As we Muses continue to grow, we are leaving Three Muses to follow our own paths. Robin is now teaching art in public schools full time, and loves being in the classroom. I'm going solo under the name Meristem Studio. I'm happy to announce a new Etsy shop, new blog, and within a few months, a new website. I will continue to blog about my own work and creative processes, local art happenings, and other amazing artists at the Meristem Studio blog.
Thank you so much for reading and supporting not only the artists of Three Muses, but all of the indie artists and crafters we've shared in this blog. I look forward to seeing you at Meristem Studio!
Peace,
Monday, March 2, 2009
Friday, September 12, 2008
Indie Artist Spotlight: Kristin Leamy of Meanbean
I recently had the opportunity to chat with Kristin Leamy of Meanbean. Meanbean bags are a favorite among crafters for their versatility. Owners of Meanbean bags describe them as "high quality" products made with "exciting" fabric, and praise Kristin for her excellent communication and super friendliness. With business practices like this, it's no wonder Kristin is selling Meanbean bags all over her home state of Oregon and the world wide web. Read what she has to say about doing what she loves as a business.Tell us about you and Meanbean. What do you create?
I make fun little bags that can work alone, or as mini-bags inside the purse you already carry. Often they’re used by needle crafters as project bags and notion bags, but of course can be used for anything!
Custom Broad Beanlet available at Meanbean.etsy.comHow long have you been doing this? How did you get started?
I’ve been sewing alongside my mom since I was about 8 or 9 years old, but about 4 years ago, I was given a sewing machine of my own, and caught the bug! I was on Craftster.org a lot in those days, and happened upon a fun little tutorial about making a small gathered purse. By the time I’d finished the tutorial, I understood the mechanics of putting them together, and realized it’s the same, regardless of shape. I began experimenting, and have been playing with shapes and colors ever since.
How did you learn your craft?
Growing up, my mom made a lot of clothing and toys, aprons, etc for me. Of course, I wanted to see how she did it, etc. She and my dad have always encouraged the creative, curious side of everyone they meet. Various crafts I tried, leading up to sewing, included latch hook rugs, cross stitch, crochet and a brief stint in embroidery.
Do you do this fulltime? If not, what else do you do for a living?
Unfortunately, I am not running Meanbean full time…YET! One day, though. For a living, I work at an aftermarket performance parts shop (for people to make their cars go faster) as the accounting department.
Do the two jobs impact each other?
So far, aside from not being home all day to create and market, there’s a good relationship between my two jobs. I’ve been lucky enough to be able to take home boxes and packing material that would otherwise be recycled, and upcycle them into shipping materials for my bags. I dream of the day that I am running Meanbean full time!
Who are your inspirations or influences?
I think it’s mostly my daughter – she’s colorful in personality and in what she chooses, and it’s rarely something that would traditionally “go together”, which appeals to me a lot.
What do you do besides make awesome things?
Make other awesome things!! I knit and crochet, read voraciously, indulge in random reality TV, go to movies, play Rockband with my husband and kiddo, and throw down the occasional competitive board game.
What is your favorite creation from your shop? Why?
The Beanlet Sets, by far. They’re very versatile, and super cute, and with the current trend of larger bags, makes grabbing just your essentials super easy.
What is your favorite handmade possession?
My husband’s crafty too, and I doubt I could choose just one, but of the top ten list, I think the collaged box he gave me in high school that now holds all our love notes (from high school) is my most treasured.
How do you promote your business?
Do you have any advice for other indie artists?
Don’t be afraid to talk about your stuff!!! Honestly this is probably the thing that’s gotten me the most business. It sounds trite, but it’s totally true – BELIEVE IN WHAT YOU DO. If you believe your product is so totally awesome that person X just HAS to hear about it, they’ll WANT to hear about it when you start talking, because you’ll be excited. It’s contagious, and it gets the word out!
Surprise Messenger Bag by Meanbean.etsy.com(Interior shown, with tons of room, and plenty of pockets to keep you organized!
Where else can we find you and Meanbean?
Oh boy, ok. I’m on Facebook, there’s a fan group called Meanbean Bags. I’m on Etsy at meanbean.etsy.com. Also on DaWanda at meanbean.dawanda.com. As for"brick and mortar" stores, I’m also at Twisted, a yarn shop in Portland, Oregon, at 28th and Broadway of the Hollywood district. The bags are also at Menucha Conference Center, in Corbett, OR, and at the Lorang Fine Arts Gallery, in Hood River, OR.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
I plan to never grow up. Or, Batman.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Etsy Treasures: Hello, Cupcake!
After weeks of waiting, weeks of having my heart skip a bit as I passed by the covered storefront... Hello Cupcake finally opened.Hello Cupcake is a new bakery in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, DC, dedicated to, yes, the cupcake. I'm so glad the cupcake craze has hit DC. There's something special about the cupcake... adorable and individual servings of cake and frosting, in imaginative combinations... and you don't even have to share. Unless, of course, you want to. The cupcake is a beautiful thing.
The grand opening was today, and I stood in line, watching entire display cases full of cupcakes walk out of the door. When my turn came, there were only two flavors left to choose from - Root Beer Float and Triple Coconut. I bought one of each, and a portable pink cupcake holder. After all, I knew I'd return.
And no, I didn't eat both cupcakes. I took one to a bon voyage happy hour and gave it to the guest of honor, after he agreed to let me have a taste. The other, I saved to enjoy at home. Delicious.
So, of course, all I could think about were cupcakes. If you're in the DC area, you must visit Hello Cupcake. If you're not, I'm sorry. But just wait until you see the cupcakes in Etsyland.
Chocolate Cupcake with Emory Cherry in Pink Liner by dottietalDottie makes the cutest things. I wish I knew how to sew so I could buy this for myself.
