The Biggest Difference Between BFA and MFA


I want to share the biggest difference between BFA and an MFA. As an artist who attended both a BFA and MFA program for Fine Arts I want to share some of the differences and similarities between both of the programs. Learn the biggest difference between BFA and an MFA by reading more below! 



The Biggest Difference Between a BFA and an MFA Program 


The biggest difference between a BFA and an MFA is the level of independence you have as a student. In both programs as you move throughout the years from a first year student to a senior in your final year there is more independence. This level of independence is to prepare you for the “real world.” So, that you can be successful in whatever path you choose as an artist- whether it be having exhibitions, applying to grants, teaching at a college or workshops, working at an art gallery etc. 


With an MFA program in particular, you apply knowing you have a plan in place. In many MFA applications you create a letter of intent stating what you intend to do while in the MFA program. In your letter of intent you might explain what you plan on researching, what techniques you want to try, what installation methods you want to try and what your goals are for taking the program. What type of artist do you want to be? What do you hope to get out of the MFA program?



If you are needing help writing your letter of intent you can check out my one on one coaching and I am happy to review your letter of intent in an hour or half hour coaching session. 

Click the button below to book a coaching session with me! 



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Other Differences Between BFA and MFA programs:


Readings 

An MFA program is usually more research focused. There are more papers you need to write as a student and more required and suggested readings. Required readings are assigned by a professor in a class - often you are graded on participation and a written response in relation to the assigned reading. 

Suggested readings are given to you by your professor or a visiting lecturer as a reading you should look into that will help you develop as an artist. The suggested readings might be based on a technique you use, an artist working in a similar style or medium (either a contemporary artist or an artist from history), or based on the subject matter you are making art about.  These readings might get suggested to you during a critique or while meeting with your professor.


Both types of reading are valuable and help you really develop the way you talk and write about your work. 


You can read more about my MFA time at Concordia University by clicking here. 

You can read more about my BFA time at Lakehead University by clicking here. 

Projects 

In a BFA program, especially the first three years there are a lot of different types of projects. While the projects get more open ended as you progress through your BFA they do start specific. The reason for this is to encourage you to experiment and push yourself and your art. The professors want to challenge you and to help you figure out what art you want to make and why you want to make it. Why does it matter? What does your art communicate?


In an MFA there are little to no guided projects. You are in charge of managing your time and creating what you want to work on. That’s why having a clear letter of intent and clear goals are so important in an MFA.


Due Dates 

In a BFA program there are clear due dates, there are more check ins and in progress critiques. In an MFA there are still deadlines but you need stronger time management skills to be able to manage deadlines. There is less feedback of work in progress as you are often working on art at home or in your studio. There is little to no class time to work on your art in an MFA whereas in a BFA you have some class time so professors can give you timely feedback. 


These are some of the biggest differences between a BFA and MFA program. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions about these programs. 



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Basement Art Studio Tips and Tour



I want to take you on a behind the scenes look at my basement art studio. If you are thinking about having a basement art studio -here are some tips for you! To learn more about my basement art studio and see pictures, keep reading! 





Tips for Having a Basement Art Studio

Here are some tips for having a basement art studio and what you need to consider when planning your studio. 





Store Artwork Safely 

In a basement especially it can be a space that is prone to water damage or flooding. You want to consider how you will store your work to ensure it is protected. For example, You should store it off the ground on a shelf ideally in a waterproof container. If you are working with expensive art supplies or supplies that might get damaged like paper you might want to consider how you store those supplies in your basement art studio too!



Consider the Lighting

Light is very important for artists. Basements tend to be very dark, so you will want to consider where the brightest spots to work will be and possibly where to add extra lighting. In my basement art studio I am lucky to have two large windows. By those windows is where I have set up my desks to work. At the back of the studio where you first enter by the staircase it is a lot more dark and that is where I have set up storage. 


Plan the Zones in Your Studio

Having a home studio can be challenging and it is easy for it to become a storage area and not a functional art studio. Before you start moving furniture it is helpful to plan where to place large items and what zones you will need in your studio. Here is a list of possible zones for you basement art studio:

  • Art supply storage - could be grouped in categories if you use multiple supplies 

  • A place for messy art - could also think about different zones if you are working with different supplies 

  • A place for cleaner art 

  • A place to store finished art 

  • A place to ship art if you sell art online 

  • A place to display or photograph artwork 

  • An office area 

  • A place to film or record things if needed



Tour of my Basement Art Studio

Here are some photos of my basement art studio and how I have decided to set things up. I am an artist working with mixed media. I do acrylic painting, paper making, sewing, cyanotypes and some drawing. I have added some storage of final projects and a wood shop work bench for building things and completing any home renovation projects. 





I hope you have found these tips and photos helpful for planning your basement art studio. Connect with me on social media by clicking on one of the icons below! 

How to be an Organized Artist

Being an organized artist can be difficult. In this blog post I will show you steps for how to be an organized artist. As a creative person it is normal to have lots of ideas and many things on the go. Being an organized artist helps with accomplishing your goals and staying productive throughout the year. Learn the steps for how to be an organized artist below!  


How to be an Organized Artist

Being an organized artist is crucial for maintaining a productive and efficient creative practice. Here are some tips to help you stay organized:

  • Create a Dedicated Workspace: Set up a designated area for your artistic work. Having a specific space can help you stay organized and focused, and it will make it easier to access your materials whenever inspiration strikes.

  • Establish a Routine: Develop a consistent daily or weekly routine for your artistic practice. Set specific times for creating art, researching, and handling administrative tasks to maintain a balanced workflow.

  • Organize Your Supplies: Keep your art supplies and materials neatly organized. Utilize storage solutions such as drawers, shelves, and containers to categorize and store your supplies effectively, making them easily accessible when needed.


  • Maintain a Calendar: Use a calendar or a planner to keep track of important dates, deadlines, and upcoming art events. This will help you stay on top of your commitments and ensure that you allocate enough time for each project.

  • Digital Organization: Organize your digital files, including reference images, sketches, and completed artworks. Create a structured system for naming and storing files on your computer or cloud storage to facilitate easy access and retrieval.

  • Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable short-term and long-term goals for your artistic practice. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks, and prioritize them based on their importance and deadlines.

  • Keep a Sketchbook or Journal: Maintain a sketchbook or journal to record your ideas, inspirations, and progress. Use it to jot down thoughts, sketches, and any creative insights that you can refer back to when working on new projects.

  • Clean and Tidy Up Regularly: Schedule regular cleaning sessions for your workspace to keep it organized and clutter-free. A clean and tidy environment can contribute to a clear and focused mind, fostering creativity and productivity.

  • Stay Updated with Technology: Explore digital tools and software that can help streamline your creative process. There are various digital platforms and apps designed specifically for artists to manage projects, track progress, and organize their work efficiently.

  • Seek Inspiration and Learning: Continuously seek inspiration and opportunities for learning. Attend workshops, art exhibitions, and events to stay motivated and connected with the artistic community. Engaging with other artists can provide valuable insights and foster creative growth.

