A New Chapter...
The Art of Being Intentional
Hello friends and fellow artists,
Chris Davies here... Some of you may know me as the publisher of Fabrik Magazine, as the creator of art fairs like Photo Independent and Fabrik Art Fair, or perhaps through my gallery, Fabrik Projects in Los Angeles.
Regardless of how our paths have crossed, for the past two decades, I've had the incredible opportunity to collaborate and work alongside many of you, as well as countless other talented artists and creators in various disciplines. Whether in recording studios or film festivals in Hollywood, at art fairs and exhibitions across the United States and around the world, I've had the privilege of working with thousands of accomplished artists across these diverse creative fields.
From musicians, filmmakers, writers, and actors to photographers, painters, and other visual artists, it’s been an honor to work and learn from remarkable individuals who have greatly influenced and shaped our culture, leaving an indelible mark with their creativity.
Through these experiences, I've come to witness the power and impact of artists who challenge the ordinary and reshape the world around them.
In Fabrik Magazine, which I started publishing in print and online in 2008, we’ve had the privilege of interviewing and featuring renowned art world luminaries such as Ed Ruscha, Saul Leiter, Catherine Opie, Alex Prager, Douglas Kirkland, Joel-Peter Witkin and the iconic Julius Shulman, among many other incredible artists. These extraordinary individuals embody the essence of dreamers, visionaries, and rebels who fearlessly challenge norms, pushing the boundaries of art and reshaping our perception of the world.
Additionally, through the art fairs I produce, I’ve had the pleasure of working with artists such as Roger Ballen, Andy Summers (The Police), Scott Caan (Hawaii-Five-O), and Magnum photographers Bruce Gilden and Constantine Manos. Alongside these celebrated individuals, I've also had the privilege of collaborating with a diverse range of emerging artists who bring their unique perspectives and talents to the artistic landscape. Although their numbers are too numerous to mention here, their invaluable contributions have greatly enriched the creative community.
Together, the collective influence of these artists has left an indelible mark on the artistic landscape, inspiring generations to challenge conventions and carve their own paths of creative expression.
You, as an artist, share in this remarkable legacy of those who dare to challenge and reshape our culture. Your creativity, dedication, and unique perspective contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of artistic expression.
As such, Fabrik as an entity is also evolving as a publication, transitioning into a new dynamic digital platform that supports artists and fosters a vibrant community. This transition enables us to better serve and empower you in your creative pursuits.
And so, a new chapter begins…
I am excited to introduce you to The Intentional Artist, this new digital newsletter from Fabrik designed specifically to empower artists like yourself, regardless of your medium or creative field. Drawing inspiration from the remarkable achievements of the many artists I have been fortunate to work with, this newsletter aims to explore the attributes and steps taken by these extraordinary individuals that have propelled them to success.
Through The Intentional Artist, we'll uncover the questions, insights, and practical strategies that can help you cultivate the same sense of purpose, vision, and ‘intentional’ action in your own artistic journey.
The Intentional Artist is not just a newsletter; it's a commitment to fostering intentional and strategic creativity. It’s an invitation to join a vibrant community of artists who share your passion for innovation, growth, and artistic excellence. Together, we’ll begin a transformative journey, equipped with knowledge and resources to bring your creative visions to life.
Have you ever found yourself asking:
Who is my audience and where can I find them?
How can I connect with more art collectors?
What strategies will encourage others to collaborate with or support my creativity?
How can I find a gallery to represent my work and me authentically?
What's the best way to price my art or photography to reflect its value and attract buyers?
How can I make my voice heard and respected in the art world?
How can I get noticed and become known as an artist?
What can I do to motivate people to buy my art or refer others to me?
Then The Intentional Artist is where you need to be!
Each week, we'll explore topics important to your creative journey:
Gain insights on building relationships with collectors, galleries, and other industry professionals
How to identify your target audience and create a marketing plan that resonates with them
How to create a strong brand identity that sets you apart from other artists
Incorporating cutting-edge technologies into your creative process and marketing strategies
How to get press or media coverage
Building beneficial networks within the art community
Growing your community of Superfans
Nurturing a growth mindset and debunking limiting beliefs
and… much, much more!
The Intentional Artist is a journey that aims to re-energize your creative approach and forge a stronger connection with the world of art.
By being a subscriber, you're joining a vibrant community of artists, and those who love art, and who share a passion for innovation and growth. Together, we will navigate the journey towards becoming the artists we aspire to be, armed with the knowledge and resources to bring our creative visions to life.
Additionally, we have exciting plans for other newsletters that focus on you, the artist, featuring and showcasing your work to Fabrik’s large list of collectors, dealers, curators and critics. Stay tuned for its launch, as we look forward to shining a spotlight on talented artists like yourself.
I am excited for this journey, and I hope you will be as well. 😊
A final thought to reflect on...
Being an Intentional Artist
Becoming an artist is not an accident, it's a ‘choice’—a series of intentional choices that define your journey. As artists, we often focus our intention on the act of creating, but the power of intention extends far beyond that. Being an intentional artist is about orchestrating a meaningful career, marketing your craft, and positioning yourself in the art world.
Your Art and You
Start with your ‘why’. What drives you to create? Your unique voice and message need to be at the core of your art. Authenticity breeds connection, and your authentic voice is what sets you apart in a crowded art market. Choice of medium and style isn't arbitrary, but rather a conscious decision that aligns with your message and resonates with your audience. Variety breeds creativity, but intention breeds coherence and recognition.
Mapping Your Journey
Intentionality in your career means ‘mapping your journey’. Set your goals—no matter how grand or humble—and strategically plot your course towards them. Your roadmap should consider who you're speaking to, what makes you different, and how you'll reach your audience.
Marketing as a Creative Process
Marketing is not an afterthought, it's part of the creative process. Your narrative, your brand, your engagement strategy—all should be designed with the same care as your art. Craft a narrative that reflects your identity and resonates with your audience. Use platforms that can amplify your voice and extend your reach.
Community and Growth
Being a proactive part of the art community is an intentional act. Seek opportunities, collaborations, and connections. Embrace feedback, see critique as a launchpad for growth, and remain a lifelong learner.
Intention in Action
Being an intentional artist is about ‘shaping your journey,’ rather than letting it shape you. It's about stepping up, leaning into your career, and making a mark. Intentionality doesn't just produce art—it creates an artist, a brand, and a community.
So, wield the power of intention in every aspect of your art career, and watch as you navigate the art world with newfound confidence and success. Remember, it’s always about making a difference, and your difference is worth making.
I genuinely hope that you find the insights and contents of The Intentional Artist newsletter rewarding and helpful.
Having said that, I understand that it might not resonate with everyone. If at any point you feel this isn't right for you and you'd prefer not to receive these insights or be featured in any of our newsletters, I totally respect your decision. Simply click on the Unsubscribe link at the bottom of this email.
In an upcoming edition of The Intentional Artist, we will explore the origins of the newsletter and its title. Until then...
Artfully yours,
Chris
Chris Davies is a creative entrepreneur based in Los Angeles. With a diverse background as an author, publisher, gallery director, art fair producer, and founder of a design and marketing agency, he embraces the mission of empowering artists to overcome obstacles, unlock their full potential, and flourish in their creative pursuits.
Can’t wait! Thank you.