One Year of Competitions

Michele Rushworth · 08-02-2005, 10:32 AM

I've been working with a knowledgeable art marketing consultant and he recommends entering competitions purely for the potential publicity. If you get an award, send out press releases.

Alexandra Tyng · 08-04-2005, 09:39 PM

Kim,

Thanks so much for your detailed description (and analysis) of your recent experience entering competitions. I am SO glad your work has been recognized and appreciated. The judges had the sense to appreciate the combination of whimsy and strong design Congrats on your prizes! You really deserved them.

I also found it interesting that the smaller shows were a surer bet. It seems obvious, now that you point it out, but-DUH-I never thought of it!

Alex

Chris Saper · 08-04-2005, 09:50 PM

Here's a PS.

I think it's important to keep competitions in perspective. I have had paintings rejected by my small local art group, that have gone on to win national awards.

So, don't be upset if your work doesn't make the competition, or if it does, don't get upset if it doesn't get a prize. It's just one painting, one judge, one day, and it's not about you or your work.

Conversely, don't get cocky if you win. Our collective task is to become better painters, and that is quite independent of competitions.

Kimberly Dow · 08-04-2005, 10:05 PM

You are exactly right Chris.

Alexandra Tyng · 08-04-2005, 10:09 PM

Well, that's a good point, too, Chris! So the smaller competitions may not be easier to get into. I easily get discouraged after a painting gets rejected once. I usually never try submittimg it elsewhere. Maybe that's one reason why I have never won a prize, though obviously there could be other reasons! And, as you said, we're not in this just to win prizes. I would have given up long ago.

Alex