There are professionals, publications, and college courses dedicated to the subject of time management and productivity. I’ve tried everything from two hour sprints to soothing music. As an artist, there are more tasks in a day to complete besides making art including organizing/cleaning, applications, collections management/archiving, research, tech work, web work, marketing, event planning, etc. the list is endless.
Some artists outsource certain tasks by hiring an assistant or intern while others might have family to help. My family helps me for sure, but not with direct tasks around the studio. I’ve learned that the easiest way for me to manage all of my tasks is to focus on one main goal per day or monotasking. This consequently allows for batching wherein a singular task or project can be completed in bulk with assembly line style efficiency by one person. For example: If I have blog posts I want to write, I can monotask and do a batch of scheduled post headings for the entire year, then go back through and write for a whole day. If I’m working on drawings, my supplies can be spread out for the day to get a few cardboard art pieces started with the first layer of white paint. This batches dozens of cardboard so the next monotask can be sketching, then inking, then coloring-in. When I’m quilting, I’ll get into a zone and cut out dozens of squares so the next time I monotask quilting, I can focus on sewing. Bookkeeping tasks get knocked out when I set that as my main goal for the day.
When I was employed at external institutions, my working manner was much more diverse (and I was often complimented on how quickly and efficiently I adapted and produced my work. No shame in being a great employee ;). But, as an artist who is often creating in the same space where I live, focusing on a singular theme or task works well for me. There is no one I’m answering to and I don’t have a crazed fandom that’s clamoring for content on a certain day, so I get to make my own schedule! When it comes to time management, there are so many social media gurus with gimmicky hacks and clickbait courses, but I just follow my natural rhythm, that complements my environment, and set my own pace. For me, one main project a day is where I’m comfortable as an artist.
Have a Pleasant Day!
Rae
