Fine Art Tips and Techniques
So, you want to paint. But, just getting started and choosing the right subject matter to paint is a challenging task to many aspiring artists. Even professional artists find themselves lacking in inspiration from time to time - I know I do. Imagine this, lets say you set up a still life with an ordinary apple as your subject matter...after a few minutes you might find yourself asking, ‘Well, what do I want to do with this?’ This struggle is … [Read more...]
Guest author: ArtBistro. Originally posted on ArtBistro.Monster.com As artists, we know that a trip to the art supply store can be expensive. Shopping for one item can quickly lead to a full cart, and it’s exactly these careless habits that can become dangerous, especially for artists trying to watch their budget or turn a profit. Ideally, established artists making regular sales should be able to purchase the finest supplies. But in … [Read more...]
Looking for a healthier lifestyle, I made the move from Southern California to the Rocky Mountains of Idaho over 25 years ago. However, until recently I did not know that the air pollution in my art studio and home may be more of a health concern than the air pollution outside! According to a number of national organizations, including the American Lung Association, the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and the Environmental Protection … [Read more...]
Although some of my readers are from around the world and warmer places, many of us have endured an extra long, cold and grey winter. In fact, there is still about 3 feet of snow in my yard! But, the hint of spring is finally in the air here in Idaho, and I can't wait to get out my plein air pochade 'toy' box! I am willing to bet, many of you plein air painters are feeling the same way. Nevertheless, some artists might feel blocked or … [Read more...]
It takes a lot of talent, technical ability and artistic confidence to make a painting demonstration look simple. The other day while on Facebook, this 'simple' animal portrait demo caught my eye. By now, most of you know that Facebook is a great social hub where artists can easily meet, network and swap ideas and information. It is exciting to become 'friends' with talented artists. Over the past year, I have met so many interesting and … [Read more...]
On My Easel is a series of articles that records the trials and tribulations of my own personal painting journey. Yes, I am a working artist and lately, I have been getting ready for my upcoming annual still life show at Kneeland Gallery. This old Italian pitcher has been collecting dust on my kitchen self, when one day, those decorative lemons on the vessel just seemed to jump out at me. I dusted off the pitcher, and ran off to the grocery … [Read more...]
Throughout the years on my own artistic journey, I have learned a lot from watching other artists paint. Not all of us have the opportunity to see a live demonstration by a master artist, so a great step-by-step painting demo is the next best thing. Oil Painters of America Master artist, Jeff Legg graciously shares his simple yet compelling oil painting in progress with us. Many years ago, I had the opportunity to watch Jeff paint in person. I … [Read more...]
Recently on Facebook, I posted a quote that gave me a lot of interesting replies and comments, "My paint brushes are having a bad-dair day!" This lead me to a great idea for a blog post. A while ago I asked my Twitter friends to share their tips and for this amazing post > 14 Art Business Tips from the Top Pros on Twitter. So, what if I ask my Facebook friends (many are professional artists) to help me with great brush cleaning tips? … [Read more...]
Painting the illusion of a glass vase can be challenging for the artist, however recreating a 'blown glass' vessel in paint is even more complex. Collecting unique vases and objects along the way is one of the fun parts of being a still life painter. I bought the vase in this photo at the Sun Valley Arts and Crafts Festival many years ago. This delicate, hand-blown glass vase has been sitting on my shelf, gathering dust, for all these … [Read more...]
"On My Easel," is an new series of random demo posts that will showcase my own my paintings in progress from the easel to completion. When admiring or viewing artwork, do you ever wonder 'how' it was created? The creative process which can be a mystery for art fans and artists alike. Funnily enough, because I share so many art business and blogging tips, some of my readers are surprised that I actually paint...and yes, art is my daytime … [Read more...]
advertisement |
I would like to invite you to follow me on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and subscribe to my RSS feed or eNewsletter.
follow: RSS
Recent Comments