I take that back. I use to hate plaid until I got in the world of interior design. Your influences change. I also hated window coverings because I thought you should let the outdoors in. I love bare glass. That’s all fine and good but living in a fish bowl doesn’t work for everyone especially if you like privacy.
Plaid was the same way for me. I like it in small doses myself. I like the Pendleton plaid my son wears or the baggy shorts you see on guys. I have to be honest, I like black and white plaid most of all. In fact, I had a couch back in the 70′s that was pretty cool. Things always come back around.
My intention for this piece of silk was to create the most unique fabric that anyone would wear. I let my brush take me where it wanted to go. I started painting stripes in various shades of purple and green. It was cool but it just wasn’t doing it for me yet. So, I kept going and low and behold, I created a huge plaid design. It’s crazy looking. The more I looked at it, I thought it should be one big piece of art. I can see it over a very modern black or gray sofa.
That is the best part of painting textiles. You have no limitations. I have a new brainstorm brewing that will be very interesting. I’m going to need a lot of silk but if I can pull it off, it will be a very nice story.
I’ve got Fleur de lis on the brain. Well, not really but I have created quite a few items in my line with the symbol. It seems that it is a very popular image so I’ve made it so for those who are interested.
EDWARD LENTSCH Defining Synectics - 2007 mixed media on canvas 100 x 80 inches (254 x 203 cm)
Wow! What an amazing art exhibit I saw this weekend! I mean it! It was not the street fair although that is very nice, it was the Palm Springs Fine Art Fair. I went with the intention of finding a gallery or two that would be fitting for me to submit my work to in the near future. That became such a mute meaning for me once I stepped inside the walls of the convention center.
I found inspiration!
We don’t find inspiration on a daily basis. We get blocked at moments yet I think it is very important for all creative types to research what is happening in the world today. We all are inspired by others no matter who we are. It doesn’t mean we have to copy or imitate a body of work. For me, it shows that there are so many talents yet we all have our identity. There might be similar characteristics in style or medium but I do believe that everyone has their own hand and when you let that hand of yours fly, you can create any type of masterpiece you want.
My art paralleled with some of the talent I saw. Possibly, I would qualify to stand next to some of these artists. I just need money to present the work. That is key! The other thing is marketing. Hence, my goal for this year is to create that budget. Maybe, I’ve finally realized that my medium has arrived and I can leave that “fear of success” syndrome behind.
So, I collected a few cards and names but I was more excited about producing. Before I went to the exhibit, I was working on a wearable art piece for a customer. I let it be to dry while I took off for my daily excursion. When I returned I checked on the piece and found something very amazing. It had such interesting detail that seemed like “magic rocks”. That is why I chose to paint on silk because you never know what you are going to get if you are doing abstracts. The best part about this whole thing is that I created it before I went to the show and came back so pumped with inspiration. I came to the conclusion that if I framed this particular yardage, it would stand tall next to art in this show.
I saw no silk painters but I did see many water colorists. The medium is the same. I realized there was nothing similar to my work and that was the biggest inspiration for me. I could be unique and create a name for myself. If I sound very egotistical right now, forgive me, I merely want to say that there is room for the rest of us. I finally feel my art is of age after working since the early 80′s. Now, all I’ve got to do is go a few steps farther. Yes, many steps to get there but I will take them one at a time. I’m ready!
I’d like to mention the artists that knocked my socks off. My favorite artist is Edward Lentsch who is pictured above. The photography does no justice to the insane amount of paint on his work. You stand back and you think you are looking at a mountain rock. You get up close and you see depth that draws you so close, you want to touch but you dare not. If I had the money, I would buy his work today. Also Jim Dine, Paul Jenkins, Ray Turner (always), Jylilan Gustlin, and Eric Fischl. There was also tremendous photography and other talents but these are the ones that stopped me in my tracks.
Last blog I wrote about “Starving Artist”. Today, I’m writing about my success as an artist that has never hit the big time but starting to receive attention. This past year, I’ve been fortunate to sell some of my favorite pieces of art. They were displayed at a very exclusive restaurant in Newport Beach, California called Traditions by Pascal. I sold two pieces on exhibition night and then they sat dormat for several months. Starving no more! In the past two months, I’ve sold four great pieces that I would not have a problem holding on to myself. Actually, one very smart waiter who realized my offer for a percentage of sales, sold them. Thanks to Tony! Thanks to Pascal! Love you!