Cupcakes in Love T-Shirt by MamaMonkeyMamaMonkey's cuteness spreads to
baby and maternity clothes as well.
Happy Birthday Etsy for Animals Cupcake Zippy Pouchby Hazel Honey
You get a cupcake. A designated charity gets 50% of the proceeds. Yum.
Available at lbegley.etsy.com
You can still enjoy the real thing from one of Etsy's premier online bakeries. Bangerang Bake Shop / Fat Daddy Bake Shop is a fully licensed commercial kitchen with tons of rave reviews and repeat customers.
Monday, August 25, 2008
The prodigal blogger returns...
Oh, my poor, dear, neglected blog!!
I'm been so busy with moving, the start of a new semester, and (the most fun) the flu... my poor blog has been withering away here in the corner.
I'm back, healthy, and (mostly) packed for the new move. I'm starting to feel a bit less crazed as my days become more manageable. So I'll be back to my regular Wednesday editions of Etsy Treasures, and Friday Indie Artist interviews.
But I'm not the only Muse who's making a return. Robin has finished grad school, and landed a full time teaching position! Woo hoo!! We are working on a (hopefully) weekly educational feature, but more on that later. For now, check out these new listings...
Hugs,
Monique
I'm been so busy with moving, the start of a new semester, and (the most fun) the flu... my poor blog has been withering away here in the corner.
I'm back, healthy, and (mostly) packed for the new move. I'm starting to feel a bit less crazed as my days become more manageable. So I'll be back to my regular Wednesday editions of Etsy Treasures, and Friday Indie Artist interviews.
But I'm not the only Muse who's making a return. Robin has finished grad school, and landed a full time teaching position! Woo hoo!! We are working on a (hopefully) weekly educational feature, but more on that later. For now, check out these new listings...
Hugs,
Monique
Friday, August 1, 2008
Indie Artist Spotlight: Janyce Boynton of Sojourn Quilts
This week, our spotlight shines on Janyce Boynton, the fabric artist behind Sojourn Quilts. Janyce shared the ups and downs of her artistry, and what lobsters have to do with her journey.
I'm a fan of quilting in general - from the traditional ones my grandmother made to the more modern art quilts. Janyce's work is especially wonderful, familiar, and inviting. Her shop, www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com, features a wide range of quilted works and fabric collages including fabric art cards as low as $5, intricate wall hangings as fit for a fine gallery as for your home, and of course, lobsters. Wait - lobsters??
Tell us about your work. What is it that you create?
I make quilted art wall hangings, fabric collages, and NotYerAverage Lobsters. When I can, I use recycled materials. I love haunting the local thrift stores. There are great treasures to be found and, when I make my purchase, I’m helping people in my community.
How long have you been doing this? How did you get started?
Officially, I started business in November of 2000, though I’d started making quilted wall hangings before then. I never really intended to be a quilter. I was in a craft store with a friend. She held up a quilting magazine and said, "I bet you could do this!" About the same time, I received a box of fabric from my grandmother. I said, "Sure! Why not!" I got frustrated trying to make everything straight with traditional patterns. I remember sewing, taking apart, sewing, and taking apart a square—I can’t remember the name of the pattern—and getting so frustrated. I threw the square in the garbage and, really quickly, drew an abstract pattern of a mountain I like to climb in Acadia National Park. Practically nothing was straight in it. I dug furiously through my pile of fabrics, grabbing whatever looked interesting and started cutting. I had so much fun putting that wall hanging together! I realized I like the flaws and "happy accidents" that happen with this type of free form quilt making. I haven’t looked back since!
I opened my Etsy shop in February 2006. It’s been a great way to learn about on-line selling (and buying!), meet some awesome people with similar interests and show my fabric art to an international audience.
How did you learn to quilt?
I’m pretty much self-taught. I’ve read a lot of quilting and art books. I’ve worked with miles of thread and oodles of fabric. Lots of experimenting and trial and error.
You make and sell three different lines of quilted lobsters art dolls. So really.... why lobsters?
I love my lobsters. It didn’t start out that way, though. Lobsters are kind of a Maine cliché. All the locals roll their eyes at the idea of a stuffed toy lobsters found in tourist shops on the coast. I did one lobster originally—reluctantly--at the request of a customer. Then, I figured since I’d spent all that time figuring out a pattern, I’d do a few more. I started making the lobsters from flannel shirts (also very "Maine") in all kinds of crazy colors—not just "traditional" red and, over time, started seeing them as canvases--jumping off points for some fairly crazy ideas. Though some of the lobsters can take 6-8 hours, they’re also a nice break
from longer quilted projects. Some of them (like my pirate lobstarrr or my mermaid-wannabe lobster) make me laugh when I’m making them. It gives me a chance to play and explore with techniques and to lighten up my day. Really…who can take a lobster all that seriously? And, in a strange way, I’m starting to feel like my lobsters honor how I feel about growing up in Maine. In integral ways, this place has influenced the way I think, learn, grow and interact with the world.
Above, right: Mr. Red and NotYerAverage Goth Lobster both by Janyce Boynton. Available at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com
Are you able to work your art full time?
I recently made the decision to focus on my shop and artwork full time. I was sewing for someone and doing my Etsy shop on the side. While I loved working with handmade textiles to create beautiful clothing, I found didn’t have a lot of energy to put into my own work at the end of the day. Because of the ebb and flow of the clothing business, I also went weeks sometimes without updating my shop or producing anything new. After struggling with trying to find some balance, I decided to leave that job in April, 2008. I still may need to pick up a part-time job for practical reasons, but it won’t be sewing for anyone else. My intention is to focus as much time on my own artwork as I possibly can.
