Emily Hurley I quite like it, actually. Whether it's profitable depends on what you could sell for, but you could certainly hang it up. I think it's lovely.
Charmean Neithart Interiors, LLC. Art is completely subjective. I like your piece because I like abstract art and the colors are quite nice. Affordable pricing is a good way to start to get your name out there as an artist. Consider putting some of your pieces on Etsy. Good luck to you.
Charmean Neithart
babyb Better looking than some of the mass produced junk in TJ Maxx or Marshalls for $50-100 bucks. Put it out there and see what the market is willing to pay for it. Good luck!
S. Thomas Kutch Erin, as a fellow artist, I can tell you one piece is not enough to render an answer for you. I have struggled with my art.......from early success to a period where someone who should have by all means (a wife) been supportive of my efforts was only concerned with the immediate profits so much that is nearly destroyed my desire. Then there was the division of creativity. 8-10 hours per day spent being creative as an architectural designer left little to spare for my fine art........now that I'm basically retired for the past 8 years I've been rekindling my first passion.
I like the movement, structure and your use of colors. I think you have some great potential. I would gather a dozen or so of your best pieces and put together a digital disk presenting your work, add an artist statement, a biography and your resume and include these with your work on the disk. Make copies and send them to some local galleries. Network, network, and network. Get involved with your local art groups. Then you'll have a better feeling to the answer of your question and then I think you'll find the better question is can I make this profitable and that depends on you. There are very few successful artist that are discovered over night.........it's a long and often lonely journey and may take years before you make headway.
Check out the Craigslist Arts Forum.......there are a number of successful artist there who have established careers and willing to offer advise and support.
janetaylor6 It would look better on it's side, black at bottom, grey at top - then it becomes nearly a landscape with water at the middle, a wharf leg (tan) and a tree line in grey.
Lanie Brown I like art that has a little story about the artist or the piece so I can feel connected. I recommend a little story with each piece as part of your marketing plan. While I am not an artist, I volunteer with Between Jobs Ministry so do a lot of work with helping professionals package themselves for their job searches. Mr. Kutch is absolutely right if you want to make a go of an art career - network, network, network! Good luck!
BeautifulRemodel.com Hi Erin, very nice work, great technique. I really like the balance of textures in this piece and could see it working in other colors too. Mr Kutch's comments are spot-on, especially - "I like the movement, structure and your use of colors. I think you have some great potential". I couldn't agree more!
I have a friend who is also a young talented artist, I know her because I bought a few of her pieces several years ago. I also displayed her work in my remodeling projects being photographed and my fixer homes as part of the staging. One of the best things she did to help her to get more exposure and to sell more, was to have her work professionally photographed.
In addition to the great advice others have suggested here, you may also want to send your portfolio (edited, showing your style but with variety) to designers, architects, design-build companies, home staging companies etc. The right piece of art can be such an inspiration for a room. Let them know you can create commissioned pieces if they're looking for something specific.
Once you've perused the pages of Houzz you'll see great art is quite prominent in many of the projects. You may want to consider a polite, brief email with an example of your work to the ones to some of these designers et al.
Erin This is some great advice, i wouldn't have thought of some of these things, thank-you so much!! Supplies are hard to come by on my budget right now but when i have some i will surely be busy!!
trisn Stop using expensive acrylic paint, grown-ups paint in oil.
Have a go at grinding your own oil paint; you will save a bomb, learn lots, and end up with more valuable work.
ct design studio I like your piece very much. I like beautiful remodel's idea of including the art in photographs of remodeled spaces. We show local art in the showroom I run, which is specialty tile, stone etc. Showrooms that appreciate quality and finer things may be more open than you think. Beautiful art on the walls for the them, exposure for you. Parade of homes may also be open to including your work. Good luck!
Gina Leitz I like it. I disagree with trisn about not using acrylic paint. I know of an artist in New Orleans who only uses this particular acrylic paint that behaves like an oil paint, gives more working time. I think you should seek out a local coffee shop or restaurant who would like to display different art for sale and see if that works for you.
lefty47 HI -- The first thing you learn as an artist is to NOT to refer to your work as a HOBBY ! Everyone has given great advice but the best advice I got from a well known artist friend was , paint for yourself and if someone likes it and wants to buy it , great ,and if someone doesn't like it , then screw-em and keep painting . Once you sell your first painting , you are then an artist. If you are slapping out paintings just for the fast money , then you've got it all wrong. They say you should not sell your first painting ,keep it so you can measure your growth. From what I have seen I think you can do very well if it is truly in your heart and you love what you are doing , then paint on ,and good luck.
Erin Dear Trisn "Stop using expensive acrylic paint, grown-ups paint in oil."
I appreciated your honest opinion about not liking it, but why come back,look again, and leave a snide remark. This is something new to me.. though i don't need to explain myself to someone like you. Judging from other comments you leave on other discussions you're a pessimist and close-minded. By the way grown-ups don't talk or act that way. ^
PaintColorHelp.com Dallas Erin, follow your instincts. Judging by this canvas, they are excellent. It grabbed me right away. Depending on the price, if that canvas worked for a project of mine, I'd buy it in a heartbeat. Who cares what direction you turn it? Abstract modern art works that way sometimes. Myself, I'm no artist, but I have dabbled for my own use... and sometimes had to look for a while when deciding which direction to frame a canvas. ; )
gillis95 My brother does abstracts like these. He got started with a local art class and the instructors had connections and he's had some gallery shows and has sold some pieces. It's nothing to live on right now but if you love doing it it's a great way for extra money to pay for supplies. It was just a 'hobby' that he enjoyed so why not get paid. He created a facebook page too for his gallery. Tons of great advice in these responses! I like it too but I see it sideways.
thatbritishchap Trisn is clearly compensating for something, and Im sure we can all guess what that is. Poor baby :)
Erin, youve been given some great advice by others here, and as for whose comments and criticism will be most useful to you, they will come from those whose work inspires you and others you feel truly understand what youre trying to achieve. The twerps with negative comments will always be there, no matter how successful you become.
None of my criticism here has been meant with malice to anyone, and I am happy to receive criticism. Just as I have opinions, I do also like being proved wrong.
You complained about your budget, and making your own paint isn't all that difficult and would save you lots. Also, oil paint is a far superior product to acrylic, and the process is of making it is rewarding in itself. You may wish to dismiss this advice, that's your prerogative, but it was offered in good will.
I really do wish you well, and that you make a success of things. Sincerely.
Wow Great Place Trisn, I think your humorous attempts are being taken literally, rather than with the sarcasm which I see in many of your past posts.
Some of your wit in other posts has been thoroughly amusing, but unfortunately, they are being taken out of context.
These discussions are meant to be polite, constructive exchanges, and most of us Houzzers don't want these discussions to turn into mean-spirited barbs at semi-anonymous fellow users, and we have all begun to react in order to keep everyone in line.
No one wants to turn discussion boards into cat fights, and it's nice to see you appreciate that! :)
Enjoy Houzz! We all love it, and want it to stay fabulous!
Cynthia Taylor-Luce Yes, Wow, you're right. We've certainly had some issues recently with some people being nasty and we've pulled together in the face of it. I don't put trisn in that category however and I confess I seek out his comments and have a giggle. Can't we adopt him as sort of a crazy uncle? LOL
Erin Thank-you trisn for clarifying. I suppose i could have looked on the brighter side and seen the humor in it, i guess i read it at a bad moment. Well its neither here nor there... so crazy uncle it is. On the brighter side i have another canvas and feel like making a mess..once i get the rest of these acrylics used up I'll have an excuse to try some more grown up things.
judyg i can see your piece in a loft, hung horizontally. It feels as if I am on the other side of the river looking across at the city. Definitely a talent there, missy. Try selling it on etsy.com
Wow Great Place Always look on the bright side of life.
(whistle the tune, come on everyone, you know you wanna!)
And for those of you not getting this, go google that. And Monty Python's Life of Brian. Oh, and the Olympics Closing Ceremonies!!
Okay, silliness is done. ;)
Cynthia Taylor-Luce Yep, you've got a winner Erin, dear. A fabulous sort of other-worldly looking scene. It would look amazing framed in a modern interior.
Jubi Arriola_Headley Ditto Cynthia. All of a sudden horizontally it's an ethereal shoreline from another planet...to me. I might have smoked too much crack. I admit freely that I have no training in art. Still, if I hadn't come home from a business trip this evening to find water leaking from the ceiling in my guest bath, I would tell you that I would buy it - but I can't back that up right now. :-)
I say I see a strong point of view and something that evokes a reaction in me, which is essentially what I expect good art to do. Hopefully, what is good is also marketable.
K.O.H. Construction Corporation I looked at your work in your Idea Book, you got skills. I like what I saw, keep at it. By the way, I didn't see you at the beach when you took my pic.
SPKCreative Abstract Art www.spkcreative.com @Erin: Thank goodness your cool, industrial abstracts are different from my vividly cheerful abstracts--shows the wide range of styles in each field:) I usually turn my paintings on all sides and pick the view based on what speaks to me before I title and sign them. I like yours from all sides, but agree horizontal will work the best.
