Last week I wrote about ways in which an artist can choose one idea from many. Now, I’ll let you know how to develop a plan so you can get started to work on that one idea.

So an artist chooses an idea. The next step is the plan. Simply stated, the plan involves an objective that supports a vision, and strategies to support the objectives. For example, my vision is to create a series of art that reflects my love of color. My reason or purpose for doing this is I am an artist who creates art to share with the public.

My goal or objective is to create a series of mixed media color studies based on the seven chakras*. My substructure conceptually is based on seven colors. Since I am working abstractly focusing on color, I start with the primary colors of red, blue and yellow, considering the triads and complementary colors on the color wheel. I am open and explorative recording the specific feelings and sensations that come up during the meditative process. I stick to a format of circular and curvilinear forms floating in space. No angles, hard edged lines, contrasts and so on. These are calming and soft pieces.

So my plan starts with

#1 Objective:

I will paint seven mixed media pieces based on the seven colors associated with the seven specific chakras.

#1 Strategies (for reaching this objective)

          *Set aside studio time each week for painting.

          *Inventory tools, brushes, paper and paint.

          *Purchase materials needed before starting to paint.

          *Turn on my phone message machine letting people know I am in the studio.

           *Get seven canvases/ or paper prepared and ready to go.

           *Bring finished pieces to critique groups.

           *Gain feedback and make any adjustments to paintings.

 My time line is to have these pieces finished by May.

Since I do not have an exhibit lined up, I will be thinking about where I will exhibit these when they are completed, and consider how I will market them.

 # 2 Objective 

           *Market new work of color studies.

 #2  Strategies (to achieve this objective)

           *Research galleries that exhibit this type of work.

           *Place work online when appropriate.

           *Purchase giclees and place online to sell.

Notice this objective still supports my reason or purpose to share art with the public. And my vision still supports the overall reason of being an artist.

This framework or plan always remains the same. The purpose remains the same. The vision is what you intend on achieving that supports the purpose. The objective or goals can change but always support the vision. The strategies always support the objective. Finally, the time line can be broken down by weeks, months, quarters and years depending on the vision.

This is a basic plan that works for any artistic endeavor, business or achieving a dream.

*charkas: chakras are junction points between consciousness and the body. Used in charka meditation with mantras to create a tone in the mind and body that is therapeutic and nourishing. Go to Chakras/Chopra Center for more information on charkas.

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