Describe your creative process.
A spark of an idea. An image. A color. A word or phrase that strikes me as odd or new or unusual. Any tidbit that sticks in my brain is worth pursuing to me. I don’t always have an exact idea of what I’m doing or how the finished product is going to look when I start out. Often, I do a life-sized sketch—an impression--to use as a guide. I’m totally comfortable with making changes, though, if the fabric or design dictates it. My best pieces seem to have a mind and flow of their own. I swear I could just throw all the pieces of fabric in the middle of the floor and the quilt would make itself. If I’m struggling, I know there’s something about the piece that isn’t true—I’m forcing the design or fabric or concept or process in some way. That’s when I need to step back and take a breather. Solutions to design problems usually come when I’m doing something else—walking or baking or playing music.
What inspires you and influences your work? So many things inspire me—nature, music, literature, great art. As for people, I’d say my grandmother, who always had crafts for us to do when we went to visit, and some friends who taught me how to do Ukrainian-style eggs (pysanky). I vividly remember how slow the process was—the sweet smell of the beeswax—the food we ate and the conversations we had throughout a long weekend of egg decorating. Once the wax goes down on the egg, there really isn’t any way to change it. Through this process, I became more comfortable living with my mistakes…incorporating them somehow into the design of the piece. It planted a seed somewhere in my consciousness that art was more than just slapping some paint on paper (I wasn’t quilting back then). It was a life-style: a way of being. The deeper I get into the artistic process, the more introspective and aware I become of my own processes and how those effect what I produce, the closer I feel to living what I am creating. A "sojourn" is a "resting place along life’s journey" I try (with varying degrees of success) to bring a piece of that sentiment into every piece I make.
What do you do when you're not quilting?
I love taking walks in my neighborhood and in Acadia National and Baxter State Parks in Maine. Walking gives me a sensory understanding of the world that doesn’t come from whizzing by the trees and mountains and ocean in a car. I also play guitar (a bit) and sing. I’m into cooking, too, especially breads and cookies. I’m getting fresh vegetables from a local food guild this summer…and love trying to find new ways to prepare the vegetables. I even found a great recipe for turnip! Imagine that!
What craft or art form do you wish you could do?
Spinning wool, pottery and metal work. I think because they’re all tactile and alive somehow. I love what people can do with bits of hair, mud and metal. Done well—so inspiring.
What is your favorite handmade possession?
A hand-carved, primitive owl some friends gave me when I graduated from college. They were the coolest, oldest people I knew at the time—always looking for ways to keep their minds and bodies alive and well. They were probably the first people in my life who really saw me for who I was or could be. I think about how important that is every time I look at the owl.
Silly Purple and Orange Bird Miniature Collage by Janyce Boynton
Available at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com
How do you promote your business?
Ah, marketing! It’s my weakest area. I tried doing shows for a while and hated them. So, I’m putting my focus on building a stronger on-line presence. I’ve got my Etsy shop and Flickr account. I’ve also joined two street teams: Visual Artists Street Team and Etsy Guild for Art Dolls and Such. I’ve just had some professional pictures done of my lobsters and am in the process of applying to several online advertising sites. I’ve spoken locally to groups about my experience as a woman starting out in business. I also have a blog called What Shoes I Wear where I interview other artisans about how they use creativity to understand and rise above life’s more challenging moments. It’s been a great way to meet people from around the world, learn some new and interesting things and stay inspired.
Do you have any advice for other indie artists?
Learn the business end of things. It’s easy to become absorbed in creating and let the paperwork and other boring administrative stuff go by the wayside. I think most artists starting out (me included) undervalue their work. Learning pricing formulas and basic accounting skills helps de-mystify how money moves through a business. It’s the only way I know of to actually make sure I’m making a profit. After that, focus on what you love to do. Listen to your own natural rhythms. Hear what your eyes and hands and heart is telling you. Be sensitive enough to honor those feelings, courageous enough to put those feelings into action, and strong enough to move beyond the naysayers and self-doubts. After all that…laugh…have fun…take risks…don’t take life too seriously.
Who are some of your favorite Etsysellers or indie artists?
Oh, so many talented people to pick from! Jewelry maker Farafield, Fiber Artist Ontheround --who just started on Etsy , painter Rukshanahooda from India and many of the VAST artists, the art doll makers from EGADS (http://egadsteam.blogspot.com/), potter Dayle Tognoni Ward. Really, I could go on and on. I’ve got a favorites list available to view in my shop on Etsy.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Oh, gosh. I haven’t decided yet. I’m soon to be 46 and am just finding my stride in life. I want to be young at heart, happy, always curious, always learning new things…and open to whatever shapes and forms that takes. It’s about the process for me…I’m not sure I care to actually reach the point where I’m grown up! I’m having way too much fun!
Orange Flower and Me by Janyce Boynton
I'm a fan of quilting in general - from the traditional ones my grandmother made to the more modern art quilts. Janyce's work is especially wonderful, familiar, and inviting. Her shop, www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com, features a wide range of quilted works and fabric collages including fabric art cards as low as $5, intricate wall hangings as fit for a fine gallery as for your home, and of course, lobsters. Wait - lobsters??
Tell us about your work. What is it that you create?
I make quilted art wall hangings, fabric collages, and NotYerAverage Lobsters. When I can, I use recycled materials. I love haunting the local thrift stores. There are great treasures to be found and, when I make my purchase, I’m helping people in my community.
How long have you been doing this? How did you get started?
