10 years as a professional artist - What I've learned

I can't believe it's already been 10 years since my career in art began! I wanted to reflect on and share some of the biggest lessons that have shaped me as an artist. Keep on being creative ♥
Check out my new art book "Wild Nostalgia" here: bit.ly/3UTVci5
Check out my first art book "Gold and Grace" here: bit.ly/3W8ibXn
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[@JGalegria]

You're very lucky to have had supportive parents in the industry providing you with the connections to get noticed by a commercial gallery. That is an amazing break! I don't know if you realise it but getting noticed at all is a freaking miracle, especially early on. I did get very early recognition from my teachers, especially my high school art teacher who awarded me best in my class in year 9 or 3rd form and the following year best in year ten or 4th form. My parents are not artists but my dad could have been and was supportive, buying me art kits and Derwent colour pencils as a child, but soon became my harshest critic, which was very discouraging and unhelpful. He himself never became the artist he could have been, Instead he planned and procrastinated and then he died with unused art tools and materials all neatly stored in his study. My mum was very discouraging when I was young adult and said I would never make any money being an artist, , but I knew in my heart that was who I am. As an adult I studied art on and off, but working and raising children had taken up so much of my time. . . The last time I saw my dad he told me that as a creative person I would never be happy unless I was making time for my art. After he died I realised that I needed to try harder to get a regular practice going and there was a time during covid lockdown that I was able to dedicate myself to art study again,. But then as things returned to normal work got in the way and I still struggled to prioritise my art until I was wrongfully dismissed from my job.... I used the extra time to experiment with watercolour and illustrations and then I was diagnosed with cancer. When I was recovering from surgery and treatment I knew at last that life is too short to wait until the right time and perfect circumstances. It's now or it could be never! 😔🙏🩵

[@Dimitramilanart]

You are so brave to keep pursuing your dreams! I'm sending you lots of love and support! paint and create any chance you can!💗

[@stormcorrosion176]

Miss Alegria. I’m 43 and I just read your comment. My heart was moved by your story and felt the pain you have experienced in your life. I too struggle with the work/life/art balance and it is truly disheartening sometimes. Being a Dad to two awesome sons has taught me more than anything else, and I’ve learned that my spending time with them as they grew up was the best choice I could have made, so: bravo for choosing your kids over an art career. Sometimes, we artists think that we must make a name for ourselves in the world, to leave our mark for the history books. When in fact: our dedication to positive parenting is the deepest truth, and will resonate long after we are gone in the lives of our grandchildren and their children!

[@mjalphonse]

Oooooh 12:01 visual 👏🏼👏🏼 You are such an inspiration to me Dimitra! God has been speaking to my heart so much lately about leaving my career in healthcare to pursue art, and even has spoken to me about taking the Mastery Program. I have no idea what’s ahead or how it’s going to happen, but I am taking steps in that direction and covering it all in prayer!

[@carole2077]

I decide in my 20,s I wanted to pursue my art but having to support myself since young and work long hours, I am finally able to get serious at 65yrs. You are so fortunate and your art is beautiful.

[@Dimitramilanart]

It's never too late to pursue your passion! 💕

[@lumacdonald9379]

Congratulations on your 10 years Dimitra! You have given so much of your experience and wisdom to so many and brought such beauty and inspiration into the world with your art. Blessings you to continue to receive all the fullness that Gos has for you ♥️

[@Dimitramilanart]

Thank you for the kind words! 💕

[@RedArtistx]

What I've learnt it that is really helps to have middle class or rich parents. This is the reason why so few artists come from regular or working class backgrounds, sadly. Having a passive income is a huge factor, as well as connections made through private school and through the parents' social connections. A decent camera, a computer or laptop cable of processing good quality videos as a reasonable speed, the video editing software, space, materials, good quality marketing videos produced by an eternal professional, taking part in shows factoring things like like packaging, framing, travel or accommodation, money to spend on social media advertising capable of making a serious impact ....none of this is cheap. Much of this wealth is hidden and they don't always realise the background support that's enabled many artists to be successful. I see this all the time.

[@Dimitramilanart]

We cannot choose where we come from. All we can do is work hard for the life we want, and everyone has that choice. Sometimes it’s easier for others. At the same time, we can also squander our opportunities. The truth is, if you knew my background and how I was raised, my parents had it rough for several years. We were on food stamps, they lost our house and were almost homeless when I was 10. They went through a lot of struggle. Through hard work, trusting God through it all, and following their calling, my parents took their pain and were able to create opportunity for others, truly changing the world and starting this massive art movement.❤❤ If you want to know the full story, and how all this started, read my mom’s book Unemployable 😊and it will really inspire you , to believe ANYONE can become a thriving artist and business owner.

