From the start, the objective of Artists in Motion (AIM) has been to create collectively and to build a user-friendly organization that provides visual artists with the resources they need to market their work. In Karen Hamilton’s words, “If we neglect to get our work ‘out there,’ our masterpieces will only collect dust and be hidden away….When artists sell and show their art, it is a generous contribution, not only to ourselves as artists, but also to others.” AIM has a revolving, ongoing show at the Fairfield Community Place, featuring AIM artists.

Artists in Motion’s mission statement is to
support, nurture and inspire visual artists
to move forward with their art as a business.

Karen Hamilton, Founder of AIM, describes how her personal vision became the reality of Artists in Motion – a group of artists supporting each other in their efforts to show, promote, and market their work. Frequently approached by artists who were keen to learn how she marketed her own work, Karen recognized a need and a common goal. She found joy in communicating her own experiences and enthusiasm that inspired and motivated other artists.

In November of 2008, Karen sent out an email to the Fairfield Artists Studio Tour group inviting feedback on her ‘vision.’ Interest was very positive. The first meeting was January 25, 2009, and by July, AIM’s growing membership found a home for their meetings in the Fairfield Community Place.

Reasons for joining Artists in Motion are as individual as the artists themselves, but a common thread connects the group. Linda Darby affirms that AIM has already given her “many valuable ideas.” Ron Sept tells of how important it is for him “to be connected with the artistic community.” Carol Leslie is attracted to “the idea of shared exhibitions and events.” Colleen Hammond Allison expresses how much she has “looked forward to involvement with other artists.” All speak of the value of group involvement and the opportunity to learn from and work with others who share the same goals.

As a supportive group, Artists in Motion has already established several initial goals to help members. These goals include collaborations in gallery space (group shows), website linking and marketing, and recommendations for spaces to exhibit. The benefits of joining AIM are many and growing.