@trisn: I prefer to paint in acrylics and watercolor rather than oils. I view every blank space as canvas and have used oils, nail polish, makeup, glass, sand, gemstones and more as mediums. True artistry comes from within and no one medium is superior to another, it is more a matter of how an artist uses them to create a work of art.
zenhome Are acrylic paints easier to work with than oil? Does the finished product look much different - acrylic vs oil? Just curious as I am taking art classes this fall.
SPKCreative Abstract Art www.spkcreative.com @zenhome: I think I forgot to thank you in a different discussion about your liking my art, so thank you:) More paintings will be posted by the middle of September.
Oil can be richer and have more depth and texture; acrylic can be flexible, versatile and dries quickly. Conversely, oil takes a long time to dry (months, years), is difficult to remove and has a very strong odor; acrylic can be flat and is not always respected as a medium--oil is always respected, possibly because oils have been around for centuries and were very costly and acrylics are fairly new and more affordable. Personally, I have a high regard for artists who work with watercolors because it is very difficult to control--if the paint runs in a landscape, for example, only a real talent will be able to fix it or make it work. I have many examples of happy accidents in my own work and they're among my favorites. The point is to find the medium that you feel happiest using and enjoy it; you can use multiple mediums, too, don't box yourself in. Oh, make sure your studio is well ventilated--the fumes from oils and acrylics are much stronger than nail polish--and wear clothes you don't care about (if you wear any rings, leave them at home or wear latex gloves).
Alexei Rebrov Art As I read in one book about print business, If you can do anything else then this, do it! I think the idea can be applied to painting as well.
I like your art and this specific piece. The question is are you ready to dedicate your life promoting it?
Many artists I met spend only 15-20% on art (painting, photo, sculpture) and 80% on promotion and marketing. My short answer is any art is profitable. Longer answer is ... it depends on when you what to get a profit ;)
designideas4me Hey Erin. I paint too and I added you to my ideabook. maybe we can talk more and get ideas. I have also wanted for years to be an artist but its not always easy to stay motivated and do what it takes to make a living. I mostly paint for myself. I recently looked on Etsy and omg some of these people are trying to see art for 500-2000 that in my opinion is so not worth it. I think it depends on what you want to get financially for your work. Some artists on that site have tons of work and very good prices and very talented. I would love to knowhow sucessful they are. I wish I knew how to find that out.
Interiors International, Inc. As an avid collector and buyer of art for clients my opinion is you listen to the great advise given by the artists above. They have traveled the road and have given you a good start to find your way. If you express yourself purely for saleability you might achieve some sales. If you express your self through your art and stay true to your self, sales will come to you.
designideas4me Oh yeah I have actually sold many things in the past when I hand painted silk scarves. I went to some local gallaries and they sold them on consignment..they take part of the selling price. Also art fairs in your area are graet ways to test the market. I did that a few times and sold stuff. But its hard work. I found manufactures on line at that time to order in bulk the sild scarves and you can oder paint online too that is sold for less than in the local stores. You have to cut your overhead by geeting things close to cost. Same with frames and canvas. many artist will stretch their own and build the frames. I love art and painting but you really need time and dedication. I have often though of the geclee aspect of reproduction as the best way to go in that you can mass produce an original. Talk to other artist thats the best way to find out how to save money and how to be sucessful. I love art fairs. I go and pick their brains and get ideas. You have to learn from others who do what you want to do.
designideas4me alexei .............very true........My short answer is any art is profitable. Longer answer is ... it depends on when you want to get a profit ;)
Patsy Castillo Erin, I am an artist, actually studying art and many of my instructor have told me to get away from acrylics and go to oil. I truly like your painting and I agree with others that it sort of looks sideways...if you put the dark side to the bottom it does looks like a land/water escape but still remains abstracted. Good luck to you.
designideas4me Interesting. well i guess its human nature to try to see things in the abstract and try to make sence. Maybe thats why people want her to turn it in a horizontal direction. If people were to look at it for what it is and the way the artist painted it instead of what they want to make it than maybe they could just appriciate it for what it is.
Dove Cochrane @trisn I'm sure Matisse would have been interested to know that grown-ups paint in oil. Acrylic is a perfectly acceptable medium and generally far less expensive than oil. @Erin, the oil vs acrylic (or watercolor for that matter) has more to do with how you want your painting to look than your budget. Paint with the medium you like. It's your creation.
Dove Cochrane PS: don't feel bad about the people that see your piece as upside down or sideways. there once was a minor stir when the New York MoMA mistakenly displayed several Matisse paintings upside-down for 47 days in 1961.
