101 Bird Tales

What Cinderella Story would you tell?

2012-01-28T03:40:00.000-08:00

There has been a flurry, scurry, sweeping, a few breakages, a lot of preparation and fatigue as the mid-point assessment for the art MA this past week. It's finished now. I'm exhausted but so much flying around my head . . . Here is the glass shoe I made for Cinderella . . . a prop for a photo-set I wanted to create (it didn't end up featuring this shoe though!)

I have stories thickly lining every aspect of my being right now as I scribed my way through my online research folio to illustrate the thinking behind my art-work . . . I'm interested in the stories of female protagonists, heroines, those with rich experiences and stories of survival. I enjoy the variety, the suggestion, the alternative story and the way it can enrich . . . not confining stories conveying limited identities or actions.

The notion of wearing a glass slipper to a ball seems glamourous, yet the the reality would be totally painful. I feel there is more to many of the fairy tales we hear and would love to imagine what Cinderella's alternative or original story might be.

I created the shoe by chipping and cutting fragments of mirror - another item that can determine many a woman's life! ;) I like the idea of inner-reflection, of identifying the things within that mean the most and then living by them, honouring that story, need, or desire within.

Here, for me, Cinderella has left, absconded the confines of something polemical, traditional - there is something else going on. What is your story? What would you like to do?

Just for today I invite you to go make/create something with your hands, something soulful, that resonates with you and who you are. Begin to create and weave your story.

Amelia.x

a peak in to studio experimenting . . . and precious moments . . .

2012-01-18T13:50:00.000-08:00

See above some work going on in the project space at college . . . . just a snippet . . . . (I could be found tramping in mud wearing it early one morning in my garden attempting an authentic 'look' for my fairy tale :0) - would be interested to hear any ideas as to what tale you think this portion of an image refers to? (will show you more of the bigger picture soon) . . . .

I'm also excited because I just found this image:

Having recently sold it at Cannizaro House (yay), I was berating myself for not documenting it, but here I find a record of it (yay again). Called 'Beneath', and made with acrylic and household paint, ink, collage and glitter on board. Thank you to the person who bought it if you ever read here :)

things I'm enjoying:

Wishing to reflect a little more on good things and precious moments - below are some of those:

:: enjoying hot buttered crumpets and homemade spring rolls with sweet chilli dip

:: sneaking a quiet morning alone at this gallery and looking at works by Mark Wallinger and various film/performance pieces as I explore this in my own work

:: an accompanied visit to this gallery, with a meander around a farmers/food market trying tastey morsels of home-made food on a glittery bright day :)

:: spending long hours in the studio fulfilling (or attempting to) ideas for new pieces

:: learning how to tweak wordpress to get my online MA research folio up and running - I will link to it one day when it's more cohesive ;)

:: meandering with a good friend around an excellent carboot and finding large keys and old clocks for further fairy tale ideas

:: getting excited and preparing for this show coming up that I'm doing with 6 others - again, more to come soon

:: my daughters interesting and inspiring art work and talent

:: my son learning how to play chess (even if he does want to play it every 5 minutes!)

:: lighting an array of candles and watching them transform a room as I attempt to heat the coldness of my house (when I believe the heating to have broken down on the coldest day!)

:: doing a mixtape event at college. This involved those who wanted compiling their favourite tunes listened to whilst making art, with an image of their studio space on the CD cover. Such fun, a party ensued as we listened to the sounds (do try doing this swap with friends) and so I discovered this song

:: I've been meaning to watch this film all Christmas: Orphee in the name of art and research, and so I'm off to sneak a watch of it now

Amelia.x

Oh artful 2012 :)

2012-01-11T05:52:00.000-08:00

I'm delving head long in to the process of art and creativity, so still a little quieter than I intended on the blog. I've been stitching:

- a glimpse of my fairy lit place at the dining table when all is quiet (and sheeting drying in the background!) some new ideas for art involving embroidery hoops (there are added embellishments on this piece which I may show later on . . .)

I'm also in the project space in the MA studios working out my next fairy tale installation (more to come). Inspired at the moment by Anne Hardy.

And the image at the top was a special request for a Cargo Label from the MA Fundraiser - its a pencil drawing I did on one piece of paper, which I then cut and collaged onto the handmake cargo label. I've decided this will be ongoing (and I'm in such a making mood at the moment), so if you would like to join in and have your very own piece of art, please do! Most of my labels have been collaged with stitching and bits of fabric in them (I had lots of pictures of the ones I made around Christmas but they seem to have gone from my camera - kids?!) - if you have any special requests let me know.

If you would like to know how to do your own work - similar to that above - there are places available to join the vibrant OPEN ACCESS experimental art e-course group. You get access to the whole course until October 1st 2012 remember (whilst I do my MA art-ing too).