By implementing these strategies, you can develop an organized approach to your artistic practice, allowing you to focus on your creativity and produce high-quality artwork consistently.



Let me know what steps from this list you are going to implement to become a more organized artist. Click on one of the icons below to connect with me on social media!

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How to Make a New Year Routine


Creating a new year routine can help you start the year on a positive note and establish healthy habits that can contribute to your overall well-being and productivity. A new year routine is essential for artists because it helps you get clear on what you want and what projects you should take on during the year. Here are some steps to help you create a new year routine:

How to Create a New Year Routine

  • Reflect on the Previous Year: Take some time to reflect on the previous year. Consider what worked well for you, what you would like to improve, and what you want to achieve in the upcoming year.

  • Set Clear Goals: Define your goals for the year ahead. Whether they are personal, professional, or health-related, having clear goals will provide you with a sense of direction and purpose.

  • Establish Priorities: Determine your priorities for the year and identify the areas of your life that require the most attention. Focus on what matters most to you and allocate time and resources accordingly.

  • Create a Daily Schedule: Develop a daily schedule that incorporates activities aligned with your goals and priorities. Include time for work, exercise, relaxation, hobbies, personal development, and social activities. Make sure to allocate time for self-care and relaxation to avoid burnout.

  • Start with Small Changes: Implement small changes gradually to ease into your new routine. Trying to overhaul your entire routine at once can be overwhelming and may not be sustainable in the long run. Begin with manageable adjustments and gradually build upon them.

  • Stay Consistent: Consistency is key to the success of any routine. Stick to your schedule as much as possible, even on days when you don't feel motivated. Consistent practice will help you form positive habits and make your routine more effective over time.

  • Stay Flexible: While consistency is important, it's also essential to remain flexible and adaptable. Be open to making adjustments to your routine as necessary to accommodate unforeseen circumstances or changes in your priorities.

  • Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a priority in your routine. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and take time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is essential for maintaining a healthy and sustainable routine.

  • Track Your Progress: Monitor your progress regularly to assess how well your routine is working for you. Keep track of your achievements, challenges, and areas for improvement. This will help you stay motivated and make necessary adjustments to your routine as you progress throughout the year.

  • Stay Positive and Persistent: Be patient with yourself as you adapt to your new routine. Stay positive and persistent, even if you encounter obstacles or setbacks along the way. Remember that creating a new routine takes time, effort, and dedication.

By following these steps, you can create a new year routine that promotes productivity, balance, and overall well-being, setting you up for a successful and fulfilling year ahead as an artist.

Why Should You Have a New Year Routine as an Artist?


Having a new year routine can be particularly beneficial for artists for several reasons:

  • Consistent Practice: A routine helps artists establish a regular practice schedule, which is crucial for honing their skills and improving their craft. Regular practice can lead to significant artistic growth and development over time.

  • Time Management: A structured routine enables artists to manage their time effectively. By allocating specific time slots for different artistic activities such as creating art, researching, and networking, artists can ensure they make progress on their projects without feeling overwhelmed or unorganized.

  • Enhanced Creativity: While routine might sound restrictive, it can actually foster a conducive environment for creativity. By setting aside dedicated time for creative exploration and experimentation, artists can encourage their imaginative processes to flow more freely.

  • Establishing Discipline: Following a routine fosters discipline, which is essential for any artist looking to make consistent progress in their work. Discipline helps artists stay focused, motivated, and dedicated to their craft, even during times when inspiration might be lacking.

  • Goal Achievement: A well-structured routine can assist artists in achieving their artistic goals. By incorporating specific milestones and tasks into their routine, artists can make steady progress toward their creative ambitions throughout the year.

  • Balancing Artistic and Personal Life: A routine can help artists strike a balance between their artistic pursuits and personal life. By setting clear boundaries and allocating time for rest, relaxation, and other non-artistic activities, artists can prevent burnout and maintain their overall well-being.

  • Building Momentum: Following a routine can create a sense of momentum and consistency in an artist's practice. This regularity can help artists build momentum and maintain a steady pace of progress, which is essential for sustained artistic growth and success.

  • Stress Reduction: Having a routine in place can reduce stress and anxiety associated with the uncertainty of artistic careers. Knowing that there is a structured plan in place can provide a sense of security and stability, allowing artists to focus more on their creative process.

By incorporating a well-thought-out routine into their daily lives, artists can enhance their productivity, creativity, and overall well-being, ultimately contributing to their long-term success and fulfillment in their artistic endeavors.


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Goal Setting for Artists Tips


Goal setting for artists tips and tricks will help you set and define realistic goals for your art business or practice. Goal setting for artists is a great habit to get into at the start or end of the year but also to refer to your art goals every quarter. Read below to learn more about goal setting for artists! 


Why is Goal Setting Important for Artists?

Goal setting is crucial for artists for several reasons:

  • Direction and Focus: Setting goals helps artists clarify what they want to achieve and where they want their artistic endeavors to lead them. It provides a clear direction and keeps them focused on the specific milestones they need to reach.

  • Motivation and Inspiration: Having well-defined goals can inspire and motivate artists to push themselves beyond their comfort zones. Goals provide a sense of purpose and drive, helping artists to stay committed to their craft even during challenging times.

  • Measurable Progress: Setting goals with measurable outcomes allows artists to track their progress. This not only helps them assess their growth over time but also provides a sense of accomplishment as they reach each milestone.

  • Professional Development: Goals can serve as a roadmap for an artist's professional development. By setting achievable goals, artists can work on enhancing their skills, expanding their portfolio, and building a strong artistic identity.

  • Time Management: Setting specific deadlines and time-bound goals encourages artists to manage their time effectively. This can improve their productivity and ensure that they are consistently working towards their desired outcomes.

  • Accountability and Responsibility: When artists set goals, they hold themselves accountable for their own progress and success. This sense of responsibility can encourage them to take ownership of their artistic journey and strive to achieve the best possible results.

  • Personal Growth: Goal setting can promote personal growth and self-improvement. As artists strive to achieve their goals, they often develop new skills, overcome challenges, and gain valuable insights that contribute to their overall development as individuals and professionals.

  • Long-term Vision: Setting long-term goals helps artists envision their desired future and create a roadmap for achieving their artistic aspirations. This broader perspective enables them to make informed decisions and take actions that align with their ultimate artistic vision.



Goal Setting for Artists Tips

How to Set Goals as Artists

Goal setting can be a crucial component for any artist looking to progress in their craft and career. Here are some tips to help you set effective goals as an artist:

  • Define Your Vision: Start by defining your long-term vision. What do you want to achieve in your career as an artist? Where do you see yourself in 5, 10, or 20 years? Having a clear vision will guide your goal-setting process.





  • Set Specific Goals: Make sure your goals are clear and well-defined. Rather than setting a broad goal like "become a better painter," set specific, achievable goals like "complete three oil paintings by the end of the month" or "learn a new painting technique by attending a workshop."





