Staying Afloat: Art, Work Ethic, and the Reality of Uncertain Times

Staying Afloat: Art, Work Ethic, and the Reality of Uncertain Times

By Oscar Matos Linares

Writing a blog (even just once or twice a month) has its challenges. Sometimes, just coming up with an idea is difficult. Lately, I have been concerned with how the current economic situation is impacting art shows.

One of the first lessons I learned is that art is a business, and if you want to be successful, you have to treat it like a business. As a one-person business, you are responsible for everything, there is no one else to blame when things go wrong. When things do go wrong, you are the person who has to fix them.

Another lesson I learned is that to be successful in business, you need multiple sources of income. From April through December, I provide art installation services in the Chicago area. Having two steady sources of income helps even things out financially and provides financial security.

The art installation part of my business has provided some wonderful benefits. I get to meet and talk with art collectors and learn from them. It also provides me with extra freedom to concentrate on creating art.

I admit the year has gotten off to a rough start. It means I have to work harder, looking at what is working and what isn’t, and making adjustments in my art and business. I constantly remind myself to avoid distractions and to focus on my art and my business.

While many of the things affecting me are outside of my control, I choose to focus on the ones I can control. Taking care of my family, treating others with kindness and respect, and being grateful for what I have.