Self-reflections at year’s end

Although the year is almost over, it continues to be busy and not allowing me to post here as often as I used to or as I would like to.

It’s the holiday season. I’m sure everybody is busy for the end of the year celebrations and gatherings.

In the past, I used to post about holiday wish lists for and from photographers and artists, and the like. This year, I’d say that most of all, creatives would just love to be paid for their work, on time, no ifs, ands, or buts.

So, here’s a (teaching) artist’s wish-list for the New Year:

• respect the artist and their work; pay the artist for their work, and pay on time

• don’t push the artist to rush through their workflow; don’t be “in control” of the artist’s work

• don’t insult the artist by asking or assuming/pretending that their work is for free

• don’t start by asking for discounts, coupons, etc.

• don’t ask (too many) how-to questions (how to photograph an event, how to write a book proposal, etc.) when at social events and the like; ask if you could make an appointment to talk with the artist about your would-be project, etc.

• ask the artist about their work; they would love that

• if you like their work, leave a nice comment, review, etc.; spread the word

• buy their work; creative work makes for unique gifts for the holidays and year ’round

I hope you do look at art or make art, yourselves. It is therapeutic!

And I hope you all have a restful and peaceful holiday season, and a Happy New Year.

May 2026 make your dreams and wishes come true.

As always, thanks so much for stopping by.

Alina Oswald