[@ednagallant4370]

⁠@@Dimitramilanart good reply. I have been following you and your family for the last year and have learned so much. I cannot afford much listed in the comment above but I can afford the workshops on your site for a little $10-$20 and have so far bought all the ones i could and have learned something from each one. I have bought your mom’s book and learned about determination and not giving up. it was very inspiring. I now hope to one day own your book, it looks so beautiful. your paintings are sooo amazing, I try to study everything on your canvas and come up with my own determination of the process used for the result. thanks so much to you and your family for sharing your all your knowledge, trials and successes. ❤

[@stormcorrosion176]

@@Dimitramilanartvery cool. A calm and concise response to someone who doesn’t know what they’re talking about. You are a great artist and a kind person-I respect that!!

[@artbydawnae]

Thank you for facing your fears!!! In the mastery program right now because I faced mine!! So happy and grateful for this school!!! ❤

[@Dimitramilanart]

awhh yay! I hope you're enjoying the program 😊

[@bobbiehodgins4154]

Lesson number 4 - facing your fears resonates the most for me. I have only been in the art world for about 7 years. I have so much to learn and not sure at times if I am good enough to have my art out there. Your video was very inspiring.

[@Dimitramilanart]

I'm so glad this video resonated with you! Keep going and show your work 😊

[@Dossomit101]

So well done, 💓🫂💐

[@hayleyjoart]

I have two that stand out to me right now! The first is effort = skill. And the other is face your fears. I think these two connect for me because I’m afraid of committing myself to something only to have it fail. So committing to my art is a huge step for me! Thank you for this

[@Dimitramilanart]

I'm so glad they resonated with you! Making 'bad' paintings or 'failing' is part of the process. Keep going 💕

[@CarmenCarcelenArt]

You are a gifted person and more than that. You and your family have great values that showed all the time in everything you all do. ❤ I wish you all the best for the coming 10 years . Starting now 😊🎉❤ Thank you for making and sharing this wonderful video. You are a great inspiration.

[@jeannebeaudryart]

thank you for being the inspiration that you are and Congrats on 10 years!!! ❤🎉

[@Dimitramilanart]

Thank you so much! 🥰

[@LisaDewhurst]

Congratulations! Your beautiful art reflects your beautiful heart and soul! Thank you for sharing these gifts!

[@Dimitramilanart]

awhh thank you for the kinds words! 💕

[@aaliyah.parrilla]

I love you content and what you stand for in the art culture! I took your 3 hour floral workshop and going to follow along the portrait workshop as well! It has given me EVEN MORE confidence and motivation to keep moving forward in my art career. I pray that I will get to experience your yearly masterclass program some time this year! It's definitely a plan of mine 🙏

[@Dimitramilanart]

I am so happy to hear that! You're on the right track!

[@janetsouthcott7208]

Truly fantastic video, Dimitra, thank you. I'm watching this as I go through part 4 of the mastery program and so your five suggestions are very impactful and relevant. Thank you for pushing yourself to become a teacher, to speak into the camera and to share about yourself and your process. Much appreciated :)

[@Dimitramilanart]

I am so glad it resonated with you! 😊

[@moniquesolanilla6767]

Dimitra, you are just amazing , a great talent Artist, living a beautiful live. You work hard for all of this , personally I think , it have nothing to do that you parent are artist and you got lucky, like I just read in a comment . It Is that you have a beautiful soul and it show in your painting, plus the hard work that you have put in. Congrats girl YOU ROCK. 🤩😘

[@Dimitramilanart]

Thanks so much for the kind words! 🥰

[@andreaschlickbernd4481]

Beautiful story Dimitra!! Thank you for sharing your journey!! Look how far you've come and how much you've given to others on your journey!! You and your Mom have been a huge help in my journey to becoming a professional artist!! I would never have come as far as I have without the Mastery Program and Elli as my mentor. Oh, and I LOVE your cute little mug! ☺

[@Dimitramilanart]

awhh thank you for the kind words! I'm so happy you pursued your dream of being a professional artist 💕

[@melaniefox4602]

So inspirational and beautiful to watch ❤

[@cloudsofsunset7323]

What rings most important to me is the "Say yes"

[@mialia209]

insanely beautiful video, your house and everything, wow!

[@Angeliquetheuniq]

Congratulations, you are dedicated and determined, and thank you so much for sharing your talents. I am honored to learn.❤

[@lynnmazzoleni]

Thanks for sharing your story, Dimitra. You are such a beautiful inspiration!

