Six artists with one hour (or less!) to paint a picture that’s three feet square in size. What else could it be but ArtSlam Live?

For the past two years, I’ve had the privilege of participating in ArtSlam Live, a timed art competition created by artist, writer, and creative coach Tony Snipes. Although a winner is chosen each time by those who are watching, ArtSlam Live is so much more than a contest.

For viewers, ArtSlam is a way to meet different artists and learn about their techniques. In the contests I’ve participated in, each artist had a different art background and style. I’ve taught a lot of beginning art classes, and I usually paint nature scenes or wildlife. Another artist drew caricatures at a theme park for several years; his work is bright, crazy, and fun. Another artist started painting just a few years ago and has already sold many of her pieces in galleries and online.

For artists, ArtSlam is a challenge to do something outside comfort zones. The competition was way outside of my comfort zone. I was so nervous the first time---worried that my art wouldn’t quite measure up with that of my competitors. But with each contest, my confidence grows. ArtSlam is also a great time for artists to connect with the public and promote their work. And that’s what Tony is all about---providing opportunities and direction for creative people as they strive to discover their true purpose.

I'm so excited that Tony will be teaching at Write2Ignite this year. If you can’t wait until then to hear from him, be sure to check out his website. You’ll find a description of his book, God’s 7 Keys for Creative People, there, as well as lots of free resources.