I try to avoid making New Year’s resolutions. They are so easy to break. In truth, the work I’ve done recently is months in the making, and it just so happens I’m revealing it close to 2017. It is also a coincidence that I’m about as excited as one gets just before the ball drops on December 31st.  I’d break out the champagne, but I quit drinking 11 years ago. So, ginger ale for everyone!

Most Importantly

I’m painting again, and, what’s more, I’m taking more risks and expanding my repertoire. I’ve been experimenting with different techniques, trying my hand at the use of various painting mediums, and letting go of the preconceived notions I’ve had about my artwork that I feel has held me back.  Feels so good!

Getting the Word Out

Another leap I’m taking is being more proactive about sharing my artwork.  Not just on Facebook for my friends and family, but to the world in general. I’m cultivating an attitude of, “I make the art. Not everyone will like it, but some will. It’s none of my business either way, just keep making it.” This is becoming a mantra I repeat to myself every time I stand before the easel, and every time I show my work to someone. I plan to one day not find it so difficult to live.

Words to Action

Towards that end, I’ve spent a considerable amount of time updating audraarr.com. Not just the look of it, but working on fun stuff like SEO (Search Engine Optimization, for those who don’t know) and publicity. Not my favorite things to work on, but I’m so happy with the results. In retrospect, I *will* say it was fun. I hope my visitors like the changes.

A Bite of the Reality Sandwich

I paint/draw/create because I love it. Because when I turn on my music and stand in front of my easel, the cares of the world either flow through my paintbrush or disappear entirely. But it costs money. And, let’s be honest, I’d love to make a living, even a meager one, off my work. To know that enough people are moved by my work enough to pay for it would be, for me, the highest compliment. Towards that end, I’m taking a page from the history books and asking for patrons.

Patreon

What is Patreon? Patreon is a relatively new service/website that allows creative folks to illicit pledges for their work, either on a per month or per creation basis.  I’ve listed my goals on my Patreon site, as well as the pledge amounts available and the corresponding “rewards” my patrons will receive at each pledge level. My starting goal is to have enough pledges to make monthly payments on an art studio.

Please take a look at my introductory video below, or click on the button to be taken to my Patreon Creator website.

I’m So Excited!

Regardless of the outcome of any of my financial efforts, I’m excited to be trying something new and to be pushing past the fear of failure that so many of us have. Thanks for taking the time to check out what I’ve been up to!

Except, now I have an earworm of that damn song, which I’ve always hated. No offense, Pointer Sisters.