  • Make Your Goals Measurable: Include quantifiable aspects in your goals so that you can track your progress. For instance, set a goal to sell a certain number of artworks, participate in a specific number of exhibitions, or gain a certain number of followers on your social media platforms.





  • Set Realistic and Achievable Goals: While it's good to challenge yourself, it's important to set goals that are attainable within a specific time frame. Unrealistic goals can lead to frustration and demotivation.





  • Break Down Your Goals: Divide your long-term goals into smaller, manageable milestones. This will make it easier to track your progress and keep you motivated. For instance, if your long-term goal is to have a solo exhibition, your smaller goals could include creating a body of work, securing a venue, and marketing the event.





  • Create a Timeline: Set deadlines for your goals to create a sense of urgency and accountability. Having a timeline will help you stay focused and organized in your efforts.





  • Prioritize Your Goals: Identify which goals are most important to you and prioritize them accordingly. Focus on goals that will have the most significant impact on your artistic development and career.





  • Stay Flexible: Be open to adjusting your goals as needed. As you progress and circumstances change, you may need to revise your goals to stay aligned with your vision.





  • Seek Feedback and Support: Share your goals with trusted mentors, fellow artists, or a supportive community. Their feedback and encouragement can provide valuable insights and help you stay motivated.





  • Celebrate Your Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. Celebrating your successes will help you stay motivated and maintain a positive mindset.

 

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Remember, goal setting is a dynamic process that requires regular review and adjustment. Stay committed to your goals, stay focused, and keep striving for improvement.



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Goals for 2024


Each year I complete goals for my art business. Here are my goals for 2024 focused on the fine art side of my art business. I have two parts of my art business: a side on art education and a side on my artist/fine art side. Read more to learn about my goals for 2024!  What are your goals for 2024?


Last year I was over ambitious when it came to my goals. I was pregnant and had my son in April 2023. I was more tired than I expected and wasn’t able to achieve a lot of the goals I wanted. We also bought our first home and moved in while I was nine months pregnant. So, 2023 was a very busy year to say the least! 



This year, my goals for 2024 I want to be more realistic in what I want to achieve now that I know how much work a baby and new house bring. 


Here are my goals for 2024! 

  • 2000 people on my email list 

  • Run ads to market business 

  • Take my business full time by making more money than I did as a teacher 

  • Offer cyanotype commissions

  • Have 2-5 exhibitions 

  • Receive 1-2 artist grants 

  • Growing my fine art Instagram to 1000 followers

  • Participate in 1-2 art markets 

  • Get my artwork or prints in a local shop

  • Take more photos from the series Patched and Tree Houses 

Sometimes it helps to dream a little. If I set goals too easy I might get bored and not put the effort in to make them happen. It can be hard to have the balance of goals being too hard or too simple. This year I want to work on focusing on implementing and getting things done. Even just a couple small things add up and make the difference over time. 


Click on one of the icons below to follow me on social media and let me know if you found this post helpful! All the best in 2024! 


Related Articles: 

2023 goals

Art goals






Review of 2023


2023 was a busy year for us. Here is my review of 2023. Learn about my busy year and review of 2023 below! In this review of 2023 I will go over the goals I made for 2023 related to art goals, personal, business and family goals.


Review of 2023- My Thoughts

We had our baby in April 2023 and bought our first home around the same time. I moved into our home while my baby was seven weeks old. We now live a few hours away from family and I am understanding that things take a lot longer with a baby. My goals for 2023 were ambitious and I would say over ambitious. I know I may not have hit them all or some but it has helped me get clear of what I want. 



My Goals for 2023 with a Review of 2023 

Business Goals for 2023

I want to have 500 email subscribers on my email list.

I didn’t quite hit this goal but I will be working even harder on building my email list in 2024. 


I want to try running ads on social media to help me grow my list.

I didn’t get around to doing this but will in 2024. 


I want to create 150 products on my TPT store - Jackie Partridge Art. 

I created over 100 products in my TPT store and was happy with this given how busy 2023 was! 

I want to create 10 new designs on Society6 - Jackie Partridge.

I haven’t put a focus on Society6 and didn’t create any new designs.


Art Goals for 2023

I want to have 2-5 new art grants this year to fund my artwork. 

I didn’t have time to apply for grants this year. 



I want to have 5-10 art exhibitions this year. 

I had two exhibitions this year and was happy with that. 


I want to set up a new studio in my new house.

I got it set up. I still want to continue to organize it and do little things like make it look pretty. 


I want to make cyanotypes and paper this year. 

I didn’t have time to make cyanotypes this year since my son was born in the spring. 




Social Media Goals for 2023

I want to have over 1000 followers on Instagram on both of my accounts - @jackiepartridge_ and @jackiepartridgeart

I gained over 1000 followers on @jackiepartridgeart and I am still working on growing @jackiepartridge_ .



I want to have over 500 subscribers on YouTube - Jackie Partridge Art 

With my son being born and moving I didn’t put out new videos from July 2023-November 2023. I will be working a bit harder on YouTube in 2024. 

Revenue Goals for 2023

I want to have consistent 3-4 figure months of sales on TPT.

I have had more consistent 3 figure months on TPT this year. 


I want to do 2 art markets and I want to get my artwork into a local shop. 

I did not have time to do either of these. 





Personal Goals for 2023

I want to make healthy food choices. 

I want to go for a walk daily. 

I have done these and feel really good postpartum. 



Family Goals for 2023

I want to go on a hike monthly and enjoy time in nature with my family a couple of times a month. I want to visit with family or friends once a month. I want to plan a family vacation or a couple of small getaways. I want to have a date night once a month when the baby is old enough. 




It has been hard to go hiking or on vacations. We have been seeing family and friends regularly so that has been nice. 






Overall Review of 2023 

As you can see my review of 2023 is not impressive. Did I hit some goals for sure. Did I hit a lot? No. I am still proud of all the life accomplishments we have achieved like buying our first home, moving and having a baby. These are milestones that take a lot of time, energy and patience. I am happy for the mom and wife I am. I am looking forward to hitting my 2024 goals this year. 






Even if you don’t hit your goals - you are not a failure. Sometimes life has better things in store for you! 

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review of 2023




Art Scams to Watch out for

Here are some common art scams to watch out for. Being an artist there are a lot of art scams to watch out for. Some are really realistic but usually if it seems too good to be true it probably is. Below is a list of common art scams to look out for! 

Common Art Scams to Watch Out For: 

Make sure you always trust your gut! If something doesn’t feel right, look right (like lots of spelling and grammar mistakes) then be careful. Be careful giving personal information and credit card or banking information always! 



Artists should be vigilant when it comes to potential scams in the art world. While there are many legitimate opportunities for artists to sell their work and gain recognition, there are also scams and fraudulent schemes to be aware of. Here are some common art scams that artists should watch out for:


  • Fake Art Buyers: Be cautious of individuals claiming to be interested in purchasing your artwork but require you to send them money upfront for shipping, insurance, or other fees. Legitimate buyers typically cover these costs themselves. Also if they want to purchase your art outside of your website it is a red flag. 