If you are a famous artist, you are fortunate. People will rush in on the opening night to put their money down. If you are not, you’ve got to prove your worth. I think it is harder at outdoor events. It always seems like a swap meet to me. If I feel that way, I think others might have that same attitude and look for a steal instead of a lovely piece of art for their home. Maybe I’m wrong and it’s a numbers game. In my case, it took my customers several dining experiences at the restaurant where they sat underneath my art. “You’re work improved the environment of the restaurant from the previous decor”, a client told me. Another exclaimed how they collected art from places they held their best memories. . Pascal’s was one place they loved to dine. They did not purchase the first time. They went back time and again. Eventually, they bought. Familiarity, good feelings, inspiration, what have you, to each is own. People are moved, or they are not but you cannot push them to buy something.
For all artists I’d like to say, “Think out of the box!” Read this great blog I found by a new mentor in my collection, Dustin M Wax. His slogan is, “Photographer, curator, museumist, and all around art booster. How great is that? He’ll give you some ideas. I love the one about taking a shower if you are blocked. That is so perfect for me as I do most of my creative thinking in the pool or shower. It’s true about water.
So get out there, be seen in the world. Make it happen! Create exhibitions in your home, places you feel comfortable exhibiting, online, networking in groups of people and always know there is someone who will just love your work.
Last weekend, I went to the LaQuinta Arts Festival in La Quinta, California in support of a friend. I also went to see if it was a show that I would consider exhibiting my own art.
It was a very beautiful show, well run, the national guard was there helping with parking, the grounds are on the polo fields, the landscaping is surrounded by majestic purple mountains. Everything seemed perfect. Can you picture that?
Now, can you picture all the forlorn faces on the artists after every person comes in to their booth, shines the most positive comments, bestows how they love the work only to remove themselves and wish the artist luck. I spoke with a half a dozen of these talented artists to find out if it would be worth it for me to take on for a marketing strategy for myself next year. After listening to them, I realized that this is not the time for me. I will produce as much as I can but kick back and wait until some of the financial stress has worn itself away.
Then, tonight I realized how many are in the same depressed boat. I feel that the word recession is a bunch of BS for politicians to hang on to as I speak with relatives, uncles, aunts, friends, and acquaintances as they share their sad moments, weeks, years. Not many have bypassed this sad state we are all in. I apologize for the pessimism at this moment but I’m getting mad enough about it to do something about it. I’m worried about the closest people in my life. Can we really let life get in the way of who we are? Can we? I think it’s hard not to… but how, can we rise above when so many are complaining about not being able to make the day? Call it what you want, it is a depression of sorts. We might not be sitting in a food line, “Oh please, let us not get to that point. Lord above, help us dust off our knees, shoes, and look up proudly to remove bitterness, fear, scarcity, and most of all our self worth. How can so many talented friends, and relatives of mine fear so much?
I wrote most of this blog after not being able to sleep because of my concerns for the artist that worked so hard. Now that I read it back, I understand that there are many people who RISE ABOVE and think of other ways and means to succeed. I don’t know if you’ve heard this before but when things are down must spend money on advertising. We are lucky today to have this most incredible tool of the internet. I am sure to get noticed at some point if I just keep keeping on. And keep my chin up.
I happened upon Dr. Lori’s blog where she talks about the history of the “Starving Artist”. A good read for buyers and artists alike. We can all help each other and be the soul of the earth and move forward in harmony to create a better world. I know it sounds really corny but we all know we can make a difference. I know that I am responsible for my own little world that I live in. I know my vision. It is now time to create and then create some more. Stay true to myself and know that the day will come when we can laugh about the past and celebrate the success. I wish the same for all of you out there!
I was recently telling a friend how distracted I can get with my own curse of being a creative type. I just can’t sit back when it comes to a special day for someone else. I’ve got to make it pretty or exciting somehow.
For me, it’s so much fun! However, I can run amok doing my little “Martha Stewart” act and lose a day. I should have been working on my wearable art line, or sketching a new piece of art. But, Noooooo! I just had to make a cake! Don’t get me wrong, I really wanted to make the cake. I couldn’t stop there. I had to make sure the table was decorated and the packages were set just right around the table. The floral arrangement didn’t look right so I made a display to raise it.
