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MKinsey/TBF Editor of Teddy Bear and FriendsAug 9, 2007

I think part of the problem is that you work from home. Everyone wants to do that, but, despite the rampant entrepreneurialism in the world today, no one believes that a "real" business can be run from home. I get that all the time. (Did you know I run my magazine empire from my basement?) Even my husband, who has financial evidence that I do, in fact, WORK at home, has been known to get grumpy because I'm finishing an article for a deadline rather than washing clothes or preparing meals. Don't get me started on the strangers to whom I must explain not just "at home" but "artwork that looks like children's toys with adult price tags" -- and I'm an editor, which people "get." When you add the "artist starving in a garret" stereotype, you're bound to confuse people and hear less than flattering remarks. You know that teddy bear artistry is a "real," difficult, demanding, creative, multi-faceted, and occasionally even profitable career, albeit not one that usually requires suits, heels, hose, commutes, daycare, or conference calls. Explain to the hoi polloi as much as you feel like and force 'em to take the rest on faith. Artists can use a little more mystery, so maybe wear a black beret and refer to your studio as "the garret." Just don't cut off your ear; there is such thing as taking a joke too far, and I like all your ears just where they are.

Warm wishes from a fellow member of the sisterhood of the stay-at-home pants...
Mindy

Cleathero Creations Aug 10, 2007

:crackup:
Yes maybe a few flowers floating around and the mysterious "hmmm"  as if deep in another world may make it easier for them to think about artist!

Don't defend yourself be yourself.

denisepurrington Aug 10, 2007

Hi all,
I don't usualy like to get involved with these threads for fear of my words being taken the wrong way.
I have to say that what we do is no different then any other art form out there. They are works of art just like any Million dollar painting and no different then your favorite diamond tennis bracelet, engagement ring etc.. or anything else a person values & covets.  They are worth every penny they get & are worth even more to the collectors who adopt our bears because there was something about that certain little bruin that tugged at their heartstrings.  Some times it's even a combination of this & a connection we get with our collectors (if we are lucky).
I can't ever remember getting a negative reacation from any one who asks what I do for a living. Lot's of confused reactions, but never negative. And once explained to the confused, the confusion always turns to fascination.  I too carry a large ziplock baggy full of my bear photos.  One of the quickest way to explain what we do.
Art has been a very important aspect to life for thousands of years, so what we do does benefit society, (no matter what anyone may tell you).   My 12 years of making bears have been fullfilling ones. Through the years I have made many dear friends, artists & collectors alike.
I hope this helps & that I have not offended anyone.
Big Hugs,
Denise 

denisepurrington Aug 10, 2007

You're right Ellen, it is important that we follow our hearts & I must say that I feel truly blessed that I can make ends meet following my heart & doing something that I love almost more than anything.
Keep on Creatin'
Big Hugs,
Denise 

bearlysane Aug 10, 2007

I would like to say how much I enjoyed your post Sue Ann...it took me back to my own early years and the bears that I admired so much when I was starting out. You were an inspiration to me and I still have copies of TBF where your bears have appeared. Thank you Sue Ann.

Just don't cut off your ear; there is such thing as taking a joke too far, and I like all your ears just where they are.

Warm wishes from a fellow member of the sisterhood of the stay-at-home pants...
Mindy

Mindy what a vision you paint!  I often wonder how many other careers offer the opportunity to work in your PJ's!!!!

I wouldn't swap my "job" for anything...no matter how much you offered me. As far as I'm concerned "success" is a state of mind.

All Bear Aug 10, 2007

Sandi, you've just given us the quote of the day!

"Success is a state of mind" will now become my mantra!!!!  :thumbsup:

Sue Ann, thank you so much for sharing your perspective, it makes very interesting and thought provoking reading.

Sharing everyone's thoughts has been reaffirming and for that, you all have my most sincere thanks! 

psichick78 Aug 10, 2007

Sue Ann,
you write very well and I loved reading your post. you should write more, it's a gift for sure!

Summer5 Aug 10, 2007

Sandy is right SAY IT WITH PRIDE....you have to have confidence in yourself and not let other peoples' opinions influence your passions in life.  Let's face it, we teddy bear artists are a breed apart, just like any other artist.  Let's be proud, stand tall and generate our love for what we create.