Patt,
Sorry, I didn't get to finish my story. My husband was home today and accused me of ALWAYS being on THAT web site. Can you imagine that!!! What I should have said to him is yes, and thank God For It. Instead, I went to cook.
I wanted to tell you to go to the Biz and Resource Center on this site and download the eBook, "How to Become a Famous Artist and Still Paint Pictures" by W. Joe Innis
http://www.portraitartist.com/resources/. If you haven't already read it, you should. Very funny, practical and enlightening.
Administrator's note: Or, you can purchase this book at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ex...strokeofgenius
Don't feel bad about what the "locals" say or your family members. There might be more than a bit of jealously involved there. I have donated enough art to my family. They time to time mention they'd like to have a portrait, they just don't want to pay for it.
There are people out there willing to pay for your experience and talent. You need a patron. Read the book.