And finally, I've got my Journal Your Dreams Open Access course up to speed so if you would like to arftfully journal some 2012 dreams, click on the above link (there's even a special offer if you would like to do both the experimental art e-course and the Journal your Dreams workshop open access) and you can always email me with any queries you may have before joining (ameliacritchlow{@}hotmail{dot}com

I know this next 9 months of the MA will be crazy, crazy but I intend to enjoy every moment of steeping myself in art and its processes - I truly believe creativity is a key component of wellness and looking after oneself, and that's what I'm trying to do this year too!

Hope you're having a creative time and if you want to share any artists at all who inspire you, I would love to hear about them in the comments (those of you who know me or who've done the course, know how wide and varied my interest in art is!) so please leave a link or name or both :)

Happy making,

Amelia.x

thrifting, stitching and art research . . . .

2012-01-06T01:55:00.000-08:00

It's calmed down a little today. There's been winds of scarily high velocity around here recently. I've been awake in the night listening to howling wind whipping over my roof from my attic room and wondering if trees will blow down. A little peak of the view from my attic room window yesterday morning:

It's probably hard to fathom the gusts that were gale-ing through the back gardens in South London here yesterday - can you spy the movement in the trees? The slipped chimney top, bottom left?

Now I'm sitting here listening to the hum of one computer, whilst I tap away on another, sipping 'Adventure' - a yumchaa tea. There's been lots of warm home-made soup around here. Lentil and carrot, sweet potato and carrot - I can't recommend these combinations enough. And for breakfast: chopped nuts, banana, and plain yoghurt with maple - yum.

I'm entering a period of research. The next art project before my MA assessment toward the end of this month. And feeling a little stuck. Do you ever feel 'stuck', a bit like a syruppy feeling of being weighed down? Maybe I need some fresh inspiration. So I've been thrifting a little, looking for props for another installation idea in the local charity shops.

I will be heading to Northcote Road today to search some more of them. Yesterday was spent doing the same. And whilst looking for props keeping my eyes peeled for white ceramic cups as I'm keen to do a little making at home, and I'm loving this idea (scroll down a bit). I found a couple and will be adding to my collection. It's all part of the feeling of needing to be at home, downtime, making, crafting, art-ing . . . . . . . so yesterday I ended the day by sitting in my studio listening to music my studio share/mate was playing (brilliant tracks he's made and recorded himself!) finishing this stitched piece (top). An image taken from an Arthur Rackham illustration. I'm playing around with what appears when depictions of female figures in fairy tales are taken out of context. Can you tell what old fairy story this image might be from?

I'm just working through lots of ideas at the moment, and attempting to find my way by doing. Art's not always easy, but it can open up many intriguing portals in life to meander through . . . . .

Back soon,

Amelia.x

PS. I've a couple of other ideas too and will keep you posted so you can maybe try too, it involves pieces from old board games to give you a clue ;) . . . . .

welcoming 2012, the love of home art-ing + your intentions?

2012-01-04T02:28:00.000-08:00

I'm home! A little peak into my space. Funny how time out gets you thinking and appreciating. I love my home, the love and care I've put in to it. The handmade cushions in red you can see, the died black sofa covers when I got fed up of the old colour, the wooden flea-market find art cupboard behind, and the pink mirror I reclaimed from the streets and painted angel pink, filling the edges with some of my favourite inspiring art postcards.

On the cupboard a hand printed 'merry christmas' card printed with wooden vintage letter presses found at another fair, and my alcove of shelves created from chopped wood from a timbers yard with the alcove painted angel pink again, and the shelves filled with my favourite books of artand craft. The wooden cupboard door a skip find (someone was chucking out a stripped pine original door?!!), and some original bits of art I've bought at street and other art fairs. And fairy lights . . . my world just isn't the same without fairy lights :) I could spend my time just making and reclaiming my whole home, even a house (of which regular readers will know I dalliance with doing one day!)

What are you intentions for 2012?

I feel renewed after my break, and renewed with ideas. A health kick means morning tea has gone replaced by boiled water with fresh lemon slices. An alcohol free month (I do like a glass of wine in the evening so only a month).

Going deep into the zone of doing nothing but being during my break I find things naturally come to mind. What came up is a need for more vitamins for my body, and a desire to sink deep into the space of my home and family. I find I run toward things I love doing (art, business, socialising) but they can frequently take me from home and family causing a tension which in turn leads to stress. The saying 'what you resist persists' rings true at this time. Sometimes I resist the hardship that raising children and managing a home brings, but I sense its time to embrace it. Which is why there has been more home-baking going on around here: wheat free cheese scones anyone? And time playing games and going slowly. Doing things I might otherwise baulk at. Where this leaves the other things in my life I don't know yet, as I've also come back to knee deep writing for stage two of my MA art thesis (of which I am procrastinating from doing whilst writing this long blog post). I think there is a realisation happening that I'm always trying to get to somewhere, but maybe I'll never arrive. I am here now. This post acted as reminder of this.

