Renee Stapleton Studios – Blog

How did I promote my art? My art is being promoted on the website, www.reneestapletonstudios.com. Doing so meant getting a domain name, finding a host established for artists, and finding a great photographer. I’ve been promoting too on facebook, with comments about the status of works in progress. I’ve joined the Mobile Arts Council, with a listing on their site. If you want info about the arts and culture in the Mobile/Baldwin Co. area, check them out! Last but not least, I’ve been talking about my works and sharing with friends who have been encouraging. 

Who were the top cool or influential people?  I’ve talked with several people who have been very helpful. Wanda Sullivan, my friend from way back, seems to know everything about art. Mary Riser is a tremendous influence. Mrs Jane Shaw met with me this year! I had taken art lessons from her during high school days. My cousin Michele Stapleton, a professional photographer in Maine, has been encouraging, and she’s given some fantastic pointers about the website and photography. Mainly, I’ve been inspired to draw from within, from my own resources of experience, education, and desire.  

How did you enhance your office or studio environment? I love answering this because I’m so excited about getting new shelves in one of my studio closets. They are deep enough to hold the large sheets of designer papers that I work with. Gino at Lowe’s helped me figure out the best route based on what I wanted. 

New Shelves!

I started producing works of art under Renee Stapleton Studios in the summer of 2009. I’ve been at it for four months now, at the end of the year, and it’s a good time for reflecting on my accomplishments.

What resources did you discover?  Being a proponent of podcasts, I’ve discovered a world of helpful information about the business of being an artist through Alyson Stanfield’s “Art marketing Action Podcasts” (see artBizcoach). Nicolette Tallmadge’s “15 Minute Craft Website Tips” (see The Crafted Webmaster) includes helpful marketing information.

With Pieces Bursting, by Renee Stapleton

What did I do to enhance my online presence? And, what technological skills did you learn or improve?  The online portfolio site that I found is FolioSnap, for creative people. It’s easy and clean. I’ve created this blog, my first ever, and I’ve learned about the importance of blogging as a means for directing traffic to the site. Then, there’s MailChimp, the coolest email list manager that I’m using for the e-list signup. Now, how about some fantastic photographers! Stephen Savage is awesome, and professional. He photographed the works that you see on my site, including the series “Dialectics” (one of six pictured here). Nelda Camp, my friend and ballroom dance buddy, shot the picture of me. Finally, my background in graphic design is coming in really handy! I’ve created my logo, now appearing on the website and in printed materials.