‘You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.’
– Wayne Gretsky
A recent study observed the aftermath of people who made a significant decision and change in their lives depending on the answer given by a coin flip. Those who were told to make a change reported as being substantially happier than those who stuck to the status quo.
So, why are we bringing up a study of random-chance? How does this relate to you and your art career? Well, as evidenced by over 20,000 coin flips, we think you need to make some changes and jump on more opportunities.
Opportunities are the backbone of the career of a successful artist. When an artist stays engaged with the world around them, they watch their income increase and their business grow. The best way to stay engaged is by taking part in fairs, exhibitions, competitions, open calls, commissions, and residencies.
Let’s take a look at the benefits of taking part in Artist Opportunities.
Practice & New Experiences
If you have only recently made the decision to pursue a career in art, or if you have been suffering with long-term artist’s block, applying to opportunities can be a great way to open your creative mind. Many calls-for-art subscribe to a certain theme, aesthetic, or medium. If non of your current portfolio fit this, it is the perfect chance to embrace change and practice new styles.
Being more flexible with your practice makes you an open-minded artist. This attitude is essential to helping you achieve a growth mindset. You can learn more about growth mindset by downloading our Artist’s Guide to Mindset from our Guides & Templates page.
‘Openness to experience […] is the single strongest and most consistent personality trait that predicts creative achievement.’
- Kaufman & Gregoire
Build your Portfolio
Building and maintaining a strong portfolio makes you a prepared and desirable artist. By taking part in Calls-For-Art, Fairs, and Artist Residencies you will be prepared for when your dream exhibition comes your way.
Portfolios reflect your role in the art world. When an artist has a small or uniform portfolio, this implies that they are not an active participant of art circles. Applies to opportunities help your portfolio become more diverse and in turn become a record of your skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Not only does this contribute to your role as a versatile artist it also provides your audience with a consistent flow of content.
Reach More Audiences & Impact Others
Opportunites such as art fairs, residencies, and open calls are closely monitered by those in the art world. The artwork featured in such events set a precedent for new trends in the artworld. By contributing to such occassions, you have the chance to make a name for yourself and impact others.
What’s Next?
Are you ready to take the next step? Check out our new Opportunites Board to discover a variety of Open Calls, Residencies, Grants, Internships, Fairs, and many more.