Tag: Art business

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Create Change

Our current world is far more sinister than the one I grew up in, and although humanity has persevered through very dark times, none feel as dark as this.   Evil is masquerading about, disguising itself as well-intended and dare I say even “good.”  We are discerning right from wrong misguided by people who understand how to manipulate our minds and our decision making.  Think you are obsolete from this?  I encourage you to read on.

Inherently, we are composed of both good and bad.  Our conscience, that when influenced, can sway either way.   Knowledge is available in an instant and literally at our fingertips.  We are rapidly making choices and decisions without understanding who may be misguiding influence in a particular way.  It has been proven that so much of our day to day decisions are not made of our own accord, but by those influences.  Dan Ariely, a behavioral economist, offers his thoughts on this particular subject in his TED talk way back in 2008.  It is interesting to note that as we have become more engrossed in our high speed, online based lifestyle, we have also forgotten our real need for personal human interaction.  A point I will pick up on later.

Fast forward to our world today.  The Covid-19 “Pandemic”  Why do you think they chose that term?  One word, FEAR.  Charts, graphs and “strategic” projections based on too many variables making it difficult to comprehend.  Why?  Could it be to  create visual uncertainty?  Leaders offering daily repeated messages that seem far to general in offering clear solutions to problems at hand, and proliferating the agendas of those who have ability to influence.  I’m quite sure it’s to misguide our thoughts and sway our opinions.  Terms like ‘pandemic,’ social ‘distancing,’ ‘infection rates’ and ‘death tolls’ lean focus on the negative.  It’s no wonder people walk around like zombies with their heads down while doing their “essential” tasks.

I understand death is subject not talked about simply because of the real fear people have of death itself, probably why that remains the focus.  A message of hope in all the despair that is being projected is to step away from the messages of ‘gloom and doom’ regarding death.  It is the finality of LIFE, it’s not a new concept.  My experience with death is not at all despair or gloom.  In fact, what I have experienced with several loved ones dying is it may be sad but also very powerful on a personal level.  When it comes to understanding one’s own spirituality, I believe it’s almost not possible unless you’ve experience the joy of first and last breaths.  Grief, most often experienced as a negative emotion of death, is the counterpart of love and though it is painful and unpleasant, it is directly related to how much you love someone. (or something.)  We actually experience grief in all loss and it is justifiable and healthy to express.  Just as you are born, it’s certain you will die; what isn’t certain is how or when, it’s not really up to us.  What is also certain is you have a choice over what to do with that life, how you want to influence or lead others and what you want your legacy to be.

We also can choose how, with whom and where to spend our time.  There are 525,600 minutes in one day.  An hour contains only 60 of those minutes, make whatever you do worthy of that time.  It is certain you cannot get it back so use it wisely.

Getting back to the previous comment on personal human interaction, it has become clearly apparent how significantly lonely individuals are, yet we were too busy to recognize it.  Families, friends, businesses and communities have supported, without a hidden agenda, and have provided for each other in this time.  I’m overwhelmed with emotion when I see how as a human race we have bonded over this recent affair.  So many have joined together as humans and responded with hope and extended help to those in need.  Seeing beyond the power and greed showcases those that have pure hearts and wishing to lead from a place of love. 

I believe the messages presented in our world from those who are leading with impure hearts further cloud common good and common sense.   They are clever in their influencing and we may have to pick the ‘best of the evils’ in how our systems operate due to greed and power.  It takes far more courage to stand up and speak truth and lead with love than ever and it is certain we are in desperate need of those who will do so and make major change in our world.  

It all starts with us and where we choose to lead from.  I choose to believe that most people are of good intention, and may have unintentionally been misguided by influential propaganda directly out of their control.  Creating change we must remain true to our heart and lead with love.  This is an honorable propaganda that needs to be spread worldwide and for the greater good of humanity.

Definitely not my usual art related blog post, yet this was a heart led message that needed to be shared.