  • Art Competition Scams: Some art competitions may require an entry fee and if there are prizes or a juried competition it is normal for fees to apply, but be wary of those with high fees and no reputable judges or organizations behind them. Research the competition thoroughly before participating.


  • Fake Galleries: Scammers may create fake art galleries or online platforms that promise to showcase your work but require upfront fees for representation. Legitimate galleries typically earn a commission from sales, not fees from artists. This can also happen with social media accounts that have high followers which are often fake followers like bots where you need to pay to post to “gain exposure” from a wrong audience. 


  • Unauthorized Print Sales: Ensure that any company or individual selling prints or reproductions of your work has your explicit permission. Unauthorized printing and selling of your art can lead to copyright infringement issues.


  • Phishing Scams: Be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages requesting personal information or payment for supposed art opportunities. Verify the legitimacy of the sender before responding or sharing any information. This also happens in the private messages of your social media. 


  • Overpayment Scams: Scammers may send a counterfeit check or money order for an artwork, claiming it includes extra funds for shipping or other expenses. They then ask you to refund the excess money before the initial payment clears, leaving you with a worthless check. This is why it is best for people to pay for your art securely like through your website or PayPal versus an e-transfer. 


  • Art Authentication Scams: Beware of individuals or companies offering art authentication services for a fee. Seek out established and respected experts for authentication instead.


  • Art Investment Schemes: Avoid art investment opportunities that promise guaranteed returns or excessive profits. These may turn out to be Ponzi schemes or scams.


  • Copyright and Licensing Scams: Watch out for companies that claim to want to license your artwork for various products but require a substantial upfront fee. Legitimate licensing agreements usually involve negotiation and contracts.

  • Fake Giveaway accounts- if you run a giveaway on social media it is very common for a fake account to be created that impersonates your account and messages your followers telling them they have won and to click a link that could give them a virus or take their credit card information for “shipping.”


  • An NFT (Non-Fungible Token) scam targeting artists typically involves fraudulent schemes or deceptive practices related to the creation, sale, or representation of NFTs based on an artist's work. Here are some common NFT scams artists should be aware of:

  • Unauthorized Minting: Scammers may create NFTs of an artist's work without their permission. They essentially steal the digital art and tokenize it, profiting from sales without the artist's knowledge or consent.

  • Impersonation: Some fraudsters might impersonate artists on NFT marketplaces, claiming to sell NFTs of their work. Unsuspecting buyers may pay for what they believe is authentic art but receive nothing in


  • Lastly people through social media often will try to convince you as an artist to purchase an NFT to protect your work. You don’t need that there are already copyright laws in place.  Digital Art: NFTs are primarily associated with digital art, as they provide a way to prove ownership and authenticity in the digital realm. If you create digital art, NFTs can be a valuable tool for protecting your work and potentially monetizing it.

To protect yourself from art scams, it's essential to conduct thorough research, ask for references, and consult with trusted peers or industry professionals when in doubt. Trust your instincts and be cautious when dealing with unfamiliar parties or offers that seem too good to be true.

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Our weekly visits to the park 💛 . . . #landscapeoftheday #ducksofinstagram #springisintheair #springiscoming🌸 #naturecaptures
Denim paper in a circle 💙 . . . #handmadepaperart #handmadepaper #papermaker #papermaking #paperart #denimpaper #denimart #papercraft #recycleddenim
Happy Sunday! Taking it easy today with the lovely time change. Mentally preparing for a tired Monday! 😴 . . #timechange #denimpaper #handmadepaper #handmadepaperart #sleepysunday
Happy Weekend! I’m happy the snow is melting and I can spend some more time outdoors! What are your weekend plans? . . #landscapeofday #naturecaptures #landscapephoto #springiscoming #springtimevibes
Made with light coloured👖 Such a repetitive process but so fun and rewarding. Hard to across 100% cotton jeans now. . . #farmhouseinspired #handmadepaperart #papermaking #paperartwork #farmhousestyling #denimart #denimpaper #blueart #bluejeanart
A beautiful sunshine day. Can’t wait for spring and more time to bask in the sun. . . . #sunriseoftheday #wintersunshine #springiscoming🌸 #wintersun #wintersky #getoutside #explorewr
Dark or light👖? Both made with blue jeans just sorted carefully. Which one do you prefer? . . #denimart #handmadepaper #handmadepaperart #papermaking #recycleddenim #sustainablelifestyle #blueart #artforthehome #minimalaesthetic
Happy Friday! I’m pretty ready for winter to be over... but I do love wearing this headband by the lovely @123emmyabc . . . #wintertime❄️ #snowshoeing #headbandstyle #winterweather #winterwalks #naturetime #winterwalk
Made from cut up 👖 Such a fun and time consuming process from rinsing to chopping to soaking and rinsing to mixing to making paper. Check out my website to view more! . . . #papermaking #farmhousestyling #farmhousestyling #farmhouseart #denimpape
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Snow day today! Enjoyed the cold winter day and crisp blue sky. Finished report comments and did some more planning. . . . #wintertime #winterweather #wintersky #getoutside #walkingtrails








How Do I Promote my Art?


How do I promote my art? As an artist it is very important to not only make art but to promote it. Otherwise people will not know that you have art to offer. To learn how do I promote my art, keep reading! 


7 Ways for How Do I Promote my Art 

Here are 7 ways to help you answer - How do I promote my art?


Pinterest 

Pinterest isn’t just social media, it is a search engine. Pinterest is actually the number one way I drive traffic to my website. I have pins that are three years old and are still getting lots of views and clicks to my website. Pinterest helps people to sign up to mailing list and to purchase art from me. 


Social Media -Instagram, Facebook and TikTok

Social media is important in growing your audience, but it is not a place I actively spend a lot of time to promote my art. I use social media as a way to connect with my audience and to encourage people to sign up for my mailing list. 80% of the time I post about me, about inspiration or about the process or other free content I have like painting tips and tutorials. The other 20% and sometimes less I will directly tell people that I sell things and they should buy them. 


Email List 

I send emails to my list consistently and this is where I then share helpful tips like on social media but I share what I sell and promote my art occasionally like when I offer a sale or I have new art collections. 


You can join my mailing list below by filling out the the form to see how I promote my art first hand you can join my mailing list by filling out your information below to save 15% off artwork. 



Content -Blogs + YouTube

In blog posts and YouTube videos I share helpful content most of the time but I am able to link to art or art teaching resources that I sell. Sometimes I will create a blog post or a video specifically on something I sell. 



SEO

SEO stands for search engine optimization and it basically means that when someone is searching for something on Google, they can type in a keyword and websites appear. By adding keywords and content your website can be found easier. Having a website appear at the top of someone’s search results means that more people will click on your website and potentially purchase the art you are selling. 



Selling on Multiple Platforms 

If you only sell on your website or one place you have less chances of being found and making a sale. Whereas if you sell on different platforms like a website, Etsy, Amazon etc. there are more people or a specific audience of people that are visiting certain websites. Therefore you have more chances of being found and a wider audience of people who can connect to your work and see the art you are promoting.


