Give of yourself and you will be rewarded.

http://www.aor-omex.org/

Seems these days being an Artist can be a tough way to make a living.  At fifty my mid-section's a little thick than when I was in my 20's but I can relate otherwise as probably many who read this to the terms often heard of "Starving Artist."  I can honestly say that I would be lost not being able to create and work with my mind as well as hands as is so gratifying and keeps me at peace with myself.  I will continue to push myself and is with any other job I have had previous, do it to the best of my ability.

Yesterday out of the blue I received a phone call from a gentleman (Neil) who is employed with the Association of Ohio Recyclers.  It was surprising to me as I'm usually up on all the groups and businesses out there.  He wanted to know if I would like to participate in their annual conference in Columbus.  It being something that I'd have to "shell out" a few hundred dollars on and at this present time sadly beyond my means right now.  I thanked him though very much and to befriend of sorts, added a link to my web page of theirs along with joining their FaceBook page to keep me simply informed of what they were doing.  Nothing really out of the ordinary, special or anything I wouldn't do for someone I guess.  My thinking I told him that although not exhibiting, to at least have fun and attend the event and make some connections.

As it always turns out even the smallest things we do will be reciprocated.  I was just asked of this morning if there was any interest in my part on doing a teaching demo for my corrugated art with some monetary compensation for doing so.  The AOR is a non-profit group so I wouldn't expect that to be a lot even though I probably won't accept it.  The plain simple fact is that in giving of my time I have the potential to influence some young artistic minds and receive a good feeling about all.  Even better yet, the demo to be a conduit of sorts by allowing me to reach some hopefuly future clients.

I am a firm believer in that if one gives they most certainly will receive.  Not that I do not need to expand on that premise even more so myself.  I have a ways to go on that too but it seems though that it is just so easy to think about ourselves some days.  Honestly though...how can we not, as we have to live out each and every day in our bods.  Yesterday I shamefully thought about all again as the subject came up about a possible donation or contribution to their cause.  It's not like I have gobs of art to dispose of and the plain truth of the matter is that the IRS pretty much puts the screws in valuation for art when claiming as an Artist off of a donation.  I've done many times in the past and I always question was it worth it?  As always...it comes back to me with something positive each and every time.    Thanks Nico and John for letting me share.   

Mark