Advice on making it

[Renee Ruggles]

Hello,

This is my second post to Stroke of Genius, although I've been a visitor and member for a while.

How does a person who has worked her entire life to become a good portrait artist, but who has no advantages of connection, location or money, get noticed and/or get into agencies who can bring her more clients?

I am struggling to keep my work at the forefront of my life when life already requires more energy and time than I have. I am not simply in need of discipline or priority-setting. My story is sad but boring, so you'll just have to trust that I've come as far as I have through nothing but sheer determination and very hard work. But, I'm 42 and tired of beating my head against some invisible ceiling.

Simple things are starting to occur to me: maybe I should include my artist's statement and a cover letter with slide applications; maybe I simply have to relocate (hard to do with kids in school); maybe having a longer list of awards or exhibitions will make an impact....

Yet, I feel time is running out on me. Yes, I may have many years ahead of me, but I'm losing the ability to shrug off disappointment and keep trying to do it all. I have to work full-time and overtime to make ends meet, and my kids and home take the rest of my life.

So, my question is also, how have some of you out there managed to become career portrait artists?

I need specifics, no more vague references to keeping the faith or working harder. I have honed my skills to the point where I can demonstrate painting in front of a crowd and complete a likeness, to the point where word of mouth is reaping some rewards, and to where local forces are giving me soirees and exhibition opportunities.
However, I reiterate, I want to be a portrait artist full-time. I want to dedicate my life to capturing the beauty of individual people as I see it. I have drawn and painted people since I was small, and I've worked and educated myself until I know I am capable of providing an excellent service.

So, how do I get there?

Is there any wisdom for me?

Thanks for reading my ramble, if you have. . . and for allowing me to join this site of my peers and idols.

Renee