The Unconventional Guide to Art + Money By Chris Guillebeau & Zoe Westhof

The Unconventional Guide to Art + Money is technically an e-book, I've printed it out, put it in plastic protector sheet and put it in a binder (I know I'm a total geeky girl when it comes to Back-to-school supplies) so it is on my bookshelf. This book has changed the way I think about marketing (I pictured a mustachioed greasy used car salesman in my minds eye). I now see it as a way to get my art in front of people who may feel a connection with it. There are practical tips and specific website recommendations. There are also MP3 audio files with interviews with artists who sell their work online, transcripts of these interviews and continuing updates from Chris. In art school and in college I was never taught how to sell my art. I'm really glad I found Chris Guillebeau's website and started my art marketing education. Thanks Chris!

All Wired Up by Mark Lareau

I took my first wire working class with Mark Lareau, then I promptly went home and redid all my previous wire work. His class made that much of a difference in my work. The proper work habits have saved me a world of pain as well. If you get a chance to take a class with Mark, do it! Reading this book (which is in a prominent position on my bookshelf) is the next best thing.

Rethinking Acrylic by Patti Brady...

All I can say is wow! I adore this book! I'm a geeky girl when it comes to art materials, I love to know the hows and whys. With a look behind the curtain (how acrylic paints are made) and techniques galore, this book is a gem. If you use acrylic paint, this is a book to keep handy in the studio. I can't recommend it highly enough!

The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life by Twyla Tharp

There are practical tips in this book that that have helped me to stay focused. It also reinforced what I learned back when I attended the High School of Music And Art. Working artists don't wait for the muse to strike. They show up every day and practice their craft. There is this myth that an artist are born with talent. It is both flattering and dismissive. Yes it is nice to get the compliment of being labeled talented but at the same time it does not acknowledge all the years I spent learning & honing my craft in high school, college, classes, books and continuous practice. It is our passion & practice that fuels us day in and day out when accolades are not forthcoming. It is our routine, our 'Creative Habit' that defines us as artists.