Why blog now?

Zillions of artists are blogging. Multi-gazillions of non-artists are blogging. It seems like they’ve all been doing it for years. What strikes me is that so many people have so much to share in their fields, and have found out how to show and tell it so WELL. (The little monkey on my shoulder is screeching “What on earth could YOU have to contribute, Karen?” Maybe my next post will be about him, the rascal.)

I too have a creative voice, and I’m suddenly getting the urge to sing…  To be engaged and involved with an online community of other artists, and cyber-visible to more than the occasional passer-by of my website. My intention here (more about setting intentions from some Very Smart Girls) is to bushwhack a trail for myself in this huge forest, which will serve not only as a path for me to continually explore and follow but also for you to be curious about, and want to follow too.

“Sand Beach Path & the Beehive” mixed media on panel, 12×12. ©2013 Karen Rand Anderson

Since discovering the work of Alyson Stanfield and her vibrant and helpful ArtBizBlog, I want to make blogging an integral part of my art practice, expanding my personal creative quest. Spicing up the journey. Thinking, talking, writing about it all. Embracing the awkwardness about putting myself out there (or in here, as it happens).

British artist and blogger Natalia Komis gives some good advice about it, saying “If the studio is where you practice your making, your blog is the place where you can practice your writing… and open up a space for a critical and analytical dialog between yourself and your work.” And, other artists and their work. Cleaning Up the Studio is my other studio. A new place to make, think, look, create, question, wonder, share. Maybe weep. Maybe laugh. And when you find it, please do come in, sit down, pick up a pencil, write a memo, or draw a picture. Engage. Thanks.