Judy M Maybe your talent is painting in the "wrong" direction and then turning the painting??? I like it, and immediately thought it needed to be turned. As soon as I saw it turned, I felt it was "right" and balanced.
judyg This post is sooooo old. That does not mean it is not to be recognized. I just wonder why it, and others, have hung on so long. I bet Erin has moved on.
Darzy I like it a lot! Beautiful painting and I too like it better horizontally.
BTW...I think the "oil" vs "acrylic" has a bit to do with perception of "quality". Show someone a beautiful original art piece and they will ask..."Wow, is that an original oil? "No, it's in acrylic" and you may get a disappointed ..."Oh." Why is that? Because of the history of oil paintings? Acrylic is easier only in clean up and dry time. Right?
sfsurfdude W H A T ????? Are you SERIOUS???? How long have you been painting? I think personally its really Kool... f you are near a bigger city where there is a sense of style and alot of people to get the exposure you may need ( or not) profit will be generated... Just remember the profit you recieve will be a mixed bag... ie. self satisfaction, positive strokes, monetary of course but it will probably develope slowly or not or fast who knows, it never hurts to check it out. Especially with your potential talent or more...
designideas4me Does anyone know what the word "abstract " means? Does anyone know what the Rorschach inkblot test is?
Here lets all take it and see if our perceptions are identical or if we see things differently when it comes to the interpretation of an abstract image.
In fact here is one of my abstract paintings. which way should I hang it? I like to hand or look at paintings the way I painted them Others may choose to hang it differently or not like them at all but I dont think I would like them telling me what to do. If they bought it than you could do with it as they wished.
Do you know that the inkblot test is given by psychiatrists not because it says something about the artist but because it says something about you, the viewer.
sfsurfdude I was given thiose tests as a child while my parent were searching for "what was wrong" with me. In the end a Therapist suggested to my parents it was them that had the real issues, not me. I shant ever forget my step father saying that therapist didnt know skwat.
It was then, I figured out in fact they were insane to a point...
As for the painting, instead of figuring out which is the correct position, I suggest periodically rotating it as desired. It will then fall into place ultimatly in time
madzie42 I think it is very nice and would look fantastic in a room that has that colour scheme. Maybe if you knew what colours they wanted they would buy it.
I too was given them. In fact my father was a shrink..so I think we even had them at home. Yeah they never did figure out what was wrong with me...to this day..LOL
klmt a good friend of mine, who has actually done a commissioned piece for us, has some kind of ranking in canada as a master artist - he really is amazing - when he does abstracts, he says he loves to watch people look at them, twist & turn to see them from a different angle, and try to figure out what they are - to him it's all part of their appreciation of his work and their trying to 'fit' it into their own lives and perspectives - in fact, he hates to sign abstracts because it 'gives away' which angle he painted it from
another good friend, who happens to be one of his students and is an amazing realist, says she used to sell lots, but got disgusted and gave it up because it wasn't her art any more - she was painting what people wanted to buy, not what she wanted to paint
onthefence Erin, I have to say I DO like your work and would certainly buy many of the pieces shown in your photos. I'm always in awe of people who can visualize something then transfer it to a tangible medium!
Whether it could be profitable is another question. I'm fortunate enough to know a lot of talented artists and illustrators. Most of them have had works displayed and sold. That said, they all have 'day jobs'.
I wish you great success if this does become a career. And if it doesn't, I wish you great enjoyment in your hobby.
Dove Cochrane @designideas4me
It is possible to grind your own pigment to make paint. As for it being easy or cheaper... don't make me laugh.
Many artist paints are made from very toxic compounds, cadmium, is not for the fain of heart.
Ultramarine Blue (Lapis) was once made entirely from ground lapis gemstone, but now, as is most "modern pigments" made from a synthetic mineral.
Pigment is mixed with a binder, oil, water, even egg yoke to make it liquid enough to apply to a canvas or support of some kind.
It's probably a moot topic since it appears the person who made the remark was being sardonic, and we're all silly for taking offense.
I think it's best to be kind - even when giving out a critique.
Dove
Aggie Purvinska Most artists learn to take criticism and use it to grow and develop their work, but it is rarely "in stride", more often it is in self doubt. Young artists will get their fair share of criticism, there will be plenty of it for the rest of their lives, the more art they make, the more criticism there will be. Our job is to hold their hand until they make at least 10 of these paintings. After that, go ahead and rip away. Good job Erin, I hope to see more! And this is a VERY good start.
joannpb I really like that. Turned on its side, to the right, it looks less abstract and more like an impressionist winter lake scene. I can see the swampy edge of the lake in the foreground, some bits of open water, a bob-house (ice fishing shack) sitting abandoned, because its owner didn't get it out before the ice went soft. In the background, a gray late-winter sky.
