Amanda Coen Art — Art story
The Itch of Niching Down – A Creative Dilemma for Artists
As an artist, the very thought of limiting creativity in any way makes me fidgety. "Niche down," they say. "Focus on what works. Focus on what your audience wants." But for many artists, this advice feels like stepping into a veritable straitjacket—and it’s itchy! While I instinctively rail against this idea in many ways, I also acknowledge that, in some respects, it is completely valid. And in other ways? Utter rubbish. Let’s discuss it. But first, let me tell you where I’m coming from. How it Was Before Digital: No social media accounts, email lists, websites, agents or paid ads....
Art Creation: Getting Out of My Own Way
Art: Getting Out of My Own Way to Create I have been waiting quite a while to begin writing regularly about my new art adventures. It’s a strange thing to carve out a new creative routine, especially after a long absence. The process has been full of stops and starts, endless reassessments, and, ultimately, a major shift in how I approach my time, my priorities, and my creative energy. Through continuous research, learning from other creators, and an invaluable year of online coaching since July 2023, I have discovered more efficient ways of managing tasks like content creation. Seeing smarter...
Part 3: Finding Direction and Overcoming Obstacles
After my time in Heidelberg, Germany, I returned to Ireland with a mix of experiences and a deepened sense of what I wanted—or rather, what I didn't want—from my career and life. The 18mths spent in Heidelberg during which the Berlin wall came down had been an enriching experience in terms of language, cultural exposure, responsibility and a modicum of independence. I had even attended an event in the famous an stunning Heidelberg Schloss/Castle. I had spent multiple long working holidays with my au-pair family in Italy and Switzerland, I had one road trip to Norway, with my norwegian girlfriend...