In Person Events 

In person events like markets or exhibitions are a great way for people to get to know you and your art. You can leave business cards or encourage people to sign up for your mailing list. I have had lots of people purchase from me after an event because they took a business card and remember meeting me in person and seeing my art at an event. 



Art Promotion Tips

  • Be careful with paid opportunities to promote your artwork there are a lot of scams

  • You don’t need to pay for promotion wait until you are making significant money before spending money on ads or promoting a post on social media


Those are 7 simple ways to help you with the question of how do I promote my art?


Click the button below to check out my art shop! 









How to Be an Artist


Learn how to be an artist. It is a lot simpler than you might think. Being an artist is fun to be able to make your own art and make money off your art but there are some business and administrative tasks involved. Keep reading, to learn more about how to be an artist.


How to Be an Artist 

Make art and sell it. I wish it were that simple but it doesn’t need to be overly complicated. Often artists, including myself, get caught up with the never ending to-do list and forget to focus on the basics of making art and selling it. The number one focus for artists should be to make art and to sell art. 


Make Art

No famous artist made a masterpiece the first time they made art. It takes time and practice like any new skill. It also takes awhile to define what you want to make art about. What do you want to be known for? What art do you like making? In order to answer those questions you have to make a lot of art and focus on that daily if not weekly. 

Market Art/Sell Art  

When you aren’t making art it is important to share about your art while growing a community of fans. Build your social media platforms by posting consistently, grow your email list by offering a freebie or discount like free shipping on artwork and share about what you are making. 




It’s important to share about your art and process 80% of the time and then sell to your audience for the other 20%. 



Decide where you want to sell your art. Start small and simple first. You can sell on your website, Etsy, Amazon or a print on demand website like Society6. You can also try selling at local art markets. 

Once you have established an email list, one social media platform and making and selling art you can begin to add other elements to extend your business as an artist. Here are some ideas below:



How to Be an Artist - Ideas 

  • Affiliate marketing 

  • YouTube or Podcast

  • A blog 

  • Selling art on another platform

  • Adding another social media platform 

  • Apply to artist awards/grants 

  • Apply to artist residencies 

  • Apply to art exhibitions

  • Reach out to stores to pitch your artwork 

  • Teach a course or a workshop on an art technique you use

want to be an artist

Connect with me on social media by clicking on one of the icons below! Best of luck with your journey to becoming an artist! 

how to be an artist









How to Use a Sketchbook


Learn how to use a sketchbook and the various purposes of a sketchbook in this post. There are many ways to use a sketchbook and I want to share how I use a sketchbook as an artist. To learn how to use a sketchbook, keep reading! 


How to Use a Sketchbook

There are a number of ways to use a sketchbook. A sketchbook can hold many different purposes for an artist. Here are some of the ways a sketchbook can be used below! 


As a Journal 

You can use a sketchbook as a journal by recording ideas, notes, thoughts, plans etc. This is often how I use a sketchbook in my art practice so that I don’t forget ideas. 


As a Logbook

You can record dates and times you worked on a project to keep track of the hours you worked. You can treat your sketchbook as a scientist and record findings of what worked, what didn’t work and what you want to try next time. For example, you can keep track of colours of paint and ratios you used to mix a specific colour of paint for a painting. You could also record how long something took to dry or about an installation that didn’t go well and what you might do differently next time.  



As a Place to Brainstorm

You can use your sketchbook as a place to brainstorm ideas by making lists or mind maps to come up with ideas of what to create, what materials to use or what the title of an artwork should be. I often use my sketchbook in this way. 


As a Place to Plan

I will also use my sketchbook to create small thumbnail rough sketches of ideas for a final piece or how a project might be displayed. Often I will plan out a couple of ideas to see what I prefer in case something doesn’t turn out as planned. 



As a Place to Experiment 

You can use the pages of your sketchbook as a place to experiment and test out new ideas, materials or techniques. You could even label or record your different tests, so you remember what you did in the future. 


As a Place to Practice 

You can use it to practice drawing, composition, ideas, installation plans etc. 



A Place for Sketching/Drawing 

You can use it to practice sketching or drawing by drawing daily. You can carry your sketchbook with you in a bag to sketch what you see while you are waiting in a doctor’s office or waiting for the bus. You can draw what you see outside when you stop in the park during a walk. Or you can follow drawing prompts to help keep yourself inspired while practicing your drawing. 



A Place for Painting or Mixed Media 

Just like how you practice drawing or sketching you can practice painting or mixed media. There are sketchbooks you can buy specifically for painting or mixed media that have thicker paper and are able to hold paint or liquids without warping or wrecking the paper. 


As a Place for Research

You can record research, notes, inspiration, artists and artwork you admire etc. If your artwork is on a specific theme you might want to research that topic to inspire other ideas or to plan the title of the artwork.




These are some of the ways to use a sketchbook. As you can see you might choose multiple ways for how to use a sketchbook. There is no right or wrong way, you get to decide! 



Ways to Use Your Sketchbook More

To keep you inspired and use your sketchbook more, try to keep it in a place where you can see it daily or have multiple sketchbooks like one by your bed, one in the studio and one in your bag. 


You can also try my drawing prompts to keep you inspired and to practice your drawing skills. Click here to check them out! 




Related Articles:

How to Use Layers in a Sketchbook

Drawing Prompts for High School 

Art Journal Inspiration

How to Make Time for Art

Click here to download my FREE guide with 10 tips for creating your art portfolio for school applications!





Where to Find Art Inspiration

Where to find art inspiration? It’s not a hard question because inspiration can literally be anything that captures your eye and sparks an idea. Art inspiration is all around, looking to be found. Keep reading to discover where to find art inspiration. 



Where to Find Art Inspiration


Here is a list of places and ideas that might help you in finding art inspiration. You can also read about how to find inspiration here!

  • Go for a walk

  • Go on a hike 

  • Walk by the water 

  • Drive somewhere new 

  • Travel somewhere 

  • Go on a walk and see where it takes you don’t plan a destination

  • Go through an art supply store and see what you are gravitated towards

  • Watch a different type of video or listen to a different type of music than you normally wouldn’t watch or listen to

  • Walk in a local farmer’s market to be inspired by new scents and new food 

  • Read a different type of book or magazine 

  • Take a look at a garden centre or nursery 

  • Take a walk through a forest 

  • Take time to meditate or day dream and see what you think of 

  • Set a timer and begin writing non-stop for 20 minutes to see what you write about

  • Go to a thrift store and see where you are gravitated to

  • Read some poetry 

  • Spend some time gardening 

  • Go to the beach 

  • Learn a new skill or technique on YouTube

  • Explore on Pinterest - you can follow me here 



Trying something new and outside of your comfort zone or routine can help you see a new experience and gain inspiration. It is important to keep an open mind and allow yourself to be present in the moment so that you can really experience art inspiration when it comes to you. 


Click here to download my FREE guide with 10 tips for creating your art portfolio for school applications!

