Hello Fellow Artists Here’s an Invitation!

This year, my goal is to take a significant leap forward in honing both my artistic and business skills. I’ve embarked on a weekly blogging journey to share my insights into a captivating book that I’ve not only read but also revisited, highlighted, and actively sought ways to translate its ideas into actionable steps.

I firmly believe that artists striving to run successful art businesses must continually seek improvement in both their artistic and business capabilities, hand in hand.

To illustrate this concept, envision a weightlifter exclusively focusing on building one arm—let’s say the right arm—without ever considering the left. Perhaps, on occasion, they might do a few bicep curls on the neglected side. Can you picture the result? It would undoubtedly be quite unusual, with one side toned and strong while the other struggles to lift even 10 lbs.

This analogy mirrors my approach to my art business. While enhancing my artistic skills, particularly in incorporating figurative work into my landscapes and scenes, I noticed a decline in my business skills due to the disproportionate focus.

This year, I’ve committed to a renewed dedication to simultaneously growing both my artistic and business skills and I’m thrilled to extend a personal invitation to each one of you to join me on this journey.

Join me as we embark on a 52 Week Challenge. Yes, I’m committing to a full year of sharing a weekly tip here on my blog. If you are an artist who’s been in business for a while or maybe your just starting out selling your work, helping each other out sharing tips and techniques can build a stronger art community.

Back in 2012 when I was just starting my art business and growing my artistic skill I use to listen to a podcast called Artist Helping Artist- AHA show hosted by Leslie Saeta and Dreama Tolle Perry, (later Margaret Sheldon took Dreama’s place) I would listen in the car, or in my studio while painting, and I was always so amazed how these artists were so generous in sharing their knowledge about marketing, social media, websites, email marketing, show ideas, the list goes on. They would interview many different artists along with offering once or twice a year 30 day challenges. It is amazing how I learned so much. Each week I would take notes and them put the instructions into action.

I absolutely loved the 30 Day Challenge, I participated in about 5 all together. 2 of them I completed all 30 days and the other three I was able to get about 50-60% done. It wasn’t for prizes just a way to encourage an motivate each other to painting daily for 30 days.

So this year I thought I would put together this challenge not just for me but for my artist friends to join in. Basically, I will post once a week a tip and all you have to do is leave a comment in the comment section below on how you implement the tip. It’s that simple. Who knows, if this idea takes off, maybe I’ll even start a podcast like the AHA show!

What lead me to this idea of starting the challenge was a book by Daniel Coyle called “The Little Book of Talents – 52 Tips for Improving your Skills” *. I’ve read it through and started reflecting on the idea of how to challenge myself to put this into practice. That’s where the idea to create the Weekly Tip Challenge started.


Quick Pause: If you are new here and would like to receive my Canvas Chronicles – a Weekly newsletter which will include this Artist to Artist Challenge right in your inbox – just fill out the form below – I’m excited you’ll be joining me on this journey!


At the Core

This isn’t just any challenge, it’s a promise to evolve, week after week. Together, let’s dive into each of Coyle’s tips, re-think them a bit and tailor them to suit the unique needs of painters like ourselves. From perfecting brush technique to mastering the art of self-promotion, each tip becomes a stepping stone toward our refined and sustainable artistic careers.

Bridging Our Worlds: Artistic Skills and Business Savvy

Artistry and business, two realms that often seem worlds apart, are intricately woven in our journey. This challenge is our bridge, addressing not on the technical aspects of painting but also the strategic mindset needed to navigate the art market. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, this Challenge aims to foster synergy between our creative brilliance and entrepreneurial spirit.

Why I’m Encouraging You to Join the Journey

  • Personalized Growth: I’m excited about the tips and challenges designed specifically for painters like us. It’s all about experiencing growth that’s uniquely ours.
  • Community Support: Connecting with a community of like-minded artists is key. Let’s share insights, challenges, and triumphs, forming a support system that propels us all forward.
  • Accountability and Consistency: The 52-week structure ensures a steady commitment to improvement. Embrace the small, manageable challenges each week—they add up to significant progress over the course of our project.
  • Celebrating Milestones: As we progress through the challenge, let’s celebrate milestones, share successes, and learn from setbacks. It’s a collective journey where each triumph contributes to our shared narrative.

It’s more than a project—it’s our commitment to growth, resilience, and the belief that our art has the power to shape not only our lives but also the world around us. Together, let’s unveil the canvas of our artistic potential. Will you join me on this journey where transformative strokes await?

Let’s make this artistic expedition one for the books. Linda Marino signing off – let the brilliance begin!

I would love to hear what you think about join the challenge and how we can come together to help each other learn and grow. Leave your comment below – Looking forward to an exciting year of growth in both my artistic and business skills and I hope you are too! Join me!

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8 responses to “Artist to Artist: Will you Join Me on a Weekly Challenge for Improving both Artistic and Business Skills?”

  1. Dean Avatar
    Dean

    Linda, I am so excited to join your challenge. I cannot wait for your first set of tips and advice for us.

    1. Linda Marino Avatar
      Linda Marino

      Thank you Dean!

  2. Johanne Beerbaum Avatar
    Johanne Beerbaum

    Hey, Girl…..what a lovely idea. I seem to be in a slump all during the pandemic and cont8nu8ng, maybe it will get my butt in gear. True artists are always trying to help one another….good for you to continue the train of thought. Love ya, Jo
    I have been so happy for you that your business has been continually growing and your expertise has run along side. I can see steady improvement all the time….Bravo!

    1. Linda Marino Avatar
      Linda Marino

      Hi Johanne! Love hearing from you! I totally hear you about being in slump, me too just a really crazy place and feeling a bit isolated still.. A New Year, Fresh Perspective …. A rising tide lifts all boats right! I look forward to our growth together – Keep going your heartwarming portraits are worth sharing!

  3. Beverly Schirmeier Avatar

    It will be great to jump start the new year!

    1. Linda Marino Avatar
      Linda Marino

      Hi Bev! So happy to hear from you and so happy you’ll join in the challenge – it will nice to connect with friends and give us all a fresh start!

  4. Sue Murphy Avatar

    Hi Linda,
    I know it’s been awhile. I’m retired now and although I’m busy being a grandma “Mimi” for 7 little ones I think I might just give this a try for some me art time! If I can’t keep up I just love seeing all that you’re doing. You never cease to amaze me.

    1. Linda Marino Avatar
      Linda Marino

      Hi Sue – So wonderful to hear from you. Yes, it’s been a while and I love hearing that you’re a grandma to 7! Wow! Would love for you to join in, it will be fun and motivating!

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