I think it's quite good. Call it "Ice Out" (the term used for when the ice breaks up and becomes unsafe to walk on) and sell it on-line. If I had an appropriate spot to hang it, I'd offer $165 for it.
Barbara Destasio Very different, and abstract! You can display it horizontally and vertically, either way, its beautiful! Take photos, and/or display it on web sites and good luck!!
orangecamera Fascinating discussion about which way to turn the picture. I am an abstract photographer. There are times, after the fact, that even I can't tell which way is "right side up" on my own works. And these are *photos*, so taken of actual things-n-stuff in real life with an actual up and down. (Abstract photos, not photos that have been manipulated to become abstract)
I actually have one of my photos ready to hang in my new house. I know where I want to put it, but can't decide which way is "up". All of a sudden, I feel like it was upside down in my last house...although it looked right when it was there.
sfsurfdude's suggestion to hang and turn it periodically makes so much sense, and that's what I'll do. So thanks sfsurfdude for the idea :)
This has been driving me a little crazy for the past week, so reading this discussion really hit home, and makes me feel slightly less crazy.
G3 Studios Decorative Painting I wasn't aware any art was profitable;) I love the artist's life and at times it can be financially rewarding but ultimately the real reward is the lifestyle not the paycheck. Working for yourself, keeping your own hours, deciding which projects to participate in, etc. It's mostly good marketing and supply and demand.
"Interpersonal Insights
You are utterly incapable of meaningful relationships, which is probably a good thing since you're a horrible bore under the best of conditions.
You have a positive attitude towards nearly everything, which is incredibly stupid and very annoying to those around you".
n247080 I don't normally like this type of art, but it actually is very nice. My only issue with it is that it looks like you have it set sideways. If i were to hang it, i would hang it with the long darker side on the right at the bottom. But hey, I know nothing of this type of art. I do know I like it tons better than the stuff that's similar in my office building which I know for a fact cost a lot. I think you've got some talent.
lisanne74 Erin it's beautiful and just like every human on earth it's unique .. And that's what art should be.. There is someone out there that will see it and fall in love .. Don't listen to any of these weirdos on here .. An artist has their own expression of the world they put on to canvas .. Opinions are alike assholes we all have them but not everyone has the gift of bringing canvas and paint to life
Toni Sabatino At Aja...that is prolific and so true...does the violinist laid off from Lincoln Center play in Grand Central Station for the profittability? NO....they do it because that is their art, their soul and they MUST!! Hats off to Luellen Abdoo....because she is an artist and finding her has enhanced my life...
bigsquirt Ya, looks good. To be profitable, you will need to turn it into a business & that sometimes ruins your passion. To check out what you can do, Google "Ebay Osnat" I own her work & she sells a lot!!! Watch the video, you will get inspired.
Toni Sabatino @ alll of you.....passion is key but etsy.com seems to allow some passionate folks to make some $$$, I as well as clients, have ordered original art from there...excuse if someone mentioned and I am being redundant...
Toni Sabatino @ Aja......yes, took my grandson to listen in the foodcourt of lower Grand Central after I bought her first CD, bought the Christmas stuff as well, LOVE HER......
Toni Sabatino On another note, to the original artist....it looks like it could be hung laterally and look like an NYC bronxscape from a NYC impressionist perspecective ..I would buy that for a space with amber and blue given the opportunity....will you market on etsy, ebay?? some other site???
designideas4me Aja............. I would like to know what facts and research you have done to back up this statement "Artists learn to take criticism in stride. "
I find that to be very assumptive on your part. I for one would love to be a successful artist but I am also VERY SENSITIVE TO CRITICISM. Who says that all artist must learn how to take criticism in stride and rise above it????
For many of us criticism is exactly what may keep talented artistic people from farther pursuing thier dreams.
Why would you want to blatently insult someone who is mearly defending herself after having been attacked once on here. That girl.... Erin is obviously not using these discussion anymore and probably came to the conclusion that she didnt like the people here and maybe she stopped painting all together.
Toni Sabatino As I said in terms of musical art....it is for the artist.....those of us that appreciate will support and so it should be...art is so subjective but there is also SO MUCH ROOM for appreciation if you get the word out..love your painting..remember that luck is simply preparedness meets opportunity...GO YOU!
Perhaps, it is better said that healthy, stable adults learn to take criticism in stride.
All of us are subject to criticism everyday.
The artist is no different and deserves no special exemption.
