Budding Artists?

If you have a budding artist,  encourage their reading, writing,and artistic abilities, by having them submit work to a real audience. Having a “real audience” makes a world of difference in the quality of work and pride in the accomplishment.
When I was in University, Scott Young, offered to read over an essay I was working on, when I had writer’s block. Simply knowing ,a “real” writer would be reading my work, spurred me on. Writer’s block vanished! I polished it up to the deadline.

There are several companies open to submissions of artwork. Mead stationary is one such company. Many of Mead’s products, especially decorative items, contain photography and artwork from various artists.

What other “real audiences “ have you found?
Here are the details from Mead’s site:

Before submitting images for consideration, please send non-returnable samples of your work to be reviewed by our marketing and design team. Non-returnable samples could include tear sheets, promotional pieces, prints and transparencies. Submit non-returnable samples, a brief summary of your experience along with web address for additional images to:
MWV Consumer & Office Products
Consumer Affairs
4751 Hempstead Station Road
Kettering, OH 45429
We receive and evaluate new artwork every month. Submissions will be evaluated and notified of next steps

Please share your experiences with us in the comments below: