September 13, 2007 Day 147
I received my new set of 48-color ZIG permanent ink, acid-free, archival quality, lightfast, waterproof, fade-proof, non-bleeding pens yesterday afternoon. There is a fine point at one end and a thicker blunt point at the other end, allowing for a variety of line-widths to be made. The thick ends are good for filling in areas, as I did in this morning's drawing when I tried them out. I used a template for the circles and a ruler for the lines in this drawing, experimenting with the new pens.
Drawing #149 11" x 14"
The new pens were a disappointment, however, because I was expecting calligraphy pens, which I've come to love. Basically, I think it takes me a while to get used to any new tools for making art.
Yesterday afternoon Laura and I stopped in at some local art galleries while doing errands downtown. It's always fun to see the variety of local talent in the Ithaca area, which is a great place for artists to live and work. Unfortunately, it's not a great place for them to make a living on their art. Some do survive as "regional artists," but they put a lot of effort into this project.
I used to think I had to try everything available to market my art, but that can only make one frantic and scattered. What's more likely to be successful is steady, patient effort in a focused direction. Since I am not a steady, patient person, this has been a hard lesson for me to learn.
(Note: There is a gap between the dates I'm writing and posting in order to give me time to get ahead in case we travel and I'm not able to post.)
