I marvel at the ways we artists can instantly share images of our paintings (even as the paint is still drying!) through social media like Facebook. As much as I like to complain about technology taking over my life, I have to admit that I enjoy the instant gratification that comes from posting a new painting and reading the comments of my friends, family members, and students. So far, the response has been overwhelmingly positive, and I've even drummed up a few unexpected sales! Another plus: friends have come to the rescue when I'm stumped and need suggestions for giving my painting a title. It's fascinating to hear other people's perspectives and insights about my work. If art is a conversation between the viewer and the artist, Facebook deftly facilitates that dialogue.
Thanks to my recently attained Signature membership in NWS (National Watercolor Society), I've become connected to an even larger group of artists on Facebook. Now I'm reading posts and seeing images from national artists (and they are seeing my work as well). Through these connections, I'm being introduced to even MORE artists whose styles intrigue and delight me.
How much is too much? It's up to you to decide how much time you want to spend online. I've heard of writers who disable their computer's internet connectivity while they write so they won't be constantly interrupted, and that sounds like a good idea. I tend to jump online after my morning coffee, and depending on my day, I check again at lunchtime, and again in the late afternoon. I confess that I sometimes I peek at my ipad when I get "stuck" during a painting session, but more often than not, my hands are covered in paint so I'm forced to keep to task!
All things considered, I am grateful for the technology that has allowed me to connect and share my work with others so quickly and efficiently. It's no replacement for in-person art exhibits, but its reach is far and wide--to people across the country and across the world.
Thanks to my recently attained Signature membership in NWS (National Watercolor Society), I've become connected to an even larger group of artists on Facebook. Now I'm reading posts and seeing images from national artists (and they are seeing my work as well). Through these connections, I'm being introduced to even MORE artists whose styles intrigue and delight me.
How much is too much? It's up to you to decide how much time you want to spend online. I've heard of writers who disable their computer's internet connectivity while they write so they won't be constantly interrupted, and that sounds like a good idea. I tend to jump online after my morning coffee, and depending on my day, I check again at lunchtime, and again in the late afternoon. I confess that I sometimes I peek at my ipad when I get "stuck" during a painting session, but more often than not, my hands are covered in paint so I'm forced to keep to task!
All things considered, I am grateful for the technology that has allowed me to connect and share my work with others so quickly and efficiently. It's no replacement for in-person art exhibits, but its reach is far and wide--to people across the country and across the world.
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