I’d Rather Be in the Studio: The Artist’s No-Excuse Guide to Self Promotion by Alyson B. Stanfield is one of the most valuable books in any artist’s library. I consider it the most essential art marketing resource in my collection of books. A few years ago my wife, Marie, participated in one of Alyson’s online art marketing courses, from which this book emanated. The book includes a multitude of information on topics such as how to write an artist statement, how to create a portfolio, how to write informative and interesting newsletters, and how to connect with people through blogs. One of the most valuable sections of the book for us is the information on “cultivating collectors.” Alyson reminds us to follow up with anyone who expresses an interest in our artwork. This art marketing guru advises artists to stand out from the crowd by sending hand-written thank-you notes to everyone who favors you by attending an exhibition, introducing you to a potential collector, recommending you to a new gallery, or simply expressing an interest in your artwork. Whenever our artist daughter, Michelle Rideout, has a question regarding art marketing, she hears from her mother, “Alyson says . . .” She has learned to tap into this valuable storehouse of art marketing information.