What’s Next?

Lately I’ve been struck by the variety and abundance of what’s going on in the art world.  Artists are using their talents in new ways. I recently started working with an artist who has a successful business making live paintings at weddings, while another uses painting, drawing, installation and sound to explore the impact of climate change on endangered ecosystems.

Artists are also experimenting with materials and media in their work.  A friend of mine recommends painting with coffee, showing artists how to find creative freedom and ease in the process; others are combining photography, printmaking and paint to create dimension and layers of meaning in their work. 

This level of experimentation is starting to be reflected in the commercial art world as well. It used to be that you had to choose between showing at art festivals or in galleries, with no crossover between those venues.  Now gallerists are visiting art festivals to discover artists. And while major art fairs used to showcase only galleries as exhibitors, that practice is starting to change as well.   Recently the San Francisco Art Fair invited proposals from independent artists, providing them an opportunity to exhibit their work alongside famous galleries.

I mention all of these changes because it is important to remember that making art and showing it is not a static process. The vitality of the entire art world depends on experimentation and discovery, as everyone tries to adapt to changing conditions.  

Does your art need to change? Your work may need to grow in size and scale. You may want to try a new color palette or consider new materials. You might want to explore a new venue for your work.

​Don’t be afraid to experiment—it’s the latest trend.