Officially, I started business in November of 2000, though I’d started making quilted wall hangings before then. I never really intended to be a quilter. I was in a craft store with a friend. She held up a quilting magazine and said, "I bet you could do this!" About the same time, I received a box of fabric from my grandmother. I said, "Sure! Why not!" I got frustrated trying to make everything straight with traditional patterns. I remember sewing, taking apart, sewing, and taking apart a square—I can’t remember the name of the pattern—and getting so frustrated. I threw the square in the garbage and, really quickly, drew an abstract pattern of a mountain I like to climb in Acadia National Park. Practically nothing was straight in it. I dug furiously through my pile of fabrics, grabbing whatever looked interesting and started cutting. I had so much fun putting that wall hanging together! I realized I like the flaws and "happy accidents" that happen with this type of free form quilt making. I haven’t looked back since!
I opened my Etsy shop in February 2006. It’s been a great way to learn about on-line selling (and buying!), meet some awesome people with similar interests and show my fabric art to an international audience.
Available at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com
How did you learn to quilt?
I’m pretty much self-taught. I’ve read a lot of quilting and art books. I’ve worked with miles of thread and oodles of fabric. Lots of experimenting and trial and error.
You make and sell three different lines of quilted lobsters art dolls. So really.... why lobsters?
I love my lobsters. It didn’t start out that way, though. Lobsters are kind of a Maine cliché. All the locals roll their eyes at the idea of a stuffed toy lobsters found in tourist shops on the coast. I did one lobster originally—reluctantly--at the request of a customer. Then, I figured since I’d spent all that time figuring out a pattern, I’d do a few more. I started making the lobsters from flannel shirts (also very "Maine") in all kinds of crazy colors—not just "traditional" red and, over time, started seeing them as canvases--jumping off points for some fairly crazy ideas. Though some of the lobsters can take 6-8 hours, they’re also a nice break
from longer quilted projects. Some of them (like my pirate lobstarrr or my mermaid-wannabe lobster) make me laugh when I’m making them. It gives me a chance to play and explore with techniques and to lighten up my day. Really…who can take a lobster all that seriously? And, in a strange way, I’m starting to feel like my lobsters honor how I feel about growing up in Maine. In integral ways, this place has influenced the way I think, learn, grow and interact with the world.Above, right: Mr. Red and NotYerAverage Goth Lobster both by Janyce Boynton. Available at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com
Are you able to work your art full time?
I recently made the decision to focus on my shop and artwork full time. I was sewing for someone and doing my Etsy shop on the side. While I loved working with handmade textiles to create beautiful clothing, I found didn’t have a lot of energy to put into my own work at the end of the day. Because of the ebb and flow of the clothing business, I also went weeks sometimes without updating my shop or producing anything new. After struggling with trying to find some balance, I decided to leave that job in April, 2008. I still may need to pick up a part-time job for practical reasons, but it won’t be sewing for anyone else. My intention is to focus as much time on my own artwork as I possibly can.
Describe your creative process.
A spark of an idea. An image. A color. A word or phrase that strikes me as odd or new or unusual. Any tidbit that sticks in my brain is worth pursuing to me. I don’t always have an exact idea of what I’m doing or how the finished product is going to look when I start out. Often, I do a life-sized sketch—an impression--to use as a guide. I’m totally comfortable with making changes, though, if the fabric or design dictates it. My best pieces seem to have a mind and flow of their own. I swear I could just throw all the pieces of fabric in the middle of the floor and the quilt would make itself. If I’m struggling, I know there’s something about the piece that isn’t true—I’m forcing the design or fabric or concept or process in some way. That’s when I need to step back and take a breather. Solutions to design problems usually come when I’m doing something else—walking or baking or playing music.
What inspires you and influences your work? So many things inspire me—nature, music, literature, great art. As for people, I’d say my grandmother, who always had crafts for us to do when we went to visit, and some friends who taught me how to do Ukrainian-style eggs (pysanky). I vividly remember how slow the process was—the sweet smell of the beeswax—the food we ate and the conversations we had throughout a long weekend of egg decorating. Once the wax goes down on the egg, there really isn’t any way to change it. Through this process, I became more comfortable living with my mistakes…incorporating them somehow into the design of the piece. It planted a seed somewhere in my consciousness that art was more than just slapping some paint on paper (I wasn’t quilting back then). It was a life-style: a way of being. The deeper I get into the artistic process, the more introspective and aware I become of my own processes and how those effect what I produce, the closer I feel to living what I am creating. A "sojourn" is a "resting place along life’s journey" I try (with varying degrees of success) to bring a piece of that sentiment into every piece I make.
Available at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com
What do you do when you're not quilting?
I love taking walks in my neighborhood and in Acadia National and Baxter State Parks in Maine. Walking gives me a sensory understanding of the world that doesn’t come from whizzing by the trees and mountains and ocean in a car. I also play guitar (a bit) and sing. I’m into cooking, too, especially breads and cookies. I’m getting fresh vegetables from a local food guild this summer…and love trying to find new ways to prepare the vegetables. I even found a great recipe for turnip! Imagine that!
What craft or art form do you wish you could do?
Spinning wool, pottery and metal work. I think because they’re all tactile and alive somehow. I love what people can do with bits of hair, mud and metal. Done well—so inspiring.
What is your favorite handmade possession?
A hand-carved, primitive owl some friends gave me when I graduated from college. They were the coolest, oldest people I knew at the time—always looking for ways to keep their minds and bodies alive and well. They were probably the first people in my life who really saw me for who I was or could be. I think about how important that is every time I look at the owl.
Silly Purple and Orange Bird Miniature Collage by Janyce BoyntonAvailable at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com
How do you promote your business?