“Don't mind criticism. If it is untrue, disregard it. If it is unfair, keep from irritation. It if is ignorant, smile. If it is justified, learn from it.”
You state:
"For many of us criticism is exactly what may keep talented artistic people from farther pursuing thier dreams."
It is fear, not criticism, that creates the barrier, establishes the limitation.
No one on this earth is immune to fear and self doubt, and we must all learn to cope and overcome in our own way.
But fear and self doubt can not be excuses for not trying.
For those who have been unable to work through such problems privately, professional help and counseling are available.
“To escape criticism – do nothing, say nothing, be nothing.” -- Elbert Hubbard
“Creativity takes courage.” -- Henri Matisse
lefty47 Erin ---- oh ERIN !!! -- are you in here ------- see everyone -- Erin left the building 6 months ago !!! This was all a clever way to advertise and we have all fallen for it ! I think Erin knows what she is doing . Some sort of ego trip I think and besides a true artist would never call ART a HOBBY in the first place . Soooo everyone say your sorry to everybody for being snippy , rude , selfserving and nasty and lets be nicer to each other this year --- PLEASE AND THANK YOU !!!
Toni Sabatino Courage and belief that it is your true callong will find your way....many artists have not received accolades until after death...but truly....they were still artists and profitibability had zero to do with artistic expression....missed some of the thread but hope you paint for your enjoyment and when patrons come it is just the icing on the cake...best to you.
lefty47 HI --- I like your style Jayme --" Frankenweenie" kinda puts everything in perspective with this post doesn't it ? I hope we are all done now --- I am !!!
designideas4me Ok well since we are on the topic................lol............... does anyone think my painting would sell and be profitable? if so what would be a fair price? Not that I think most of the prices for artwork are fair or reasonable anyway. I dont know what I would call art for me...a hobby? a passion that I sometimes pursue? a pastime? a creative outlet? I kind of think I might use these words interchangably....hobby doesnt mean it doesnt matter or isnt important to me. As for profit. I think one occationally or maybe often wonders if they could sell their work. I have wondered. I painted it for me but still I would maybe ask the question...do you think i could sell this for a profit? This painting took way more time than a day but I have done others in a day and so I could see saying exactly what she said... anyway she has other paintings on her profile just as I do. I think people read too much into someones words and infer and interpret their own meaning from their unique perspective. I wish we could just respond to the question at hand.
I often see people asking a question ...what color should i paint the wall....and ten minutes later the post had 20 suggestions on changing the coffee table and moving the couch... the poster only wanted to know what color to paint the wall. why cant we just answer the question at hand and respect the persons question without giving advice they may not be asking for or they may not want !!
joannpb I want you to know that I snipped your painting, rotated it 90* right and put it up on my computer as wallpaper. I would never print it or share it with anyone without permission, but it's so nice, I just couldn't let it go. I hope you don't mind, but if you do, let me know and I'll take it back down.
. i guess so.. why dont you try to sell it online? See what people reacts
Go for it, and have some fun.
Nothing ventured…
Charmean Neithart
I like the movement, structure and your use of colors. I think you have some great potential. I would gather a dozen or so of your best pieces and put together a digital disk presenting your work, add an artist statement, a biography and your resume and include these with your work on the disk. Make copies and send them to some local galleries. Network, network, and network. Get involved with your local art groups. Then you'll have a better feeling to the answer of your question and then I think you'll find the better question is can I make this profitable and that depends on you. There are very few successful artist that are discovered over night.........it's a long and often lonely journey and may take years before you make headway.
Check out the Craigslist Arts Forum.......there are a number of successful artist there who have established careers and willing to offer advise and support.
I have a friend who is also a young talented artist, I know her because I bought a few of her pieces several years ago. I also displayed her work in my remodeling projects being photographed and my fixer homes as part of the staging. One of the best things she did to help her to get more exposure and to sell more, was to have her work professionally photographed.
In addition to the great advice others have suggested here, you may also want to send your portfolio (edited, showing your style but with variety) to designers, architects, design-build companies, home staging companies etc. The right piece of art can be such an inspiration for a room. Let them know you can create commissioned pieces if they're looking for something specific.
Once you've perused the pages of Houzz you'll see great art is quite prominent in many of the projects. You may want to consider a polite, brief email with an example of your work to the ones to some of these designers et al.
Keep up the good work!
Steve
Have a go at grinding your own oil paint; you will save a bomb, learn lots, and end up with more valuable work.
