Danielle Calabro

I follow a a blog called  "Skinny Artist"  and read this wonderful essay that someone wrote called  "The Awakening" .  Take the time to read this, it makes you stop and think of how you want to be, it did for me. I have had my awakening, and reading this makes me believe in myself enough to keep moving forward. I know everyone can use a little encouragement sometimes, this is my way to encourage you all to keep moving forward to reach your goals. The Awakening (Author unknown) A time comes in your life when you finally get it. . . when, in the midst of all your fears and insanity, you stop dead in your tracks and somewhere the voice inside your head cries out–ENOUGH!  Enough of the fighting and crying and blaming and struggling to hold on. Then, like a child quieting down after a tantrum, you blink back your tears and begin to look at the world through new eyes. This is your awakening. You realize it’s time to stop hoping and waiting for something t...

I have set a goal for myself, my  plan is to have enough paintings done by the end of the year and apply for a few of the local art festivals that we have here in Florida. I am not sure how much work will be involved in this besides dedicating myself to my goal. I know I need to have a portfolio, if anyone has an idea of how to get one together with out spend a butt load of money please let me know, I am all ears. I have also been playing around with the idea of going to some of the local art districts and see if some of the café or stores will allow someone to hang their painting. What better way to get myself out there and get out of my comfort zone.  It's funny, my husband and I were talking about where we are and wishing we could get a break, and I wish the same thing.  I told him if we keep going in the same direction we are, something is bound to happen. I said it before,  I honestly thought if I painted it, they would come, I could not have been more wrong ...

Nothing is worse then having a job that just doesn't make you happy and knowing it is going to take a lot more time to do what you love.  I have been in customer service type jobs since I started to work when I turned 16. What makes it worse is that I have a goal (to make a living from my art) and I am  pursing it but I am not a patient person,  all you have to do is ask my kids :). I know this is going to take time, probably years and I can honestly see why some artist fail. It gets so depressing when you create something and it just collects dust, while your wallet is empty from buying the art supplies (which is not cheap for better materials). What I know is, I need to market myself, create more and step out of my comfort zone. I am a shy person, I am always afraid of what someone will say. I remember that great saying "Opinions are like assholes, everyone has one" and that is the problem. REJECTION, another scary word for me. Finding time to paint or draw seems almo...