[@artistikitty]

Such a talented, disciplined, beautiful, wise young woman. I always enjoy watching and listening❣️

[@Dimitramilanart]

awwh thank you for the kind words! ✨

[@artistikitty]

@ 💜

[@ØyvindSchjelderup]

You are a fantastic teacher ❤!

[@DDDD17890]

This is so inspiring. Thank you Dimitra.

[@lovearttherapyalways]

Thanks so much for sharing. Love your beautiful work! God bless you and yours!

[@ZadenZane]

When she talks about a publishing company (5:17) I thought she meant Taschen Books or some publishers of coffee table books or something. She's taking more about a talent agency, a company that brings your art into the world. That is "publishing" I suppose, just a different kind of publishing...

[@ericrobitaille2128]

Nice to hear about your story. Very inspiring!!

[@LeighHooker]

Love this Dimitra, Thankyou for sharing in your down to Earth way! You have made a huge difference in my life with your teaching and I see young woman successful because of the ground you broke for them.💞🌸

[@Dimitramilanart]

Thank you for the kind words! 💕

[@ellishollering_art]

I love your new KZbin series Dimitra! It's so encouraging to hear your story and the path you've been on!

[@Dimitramilanart]

awwh thank you Ellis!! 😍

[@enidcollado6501]

Saying yes and sharing more are the two that stood out for me though all are notable. Thank you for the glimpse into your process/life. God bless you!

[@Dimitramilanart]

I'm so glad they resonated with you! 😊

[@WorldWideWebObserver]

Love all the Milan videos, beautiful artwork, and great advice. Wishing your entire family much continued success! Hope to visit your gallery in Florida someday. Thanks for sharing your interesting journey. Subscribed!💐

[@Dimitramilanart]

awwh I hope to see you there one day! 💕

[@kaygilbert8773]

I have watched this video several times and find it so informative and charming. I need to get painting so I can make my dream a reality.❤

[@Dimitramilanart]

Awhh I'm glad to hear! Go for it!

[@JessiRaeArt]

Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful creative heart with the world ✨ I took one of your master classes on Milan Art app and absolutely loved it! I discuss this in one of my channel videos and share how wonderful you and your mother’s class was. Thank you for inspiring me!

[@Dimitramilanart]

That's amazing Jessi! I'm glad you enjoyed it and has inspired you 😊

[@MarisaArtCrafts]

I love your videos so much ! Thank you Ellie and Dimitra❤️

[@Dimitramilanart]

I'm so glad you enjoy our videos! ❤️

[@AlexaLuftArt]

You inspire me! Thank you for sharing this and for being such an amazing pioneer for artists!! 💗

[@amandanunn2364]

Thank you so much for doing this! One of the best videos I have seen! Really communicated to me..💐♥️🌟💫✨✨

[@irinairina5051]

Thank you, Dimitra, for this inspiring video, for sharing your journey, and for offering such valuable insights into your artistic path ✨ As someone just beginning my own journey as an artist, I deeply resonate with the challenges of stepping into the unknown and facing my fears. But your words reaffirm my belief that if I follow my heart’s calling, everything will unfold in the best possible way. Your video is not only insightful but also beautifully filmed and filled with warmth. It creates a cozy atmosphere that makes the message even more impactful. I truly appreciate your generosity in sharing your experience. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! 🙏💛

[@Dimitramilanart]

awhh thank you for the kind words! I'm so glad it resonated with you 🥰

[@triciajsantos]

I loved this video! It is so inspiring, thank you Dimitra for the Good advice!

[@toniweberstudio]

Loved this video :) Effort =skill, fears are meant to be overcome-- absolutely agree! And an inner confidence and security is our shield against any negative criticism. 🕊🙏

[@Dimitramilanart]

That's so true!

[@kathymcgrath3078]

I am many years older than you and I am still learning some of those life lessons. Thank you for sharing!

[@Dimitramilanart]

It's never too late, we learn them in our own time 💕

[@annasleczek4710]

A beautifully made film and a beautiful story 💗

[@anilasaleem2158]

Thanks for sharing some insightful suggestions for artists & creators

[@CristinaArriolaart]

You are so beautiful humble sweet dedicated I loooove that last painting in your wall That wall you decorated w memories And the way you wrapped the book so beautifully Thank you for sprung and teaching us your art More nd more blessings to you and your fly Cristina Ps is good to know you cried in classses as I do some days too 🤷🏻‍♀️🥰

[@Dimitramilanart]

awhh thank you for the kind words!! 🥰

[@shahraad]

Ok I need to know where I can get that bunny mug! 💞💞

[@faridehassani5230]

Thank you dear Dimmitra ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ that is so true. I hade trubble to sign for rich Milan ART AND I HADE difficult to make it through. You tech US genersly and l wish you all The best always❤❤❤

[@mathematicaladventures]

Thanks for the inspiration.