Do I sound anal? This was truly fun but I just wonder why I put something like that first, instead of the money making. I love it and most often the person I’m creating it for! This day was for my daughter-in-law. She works very hard, takes very good care of my son and grandson. She deserves alot more than I can give but this was the least I could do. It is easy to do something special for someone you care for.
Aha, there’s another career for me. Maybe, I could be a party planner, table designer, or a cake designer, a gift wrapper….. Aaagh! Like I said, someone stop me! By the way, the cake was really good!
How many people have friends for 40 to 60 years? I do and I feel pretty special. I have friends I’ve stayed in touch with since Kindergarten. I think that’s amazing!
Today I had lunch with Sharon. She and were models at Cole of California Swimwear in the 70′s. In an earlier blog, I talked about how we had to walk around half naked. Sharon and I worked in different design rooms but we shared some of the same embarrassments. After a few days, you got used to everyone tugging on you, sticking pins in you and gawking over you. We found humor in all of it and became good friends right from the start.
Today, she came over to meet my little grandson, Aidan and to catch up with me. Little Aidan swept her away with all his flirting. I’m a bit prejudice but I happen to think he’s pretty darn cute and very smart. She recalled how adorable my own son was was back in the day when we were young kids ourselves.
What’s interesting to me is how we’ve stayed friends over so many years. We even lost touch for awhile but low and behold! Ten years later, we were both sitting in front of a large mirror, waiting for the aerobics instructor to arrive. All of a sudden, both of us shrieked loud enough to break the glass. You know how girls are? They sound nutty when they haven’t seen each other for awhile. We picked right up where we left off. We know more about each other than our Mom’s ever did. That’s probably a good thing. I think the reason for our long relationship is because we have so much in common. The first thing that brought us together was our job as models. Along with that, we’ve always taken the best care of ourselves and we’re holding up better than most. We also love food although she’s a much better cook than I. We do find that it is very artistic and self gratifying. You can make a whole lot of people very happy with food.
Sharon and I also share the interior design talent. It comes natural for us. We like similar design themes although I’m the crazier one bending more on contemporary. Sharon twists up her traditional side with a mix of Asian art and accessories which suggests a playful elegance. I’m not Lady Gaga but I would love to create a very wild side of me in my own home. I’m married to a very traditional man so I’ve got to keep it eclectic instead which satisfies my wild side. Sharon and I also have that crafty talent. If we see something we like or we don’t want to pay full price for it, we’ll try and make it ourselves first.
The thing that I like best about my friend, is she is an incredible mother, possibly to a fault. She’s spoiled her three boys although, she or I would never let our kids sit on their laurels as they all turned out great. Sharon is also an amazing wife. I’m sure her husband, Tom will agree with me on that one. She spoils him more… as it should be. We have the same ethics about family and our position. We are soft around the edges but don’t pull too many punches on us or watch out! We know what we want although we won’t let anyone walk all over us (any longer). And, we love life and people.
When I think of the best buddies that have stuck with me through thick and thin, you really can count your best friends on one hand. I hope most of you out there have true blue friends and soul mates like I. If so, you are a very lucky soul! I certainly am.
To tell you the truth, I’ve never been to Paris but it seems everyone else has. I’ve been to Italy a few times but never to Paris. But, I do have my art located at a famous french restaurant in Newport Beach, California called Traditions by Pascal. I’ve been extremely fortunate to showcase a collection of large paintings at Pascal’s.
I came to know Pascal and his lovely wife, Christine by doing some interior design work for them. It was always a pleasure to work and I am so grateful for the opportunity as my work has been selling due to all the traffic. If you want some eye candy, and some of the best French food around.
The New Year always has me reflecting back in time. I was thinking about my different careers as an entrepreneur. I started my first business as an artist rep in 1978. I knew nothing about nothing and certainly not marketing. With much determination, I took to the streets with my portfolio in hand. Let me go on…
When I ventured in to this new career, I started representing my own work. I met an owner of a bank and he asked me to bring some art to the Wells Fargo Bank in Laguna Beach. The architecture on the inside of the building is round and had ample space to showcase work both down and upstairs. I was thrilled! I took a few pieces in to the bank owner but realized very quickly that I did not have enough art to cover all of the walls. I asked him if I could bring in other artisans. ” Wham, Bam!” I became an art rep overnight.
