I finally feel like I can call myself a painter. I have an abstract canvas in an exhibition at the Gallery of Art 850 (previously the Mary Olan Miller Gallery) in Panama City, Florida. Also, I can add I’ve sold my first painting in a professional setting. It feels both affirming and somewhat surreal.
I’ve been working on my painting skills for a few years now, and while I know I’ve made progress and have painted some canvases that I’m proud of, I really hadn’t thought about my art hanging in a gallery. Wasn’t on my radar. Much like my fiction writing, I do it more for myself. Creative therapy. And while I’ve published some of my short stories, it’s not something I do to try and make a living. 
But due to the encouragement of a good friend, I submitted one of my canvases. What I didn’t expect was for someone to buy it. Much like when someone purchases one of my short story collections, there’s a weird thrill at thinking a stranger is (hopefully) enjoying my creative output.
There was a small fee to take part in the show, but it was a small price to pay to have this happen. It’s also been motivating. I’m working on a new canvas for another show at this venue and I’m thinking of other pieces I want to create that might go to other galleries.
It goes to show that doing something I enjoy can have small payoffs every now and then.
RB
Congratulations
I appreciate it, mate!
Great news! Congratulations ❣️🌷❣️
Many thanks, Luisa!
You are truly welcome ❣️❣️❣️
How wonderful to receive an endorsement – and I’m sure they ARE enjoying their purchase – congratulations! Linda xx
Thank you so much, Linda!
Congratulations and good luck.
Thanks, Pat!
Congratulations, Richard. A wonderful accomplishment.
Thank you, my friend. It’s a wonderful experience.
Oh, that is so cool! Congratulations! It looks great🙂
I remember the first time getting paid for an illustration. Only then I started feeling comfortable calling myself an illustrator.
I have never tried actual painting myself. I’m afraid I’d make a mess of it . Even when following Bob Ross’ tutorials 😅
LOL! Yes, it’s very much an empowering feeling.
But you should give it a try! Making a mess is part of the fun. 🙂
Hahah I might. My land lord, whom I rent the place of, might not be too happy 😅
But if you ever want to try out paintings, there are a few apps that can at least help in the process. Just to try out stuff.
I personally use Procreate which does have quite a few painting brushes. 😄