Be sure to let me know where you found inspiration. Click on one of the icons below to connect with me on social media. 

where to find art inspiration




What Does Canva Pro Do?

What does Canva Pro do? What are some of the benefits of Canva Pro versus the free-trial? There is a lot that Canva Pro can do. If you want to learn more about what does Canva Pro do, keep reading.


What Does Canva Pro Do?

what does canva pro do


Canva Pro Benefits 

  • Has more storage of designs 

  • Has more design elements to choose from

  • Able to organize in unlimited folders

  • More design templates to choose from

  • Able to add brand colours and logos easily

  • Resize designs 

  • Background remover in photos

  • Social media scheduler

  • More customer support 


What I Use Canva Pro For as an Artist

Here are some of the ways I use Canva Pro as an artist most commonly in my business:

  • Make Pinterest pins

  • Social media posts for sales 

  • Email freebies 

  • Facebook posts 

  • YouTube covers 

  • Digital products to sell

  • List of art materials for workshops 

  • Graphics for ads

  • Certificates of authenticity for artwork

  • Staging artwork in photographs 


What I Like About Canva Pro as an Artist

The following are Canva Pro features that I use most frequently in my Canva designs as an artist.


Organization with Unlimited Folders

Once you begin to use Canva Pro you will begin to see all the uses you can use it for. It is handy to be able to organize your designs in different categories like a folder just for Instagram posts, so that you can easily find your designs. 


Background Remover 

I like the feature of the background remover. You can literally press one button and it will remove the background. This can be handy to make your designs look more interesting and professional! 



Brand Colours and Logo

With the brand kit feature you can easily add in your logo on your designs and change colours in a template or a design with just one click. By setting up your brand colours you will have a consistent and professional look to all the designs you create! 

Resizing Designs

If you create an instagram post design you can click the resize button and easily size it to a Facebook post, Instagram story post etc. 



As you can see Canva Pro has a lot of great perks for a very affordable price. To try Canva Pro for free for 30 days you can click on the button below.

what does canva pro do






Advice for First Year Students in Art Programs

Attending an art university or college program can be a difficult transition from high school. Here is my advice as someone who went to a university art program. Below is some advice for first year students in art programs!


You can read about my undergraduate experience at Lakehead University here and my Master of Fine Arts at Concordia University here.


Advice for First Year Students in Art Programs

advice for first year students

Art Projects 

My advice for first year students is to try your best. You don’t want to leave your art projects for the last minute. Oftentimes, art projects are worth a large percentage of your overall grade. You want to make sure that you have enough time to follow the creative process. Time to plan your project, brainstorm ideas, test and experiment with materials and techniques, complete the design, add finishing touches and think about how you want to present your work. 


Balancing Time 

Living on your own comes with a lot of excitement. There are new friends, parties and more. You want to make sure you are balancing your time so that you are still having fun but also getting your school work done. If you have a part-time job or are in a relationship with someone you are going to have more to balance. Make sure you are thinking about what your priorities are and planning accordingly. 

advice for first year-students

Managing Time 

Once you have figured out how to balance your time and what your priorities are, you want to begin to manage your time. Maybe you have to say no to a party to get your work done. Maybe you need to get up earlier on the weekend. Begin to use a planner and plan out how you are spending your time in between classes, in the evenings and on the weekend.


Studying 

In art school there are still tests and exams to study for like art history and the elective classes you are taking. Just like with the art projects make sure you are not leaving studying until the last minute especially during exam time. You also want to think about what you need to study and do what works for you. Don’t be tempted to join a study group in a noisy cafe if you prefer to study by yourself somewhere quiet. 


Advice for First Year Students- Art Critiques 

My advice for first year students is to try your best for art critiques but don’t take what your professors are taking literally. They are saying things to make you a better artist. They are not saying things because they don’t like you. As long as you are showing artwork you are proud of, you will do great. 


This is my advice for first year students. I wish you the best of luck during your time in art school. It is such a fun time to be able to experiment with your artwork and to have so much time to focus on your artwork! If you haven’t gotten into art school yet -check out my tips for creating an art portfolio for school! 



Great Art Supplies to Try!

I wanted to share some great art supplies with you. I am a mixed media artist so there are a lot of art supplies that I use in my art practice. Here is a list of great art supplies that I love. Be sure to check out these great art supplies!


Some of the links are affiliate links meaning I get a very small commission each time someone purchases from my link. This helps to support my business- thank you! 

Great Art Supplies 

Great Art Supplies -Painting

I love Golden Acrylic Paints and Golden acrylic fluids. The fluids are like an ink/dye and very nice for painting on fabric! 

Posca Pens - I have made lots of painting tutorials with Posca Pens. They are paint markers that can paint on a variety of surfaces. The pens come in different size tips and are great for adding writing, detail and outlines to a painting easily. 


Princeton brushes are the brushes I use most often. I also like Artist Loft brushes that are a bit cheaper but still a pretty good quality. 


Great Art Supplies- Paper making

I like moulds and deckles from the Papertrail they are based out of New Dundee. I also get most of my paper making supplies from there including different types of pulp. 


Great Art Supplies -Software

I love Canva Pro - you can read more about it in this article. It is a great computer program and mobile app to create marketing materials and designs. It is easy to use and organize files. You can try the 30 day FREE trial here! 


Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom- I love Lightroom for editing photos. It is so easy and fast. I love Photoshop to edit more details in photos or create patterns and designs with photos I have taken. 




Great Art Supplies -Books

These books have really helped my business by taking it to the next level. 


Storybrand by Donald Miller

Think and Grow Rich by Napolean Hill 


I hope you love these great art supplies as much as I do. Let me know which one is your favourite in the comments below! Happy shopping! 


Related Articles: 

21 Books for Artists to Read
10 of my Favourite Painting Supplies

great art supplies for artists

How to use Canva Pro as an Artist 

Canva Pro is a great online tool to use if you are a content creator, small business owner or artist. I will share how to use Canva Pro as an artist and why Canva Pro is great for artists to use. You will also learn about the differences between Canva Pro and Canva’s free version. Find out why I love using Canva Pro as an artist below!


The Difference Between Canva Pro and Free Canva 

The biggest difference between free Canva and Canva Pro is the range of features and templates that are available. Canva Pro users have access to over 60 million high-quality stock photos, illustrations, and vectors, while free users are limited to just over 1 million. In Canva Pro, you can also better organize your digital files because you have more storage space and more compatibility to have unlimited folders. 


How to use Canva Pro 

There are lots of free Canva Pro tutorials online and on YouTube. I encourage you to download the free version of Canva first or use my affiliate link to try a 30 day Free Trial of Canva Pro to see if you like it first. Canva Pro is a great investment in my business. It is a yearly subscription that costs about $150 dollars a year. This isn’t much for the amount of time it saves in my business. I create a lot on Canva Pro so the subscription pays for itself! 



How to Use Canva Pro As An Artist

There are lots of features of Canva Pro that are helpful to artists. Here are some ideas.

