2009...here I come!

Happy New Year!

While I do not have any images to update, I wanted to touch base and get some "resolutions" up as well as update you all on my Bohemian experience.

2008 closed fairly well for me. I received A's (even an A+) in all my courses and have taken on a few side projects which are now currently in the works. Things are on track, this is good. I am learning a lot, never bored, and feel more fulfilled professionally than during most of my undergraduate experience (well, besides when I worked as a teacher's aid and during a few courses at UCLA).

As a new year begins, so do new classes. I am now enrolled in three classes at the Art Center in Pasadena, CA: Intro to Graphic Design, Design I and Direct Painting (a continuation of last semester's oil painting class) as well as Designing Experiences at UCLA Extension. I'll explain exactly what those mean as I post work from them. Needless to say, this will be a busy semester, but I feel well rested, recharged and ready to design.

I am taking so many graphic design courses to see if I want to pursue it as a career verses the fine arts. I have found my technical skills need to be further developed, but schools look at one's ability to imagine and create, not "do you know the keyboard short cut for every paint brush in photoshop"--these things can be learned. Art Center opens its rolling admission for the fall March 1st. I have yet to look into other programs, but I want to shoot for this timeline for now and will look into others as the year unfolds.

My sister bought me a book by the Graphic Artits' Guild that gives a comprehensive overview of average rates, descriptions of numerous professions within the graphic arts, tips on working with clients, and how to write contracts and protect your work and respect others. I hope to understand not only the artistic side, but the business side of art so that I can better represent myself and the profession. I can easily see myself working as a freelance designer and setting up my own business. I recently stumbled upon the site Sugarplum Paperie by Nicole Seitler, who sells digital scrapbook materials online. I was instantly jealous of her life and resonated with her feeling of "living the dream".

Speaking of dream, a HUGE thank you to all of you. Friends and family who read my blog, those who comment, provide suggestions and have passed my business card onto coworkers and family, to mom and dad for believing in me--thank you. I am so lucky to have so much support. I hope to make you all very proud.

Hope you have a creative day.