But first, let's all rally behind the local, unique art professionals who are planning #ArtWeekDesMoines2019.  When the rest of the nation pokes fun at our state claiming we don't have this or that art scene...Isn't that one of the things that make Iowans take pause? 

I have been a resident of Iowa since 2005, so I've seen a lot of growth, but I admit today I still do not see much advancement on the art front...I don't mean there aren't any events for kids, musical comebacks, crazy pizza places, or paint-by-number venues in town.  We've got that covered in Ranch and poked on a food stick!  Now I'm talking about Art. 

Since we're a visual art studio business, we just ask you consider how actions or inactions reflect on our Local Cultural Impact.

Our studio is involved in FOUR community events this week starting on Sunday...all of which are sharing proceeds with organizations that also do good work in our community.
​

• HOW IT'S MADE studio plants in 2.5D
• BEYOND THE STUDIO: building a thriving art practice and artist ecosystem
• ANNUAL GIVING: making every purchase count for art
• GRAND OPENING of print shop on etsy 
• EVENT RECAP art biz 2.0 
• TO CHINA or not to china
• SOMETHING NEW is coming​

Before hosting an event, I always get nervous.  But when Brent and I meet with visitors at his open studio for the bi-annual Fitch Open House event, I only feel happy.  Much to my relief, I genuinely enjoy talking with visitors who are familiar and some are new faces.  The studio isn't mine, it's Brent's, and I wouldn't be able to work in a space like his.  I think that might just be the secret to why I don't freak out before activities at the studio.  I can just let go of that control and enjoy that it's a unique place of creativity which is my pleasure to live in vicariously (and briefly) through Brent.

I've reorganized and tidied the studio, yet I need more space!  So, please help me make this shift to a clean studio by taking an artwork at a deep, deep discount. 

I’m thrilled to be working on my next project with the financial support from a recently awarded $10,000 grant from The State of Iowa Arts Council.  I MUST make room in the studio for the new body of work. This sale runs through Dec 31st.

We're on the cusp of something great yet we're miles away from reaching it!  How is that possible? 

When Brent and I decided to join forces as a married couple and business partners, we knew it would challenge us. There are obstacles and opportunities around every corner.   

In the summer of 2015, I left the corporate workforce to focus on our growing family and to also understand Brent's goals as a professional artist.  Two simple things to state, but both are huge undertakings in real-life.  After the party was over, and the leaves started to fall the next season, we took a hard look at where we were with the studio business versus where we wanted to grow.  ​

Welcome to the art business series of Studio Holland Art! 

Want distinct and original art...content? 
You've found it! This is the place to gain insight into my artistic vision, and you’ll also benefit from the art business content that my wife, Erica, shares.

Ready to get started?  You just gotta follow us!  (see icons)
 
Have you ever wondered how some artists seem to be propelled towards success as if a wand was waved over their painting palette - while others just never quite seem to make it?  I have.  I’ve put myself in both extreme camps at one time or another.  In reality, I know I fall in the hard-working class of artistic people who get ahead by creating boundary-pushing art with integrity.  It can be a healthy yet painstaking place to reside, most of the time.  You can learn more about me as an artist today - right here.

​Are you curious how an artist approaches a work of art?  Well, it's different for many of us, but I'll try to share with you as honestly as I can the considerations I give before, during and after I create.  If you can't wait, you can start with Splatter - HOW IT'S MADE.

Whether you're an artist, lawyer, foreman, or restaurateur, chances are you work yourself to death most days.  I DO.  Sometimes I feel like I can't finish the project I want to do because there's a list of things I'm obligated to complete first.

Updated 7/18/18
​Since my last post about this, I wanted to share an update that my studio was able to donate 2% of sales proceeds in 2016 to benefit The Des Moines Art Center School Tours Fund. #ArtTransforms #IowaSTEAM #desmoinesartcenter #Iowapublicschools #IowaArtistFellow2016

Looking ahead, I will continue to donate at least a percentage of year-end profit from all sales to arts education for K-12 students.  I'd love to learn more about your favorite arts education organization.  Please share your experiences and recommendations with me in the comments.