Please stay safe, be well and I love all you be-you-tiful peeps!  Art Hugs ~ Tammy

 

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My 2020 “Acrylic April”

AA_2020_week1

I’ll give a brief synopsis for any not familiar with what “Acrylic April” is.  Cinnamon Cooney, whom I discovered through my kids, is a YouTube Acrylic Art Phenom!  (It was with her online tutorials I rediscovered my love and need to emote through painting.)  “The Art Sherpa,” as she is known, teaches acrylic painting techniques for beginners and more recently, advanced artists.  It was her 18+ Online Facebook Challenge that encouraged my art business.  (You can refer to previous blog posts for more details.)  Her mother, Ginger Cook, is an esteemed pioneer of acrylic techniques.  Ginger’s paintings would have you believe she uses oil, they are amazing. (think ‘old dead guys and gals’ good!)  Combining information from both of them has helped me develop my own style of painting and I LOVE IT!!!  Last year, Cinnamon offered a painting a day during April with instruction; introducing more people to the wonderful world of acrylic painting and how daily painting is beneficial for more than developing skill, but our mental health, as well.  She has since copyrighted the term “Acrylic April” and evolved the event by creating tools and collateral for those wishing to participate.  Her mission, teaching skills and spirit are beautiful.  As an acrylic painter, I will participate in this annually to inspire creativity within myself and improve my own skills.

Now that you’re up to speed, you can see I’m off to a great start one week in.  Who would’ve thought that a pandemic’s timing could actually be in line with what I am doing.  I’m thanking my lucky stars I can use this time to create.  The images I’ve chosen are aligned with what we are experiencing.  April has 30 days, 30 opportunities to grow, show and reflect my life into images.

A word prompt is available to all who participate.  Week one consisted of the following in order from left to right and top to bottom in the photo above: “Glow,” Unexpected Journey,” “Fire and Ash,” Innocent,” “Lighter than Air,” “The Art of Zen,” and “The Spirit of Hospitality.”  I take time to reflect and think about each phrase and how I can relay a relevant message.  (Skills I often use when doing commission work.  It’s important to know and understand your subject work in order to create pieces that are successful.)

Emotions have been running a muck as of late.  Up, down, up down, sad, mad, happy, unsure and on and on.  Of the emotions, optimism has been a difficult one to grasp.  I’ve turned off unnecessary news and media updates of the negative aspects of our world, yet they seem to make there way into our social media sources.  I prefer to see and share messages of love and support rather than doom and gloom.  Thank goodness most of the people I follow are of the same mindset.

My body is emotionally tired, I know that sounds strange, but emotion manifests itself in our bodies in physical ways and this week it is breaking me.  My response currently to our new “normal” would be to go outside and scream at the top of my lungs and release the anger, then I’d like to paint ferociously on a couple large canvases.  Then I can focus on how to keep bills paid and build this little art business into something more that can offer an outlet for others who are feeling the pressures as much as me!

Feel free to share your paintings, if you are also doing “Acrylic April” with me.  Share how you are approaching this new “normal”, and how you take time for yourself in spite all of this.  Stay safe and well.

Big Art Hugs to all you Be-you-tiful peeps! ~ Tammy

 

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2020

As I rest up today, recovering from the Holiday’s and all it had to offer including sickness, I’m perplexed and unsure of my next move once again. Last year was full of firsts allowing this year with a few less surprises of its own.

There is an urgency in stepping out blindly and pursuing success on your own. It is imperative to be curious, ask questions and seek answers from those qualified to give it yet I am uncertain if there is a “specific” way to accomplish that. Often I end up with more questions requiring more research. Truly my curiosity for the knowledge surrounding a topic often hinders my progress.

This is my second year applying for the Banbury Art Crawl right here in Eau Claire, WI. It runs the first weekend in February and they’ve confirmed that emails will go out this week with the approx 100 featured artisans. I’m excited, nervous and apprehensive at this prospective venture. I believe that if I am not accepted this year, it gives me opportunity to really move forward with my work and have even more experience with booths, etc. Yet again, it is a great way to network and meet others who are successful, promote myself right here in the Chippewa Valley and learn even more. So in the meantime, I wait…

Other opportunities for shows and exhibitions are out there that I haven’t pursued and will do so this year. I remain a rather unknown artist at this point and know that with determination and learning through failure, the right avenue for my work will reveal itself.

Friends and family took time to like, comment, ask about and share my art which makes me exceedingly grateful and I’ve vowed to promote other small businesses (many of which happen to be female led) in that same way. Offering “classes” still has me perplexed. With so many local “paint and sip” options available, my goal is not to compete but offer those who are wishing to improve skills or creativity the opportunity for growth and currently I’m developing lessons around specific skills. Additionally, I’d love to be available for those who may be searching for a creative emotional outlet. If you ever have questions or if you wish to spend time in the studio with me and paint, I will absolutely make time for you and if I can’t answer or help, I’ll certainly point you in a direction to find what you’re looking for!!

