The 2018 Artists’ Gratitude Project: A Weekly Practice

The potential for positivity, hope, change, and appreciation.

Do you feel the dichotomy? Many artists come from an upbringing of extensive support and opportunity – with training, classes, private lessons, workshops, mentors, supplies, and equipment. Many go onto colleges, conservatories, and masters programs. Yet, as artists in the U.S. today, many of us live with modest incomes to support our families and to keep making our work. Many times – we can end up feeling bitter, resentful, and negative.

Would a weekly gratitude practice inspire and promote personal change, hope, and contentment?

Whether you consider each weekly idea while on the subway commuting to work – or you decide to write in a personal journal – please join us on this journey in 2018. The 52 ideas were brainstormed and then placed in a random order. Thank you to colleagues Valerie Gutwirth, Juliana Monin, and Brian Smith for help launching this project.

Each week, one idea/intention/consideration will be shared.

 

Week 28: Volunteers, Interns, and Pro Bono Support

Today and this week, I offer gratitude for: 

The incredible helping hands within my circle. Volunteers and interns help me maximize opportunities to keep my work going, and to bring my work to the next level. Pro bono support also is true generosity towards the arts. 

Boards of Directors are incredible human beings offering hundreds of hours each year for a community-based organization or an artistic company.

I am grateful for people's time and energy. I hope that in return they feel appreciated and feel like they made a positive contribution towards art making and community making. Thank you for believing in me, and for believing in the work. 

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