Ah, marketing! It’s my weakest area. I tried doing shows for a while and hated them. So, I’m putting my focus on building a stronger on-line presence. I’ve got my Etsy shop and Flickr account. I’ve also joined two street teams: Visual Artists Street Team and Etsy Guild for Art Dolls and Such. I’ve just had some professional pictures done of my lobsters and am in the process of applying to several online advertising sites. I’ve spoken locally to groups about my experience as a woman starting out in business. I also have a blog called What Shoes I Wear where I interview other artisans about how they use creativity to understand and rise above life’s more challenging moments. It’s been a great way to meet people from around the world, learn some new and interesting things and stay inspired.
Do you have any advice for other indie artists?
Learn the business end of things. It’s easy to become absorbed in creating and let the paperwork and other boring administrative stuff go by the wayside. I think most artists starting out (me included) undervalue their work. Learning pricing formulas and basic accounting skills helps de-mystify how money moves through a business. It’s the only way I know of to actually make sure I’m making a profit. After that, focus on what you love to do. Listen to your own natural rhythms. Hear what your eyes and hands and heart is telling you. Be sensitive enough to honor those feelings, courageous enough to put those feelings into action, and strong enough to move beyond the naysayers and self-doubts. After all that…laugh…have fun…take risks…don’t take life too seriously.
Who are some of your favorite Etsysellers or indie artists?
Oh, so many talented people to pick from! Jewelry maker Farafield, Fiber Artist Ontheround --who just started on Etsy , painter Rukshanahooda from India and many of the VAST artists, the art doll makers from EGADS (http://egadsteam.blogspot.com/), potter Dayle Tognoni Ward. Really, I could go on and on. I’ve got a favorites list available to view in my shop on Etsy.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Oh, gosh. I haven’t decided yet. I’m soon to be 46 and am just finding my stride in life. I want to be young at heart, happy, always curious, always learning new things…and open to whatever shapes and forms that takes. It’s about the process for me…I’m not sure I care to actually reach the point where I’m grown up! I’m having way too much fun!
Orange Flower and Me by Janyce BoyntonSee more at www.SojournQuilts.etsy.com
Friday, July 25, 2008
Mediterranean Dreams
We've just listed these beautiful photographs by Wendy in our shop. Each are from her travels to her homeland of Greece.
Enjoy!
Monique
Enjoy!
Monique
Available at threemusesart.etsy.com
Oooh... Picasa
I love Picasa's easy to use photo management software, but this is new to me. I just discovered they have an animated gif generator. Unlike other programs, Picasion.com allows you to create animated gifs with more images and more options. I just created a few versions of this to use on our social networking sites, like Facebook and MySpace.
Flickr and Picasa users can import pictures directly from their online albums, and anyone can upload images from their own computer. Picasion.com will generate an animated gif you can save to disk, a URL you can link to, and HTML code you can post on your blog or webpage.
Hugs,
Monique
Flickr and Picasa users can import pictures directly from their online albums, and anyone can upload images from their own computer. Picasion.com will generate an animated gif you can save to disk, a URL you can link to, and HTML code you can post on your blog or webpage.
Hugs,
Monique
Indie Artist Spotlight: Shelby Crutchley, Encaustic Painter
This week, I had the chance to chat with Shelby Crutchley, a member of Etsy's Visual Artist Street team, about her work and online art business. Shelby and her business partner Beth own BS Art Studios, and the online store by the same name. Ironically, Shelby and Beth met working a a creative arts firm, where, Shelby explains, "we learned you can actually make a living by doing art".
A long-time artist, Shelby has recently taken the plunge to working full-time for herself as a professional artist. "About a year ago I resigned from my job as a sales person for a creative arts firm and had been working a part-time job. I just recently quit the part time job to focus on this full time." She admits, "It is so scary, but exciting and liberating."
Shelby is a talented artist, working in a medium that may be unfamiliar to some. I've always been an admirer of encaustic work, but like many, had questions about the process. Luckily, she readily explains some of what goes into encaustic painting.
Where did you study art? How did you learn?
Most of my learning has been self-taught. Thankfully I did have some amazing teachers in high school that helped me understand color theory pretty well. I do try to take classes at the local art league just to see what other people are doing and to find new techniques and such. Art is a lifelong learning process. I hope I never stop.
Can you tell us about your creative process?
What I love is color. Something may catch my eye, like a magazine ad, a comforter, a towel, a flower, the ocean. I try to remember those colors. Then, when I am in my studio, I start by mixing a bunch of colors. Once I have completed the mixing process (most time intensive part) I just play.
What exactly is Encaustic?
Encaustic is the process of using wax, resin, and pigment to paint. An artist will heat the wax and fuse it to an absorbent surface (like a wooden panel or canvas). The artist must heat the paint to apply it to the surface, which is the tricky part, because it begins to cool almost instantly.
Encaustic painting is actually an ancient art. It started with the Romans and Egyptians around 100 CE. They would use wax to caulk their ships, and this progressed to using decorative pigments in the wax to create elaborate designs on the ships. If done correctly, encaustic painting can last thousands of years. It is very sturdy.
Like many, I've always wanted to experiment with encaustic painting, but have been half afraid I'd set my home on fire, and half afraid I'd breathe in something hazardous. Is is dangerous? Toxic?
I can completely understand. Working with encaustics isn't too dissimilar from working with oils. Stay within some parameters and you'll be fine. Just don't eat the paint!
But seriously, I make sure to do my work in a very well ventilated space. If you keep the paints under their flash point (depending on the type of wax, anywhere from 150 degrees to 250 degrees) you will avoid noxious fumes that happen when the paint begins to smoke. A temperature controlled hotplate or heat gun is the best way to do this. I also try to use a hue of some of the toxic pigments rather than the actual pigment (cadmium red hue, instead of cadmium red). Other than that, just make sure you take the same kind of precautions as you would when working with solvents and paints when you oil paint, and you should be fine.