  • Use Canva Pro to make Pinterest Pins to promote your artwork - choose from Canva’s templates 

  • Make instagram stories or reel covers to advertise your artwork - again Canva Pro has lots and lots of templates to choose from which will save you time.

  • Save your brand colours and logo in Canva Pro to easily add them into a design 

  • Create graphics for your blog

  • Design a logo for your business

  • Create YouTube thumbnails

  • Design instagram or Facebook posts 

  • Create designs to print on mugs, cards, stickers, t-shirts and more! 

  • Create and store branding images for your website

  • Create videos and animations for your website or social media 

  • Create digital downloads or prints to sell

  • Create Freebies for people to opt-in on your email list. 


There are so many possibilities with Canva Pro the possibilities are truly endless! Here is the link to try Canva Pro for 30 Days for free! (It is an affiliate link meaning I get a small commission each time someone uses my link)


Related Articles: 

Try Canva Pro

10 of my favourite painting products

Tips on How to be Organized 


Here are some tips on how to be organized as an artist. I will share some resources and supplies I used to stay organized in my business as an artist.


Tips On How To Be Organized As An Artist 

Tips On How To Be Organized - the Studio 


Whatever size your studio is, it is important to make use of the space and keep the studio as organized as possible. I have had small studios in the past and larger studios and if they are not set up properly with a place for everything they will easily become a dumping ground. 


Once you have a studio space whether it is at home or somewhere else, you want to start by planning out your space. I like to use a page in my sketchbook to map out the floor plan of the studio and decide where the furniture will be and where different zones of my studio will take place.

Depending on the type of art you do your studio may be different and have different zones. Here are some studio zones you might want to consider in your studio. 


A space to make art

 (If you do mixed media art like myself you might need different zones) For example, I do some sewing so, I will need a desk with my sewing machine and a cart or shelves with supplies like fabric, thread, bobbins, needles etc. I also do acrylic painting so I will need an easel or a table to paint on and a spot in my studio to store painting supplies like canvases, paint and brushes. I also like working on the floor sometimes, so it’s important that furniture is on wheels so I can move it easily or something like an easel can be folded up when it is not in use, so I have more floor space. 





A space to store finished art 

As a fine artist, I need a place to store finished artwork that I plan on showing in future exhibitions. I have a lot of art that I have made over the years. A place like a walk in closet or shelf space with waterproof and UV protected (dark) storage containers works best. I like to label my artwork bins so I can easily see the art that is in that box and so that it is easy to find when needed. 





A space to market art/work on the computer 

I have a desk in studio in which I have created an office space. This has my computer, printer and office supplies. I also hang some inspiration on a bulletin board with some motivational quotes to keep me inspired as I work. I have also added a diffuser that I use with essential oils as I work to help me concentrate. 





A space to film/photograph art 

I have a YouTube channel - Jackie Partridge Art and a social media presence. Video content is important on all social media sites. I keep an area of the studio clean and often keep my filming equipment set up with lights so I am ready to film when I need to. I also have some white wall space where I can easily photograph art that I am working on both in-progress and completed work. 





A space to package and ship art 

I have an online business where I sell original artwork and stickers. I have some shelves where I store all of the art that I have listed on my website for sale, so it can be easily found. I also have some shelf space where I store shipping supplies like tape and scissors.





Spaces to Store Art Supplies 

In each zone of making different types of art there are different supplies I need. I store those needed supplies in their designated zone. I use some rolling carts to store these supplies as well as some shelves. I also use various containers, jars and baskets I have collected from the thrift store over the years. I like to have my supplies visible so that I know where everything is but it also serves as a visual reminder to make more artwork. I like using clear containers so I can easily find what I am looking for.




Tips On How To Be Organized- the To-Do List 

As an artist and owner of a business there is always a never-ending to-do list. I try my best to keep track of it. 


Here are some basic tips on how to be organized:

  • I use a lot of list and have different sized sticky notes in my studio 

  • I will often email myself reminders of things to print or websites to check out later when I am on the computer 

  • I use the reminders app on my phone frequently

  • I keep a notebook by my bed for ideas


A Paper Planner 

I have a paper planner that I carry with me at all times. I like using the Clever Fox Planner. I have also really liked planners from Indigo in the past. What I love about the Clever Fox Planner is that there is a spot to write down goals, a vision board and monthly and weekly planning. There is also a spot to write and record daily habits. You can check out the planner here.  


A Calendar 

I have a calendar hanging in my studio that shares important dates like when I am having an art sale or need to install art at a gallery. I use different colours and stickers to highlight different things. I also have my goals posted and break my goals down into quarters of the year and have those posted so I can assign myself deadlines and check in on my progress during the year. 

tips on how to stay organized


An Online Tool - I Use Asana 

Asana is a website and a free phone app that you can use to keep track of your goals and to-do list. I like Asana because it stores my lists digitally. I can organize my lists into different categories or boards and I can check off when I have completed a task which is extremely helpful. 


Tips On How To Be Organized- the Computer 

Google Drive 

I use Google Drive to store all of my files and pictures. I use a couple of backup drives to store digital art designs, digital products and videos. I back up my computer regularly just in case. I organize my files in folders on Google Drive and colour code the folders so they are easily accessible. I also keep track of links I refer to regularly on a Google Sheet. 


Canva Pro

Canva Pro is where I create my digital products and my graphics like Pinterest pins or Instagram posts. All of my files are sorted and stored in folders so they can easily be found.

I hope these tips on how to be organized can help you with being a more organized artist!  Be sure to click on any of the links in this post to check out some of the organizational products I mentioned. 



Related Articles: 

Free 30 Day Canva Pro Trial 

6 Tips for Hitting Your Art Goals

5 Tips to Stay Motivated as an Artist

Download my FREE guide if you are applying to art school






Goals for 2023


I always like to make goals for myself each year. Here are my goals for 2023! I have divided my goals for 2023 into different categories. When I am making goals I try to be as specific as possible to help make the goals attainable. I want to be realistic with my goals so I know I can achieve them but I think there needs to be a stretch or a reach goal so you have to work for it. If a goal is too easy you won’t work for it and put the effort in. Below are my goals for 2023!

goals for 2023


Goals for 2023

Below are the different categories of goals for 2023! 




Business Goals for 2023

I want to have 500 email subscribers on my email list.



I want to try running ads on social media to help me grow my list.



I want to create 150 products on my TPT store - Jackie Partridge Art. 



I want to create 10 new designs on Society6 - Jackie Partridge.





Art Goals for 2023

I want to have 2-5 new art grants this year to fund my artwork. 

I want to have 5-10 art exhibitions this year. 

I want to set up a new studio in my new house.


I want to make cyanotypes and paper this year. 



Social Media Goals for 2023

I want to have over 1000 followers on Instagram on both of my accounts - @jackiepartridge_ and @jackiepartridgeart




I want to have over 500 subscribers on YouTube - Jackie Partridge Art 





Revenue Goals for 2023

I want to have consistent 3-4 figure months of sales on TPT.

I want to be able to make my salary through my art business this year. 

I want to do 2 art markets.

