What makes a Professional Artist? Morning in Rose, daily painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Morning in Rose

acyclic on canvas, 8"x10"

I've been thinking about what makes an artist a professional? The requirements aren't exactly like other professions--there's no State or Federal exam to qualify you, and a degree is only one way to get there. So, here's a start on my list. What do you think? If you're a collector, do you look for these things or rely on a gallery to qualify an artist for you? If you're an artist, how do you know you've arrived?

Education, which can take many forms, such as an art degree, apprenticeship, or working under an established artist, taking and learning in workshops, and extensive self study. A true artist is always learning something, and generally has a broader perspective on the world than many people.

Presentation, of a quality product using archival materials, preparing surfaces to last, honing skills the perseverance and practice over years of time. Learning, changing, growing.

Critical Acclaim, being accepted into juried exhibitions and museum shows, being asked to invitational events, winning prizes, being newsworthy, and developing a collector base who wants to purchase.

Acceptance to professional organizations, meeting their acceptance criteria, then being juried into state and national professional organizations.

Having an idea worth sharing, a unique style or palette, and wanting to convey something broader in each painting than just making a pretty picture.