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I am a positive-minded person.  As an artist, I try to approach every art-related experience, and the people with whom I partner, with enthusiasm and openness.  That is how I would like to be treated. So it is an expectation that others in the industry will also be committed, fair, dedicated, trustworthy, passionate, hard-working, honest, and somewhat progressive in the marketing of the artists they represent.  When I partner with a gallery, association, organization, show promoter, etc., I expect that as equal partners we will work to bring our various talents together for mutual benefit.  I know through experience that this scenario is not necessarily going to be reality. But, over the years, I can say that in most cases, working with and through others has been a happy and worthwhile adventure. 

Recently, I have encountered some negativity in my art sphere, and I wonder if others are having similar experiences. A few days ago I received a Facebook post by an artist who was contemplating legal action over lack of payment by a gallery (overdue by 90 days).  My situation has been similar, but the waiting period has not been as great, as yet. 

There are other issues of more concern to me than not being paid, though.  These include: lack of promotion, lack of follow-through of agreed plans for special artist events or talks, poor communication generally, phone calls and emails not returned (weak excuses given), mediocre sales (I seem to be able to sell much more on my own), deception, and unwillingness to admit a problem exists and that a plan to resolve the plan needs to be discussed.  I find the last issue especially frustrating because I know I have always demonstrated openness and a willingness to discuss and be accommodating.

Needless to say, I have removed my work from these galleries. I cannot exist in such a toxic relationship. I am prepared to give my time, energy, and whatever talents I may have to build a strong relationship with a gallery that is businesslike, passionate, and forward thinking.   Life offers too many joyous journeys to be dragged down by others who don’t share at least some of this vision with me. 

In the meantime, I’m continuing to paint, pot, and create sculpture.  And I’m happy with that.    

A favourite piece of artwork, that cheers me up and makes me think of the warmth of Italy:

Impression of a Mediterranean Landscape, Oil/Cold Wax on canvas, 24" X 30"