This post is by guest author, Angela Baumgartner.  This article has been edited and published with the author's permission. You should submit an article and share your views as a guest author by clicking here.

 

I had a really nice conversation with a gal about half my age yesterday.  We spoke about the fear that accompanies change, and the incredible things that happen when we open ourselves up to new possibilities. She's moving to Maui, to a whole new environment not knowing how things will turn out.  She's nervous, but also creative, outgoing and had interesting things to say. She's pretty and young with an open expression and nice smile.  Combine that with artistic skills and there is no doubt whatsoever she'll be fine!

We talked about how there are those times that seem like you have to free fall by stepping off the cliff and letting the universe catch you. How following those chances that are scary end up being amazing and just the thing you were supposed to do.

Here's how I know it works: I was a brand new photographer in a gorgeous art gallery away from home. The fine art consultant approached me. Her haircut alone probably cost more than my first car. She'd studied photography in France. I was working with a point and shoot Fuji on sale at Fred Meyers but had been selling pictures and paintings in the boutique I worked at.  I'd come into the Lahina Gallery to see who they represented and if there was any chance they had contemporary photography, and yet found myself way, way outside of the comfort zone. I asked if she knew who around town would be interested in displaying my type of work, just by describing it verbally. She asked to see my portfolio. My knees shook. I'm not normally nervous, but then again, that's easy when you stay in your own element.

What she said surprised me. She was anticipating a marriage proposal, and when it came she said she wanted to contact me to shoot their engagement pictures. She didn't want to 'jinx' anything by saying more; so would I be okay waiting? I think I nodded.

A year later, we were doing the pictures for her three and a half day wedding. It was like something out of "My Best Friend's Wedding" with all the brunches and even a canoe trip for the entire wedding party. I was honored to be a featured artist in her community at their semi-annual art event. It wasn't by referral, I approached them, too. Even so, I know the connection didn't hurt either. Her fiancé had me lined up to do a book for architects, showcasing door and windows his company custom made for the upper two-percent of the income bracket in the world. In preparation for the meeting with his boss, I learned how to do a portfolio and presented my work on CD with thumbnails of the images. I re-wrote their mission statement and updated their product descriptions. The preparation got me hired on the spot. We started on the book project but had trouble with getting access to the homes we needed. Still, I did go in and photograph a mansion and learned to do a commercial photography presentation that has helped me in many other ways.

Point: If I'd held back, letting fear keep my mouth shut, letting my own insecurities block me from approaching someone who intimidated me, none of these opportunities would have presented themselves. Even when only part of it pans out, you will have gained so much more in terms of experience, confidence and trusting yourself not to hold back. Is it worth it?  Absolutely!

So now, I've just moved to a new area. This could be scary or viewed as a wonderful opportunity. I left an area where I got to know a lot of people.  One of my brothers came in from out of town, and didn't have my cell phone number with him. He went up and down the main street visiting as he shopped, and found out that everyone he mentioned my name to knew me. So for now if he comes to town- well, he better bring my number. But not for long. Yes, it takes a while to really know people from scratch, not like when you're just a town away and you're friends with people they know.  That's easier but its okay having a new environment.

This gives me a chance to study the climate, check out the art scene- mostly in literary and visual arts. A chance to listen and learn. I'm seeing how people work together, discovering who the shakers and movers are. Paying attention to who is firmly established in their own space, with some authority but noticing not always with affection. That seems to be reserved for those who are contributing and helping others in a more relaxed way. No stuffed shirts get high-fives here.

I'm kind of in the in-between class, have some experience being in very nice galleries, writing for and about the art community, and yet not in the big time.  Still figuring out my professional website and getting set up on linkedin.com. I'm not a renegade, and wouldn't consider myself establishment either. There are things that are hard; learning though, this is fun!

More tips: If you are looking for a way to handle this in-between state, again, get out of the comfort zone. Volunteer to teach classes in the community on what you have learned and introducing yourself to everyone.  Listen to others, and give it some time. I find it's important not rushing in without understanding the local market and what the galleries want. Use any down time you have for creating that collection of work, or organizing and professionally presenting what you already have. Do your copyright, get your business cards, and make sure you understand what is going on around you. Be sure not to step on any toes, never having bad things to say about people. Get out there; don't stand in the sidelines. For me part of that means taking the time to show up at events all over town, and connecting new friends with ones from my old community. If there are not art associations, start one. Do what it takes.

In closing: Comfort is an interesting thing- its fine for snuggling in cozy clothes on a rainy morning...but for art- I think outside that spot is better. Shake it up, make it happen. The universe is waiting.