ART INSIGHTS: How often do you manage it? Your artwork, of course

Many of we art association members are in our golden years.

I’d rather think of them as more multi-colored … our rainbow years.

Some depend upon an art, or other, income. Everyone has to balance interests and commitments. How do artists find time? Personally, I work in downpours and droughts. Several months may slip without painting … on canvas that is. There’s guilt, but no over-achievement! Joining an organization, where interests are shared, spurs one on. I will borrow a misinterpreted line from "Fawlty Towers," a hilarious '70s British sitcom. It is, “How often do you manage it?” This is the question I pose to other association members.

“I am just getting back into a rhythm, after sending my daughter back to college. In these ‘later’ years, I needed to prioritize what I love most. Painting comes first every day, often before 7 a.m. Even as the day becomes filled with interruptions and tasks, I am happy in knowing that my heart was fed first.” — Terese Fandel

“I have always (from grade school through college, and into a successful career) absolutely loved art! With an art career, there is no 9-5 regular income. One has to be creative 24/7. You can’t paint only when feeling inspired, but must be self-motivated and disciplined. You recognize moments of inspiration, versus moments of research and appreciation. You take advantage of those whenever, and wherever you are.” — Sandy Bergeron

“I am not very disciplined and find that I only dedicate time each day if I have a deadline or project to complete. I do much better if I have set time aside to paint with someone else. Otherwise, life seems to get in the way.” — Johnene Ellis

“It happens in fits and bursts. As perhaps one of the only non-retired members, and a mother of school-aged children, I catch as catch can. At times I get up early, or stay up late, to paint. On many more days I simply can’t fit it in, and hope to make it happen within my week or month. The goal of creating inspirational beauty, and my love of painting, keeps me coming back!” — Brooke Baggett

“I am changing my focus from commission to more personal work. I’ve primarily painted for others. Now I’m asking myself whether I should paint what I believe will sell, or what I feel inspired to do. Are these two even in conflict? It’s a different mindset. I hope to enjoy challenging myself and will make as much time as my busy life permits.” — Connie Casey

“I do art daily, in a broader sense than painting on a piece. Art is everywhere and everchanging, keeping life interesting and never dull. Creating something new, or working on an old piece, whether it be mental or physical, is a daily thing!” — Joanne Reeds

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Diane Barron is the secretary for the Coeur d'Alene Art Association and the 2023 artist of the year.

    Joanne Reeds has captured "Bob's Creek."