I want to get my artwork into a local shop. 





Personal Goals for 2023

I want to make healthy food choices. 

I want to go for a walk daily. 





Family Goals for 2023

I want to go on a hike monthly and enjoy time in nature with my family a couple of times a month. I want to visit with family or friends once a month. I want to plan a family vacation or a couple of small getaways. I want to have a date night once a month when the baby is old enough. 


I hope you enjoyed my goals for 2023. I would love to know your goals for 2023! Let me know in the comments!



Related Articles:

Check out my goals from last year

Visit my YouTube Channel 

Visit my Society6 Store for art prints 

Visit my TPT store



2022 Year in Review


2022 is coming to end and it is time to look back and reflect on the year. Here is my 2022 year in review for my art! A lot has happened this year and I want to share it with you. This is a great time for you to reflect on your favourite memories of 2022 too! 



My Art Goals for 2022

Post consistently to social media (5x a week to instagram, 3-4x to facebook, every day to Pinterest, twice a month to my email list, blog post 3-4x a month, YouTube 2x a month), TikTok weekly 

Social media takes time. I recently started a tiktok - Jackie Partridge Art.  I would like to try paid ads this year.


I decided to switch to posting to YouTube once a month this year as it is a ton of work and I am working full time as a teacher. I am still starting with tiktok -you can find me on -Jackie Partridge Art. I would like to do more next year.


Update: I did pretty well with this. Lots of life changes prevented me from posting as consistent as I would have liked to.

Excited to announce we are expecting our first child in May 2023!

2022 year in review Jackie Partridge


Apply to art calls twice a month - I want to have more exhibitions this year!

I have been getting more exhibitions and artist grants since I have been consistently applying to art application calls.

I did well at applying to exhibitions and art calls and usually applied to 4 or so per month. As a result I had a lot more exhibitions this year! 

I had a few big exhibitions this year and a couple of grants from Pat the Dog Theatre Company and Ontario Arts Council.

Spend time in nature for inspiration- I find this really helps with my art practice.

Once a month Gordie and I made it a habit of hiking, campinging or walking outside. I’ve taken lots of photos that I have shared on Instagram

We didn’t go outside hiking or camping as much as I wanted to but when we did we had a lot of fun. 


Make consistent art sales- I would love my art to be my main source of income. I would like to match my current teaching income before the end of 2022. These are my current streams of revenue:

  • Art grants/awards and artist fees

  • Art workshops and coaching 

  • Selling art teaching resources on Teachers Pay Teachers

  • Selling my original art 

  • Selling my cyanotype prints on Society6

 

I did a lot better at making consistent sales with my art. I still have a ways to go but I am getting there and enjoying the journey! 

My sales on my Teachers Pay Teachers have really improved. I did two holiday art markets that were successful and sold more art online this year!

Set boundaries for teaching for more work life balance- no work on Friday nights and Saturdays, no emails past 5pm, no marking on the weekend. No working camps.

This past summer I worked the month of July at a day camp at my school. I was very intentional not to start working on school stuff until the end of August so that I could have a break from school. Make art during school breaks- I plan on not working at camps this year so that I have more time to focus on my art and business. 


I did well not working at camps this year which gave me more time to work on my art and I’m so happy with the progress I have made! I also did well not working on school stuff outside of school hours.


Make art each month- I want to get back to making art each month. It is something that I put off like exercising. I want to be able to prioritize both.  - I have done better at this!

2022 Goals 

  • Exercise 2x a week - rough in the winter but got better in the spring and for the rest of the year 

  • Match my teaching salary in my art income

  • Purchase a Home 

  • ✅Have 5 exhibitions or publications - Kitchener Public Library two person exhibition, Cambridge Art Gallery Show.21, Art Comp in London, ON, Forest Spaces- Contact Photo Festival in Toronto, Moving Forward, Three Sisters Cultural Centre, St. Jacob’s, ON, INPRINT Exhibition, Button Factory Arts, Waterloo, ON.


  • Grow my mailing list by 500 people 

  • Grow my YouTube to 500 subscribers 

  • Have 200 products in my TPT store  - this was a hard goal - I later changed it to 100 because that was more realistic - haha ✅


2022 Year in Review 

Overall, 2022 was a great year. I worked as a teacher teaching my grade 5s who I had in Grade 4 and then I had some of them in my grade 4,5,6 class. I learned a lot about Montessori education from work. I took business courses and read a lot of business books.



Thank you so much for following on this journey. I appreciate you being here and supporting me along the way.



Here Are Some FREE Ways To Support Me (If You Aren’t Doing Them Already)



Lastly, I would appreciate it if you like something I post to like, comment or share to help me to reach more people! 


Related Articles:

Shop Fine Art 

Shop Botanical Prints 

Art Goals for 2022


I Want to Be an Artist

I want to be an artist and I have wanted to be an artist ever since I was in Kindergarten. I came home with piles of crafts and colouring sheets that were plastered on my bedroom door as a kid. Wanting to be an artist doesn’t just have to be a dream!



If you want to go to art school - check out my art portfolio coaching -to help you make an art portfolio application that stands out and gets accepted!

I have always loved creating. I have always felt a spark while creating and known I wanted to be an artist. 

Jackie Partridge I want to be an artist

I know I am an artist. I went to school and did my undergrad in painting and drawing at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay - you can read about that here. 


I also did my Master of Fine Arts at Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec. I am educated and trained to be an artist. When I make art I feel like I am an artist. 




Right now, I am not doing art on a full time basis. It’s hard because I love teaching and I enjoy it and I’m a great teacher and love my students. Most days I don’t feel fulfilled. 




But when I’m making art, writing about art or posting my art on social media, I feel so much happier. I am in a transition where my husband and I are trying to buy a house, to decide where we want to live and find work that we enjoy and that is meaningful to us. 

jackie partridge - i want to be an artist

As a teacher and artist I know I can work anywhere. That’s one of the reasons I want to be an artist.


As we prepare for this transition of me working as a teacher to switching to teaching part time after I have a baby - here is how I am preparing:


  • I am drafting and planning content. In the summer I filmed and my husband edited 12 youtube painting tutorials that could be released on my YouTube painting channel one per month- so that I have consistent content coming out. 

  • I also do this with the blogs that I have created so that I write 4-5 months of blogs and schedule them out ahead of time.

  • I started creating items that were easy to sell online and that are digital items that don’t need to be shipped like art teaching resources on Teachers Pay Teachers or my prints that are printed and shipped by Society6

  • I have spent a lot of time reading business books and taking courses to prepare myself for running a business on a full time basis

  • Lastly, I have spent a lot of time thinking and journaling about what I want my life to look like. Which is why I know I want to be an artist full time and not just on the evenings and weekends! 


How can you help me with this hopeful transition? You can share my work to your friends - here is the link to my shop you can share.


Download my FREE guide for preparing an art portfolio for school

 On the top of the page there is a form for people to join my mailing list. I would love for you to encourage people to sign up for that. As a treat they will receive a 15% discount code and lots of helpful and inspiring tips!