Ready for this one?...there's an art contest...on isle...that involves "making a living in art"....perfect for a "starving artist"...or one that's hungry for the challenge!

see, it's a jungle out there kids...  

A jungle mask made for one of the Art=Mixx Djs!

Everything in life, in my opinion, is or should be with intent to replenish or rejuvenate spirits...keep peace within. I know I'm getting all guru-buddah, but my point is to do things to make you happy---first. Clean the temple and have a party, remember?

I am taking this art challenge from the angle; of bringing another clients vision to reality...as if I am filling an order with a deadline to meet. Isn't that what this challenge is all about? Getting it done, while maintaining creativity? Keeping your passion, while floatin your boat? lol...more specifically this challenge is;

"Creativity, commercialism, and you: 
Making a living in Art" 

When I read that my immediate thought was, "you gotta be kidding" and here my little ol blog I recently created is alllll about that. The "typical starving artist" well hello can I get an amen?? lol! 

Maybe I shouldn't be posting about the contest...but I really don't want to be secretive with my art process---probably why I began this art blogging stuff. I don't wish to waste time worrying if anyone is going to "steal" an idea...I welcome it. If my art (or advertising concept) is intriguing enough to duplicate, go for it...and I will keep challenging myself to create something better. Hmm...that's it right there, my other angle for describing commercialism in art; to be up for the challenge...suit up and play the game...or recreate it so you are the stadium where game's played. Nah, I'm not going to build a stadium...but you feel me? It's about solid structure, built well, it will sustain. 

Which brings me to my next angle; take the emotion out..yep, I 'said' it, because in business, people who leave emotions at the door, win. They finish first, not last. They spend more time getting it done, rather than thinking about how they feel about getting it done. I'm not saying be a jerk, its the answer to getting ahead, no, I am saying don't take opinions, suggestions, and ideas personal, you will get left behind. Get in, get it done, and get the hell out of there, far enough they can't ask for anything else...unless, you feel like letting them. Be in demand and you won't go hungry. I like to give my very best, do a great job that gets attention, so much attention, so much recognition, so much respect...that my clients realize, they've reached their goal in finding the right person or service. I'm the best, whether they say it or not, I don't think otherwise. I am the Ali of design who floats like a butterfly and stings like a bee! 

Well, now that I'm quoting Ali...I think I'm on the right track, yes?

My inspiration is Ali, maybe because I never knew my grandfather, I was told he was a little Italian boxer...that's it...all I know is my grandfather was a fighter, he only trained to win...ok, I'll work with that...train hard for event & fight to win. My other grandfather owned a restaurant so was obviously business-minded...guess that's why I'm determined to set goals, meet deadlines, accept challenges...because when I do,
I win (:

My harsh reality is I haven't entered an art contest since highschool. I have absolutely no idea what to expect in todays art industry. But I know art, my art. And I know business on Maui. So I'm thinking I have a place in this forum. Maybe I won't get mention, but would like to get a foot in the door and see whats out there. I can't afford the two entries, but going to give my best to one...that I can be proud of. Gawd, if I had an electric lift, like the ones used for window washing...I'd blow minds...this project is not just for a contest, it's me, my first self portrait baby...and land or by air, it's going to be great (:

electric lift approx. $3K!!!

I definitely know this...I will be incorporating all the recycled materials I usually build with! It's who I am in this design; about the environment, a sustainable future for my kids, and solid structures & designs. I haven't even called to confirm my application, may not even get in, but going to begin piece anyway because I am up for the challenge & all about the typical "starving artist"...or maybe just the ones who are hungry (; 


See you on the other side,

~M.
p.s. Donations for this contest are appreciated for materials and tools...and I will create a free 12'x12' mural to anyone who donates a kick arse electrical lift!!!! A muralist necessity (;