I appreciated your honest opinion about not liking it, but why come back,look again, and leave a snide remark. This is something new to me.. though i don't need to explain myself to someone like you. Judging from other comments you leave on other discussions you're a pessimist and close-minded. By the way grown-ups don't talk or act that way. ^
fellow artist
Erin, youve been given some great advice by others here, and as for whose comments and criticism will be most useful to you, they will come from those whose work inspires you and others you feel truly understand what youre trying to achieve. The twerps with negative comments will always be there, no matter how successful you become.
Enjoy the ride, youre on the right track.
Cheers
None of my criticism here has been meant with malice to anyone, and I am happy to receive criticism. Just as I have opinions, I do also like being proved wrong.
You complained about your budget, and making your own paint isn't all that difficult and would save you lots. Also, oil paint is a far superior product to acrylic, and the process is of making it is rewarding in itself. You may wish to dismiss this advice, that's your prerogative, but it was offered in good will.
I really do wish you well, and that you make a success of things. Sincerely.
Some of your wit in other posts has been thoroughly amusing, but unfortunately, they are being taken out of context.
These discussions are meant to be polite, constructive exchanges, and most of us Houzzers don't want these discussions to turn into mean-spirited barbs at semi-anonymous fellow users, and we have all begun to react in order to keep everyone in line.
No one wants to turn discussion boards into cat fights, and it's nice to see you appreciate that! :)
Enjoy Houzz! We all love it, and want it to stay fabulous!
And Erin, you are extremely talented! Paint on!
(whistle the tune, come on everyone, you know you wanna!)
And for those of you not getting this, go google that. And Monty Python's Life of Brian. Oh, and the Olympics Closing Ceremonies!!
Okay, silliness is done. ;)
I say I see a strong point of view and something that evokes a reaction in me, which is essentially what I expect good art to do. Hopefully, what is good is also marketable.
@trisn: I prefer to paint in acrylics and watercolor rather than oils. I view every blank space as canvas and have used oils, nail polish, makeup, glass, sand, gemstones and more as mediums. True artistry comes from within and no one medium is superior to another, it is more a matter of how an artist uses them to create a work of art.
Best,
Shari
spkcreative@gmail.com
www.spkcreative.com
Oil can be richer and have more depth and texture; acrylic can be flexible, versatile and dries quickly. Conversely, oil takes a long time to dry (months, years), is difficult to remove and has a very strong odor; acrylic can be flat and is not always respected as a medium--oil is always respected, possibly because oils have been around for centuries and were very costly and acrylics are fairly new and more affordable. Personally, I have a high regard for artists who work with watercolors because it is very difficult to control--if the paint runs in a landscape, for example, only a real talent will be able to fix it or make it work. I have many examples of happy accidents in my own work and they're among my favorites. The point is to find the medium that you feel happiest using and enjoy it; you can use multiple mediums, too, don't box yourself in. Oh, make sure your studio is well ventilated--the fumes from oils and acrylics are much stronger than nail polish--and wear clothes you don't care about (if you wear any rings, leave them at home or wear latex gloves).
I like your art and this specific piece. The question is are you ready to dedicate your life promoting it?
Many artists I met spend only 15-20% on art (painting, photo, sculpture) and 80% on promotion and marketing. My short answer is any art is profitable. Longer answer is ... it depends on when you what to get a profit ;)
Hopefully before death......right.............lol
I am an artist, actually studying art and many of my instructor have told me to get away from acrylics and go to oil. I truly like your painting and I agree with others that it sort of looks sideways...if you put the dark side to the bottom it does looks like a land/water escape but still remains abstracted. Good luck to you.
Acrylic is a perfectly acceptable medium and generally far less expensive than oil.
@Erin, the oil vs acrylic (or watercolor for that matter) has more to do with how you want your painting to look than your budget. Paint with the medium you like. It's your creation.
Beautiful painting with lots of depth!
BTW...I think the "oil" vs "acrylic" has a bit to do with perception of "quality". Show someone a beautiful original art piece and they will ask..."Wow, is that an original oil? "No, it's in acrylic" and you may get a disappointed ..."Oh." Why is that? Because of the history of oil paintings? Acrylic is easier only in clean up and dry time. Right?
Here lets all take it and see if our perceptions are identical or if we see things differently when it comes to the interpretation of an abstract image.
http://www.theinkblot.com/
In fact here is one of my abstract paintings. which way should I hang it? I like to hand or look at paintings the way I painted them Others may choose to hang it differently or not like them at all but I dont think I would like them telling me what to do. If they bought it than you could do with it as they wished.
Do you know that the inkblot test is given by psychiatrists not because it says something about the artist but because it says something about you, the viewer.
It was then, I figured out in fact they were insane to a point...
