As we have talked before about the solitary life of an artist when they are working. This work we do is something that has to be done that way more or less unless you are working collaboratively on a big project. Most pieces are very individual and done at home or in your studio. Most of us need that private creating time to think and get the work done. It just isn’t something that is normally shared in a group situation.

Because of the nature of this work it is healthy to find an art group, friend, or organization to mix with occasionally to share experiences. This is one reason the school counties here in California have art cadres that meet on a regular basis. These groups discuss what is happening with the state art situations, local and county events, and any changes in policy or laws coming down the pike that will affect the art programs in the schools. These are very important groups with a very important agenda. It is a chance for all of the art people in one county area to meet and share. Usually the attendance is poor. People have trouble getting off work to attend, even though these meetings are important.

This is the main reason we developed Arts Support Group. Knowing artists everywhere need support, a lot of times emotionally with their work, or work-related scenarios. This group has grown nicely over the last year and a half with close to 200 members. Everyone in the group knows we are here, most days, to see if anyone needs any kind of help or support. Not everyone can come in on a regular basis although we do have members that show up every day to check things out. With tight work and family schedules it is impossible to stop by every day even for us. So, we do what we can to meet the need if any.

We have a fair number of members who are not artists, but enjoy the arts in their own way and seem to enjoy coming to the site to see what is being posted. When writing commentaries, I try to make it user friendly even for those who aren’t artists. So, when technical writing I make an effort to explain things so everyone can understand them.

All of us who run groups on Facebook have the same issues. There are days when it seems no one is around to like or comment on posts, and it makes us wonder if its worth putting the time into the commentaries. But then other days the site is hopping. If even one person shows to like or comment, then the effort is worth it. We can’t be bustling all of the time.

If you are an artist and you want to share things with us you are most certainly welcome to do that. I try to be flexible with postings, but want to keep the rules applied so things don’t get out of hand. People are very good about that and understand. Sundays is obviously our busiest day with everyone posting their work. Its wonderful to see all of it coming in, and I enjoy commenting on each piece. Participation is appreciated always.

So, even though our time is spent alone when working, always feel free to stop by Arts Support for any encouragement or assistance any time. If Leigh or I are here, we will definitely answer your call. Good luck, and know all of you are appreciated as members in this group.