Note: If you ever do smell fumes, or get lightheaded, make sure all heated surfaces are turned off and leave the room immediately. That probably means you did something incorrectly and the air needs to clear. If you're unsure about starting with encaustics, I believe R&F has a good listing of workshops across the country to attend.
Above right: Fiery Passion by BS Art Studio
Herding Fish. I took the colors from my honeymoon (we just got back on July 5th). We were snorkeling and taking pictures, and my husband kept having me "herd the fish" towards him by swimming through them. The colors in the fish and the movement they has was so spectacular. I cannot even begin to depict it, but it is fun to try.
How do you promote your business?
I'm doing a lot of social networking online. I'm telling everyone I know and meet about my work, handing out business cards constantly. Blogging, sharing blogs, writing articles. I've also entered some local art fairs, and I'm looking at possibly entering the festival circuit. It's a tough life sometimes, but I think it would be worth it. I'm very lucky to be able to paint for a living, to do something I love.
Do you have any advice for other indie artists?
Just keep your head up and keep going. I think a positive outlook is the most important part. People will pick up on it and be drawn to you. Negativity drives people and customers away. Do what you love, and the sales will come.
Who are some of your favorite Etsy sellers or indie artists?
That is hard. These are two sellers that were amazingly helpful when I first started on Etsy, and their work is very close to my mentality on life. Have fun and enjoy it
MDaisleyMoffitt.etsy.com
LiveFunky
Breaking Through by BSArtStudio.etsy.com
You can see more work by Shelby and Beth at BSArtStudio.etsy.com and on Shelby's blog at www.lableuefille.blogspot.com.
A long-time artist, Shelby has recently taken the plunge to working full-time for herself as a professional artist. "About a year ago I resigned from my job as a sales person for a creative arts firm and had been working a part-time job. I just recently quit the part time job to focus on this full time." She admits, "It is so scary, but exciting and liberating."
Shelby is a talented artist, working in a medium that may be unfamiliar to some. I've always been an admirer of encaustic work, but like many, had questions about the process. Luckily, she readily explains some of what goes into encaustic painting.
Where did you study art? How did you learn?
Most of my learning has been self-taught. Thankfully I did have some amazing teachers in high school that helped me understand color theory pretty well. I do try to take classes at the local art league just to see what other people are doing and to find new techniques and such. Art is a lifelong learning process. I hope I never stop.
Can you tell us about your creative process?
What I love is color. Something may catch my eye, like a magazine ad, a comforter, a towel, a flower, the ocean. I try to remember those colors. Then, when I am in my studio, I start by mixing a bunch of colors. Once I have completed the mixing process (most time intensive part) I just play.
What exactly is Encaustic?
Encaustic is the process of using wax, resin, and pigment to paint. An artist will heat the wax and fuse it to an absorbent surface (like a wooden panel or canvas). The artist must heat the paint to apply it to the surface, which is the tricky part, because it begins to cool almost instantly.
Encaustic painting is actually an ancient art. It started with the Romans and Egyptians around 100 CE. They would use wax to caulk their ships, and this progressed to using decorative pigments in the wax to create elaborate designs on the ships. If done correctly, encaustic painting can last thousands of years. It is very sturdy.
Like many, I've always wanted to experiment with encaustic painting, but have been half afraid I'd set my home on fire, and half afraid I'd breathe in something hazardous. Is is dangerous? Toxic?
I can completely understand. Working with encaustics isn't too dissimilar from working with oils. Stay within some parameters and you'll be fine. Just don't eat the paint!
But seriously, I make sure to do my work in a very well ventilated space. If you keep the paints under their flash point (depending on the type of wax, anywhere from 150 degrees to 250 degrees) you will avoid noxious fumes that happen when the paint begins to smoke. A temperature controlled hotplate or heat gun is the best way to do this. I also try to use a hue of some of the toxic pigments rather than the actual pigment (cadmium red hue, instead of cadmium red). Other than that, just make sure you take the same kind of precautions as you would when working with solvents and paints when you oil paint, and you should be fine.
Note: If you ever do smell fumes, or get lightheaded, make sure all heated surfaces are turned off and leave the room immediately. That probably means you did something incorrectly and the air needs to clear. If you're unsure about starting with encaustics, I believe R&F has a good listing of workshops across the country to attend.
Above right: Fiery Passion by BS Art Studio
Who, or what, are your artistic influences?
Artistically speaking, I find a great amount of influence from the Abstract Expressionists. Color wise, I am in love with contemporary impressionists and the color choices they use.
What about your professional influences?
In life, the people around me both influence and inspire me. My parents have an amazing work ethic and have always pushed me. I am always striving to do as much as my husband seems to be able to do - I swear he is superman. Someday I hope I have the wealth of creativity that he does.
Artistically speaking, I find a great amount of influence from the Abstract Expressionists. Color wise, I am in love with contemporary impressionists and the color choices they use.
What about your professional influences?
In life, the people around me both influence and inspire me. My parents have an amazing work ethic and have always pushed me. I am always striving to do as much as my husband seems to be able to do - I swear he is superman. Someday I hope I have the wealth of creativity that he does.
What do you do besides make awesome things?
I love movies. Especially summer blockbusters with lots of action. I love to read, and actually have to limit how much I read because I lose track of reality.
I love movies. Especially summer blockbusters with lots of action. I love to read, and actually have to limit how much I read because I lose track of reality.
What is your favorite handmade possession?
A silver color platter in the shape of an oyster shell. It is so elegant and beautiful. Truly a piece of art - but completely functional and practical.
