Call for Questions!
I Need Your Help!
You’d think a creative person would have little trouble coming up with topics for a weekly column. And mostly, that’s true. I’ve been writing one nearly every week for 21 years. But occasionally, I hit a dry spell—like now.
In the past, I’ve asked for topic suggestions in a general way, and while that’s worked, many ideas turn out to be ones I’ve already covered. So this time, I want to give you a clearer picture of my background as an artist so your suggestions can be more targeted. After reading on, I’d love for you to share your ideas in the comments!
The Art Itself
Although I’ve been painting all my life, I didn’t go professional until 25 years ago. I advertise myself primarily as a plein air painter, but I also have considerable studio experience. The plein air work is, of course, rooted in landscape (as is most of my studio work) though I’ve also explored still life, figure, and portraiture. As for media, I’m most experienced with oil and pastel, somewhat less so with gouache, and I work in watercolor only occasionally. Drawing, however, is something I pursue as often as I can.
Travel and Location
Plein air painting, for me, often means travel—and I love it! Over the years, I’ve painted in a remarkable variety of places: the coasts of Maine, California, and the Canadian Maritimes; New England and Midwestern lakes and forested hills; the Grand Canyon and other southwest canyons; high mountains like the Rockies and the Adirondacks; the lochs and burns of Scotland; and many more beyond those.
Teaching
Teaching has been a major part of my income since going professional. I’ve specialized in small-group instruction, up to four students, but I also have extensive experience with larger groups, and I’ve demonstrated and lectured for art organizations and conferences. (I’ve appeared at the annual Plein Air Convention three times, and rumor has it I’ll be back for PAC 2027.)
The Business Side
Selling art, teaching, and writing about art are my livelihood, and with that comes the less glamorous side of the profession: spreadsheets, inventory databases, image archives and marketing. Marketing is an area I’ve taken seriously—I’m proud of having built an effective advertising approach without wasting money in the process. I’ve also taught considerably online, creating my own set of self-study, self-paced courses plus mentoring.
That’s the full picture. I hope it sparks some questions and fresh ideas. I’m looking forward to hearing from you—I welcome your questions and suggestions!
I’d like to know if you feel having a discounted sale annually or bi-annually is beneficial to your art business. I know you have been having them regularly but I’ve always shied away from discounting my art.
I’d also like to know more about Patreon, the benefits and downfalls.
Thank you for all the information you have provided over the years. Looking forward to reading more.
Kathleen
Michael, because you’re both a writer and a painter, I think you could do a good job of describing your thought process as you work on projects.
A lot of teachers demo what they do and share guidelines, but not many explain what they’re thinking as they work. It’s hard to paint and talk at the same time, but it’s so valuable for students if you can do it.
I think learning how to think like a painter is as important as learning physical skills. Maybe moreso. And it’s harder to learn.