Any way I view it, 2020 looks to like another exciting and challenging year in this artists life! My desire to inspire and touch more souls this year is in full motion!!!!

Happy arting to all you Be-You-tiful peeps. Tammy and the ART studio

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Holiday Excitement

“Holly Day,” original 12″ x 12″ available
message for details

The hustle is here y’all! What a rewarding and challenging year. New relationships, new business partnerships, new commissions and new shows have developed many skills this year. Finally able to take a moment and update what’s going on.

As I continue to grow my skills, acrylic and mixed media seem to be my preferred mediums. It really challenges my creativity and allows me to produce interesting artwork out of somewhat chaotic messes. I LOVE the challenge of it!!

This past year I’ve participated in Mary Nail’s Vendor event and a community Fine Art show at the Heyde in April, Vino Cappuccino’s Gallery this summer, The Yellowstone Art Trail in September, the Valley Art Association’s Fall member show and the Mabel Tainter Fine Art and Crafts Fair in November just to name a few. It has definitely prepared me to choose the shows I will apply for and/or continue during 2020 and beyond.

Artisan Forge Studios and Gallery continues to have several of my pieces (large and small) displayed for sale. Take a friend or 2 and swing in to see the wonderfully eclectic collaboration of 2D and 3D fine art, sculptures and jewelry. Legacy Chocolates and Skill Shot Coffee and Pinball are also there, you will not be disappointed.

January and February 2020, I’ll have pieces at the Chippewa Valley Regional Airport for sale. Contact me directly or Erin at the Airport for more information on purchases.

Mother Nature stomped on “the ART studio’s” 1st annual Holiday Event planned for November 30th. I decided to open the studio during class time this Sunday, December 15th for anyone who may have wanted to stop in that day and couldn’t. Please refer to Events on my Facebook Page for more information about this Sunday and future classes/events.

Thanks to all who purchased and supported me this past year, you are truly AWESOME!! That being said, all artists are unique and for me to reach consumer likes across all styles/genres would be impossible. If my work doesn’t appeal to you and you are wanting to support me (thanks, that’s super amazing!!) other than by purchasing, simply follow my Facebook and Instagram Pages and take a moment to Comment, Like/Share my work on Social Media with your friends and family. It helps me reach a larger audience with my work and find others who may want to purchase or commission me for a specific piece.

I’ve updated Google listings with the studio address and photos and I’m asking those who follow me on social media to leave a shout out on Google reviews, as well. I’ve taken time to do the same for the many businesses that I frequent. (It really does help, especially small business owners!)

Wishing you a wonderful Holiday season and Joy for the New Year.

Be-You-tiful, Be Awesome and Happy “Arting!” ~Tammy

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Update on sales/studio time!

Over the course of the next 2 months I’ll be adding some extra open studio time. If you’re interested in personal classes, creative time or simply would like to stop in, feel free to message me via Facebook or email to check times.

A few have asked about classes and I have accumulated student supplies over the summer and have several options available listed on my Facebook page under services. I love to inspire and share my knowledge with other creatives! I will be at the School of Arts in Menomonie, hosted by ACT2 (Arts Coming Together 2) in November for a palette knife class. See their page for more info.

Do, please, excuse the clutter while I continue organizing and developing the studio space; it has taken more time, money and effort than I had to give during the summer. (Moving my oldest daughter to college and having a High School freshman required my time and energy for the time being!!)

I personally would like to thank all who have asked about or viewed my gallery displays at Vino Cappuccino (July) and The Mabel Tainter (August) or stopped by during the Yellowstone Art Trail a week ago. Good thing stubborn determination runs in my blood, or I may have given up on this journey of starting a studio. I will say this, the happiness I am experiencing in creating and sharing only inspires me to do more!!

Artisan Forge Studios in Eau Claire currently has 5 of my newest paintings available for sale. It is a remarkable place for creatives and they offer so much there; do stop in and view all of the wonderful artists they represent!!

And now that is is fall I enjoy taking time out of doors to enjoy the beauty that surrounds us during my most favorite time of year!

To all the Be-you-tiful peeps, “Happy Fall Y’all”!!