What is your favorite creation from your shop?Herding Fish. I took the colors from my honeymoon (we just got back on July 5th). We were snorkeling and taking pictures, and my husband kept having me "herd the fish" towards him by swimming through them. The colors in the fish and the movement they has was so spectacular. I cannot even begin to depict it, but it is fun to try.
I'm doing a lot of social networking online. I'm telling everyone I know and meet about my work, handing out business cards constantly. Blogging, sharing blogs, writing articles. I've also entered some local art fairs, and I'm looking at possibly entering the festival circuit. It's a tough life sometimes, but I think it would be worth it. I'm very lucky to be able to paint for a living, to do something I love.
Do you have any advice for other indie artists?
Just keep your head up and keep going. I think a positive outlook is the most important part. People will pick up on it and be drawn to you. Negativity drives people and customers away. Do what you love, and the sales will come.
Who are some of your favorite Etsy sellers or indie artists?
That is hard. These are two sellers that were amazingly helpful when I first started on Etsy, and their work is very close to my mentality on life. Have fun and enjoy it
MDaisleyMoffitt.etsy.com
LiveFunky
What do you want to be when you grow up?
I don't quite know yet, but I think I'm doing it. Painting for a living. Maybe professional traveler too. Then life would be perfect.
Breaking Through by BSArtStudio.etsy.comYou can see more work by Shelby and Beth at BSArtStudio.etsy.com and on Shelby's blog at www.lableuefille.blogspot.com.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Etsy Treasures: Young Artists
As Etsy is quickly becoming known as the online marketplace for original art and handmade crafts, its community continues to grow by leaps and bounds. I've been thrilled to see some of my local friends join the ranks of indie entrepreneurs and open their own shops.
Even more exciting, I think, is the number of young people joining the Etsy community and selling their art or craft online. And by young, I mean young... you can find work by first-graders on Etsy, often in special sections of their parents shops.
Of course, Etsy has rules, guidelines and suggestions to protect both children and buyers. Shops listing the work of persons under the age of 18 are to be run or overseen by an adult, who agrees to Etsy's Terms of Service. Still, kids are creating their own artwork, writing their own listings, and selling online. It takes the idea of the lemonade stand to a whole new level. As an educator, it's heartening to see parents and youngsters embracing art together, and to see kids getting positive attention for their efforts and some sort of real-life "work" experience, as varied as that may be. As one parent puts it, these young artists are "learning the valuable lesson that Legos don't grow on trees".
That said, check out the work by these talented young people and be sure to visit their shops!
Audrey just turned 16 today-- Happy Birthday! Her shop is full of hand-drawn ACEOs and bookmarks with quirky characters like this one.
Wide Eyed Bride ACEO by Audrey of auddities.etsy.com
Even more exciting, I think, is the number of young people joining the Etsy community and selling their art or craft online. And by young, I mean young... you can find work by first-graders on Etsy, often in special sections of their parents shops.
Of course, Etsy has rules, guidelines and suggestions to protect both children and buyers. Shops listing the work of persons under the age of 18 are to be run or overseen by an adult, who agrees to Etsy's Terms of Service. Still, kids are creating their own artwork, writing their own listings, and selling online. It takes the idea of the lemonade stand to a whole new level. As an educator, it's heartening to see parents and youngsters embracing art together, and to see kids getting positive attention for their efforts and some sort of real-life "work" experience, as varied as that may be. As one parent puts it, these young artists are "learning the valuable lesson that Legos don't grow on trees".
That said, check out the work by these talented young people and be sure to visit their shops!
Audrey just turned 16 today-- Happy Birthday! Her shop is full of hand-drawn ACEOs and bookmarks with quirky characters like this one.
Wide Eyed Bride ACEO by Audrey of auddities.etsy.comAvo, age 8, is one of my favorite young artists on Etsy. I've enjoyed chatting with him about materials and ideas for his fantasy-inspired sculptures. As the name suggests, DragonFairies.etsy.com is home to many strange and mythical creatures. Ar is clearly a family activity; Avo's shop includes work by his 5 year old brother, and both his parents has their own Etsy shops.
The Dragon and The Brave Night by Avo of DragonFairies.etsy.com
The Dragon and The Brave Night by Avo of DragonFairies.etsy.comI happen to love robots... and pirates and ninjas. Luckily, so does Connor of roboboy.etsy.com. He just turned 7, and with the help of his mom (pacokeco.etsy.com), Connor is putting his original art on greeting cards, gift tags, and even handmade rubber stamps.
by Connor of roboboy.etsy.com
Etsy Rocket Ship Mounted Rubber Stamp
by Joshua of notjustartsandcrafts.etsy.com
Joshua is another young artist following in the steps of an entrepreneurial parent. His mom's shop, terbearco.etsy.com, is known for wonderful handmade stamps, and now Joshua, a fifth-grader, is making his own featuring his original art. This one is great for Etsians, but both Joshua and his mom will create custom stamps for you.
Etsy Rocket Ship Mounted Rubber Stampby Joshua of notjustartsandcrafts.etsy.com
TresLocas.etsy.com is a shop for two amazingly talented artists, Onyx (age 9) and Néa (age 6), and their mom. Most of the art is their shop are original paintings and mixed media work, rather than prints. There is so much to see at this shop. I'm showing you my personal favorite, but check out all of their work.
Frida is Not Well by Onyx of TresLocas.etsy.com
Flower Girl by Nea of TresLocas.etsy.com
You can sometimes find handmade dolls by Hannah, in a section in her mother's shop at penpusher.etsy.com. Hannah is ten, and has been crafting for several years already.
Shy Nadine: Handmade Fairy Doll
by Hannah at penpusher.etsy.com
Frida is Not Well by Onyx of TresLocas.etsy.comFlower Girl by Nea of TresLocas.etsy.comYou can sometimes find handmade dolls by Hannah, in a section in her mother's shop at penpusher.etsy.com. Hannah is ten, and has been crafting for several years already.
