new year, new prices...

Having injured my wrist last week, I'm pulling out of the 30 in 30 painting challenge. I need time to heal without overuse of my right arm. so no painting or knitting for me... feeling rather limited on creativity, but all is not lost, as I'm reading some good art books.
 
Also, I've wanted to tackle updating my website for months, so I've been able to do that. I finally got around to deleting a huge amount of old work that was sold.   With the new year it was also time to revisit pricing on my works.  I haven't updated my pricing list in several years, and I was quite aware that it was not in line with other comparable work.  I have my reasons why I have kept my pricing relatively low, it's worked well for me.   BUT I have now made changes that I feel is right.  I price my work by united inches(height plus width) rather than by square inches.   Works over 24 united inches I show in galleries.  Works under 24 united inches I wont be showing in galleries anymore...that is because I consider them sketches.
I was in Ottawa on Friday and saw the Monet exhibition at the National Gallery.  I also spent a great deal of time in the European and American galleries, which I haven't visited much in the past, and I thoroughly enjoyed the visit.  Such inspiration!

Gerberra's oil paintings

2 years ago when I quit my job at the framing shop, I wondered if I might partly regret it. I enjoyed the interaction with customers and staff; keeping in the loop about the ongoing local arts scene, friendships etc. Going from an art-related job to running a seasonal small business from my home and secluding myself out in the country to paint, could become a recipe for loneliness. 

Gerberras - oil on wood supports - 4 x 4 inches, each

Time has shown me otherwise.  I cannot believe how the time has flown by since then.  Not one day do i ever wish i still had the job!  These days my job takes more self dicipline...such as showing up at the easle when I'm not in the mood, doing the books when i'd rather paint, marketing etc. But it is hugely more satisfying.  Now, I stay in the loop when I want to. Good friends and art clients stay in touch.

And I read more. That's something I had stopped doing for a long time.  This week I've been reading an art book that is widely well known, but i had never got around to reading before. It's a most fascinating read: 
 'Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain' by Betty Edwards.