During the pandemic, musicians were able to do live feeds, for tips, to help make up for their canceled gigs. However, artists and photographers were not able to do that.
I have a lot of upfront costs for my biz. They include, mat boards, clear bags to put my prints in, ink for my photo printer, resin for my coasters, booth rentals, misc expenses for my booth such as tablecloths and things to make my displays presentable. I have been putting out more money then I have been bringing in. My nursing salary has been used for this and I m so grateful to have it. I have drastically cut back on my personal expenses so that I can help fund my biz more but I can’t continue to do this for an extended period.
During times like these, art is always the first to suffer because people’s priorities are more on their basic needs. I have had some success and received a small grant but it is still not enough because of the costs that it takes me to produce my products and run my business.
I have decided to take advantage of a couple of things. The first is the donation option on Paypal. If anyone cares to donate to my biz, the funds would go straight to my biz account, not my personal account. These donations would be used for the essentials such as ink, mat boards, resin and booth rentals. The direct link is: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&fbclid=IwAR0VosIH7-gs_tcNB1c2CgztX5swU_zolAfWcoOO4G_dWDNkVIx5VuttYWY&hosted_button_id=45JDQ8UKKFDMQ
The second is an Amazon Wishlist. I created a list with my biz needs. All the things on it are the most common essential things that I need. https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/TVW01CC7N8K?ref_=wl_share
If you would prefer to purchase my images, you can order through my website ( if you are out of town). If you are local, you can contact me directly. I will also continue to post my vendor events. Also, for the remainder of the month, I have my work displayed and available for purchase at Artworks by Ted Bertrand in Sunset La. http://artworksbytedbertrand.com
In addition, I have started offering some portrait sessions. I normally do not offer these but I thought that it would be a great way to help supplement income. My time is limited since I am a FT nurse but I am going to allow for 2 sessions a month. This will also help me! You can message me for details.
Thank you for your consideration and ongoing support! Please remember that your local artists and small businesses are the ones that are suffering the most right now. Support them in any way that you can. The holidays are coming up so use them to find unique gifts, as well!!!