Shy Nadine: Handmade Fairy Dollby Hannah at penpusher.etsy.com
Madelaine started selling her photography and digital art on Etsy when she was only 16. People are often surprised to discover her age (now 17), when they encounter her hauntingly beautiful work and pure professionalism. Madelaine is a great example of what can happen when you allow young artists the opportunity to practice their craft, explore their artistic interests, and even start their own businesses.
The Offering by Madelaine of madelaine.etsy.com
The Offering by Madelaine of madelaine.etsy.comAd Madelaine returns to college full-time this fall, I can only imagine she'll be swamped with her course load but learning much from school and life to enrich her art. Luckily, she's already passing the torch to her younger brother, Silas. Only 7 years old, Silas has opened shop at gummytoes.etsy.com with the help of Madelaine and their mother. I'm looking forward to seeing more by Silas and other young artists!
Friday, July 18, 2008
Indie Artist Spotlight: Jennifer Price Davis
I think I fell in love when I discovered this ACEO by Jennifer Price Davis, at right. Recently, I had an opportunity to chat with the artist about her life and work.Jennifer has been making art as long as she can remember. "I got started by making pretend art shows with my sister where we’d paint like a hundred thumbprints on a piece of paper, then write “5 cents” in the corner! We were gearing up for a HUGE art sale. I imagined myself in a gallery even then." Luckily for us, Jennifer opened her first Etsy shop, www.gingerlime.etsy.com, in November of 2007. After nearly a year, she is moving into a new shop with a more recognizable name - www.jenniferpricedavis.etsy.com.
Jennifer is a mixed media artist whose work is bright with raw energy. In addition to her paintings and ACEOs (Artist Cards, Editions & Originals-- mini works of ark), she also makes handpainted magnets, pushpins and pendants.
Where did you study art? How did you learn?
Basic drawing classes in high school and college. I also took a painting and ceramics course to get into an Art Therapy program. Other than that I just play.
Are you a full time artist?
I don’t do it full time yet! I am also a Career Counselor (ironic, huh) I don’t know if they impact each other really. I know that doing one makes me more aware of how much I want to do the other, though I really appreciate my current job and the great experiences I have.
Can you tell us about your creative process?
My process is pretty simple: Wake up at 5:00am(ish) and run to the attic; pick up what I am working on or want to work on; get paint, paper, and any other media down until it feels like what I felt inside is on the “canvas”. Throughout the process I tell myself to breathe, play, and take my time because I get sad when I have to stop, but that’s no reason to rush. Promise myself that if it doesn’t turn out, I can throw away or recycle if possible…I also promise myself that I’ll clean up my studio – next time.
Ever by Jennifer Price Davis.Available at JenniferPriceDavis.etsy.com
Who, or what, are your influences and inspiration?
Hmmmm, my husband and son motivate me and inspire me. My mom, dad, and sister are all influences in my life too. Other than that, I am inspired when I see any art and feel the soul of the piece. Yoga, color, love, humor, faith questions, suffering…all of that stuff inspires me. Lastly, people are my inspiration. The life around me is amazing and I wish people knew how awesome we are.
Hmmmm, my husband and son motivate me and inspire me. My mom, dad, and sister are all influences in my life too. Other than that, I am inspired when I see any art and feel the soul of the piece. Yoga, color, love, humor, faith questions, suffering…all of that stuff inspires me. Lastly, people are my inspiration. The life around me is amazing and I wish people knew how awesome we are.
Available at JenniferPriceDavis.etsy.com
What do you do besides make awesome things?
I find new and exciting ways to use ellipses (…) and smileys! I eat awesome food because my husband is the best cook ever! I work, run on occasion, and play with my little guy – we dance and watch a lot of cartoons and superhero stuff…I love that stuff!
I find new and exciting ways to use ellipses (…) and smileys! I eat awesome food because my husband is the best cook ever! I work, run on occasion, and play with my little guy – we dance and watch a lot of cartoons and superhero stuff…I love that stuff!
What is your favorite handmade possession?
A blanket that my mom got from a woman who knitted it for me when I was a baby. She passed it on to my son when he was a newborn. Of his blankets, that became his “must have” blanket (still is now and he’s 5). He named it “Monkey”.
What is your favorite creation from your shop?It would have to be Tuesday I and Tuesday II. I LOVED using spackle/spackling… I’ll be doing more of that.
How do you promote your business?
I talk about it quite a bit. It’s an extension of me. I have done a few home shows, mostly featuring my jewelry, but more recently, my heart ~ mixed media painting. I enter local shows and auctions to get my name out there and my house is full of my art (thanks to my husband and his cousin). I actually sold 3 pieces to family visiting from out of town because it was hanging!
12.Do you have any advice for other indie artists?
I’m still working at it myself, but you have to believe in yourself. You can’t let anyone define you or discourage you. You also have to get good at what you love and play! Don’t say I can’t make that…you might not be able to sell it, but you can make whatever’s in your heart.
Who are some of your favorite Etsy sellers or indie artists?
Now that’s tough…Etsy rocks too hard and I don’t know a lot outside, but right now, my favorite shops and/or pieces are:
http://maryannwakeley.etsy.com
http://abreakastudios.etsy.com
Dog's Astral Trip with Angels in Hats by bogARTstudiogallery
Scandal by Rebecca Meyerson of Three Muses
What do you want to be when you grow up?
I don’t know about what, but I know who I want to be when I grow up…That answer is me!
I Tell My Secrets to Butterflies by Jennifer Price Davis
Available at JenniferPriceDavis.etsy.com
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