Planning and Creating Work That Matters

Self-Promotion, and Simplifying the Chaos

On the challenges of planning, navigating frustrating shows, and improving the process for the year ahead. It emphasizes the importance of self-promotion and taking full ownership of the creative process.

Even though plans don’t always stick, the process of creating them can be exciting. With so much already on the calendar for next year, there’s inspiration to keep moving forward. Some tweaks are in order, though—small changes to improve awareness, reduce stress, and maybe even enjoy the work more. Cutting out things that don’t spark joy might make a big difference. Sales were down by half this year, and that’s on me. A better effort could have been made to create work people enjoy while still being pieces I love to make.

Two particular shows drained a lot of energy. The application process alone was an ordeal, made worse by the need to secure sponsors. Since the goal has always been to pick myself, relying on sponsors feels unnecessary. A workaround came in the form of self-sponsorship—running an ad with my own funds to secure a spot in the trail’s area tour book. The trail itself is growing, but the revenue from the show hasn’t reflected that yet. Maybe this year will be different, especially if more effort is put into creating better pots and having them ready in time to make a real impact.

Talking about the work is just as important as making it. Last year, relying too much on organizers to generate excitement for the show was a mistake. The truth is, no one will promote the work with as much passion or care as the creator. That oversight cost a lot in terms of time and effort, though the silver lining was meeting the goal of selling at least one pot. Being listed alongside other area artists feels validating, but that validation isn’t necessary. Simply showing up and making work is what defines a creator—not the approval of others.

If listing and attending shows brings attention to the work, then it might be worth braving the cold and slow times. Bringing the wheel for live demos during quiet days could make a difference. And online sales, if properly set up, could run in the background during events. By rethinking the approach, even the most frustrating shows could be worthwhile. This process is about extreme ownership—being the organizer, promoter, and creator, all rolled into one. Making work that matters for people who care and sharing it effectively could transform even the most annoying events into opportunities.