Trained as a studio painter, the author, describes the challenges he faced as circumstances forced him to make the transition from studio artist to teacher. For many years he believed that there was no way to get anywhere as an artist If he was not working exclusively in the studio. He felt that if he stopped painting or even dedicated less time to his studio practice that it would disqualify him from claiming the professional title of "artist". When the studio practice became burdensome, and he started teaching, all he wanted to do was quit, and go back to the studio. Torn between the demands of teaching, and wanting to work in the studio, he eventually made peace with the duality of his situation, and has come to the realization that his work need not happen exclusively in the studio. He now understands that art can happen in the world as well, and ironically, having come to understand his place outside the studio has strengthened his studio practice. He now finds that when he does have an opportunity to work in the studio, he no longer lingers, and finds that he is more focused, and never at a loss for new ideas because of his life experiences outside the studio, and in the classroom. (Contains 3 endnotes.)