[@Sean-d3q2r]

I am 55jrs, artist, turned professional 6 months ago. You inspired me so much. Your work 8s beutifull ❤❤❤

[@Dimitramilanart]

You’re amazing! So happy you’re making your dreams a reality 😊

[@gathercreatelivewithleslie8340]

I just have to say I think several of the comments are cop outs from people who are making excuses for why they aren't where she is. They say oh it's the parents, their connections etc. She is the one who took the time and built the skills. I don't know many parents that don't pay for some kind of sport or other subjects their kids do now a days. So her parents paying for classes here and their while she was still home is common. She got the opportunities through her skills to work with the production company and then also took on the responsibility to take her power back and do things herself. We all choose how we spend our money, some on beer and partying and some on classes, learning and paint. So don't whine if you didn't have wealthy parents, 98% of us don't. Stop drinking the poor me cool aid. She makes beautiful art and people purchase it.

[@jammuna1]

You are so lucky, had such encouraging parents.

[@Dimitramilanart]

I'm very blessed 😊

[@milenamarcocci6320]

And love your story❤❤❤❤

[@Dimitramilanart]

Thank you 💕

[@mell3749]

i am saving my money for yhese books!! you inspire me

[@Dimitramilanart]

I'm so glad I can inspire you!

[@psyche-soma-sol]

love this!

[@milenamarcocci6320]

Wow amazing ❤❤❤bravissima

[@Goodwishes67]

I love your videos! What is the easel you have for your main easel? The dark chocolate colored one?

[@CatWezel66]

🙏Thank you so much for sharing your story Dimitra 😁💝Can you tell me where you bought that beautiful orange chair?😁

[@Beautifuldisasterartstudio]

I have looked up to you for years! I cannot unfortunately take art classes as being a single mom and bills being so high I just cannot afford it. I do my own research and practice any chance I get and can but do you or anyone have ANY school like ways to learn or where to go? Or channels that I can paint with, I just so badly want to up my skills but I cannot do this until I win the lottery or my kids are grown LOL, but doing my own work and teaching myself idk what to teach or learn anymore and I just want to so bad 😂 What a beautiful life you have, be grateful every moment- times flies and we don’t realize just how fast..❤

[@Dimitramilanart]

Check out Milan Art Studios youtube channel and sign up for the Milan Art App. We have tons of free content, tutorials and workshops we host. 😊 we just launched the Milan Art Institute's youtube channel that will focus solely on educational content. 💕

[@faridehassani5230]

I painted long time and l see your beauty canvas l get Scare to paint but l must go through it. So ❤❤❤

[@rootsinrivers]

I have a hard time relating to this video and after watching, seeing your site, and reading some of your mom's work, I understand why. The art is gorgeous, this goes without saying, but even with your history, your advice is easier said than done. There is a TON of unacknowledged privilege you have received on your journey, which, God bless, is well deserved, but this advice can only stretch so far, and sadly, it hasn't reached me. The video is well shot though and I'm sure it connects to its community well.

[@IvanaINart]

I think the main thing in our everything that we are and we have is support of your family. End no everyone have it and it is so hard, maybe imposible to pursue your dreams alone. Dimitra you are lucky that you have family like that. 🙂

[@LynnBriggs208]

No 5 Share more- The vulnerability it takes to do this is a skill for sure! I love hearing other people's stories but am very private about my own. Mostly because I don't want to invite the criticism from the trolls on the internet.

[@SideBurns]

Question: Why you use a typewriter?

[@Yours_sincerely_thedreamer]

You deserve everything you have ❤ Yet I still want other people to remember that how you experienced becoming an artist is also a very privileged point of view that isn`t accessible to most people watching. Having parents finance art courses and encourage painting, having contacts to art galleries through your parents, those things make you incredibly lucky. Of course you had to work a lot and still are successful because you pushed through. But not everyone will have it that way“easy“ (not that it was easy). And if it doesnt flow, if no one is interested in your work and you have never sold a painting, just know that making it in the art world has to do with a lot of luck and it is not your fault. :)

[@Miss_Art_Lover7]

I have a channel and it’s so hard some times I want to give up on it but I take breaks from it❤

[@Dimitramilanart]

Don't give up! I have faith in you 💕

[@MarisaArtCrafts]

I wanted to see this video when it was sooner but I was in a dentist chair 😒