Over the last month, I have spent a lot of time taking online courses (free ones) and listening to podcasts, watching vlogs on YouTube, writing in my journal, and rough sketching new ideas in my handy-dandy sketch book. My sketch book goes everywhere with me. It’s been a long time since I spent time furthering my own education on marketing and social media and I felt that as my art changes, my needs are changing, too. Time to upgrade myself and my direction.

While I have spent a lot of time painting historic homes (and not so historic homes–at least not yet), buildings, and such, I have also found that I am drawn to marker illustrations. I have found that my inspiration is drawn from my childhood. And for those of you keeping track at home, that would be the 70’s and 80’s.


Last year, I joined the Spark Art Community. An online group of artists who continuously supports each other and offers advice through personal experience. Not only do you get these fabulous friendships from around the world, you also have course work to help you get where you’re going in your business. And it’s incredibly affordable! Check it out HERE. I highly recommend it for those needing to find your direction as an artist, a community of incredible artists from around the world, and help with the business side of the art world. Andrea is great!
So, I am sure you are wondering where all this education comes in for motivation?? Well, I find that as I am listening and participating in these online classes and vlogs that ideas just pop in my head. This is where keeping that sketch book nearby comes in handy. You never know when you are going to get that bright idea. And let me tell you, you will not remember it later. WRITE IT DOWN. SKETCH IT OUT. It might not be what you thought, but it will be a rough draft. A START to something great!

It’s time to get inspired and make time to turn these sketches into reality. What’s inspiring you this week?

0 comments on “Monday Motivation – Educate Yourself”