In a post I made a few weeks ago and in several since I've eluded to a "new opportunity" that had been placed before me as a result of my art. I've been holding off saying anything to make sure I was capable of the job! I believe I now have the confidence in myself to actually announce this new venture.
Just a little background material...This show season has been particularly hard. I'm not sure if it is because I'm "older" (I'll be 63 in April), or if the adrenalin one feels with a new venture has dropped off, or if it simply is that I can see the results I had hoped for were not going to happen quick enough to provide the extra income I knew I would need to supplement my retirement.
Those of you who read my blog regularly know that I'm still a working hairdresser and have been now for over 38 years. Standing in one place with your arms up in the air begins to take it's toll on the body and I hope to retire, or at least cut back my schedule drastically by age 67.
As I have said before, with the exception of my last art fair, every show I've done this year has been as good as or better than the year before...and I have commissions on the books for this winter. So you might ask "what is your panic?"
It isn't my art sales that have faltered, its the rising cost of everyday life that has prompted my concern. Just "living" is costing so much more than it did 5 years ago. I could see that I was going to need a more dependable income at retirement.
Realizing this didn't make me panic...actually, I felt quite calm. I began to pray that God place the right opportunity in my path...and I prayed "I would recognize it when it happened".
One evening back in July, I received a phone call from Clint Watson, the founder of FineArtStudioOnline and the company who hosts my website...Marsha Robinett Fine Art. He called to ask if I would be interested in doing tech support for his company.
My response..."Me, do tech support?", and I laughed!!" I was simply dumbfounded that anyone would want me, of all people, to do tech. support. I reminded him of all the support questions I had submitted in the beginning and he just said "then you should have the answers".
As we talked more that evening...I was reminded of my prayers.
I had not called or inquired about this position nor had I ever spoken to Clint before. I was just one of over 2,000 artist websites hosted by his company. This was God's work...and I knew He would provide what I needed to succeed. Armed with this knowledge, I accepted the challenge even though "I" still doubted my ability.
I've been working for FineArtStudioOnline for a little over a month now...doing tech support three evenings a week. Even with the extensive training Ive received during the past couple of months, I've had to learn to accept that because of the rapid changes taking place in the industry, there will always be answers I don't have and always be new things to learn.
Solving an issue is somewhat like being a detective...as I peruse their websites gathering information, in order to resolve the problem, I get to view and enjoy their beautiful art. It's like a continual "Gallery Opening". What an inspiration!
I've so enjoyed getting to know the many fine artists I've worked with. It brings me pleasure knowing I've helped them get their website up and going so that they can get back to their studio and "just be an artist"
So there you have it. We may have plans for our future but if we slow down to listen there is someone directing us who has knowledge of the bigger picture.
Who would have ever thought that I would someday be referred to as "Marsha Robinett...Artist Support Agent"?
I wrote a 4 part article a while back called It's the Journey that Defines You...I believe this is just part of my journey. Am I going to give up my art, absolutely not. This new segment of my life has only served to inspire me to greater knowledge, greater creativity, and a stronger faith.
No Question today...just a gentle reminder. When you pray for answers make sure you also pray for "ears to hear".
The "Chat Line" is open...I welcome your comments, and encourage you today in your life and in your career. The blessing is there for all.
If you have a website with FineArtStudioOnline...perhaps I will be answering your question some evening, getting to know both you and your art.
Have a lovely weekend and thank you for your continued support and encouragement.
Sincerely,
Marsha
**If you've been thinking about setting up a website...consider the "Free Trial" offered by FineArtStudioOnline...enter this code (3209) or sign up using this link...to extend your free trial to 90 days. There is nothing to loose, and I can shamelessly attest to their "extraordinary artist support team"!
Links:
Website ...Marsha Robinett Fine Art
My Squidoo ...Drawing Techniques
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6 comments:
Thank you for a encouraging and positive post. After reading a couple of cranky bloggers it was so nice and refreshing to read about how God, through prayer, answered your concerns. =) It is good to be reminded to pray and for the "ears to hear" =) I hope you have much success in all your endeavors. =)
This is a wonderful answer to your prayer! Your art *deserves* this support, so you can keep creating!
Marsha how exciting for you! I think your new job is a perfect fit!
You know I can totally relate to all that you said about age, retiring, art fairs, cost of living increases - the entire lot - being close to you in age and situations. I'm glad you are continuing with your art - however I never thought you would give it up - not voluntarily anyway LOL!
I love your insights when you talk about God and praying - generally it is exactly what I need to hear so I don't think that is a coincidence.
You are touching so many people with your art and your matter-of-fact and natural way of communicating in your blog.
I hope you enjoy your new career - I have no doubt you will do well.
God Bless you!
"Wait and trust" never sounds as exciting as "make it happen" but it's the choice that often shapes us in positive ways. And isn't it such a boost to see a prayer answered in an unmistakeable way? Love your perspective on this issue and it's an encouragement to me.
Parrish,
I'm touched that you found encouragement in my words...it's sad, but prayer comes much easier than listening. Thank you for your kind wishes.
Nita,
Yes, this opportunity is truly a testimony to His goodness and provision.
Karen,
Thanks for your kind words of encouragement. This has been a huge challenge.
Even though I doubted my ability, I never doubted just Who presented the opportunity. And yes, I thoroughly enjoy my new job. I am just so blessed!
Angela,
Over the years I've struggled with the "wait and trust" thing. I'm just naturally a "take charge, make it happen" personality...but this time I simply had a quiet peace about the situation.
Marsha, I can't think of a better out of the blue happening for you. I am very happy for you.
Thank you very much for the inspiring post and your inspiring blog.
I just opened my fine art studio online website at the end of August. Maybe I will be running into you there when I have a question!
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