Sounds simple, huh? Due to my youth and excitement it all seemed very easy to get started. I rounded up a half a dozen artists, picked out the most suitable pieces, and hired a carpenter to make a display table for artist’s bios. It was very corny as I remember now.
It turns out that absolutely nothing sold. It looked good but the art sat for months. Oh well! “Why?, I asked my self.” Low and behold, a new artist and mentor came my way. His name is Larry McAdams. He now has a very successful marketing firm in Newport Beach and also an amazing painter. He guided me along the way to represent his work. He told me that I would make more money in the advertising industry. This new enlightenment and some additional talented illustrators and photographers created a real career for me.
I miss those days of chummin’ with the artists and the art directors. Things were more complicated for an art rep back then due to the travel. I would take a loaded portfolio and hoist it on my back. It was very heavy! When I had to take stairs instead of an elevator, I truly groaned. Lucky for me, I was young and fit.
You see, we did not have fax machines then. I would travel back and forth up the crowded freeways with sketches in hand to be approved by the agency, take the revisions back to the artist. I would travel back after a day or so to the artists, pick up the new sketch and back to the agency for second approval. If that was ok, I would go back to the artist. “Oh my goodness, where’s the fax machine or computer scanner?” One more trip to pick up the final art and then I was done. ” She works hard for the money“, says Donna Summer. I think she would agree that I’m a good example of the song.
Back in the day, I had a good eye for talent and chose only to work with the pro’s without attitude. I became a household name as the Orange County Art Rep largely due to their amazing skills. Little by little I started understanding what marketing was all about. Other reps started popping up from Los Angeles so we took ads out in the L.A. Workbook. Eventually, technology stared killing work for artists that worked with their hands and were replaced by computer illustration. To stay ahead of the game, I selected some local artist’s who were adapting to this new tech tool and I found work once again. Unfortunately, I saw the writing on the wall and started looking for a new career. I think there is still a place in the world for art reps as the artist should work and let someone else do the dirty stuff. Today, I rep my own work and realize the tools are easier but the competition is furious online. So, I should blog, link in, facebook, twitter….and so on.
Do you think Michaelangelo would have liked the computer? I think not, but whose to say?
I know many of you out there cannot sleep as I. I’m lying here in bed trying to get some “shut-eye” and my brain won’t stop. How many of you can relate?
When you are the creative type, it is difficult to shut off the brain. It is good to brain storm and it’s a curse. I’m actually typing with my eyes closed. Now, is that absurd or what? I just don’t know how to stop and relax. I fiddle if I’m bored. I pace if I’m stressed, I clean if I’m procrastinating. If I have some personal issues that are truly bothering me, I opt for thinking about creating a painting. This helps me get back to me and my best work has come out of the toughest situations.
As I fade into the night oblivion, I wonder how many artists are lying at this same moment contemplating a new design, or are they blocked and frustrated. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. For me, if I research or happen upon another talented artist or photographer, it usually inspires me. That is the time to have the sketch book by the bed. I must go out and get a book light so I won’t wake hubby. I hate it when I wake up in the morning and cannot remember one of the best lyrics or images I saw in my head.
I found some information on sleep deprivation that might create an urgency to turn out the lights a bit sooner each night.
1. “Sleep is needed to regenerate certain parts of the body, especially the brain, so that it may continue to function optimally. After periods of extended wakefulness or reduced sleep neurons may begin to malfunction, visibly effecting a person’s behavior. Some organs, such as muscles, are able to regenerate even when a person is not sleeping so long as they are resting. This could involve lying awake but relaxed within a quite environment. Even though cognitive functions might not seem necessary in this scenario the brain, especially the cerebral cortex, is not able to rest but rather remains semi-alert in a state of “quiet readiness” (2). Certain stages of sleep are needed for the regeneration of neurons within the cerebral cortex while other stages of sleep seem to be used for forming new memories and generating new synaptic connections. The effects of sleep deprivation on behavior have been tested with relation to the presence of activity in different sections of the cerebral cortex.”
I know some of my artistic friends will stay up all night. I make it to about 12:00 or 1:00 but my bod shuts down and I’m finally paralyzed. Then, I can sleep!
Info from http://serendip.brynmawr.edu/exchange/node/1690rmation by:
