Don't be Afraid to be Unique and Different, it Will Set you Apart and Bring you Success.

An older piece: What's Next by Ting Yuen

Don't paint what you think you are supposed to paint; instead, paint what you love to paint, the subjects that came from your soul. This is the key to success. Enjoy the process of creating what you love, don't be afraid to be unique and different; it will set you apart and bring you success" Ting
Artist, As creatives, we have no shortage of ideas, but having ideas is not enough. Some ideas are flops; these 'flop ideas' need more substance or inspiration to follow through. They're often dull in composition or need a clear message. I had a closet full of them; they didn't make the cut.

However, it's crucial to recognize and nurture good ideas. When explored further, these ideas have the potential to blossom into a series of works that could sustain your artistic journey for many years to come, filling it with inspiration and optimism.
My Story: When I started, I was a clueless artist. In addition to my favorite topic, soulful figurative art, I also painted local interests and a series of coconut trees. I was selling, but it needed to be more consistent to call it a business.
I was hassling, too. I networked, volunteered in art societies, and visited new restaurants to offer commission work. I even visited clients' homes to create pieces that they wanted for their homes for CHEAP! I was desperate to make a living doing my soul's work.
One evening at the art show I participated in, I heard of a new gallery opening. I saw the owner of the new premises and introduced myself. I boldly made an appointment, got my portfolio of mix-match collection, and headed to the gallery with ignorant confidence and pride.
I plopped my portfolio case on his desk (remember those cases?); the gallerist looked at it; I could hear the pages flipping; I watched the unreactive expression on his face. I was confused, and my palms began to sweat; I thought I was good enough to be accepted in his new modern gallery. Nope, no sounds, no expression; he kept flipping for what felt like an eternity, and then suddenly, he stopped, took a big breath, and went out for a smoke while I stood there dumbfounded. 😬
He returned and said," Now that's what I want to see." He pointed at my soulful collection. 😃That's when I learned the most significant lesson in my career: Don't paint what you think you are supposed to paint; instead, paint what you love to paint, the subjects that came from your soul. This is the key to success. Enjoy the process of creating what you love, don't be afraid to be unique and different; it will set you apart and bring you success, inspiring you to be passionate about your work.
I left the meeting with my first solo exhibition. The show was a tremendous success, and the gallery sold all the pieces, marking a significant milestone in my artistic journey.🎉🥇
Mistakes that most artists make: Most artists need to correct their course when creating a collection of art. They approach their easels without clear direction and then wonder why the collection is not flowing as they had heard it was supposed to. Instead of pausing and making a solid plan, they continue. They get discouraged and think that the art business is not in their future and that they are only good enough as hobbyists.
But with the proper guidance, they can learn to navigate these challenges and become a profitable artist, feeling supported and reassured in their journey.🤓
Artist, I dedicate my time to helping artists discover their unique voices this month for FREE. If you want to meet with me and talk about art, fill out the application form, and let's set a date. I only have four slots available, so please don't wait to discuss your future in the art industry. I look forward to meeting up with you and view your art. ❤

With Joy,
​Ting