I'm a fan of checking out a commercial artist's personal work - and think it's important to share these projects with folks who might hire you for a job.
Why? I see personal work and test shoots as a way to experiment and push the boundaries of your artwork. Although we may have graduated from school, there's still the School of Life which is never-ending and ever-changing; And as a commercial artist it's important to continue learning the craft and staying inspired.
You can also use these projects to dial in your POV. If you feel the need to strengthen your voice as an artist, now's your chance to figure it out without the pressure of a hard deadline or a client breathing down your neck.
And as a producer, I'm always interested in learning more about what makes you, YOU. Personal work is the perfect way to tell me what gets you fired up, what inspires you, or simply what you observe in the world around you.
As an artist myself, I constantly strive to think of new techniques, color combinations, and ways to display my art to help illustrate a concept or theme. I can't imagine seeing it any other way. Even when I'm surfing, each day in the water is different and offers up a new challenge to improve my skills - whether it's the conditions, tide, a new break, or even the line-up. I'm grateful for these opportunities to learn more and stay fresh.
Here's where the discount comes in! If you're looking for some accountability, support, and feedback on your next personal project, I encourage you to check out the Art of Freelance.
It's a 10-week online workshop to help creative freelancers set goals, create a plan to accomplish them, and then do the work alongside a community of other creative freelancers.
As an alum and cohort guide, it has helped me achieve goals in my consulting and fine art practice. Enrollment is currently open and you can get a 10% discount if you use the promo code FRIENDOFMARA.
Here are the workshop dates below. Click here to enroll now!
8/27 - 9/11 Enrollment Open
9/17 - 12/2 Workshop
12/4 & 12/5 Socially Distanced Showcases on Zoom