As for the painting, instead of figuring out which is the correct position, I suggest periodically rotating it as desired. It will then fall into place ultimatly in time
I too was given them. In fact my father was a shrink..so I think we even had them at home. Yeah they never did figure out what was wrong with me...to this day..LOL
another good friend, who happens to be one of his students and is an amazing realist, says she used to sell lots, but got disgusted and gave it up because it wasn't her art any more - she was painting what people wanted to buy, not what she wanted to paint
You had better grow up.
Good advice for you.
When criticized, our young artist responded in a non productive manner.
Artists learn to take criticism in stride.
Also, the first rule of the starving artist is "Do Not Insult a Potential Buyer!"
One got away!
Very immature.
Whether it could be profitable is another question. I'm fortunate enough to know a lot of talented artists and illustrators. Most of them have had works displayed and sold. That said, they all have 'day jobs'.
I wish you great success if this does become a career. And if it doesn't, I wish you great enjoyment in your hobby.
It is possible to grind your own pigment to make paint. As for it being easy or cheaper... don't make me laugh.
Many artist paints are made from very toxic compounds, cadmium, is not for the fain of heart.
Ultramarine Blue (Lapis) was once made entirely from ground lapis gemstone, but now, as is most "modern pigments" made from a synthetic mineral.
Pigment is mixed with a binder, oil, water, even egg yoke to make it liquid enough to apply to a canvas or support of some kind.
It's probably a moot topic since it appears the person who made the remark was being sardonic, and we're all silly for taking offense.
I think it's best to be kind - even when giving out a critique.
Dove
Artist, 33
I think it's quite good. Call it "Ice Out" (the term used for when the ice breaks up and becomes unsafe to walk on) and sell it on-line. If I had an appropriate spot to hang it, I'd offer $165 for it.
I actually have one of my photos ready to hang in my new house. I know where I want to put it, but can't decide which way is "up". All of a sudden, I feel like it was upside down in my last house...although it looked right when it was there.
sfsurfdude's suggestion to hang and turn it periodically makes so much sense, and that's what I'll do. So thanks sfsurfdude for the idea :)
This has been driving me a little crazy for the past week, so reading this discussion really hit home, and makes me feel slightly less crazy.
Cool test:
"Interpersonal Insights
You are utterly incapable of meaningful relationships, which is probably a good thing since you're a horrible bore under the best of conditions.
You have a positive attitude towards nearly everything, which is incredibly stupid and very annoying to those around you".
It so needed to be said.
Is the purpose of art to be profitable?
I think not.
Have you actually seen/heard Luellen Abdoo in person????
I find that to be very assumptive on your part. I for one would love to be a successful artist but I am also VERY SENSITIVE TO CRITICISM. Who says that all artist must learn how to take criticism in stride and rise above it????
For many of us criticism is exactly what may keep talented artistic people from farther pursuing thier dreams.
Why would you want to blatently insult someone who is mearly defending herself after having been attacked once on here. That girl.... Erin is obviously not using these discussion anymore and probably came to the conclusion that she didnt like the people here and maybe she stopped painting all together.
Words of encouragement and/or praise are always welcome, to one who wishes to become an artist.
However, such words are empty and meaningless without sales to validate.
Only you can know how important art is to you and what you are willing to sacrifice.
Perhaps, it is better said that healthy, stable adults learn to take criticism in stride.
All of us are subject to criticism everyday.
The artist is no different and deserves no special exemption.
“Don't mind criticism. If it is untrue, disregard it. If it is unfair, keep from irritation. It if is ignorant, smile. If it is justified, learn from it.”
You state:
"For many of us criticism is exactly what may keep talented artistic people from farther pursuing thier dreams."
It is fear, not criticism, that creates the barrier, establishes the limitation.
No one on this earth is immune to fear and self doubt, and we must all learn to cope and overcome in our own way.
But fear and self doubt can not be excuses for not trying.
For those who have been unable to work through such problems privately, professional help and counseling are available.
“To escape criticism – do nothing, say nothing, be nothing.” -- Elbert Hubbard
“Creativity takes courage.” -- Henri Matisse
Erin did not ask if she had skill. She did not state any particular love of art.
Instead, she asked if she could make money.
If the spirit and talent were present, the market place would not dictate value.
I'll let Erin judge her motive, drive and passion. Those aren't calls for me (or anyone else) to make.
your point?
truer words....
I often see people asking a question ...what color should i paint the wall....and ten minutes later the post had 20 suggestions on changing the coffee table and moving the couch... the poster only wanted to know what color to paint the wall. why cant we just answer the question at hand and respect the persons question without giving advice they may not be asking for or they may not want !!
8-)