Entering A New Phase: Jonathon Kimbrell Fine Art

My work and my mind set has certainly undergone several directional changes over the years, as I continue to navigate the changing and challenging landscape that is the commercial and fine art business. I've always had a sense that my art career would be that of a late bloomer, an artist that wouldn't hit their stride until later on in life. Perhaps that is just a self-fulfilling prophecy, or perhaps there is some truth to it, but I still feel like I have a long way to go before I end up where I ultimately want to be in my career.

I'm entering a new phase of this crazy thing called 'branding.' I think I've always been pretty good at being able to brand and promote myself and my work, even though I haven't been doing a great job of that, as of late. I'm excited to finally christen my studio with the moniker of 'Jonathon Kimbrell Fine Art.' I've been pushing myself into some new territory and approaches to making work, over the last few months, and I think I finally have a name that sounds presentable. I have some new focus and perspective coming back around, and I'm eager and more determined than ever to make this career thing stick. Sure, I still have several other interests that vie for my attention constantly, but it's just something I'll have to continue to work through.

Lots of new work being made in the studio, lately. Perhaps you've seen some of it on the website already? I'll have more to share soon enough.

But getting back to this whole branding thing: social media. Once upon a time, I think the early forms of social media were really great tools for me to get the word out about my work. Believe it or not, MySpace was a tremendous help to me, back in the day. Now, it's all about Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, etc., etc., etc. It's really difficult to keep up with every platform that is out there, not to mention having to throw money at promoting your posts for a reasonable amount of people to see. For people like me, I feel it is a zero sum game. I'd rather spend the time and money it takes to promote a post these days making new art, instead. Now granted, Instagram is still fun and works pretty well for me, so I'll be keeping that around. However, I'm at an impasse with Facebook, finally, so I'll be phasing out my presence there for good. The Twitter feed may stick around, but I'm not sure to what extent. As for our Tumblr? I dunno...we'll see. Anyhow, I really just have time to update a website and blog, but just barely. Until I'm in a position to afford a social media person full time, which I have mixed feelings about, I still have to pay the cost to be the boss and do it all myself.

Long story short, welcome to the new Jonathon Kimbrell Fine Art, where I'll do my best to continue to make good work and promote it the best I can. If you've been a fan and/or follower of my work since day one, thanks for sticking around. Cheers.