equipment I need (yes, there's always that dream item or two) and I have a sound glass inventory. So we are at a point where I do not believe I need much except to replace supplies as they grow low AND I have sales to justify their purchase.

Last Saturday when we were enjoying dinner after the symphony, I told Dan that my goal for 2009 was to treat Krucoff Studios in a more business like manner. Since both of us have day jobs, my 'real job' does help to support my art and the business. If our small business has the money for me to purchase something, I will. And this goes hand and hand with Renee's recommendations for the business side of being an artist. One thing that is on my wish list is a LARGE kiln (the Paragon Pearl 44....she's a beauty), but I will not buy it until the business can justify that expense.

What's ironic, I guess, is yesterday the company that my husband and I work for (you know, the real day jobs...and yes we both work for the same company) announced that effective January 1, there would be an across the board 5% pay cut. Not exactly a Christmas bonus, but we still have jobs and they are trying to insure that those of us who are employed, continue to be. We appreciate that, especially in these economic times. So to my way of thinking, things happen for a reason, and how appropriate is it that prior to yesterday's news about our steady income, I had already made the decision that I need to treat my art as a business too? This is only one of the reasons I feel like I'm being guided; listen to your inner voice, it is wise and provides great insight.

2009 will be an interesting year, as they all are. Challenges are good. Never give up your dreams and be flexible to change. I have written down my goals for Krucoff Studios for 2009 and I continue to look for ways to grow our business. I do have faith and know that things happen for a reason. Perhaps the 5% pay cut is just the "gentle" nudge needed for me to become even more determined to achieve the goals I have for our business.

Be thankful for your gifts, your talent, and the blessings you receive every day. And yes, I am becoming an Artrepreneur.