Art & Business

As a freelancer I spend long hours working in the quiet solitude of my studio. I'm always looking for something new and interesting to listen to in the background while I draw. My iTunes library gets a lot of heavy usage, as does my radio, podcasts, and audiobooks. Recently I discovered a new resource to add to my list: The Archive...

Today (April 15) is the last day to get the early-bird discount on the Creative Freelancer Conference. Plus, if you take part in their Twitter promotion you'll save an additional $25 off the registration price (even after today's deadline, I believe). Details here. Full disclosure: If you enter my Twitter name ("cedrichohnstadt") when you register I'll be in the running to...

The Christmas shopping season is in full swing. If you are an artist, or you are shopping for someone who is, I invite you to take a look at the "Recommended Resources" list I've compiled on Amazon.com. It's a few of the very best books, DVDs, and other resources I've found on topics such as art, illustration, animation, character design,...

So, you've read my recap of the 2009 Creative Freelancer Conference and now you're bummed that you missed out? Don't worry, I'm here to help! The Free Stuff The conference organizers have posted a ton of free downloads and resources over at their website. Check it out! The Not-So-Free Stuff In a few weeks the audio from the conference seminars will be available for...

Last week I attended the second annual Creative Freelancer Conference in San Diego. The goal of the conference is to help creative freelancers (i.e. illustrators, designers, writers, photographers, etc.) to improve their business skills, get better clients, and increase their income. We artsy types aren't exactly known for our business saavy. One thing you definitely won't learn in art school is how to market yourself. Or write a proposal. Or network, talk to clients about money, etc. This conference fills a huge need. Each time I've attended I've walked away inspired and ready to take my career to the next level. It was also great just to spend a few days with other people who get what it is that I do for a living. Who have the same experiences, the same problems, and we can talk shop without the other person's eyes glazing over. Freelancing can be lonely at times so I really relish any chance I get to hobnob with my fellow freelancers.