My intentions then: to slow down, to create more, to bake more, to sink fully into home and family oh, and of course somehow finish my MA whilst balancing the other things and not getting too stressed. To take of myself and others. To cherish, appreciate and remain mindfully grateful of the good things in my life, focusing less on what is hard and tough and being present in the moment and nowhere else :)

I wanted to write my reflective post of 2011 but it's not arrived yet. Sometimes when I sit to write a post I see what comes out. The above is what appeared. Maybe a reflection on 2011 will come in time, but right now I leave you with this and I'd like to hear your intentions for 2012? Oh and another of mine is to blog more and be more present here in this virtual space. The MA has seen it slip a little of late. We will see.

HAPPY NEW YEAR to you! And I look forward to hearing from you.

Amelia.x

PS I feel a renewed sense of making and creating coming on too so watch this space for some art/making ideas!

a little fragment of now . . . with more to come . . .

2011-12-30T14:10:00.000-08:00

wishing to sit and write a long ole post to reflect on the year (I did December reflections last year) I think it´ll have to wait until the New Year now. I'm currently taking a well-earned break. A break from my MA, my life as I know it domestically. I´ve even come away without my computer and only books to read and two small notebooks to make notes in - a break from the computer and internet even, wow! Much of 2011 saw me down a virtual rabbit´s warren and at times it got too much. A break from working too hard and even thinking far too much. It feels quite strange but good to unwind although I realise wherever I go the worry doesn´t necessarily go!

I'm reflecting, appreciating, reading, planning and well, still thinking . . . I can´t help it. I have ideas, goals and plans ready for the next year and intend to start the ball rolling. When I´m back home on my own computer I will update you. In the meantime I wish you all such a merry time on New Year´s eve and a fantastic 2012. Thank you ALL of you for taking the time to stop by, to say hi, to wish me well, it means so much :)

And hello to new people who have joined the Open Access experimental art e-course class and for those of you thinking of joining you can find out more and sign up here . . .

Amelia.x

merry christmas to you

2011-12-25T01:46:00.000-08:00

life has been full of . . . . .

2011-12-18T09:08:00.000-08:00

life has been full of . . .

1. the smell of food
2. hospital waiting rooms
3. doctor's waiting rooms
4. making a mirror-fragment slipper
5. writing 2000 words for a thesis
6. planning and hosting a 9 year olds birthday party
7. caring for elderly parents
8. cycling through crisp sunny coldness
9. making love
10. meetings with a solicitor
11. resting when I can grab it
12. drinking wine
13. buying a taxidermy crow
14. singing karaoke in a working mens pub
15. meeting with asperger workers
16. running mosaic workshops
17. visiting the new contemporaries show
18. crying
19. laughing
20. wondering about christmas
21. wishing I had more energy
22. discovering this work
23. reading From the Beast to the Blonde: On Fairy Tales and Their Tellers

incoherent thoughts (involving both art and life)

2011-12-04T09:22:00.000-08:00

I'm sipping Jamaican Rum. I'm two weekends past the Wimbledon Art Studios open event - it was brilliant. I sold a good many works - thank you lovely people. I met some great folk, and new connections have been forged. And then this weekend the Crafty Pint extravaganza. Absolutely AMAZING. 105 people in South London at the old Tram Shed, making art/crafts, drinking strawberry cider, connecting and creating. Exhaustion is not the word. Oh and I'm 500 words into a thesis that looks incredibly like a fairy tale. . . . .

All of this in amongst fire-fighting the trickiness of Aspergers Syndrome; of understanding it, of living with it (my youngest), of being an artist, a mother, a carer. Navigating the terrain of LIFE. A life. My life. A real lack of understanding at times. What does it all mean? How does a mind with a form of autism work? Why does it manifest as it does? What causes it? What can I do? How can I protect as a mother? How can I weave the experience and story into my own art? I can barely separate it from my existence, and my existence feeds my art. . . . I think, but not much comes. Many thoughts, but a lack of coherence. Time passes so quickly with each day and minute filled with aspects of surviving, art-ing, fire-fighting and managing. Like I know many of us do. I don't know how we do. Life at times feels way to much.

But in between I have managed to visit this show: The Enchanted Palace (see image at top, a screen shot from their website) - I feel the need for enchantment. Can I create it for myself if it's not there? This is well worth a visit should you be in London/the area.

I know I also need to visit this show - Alice in Wonderland. I know I need to write my thesis, and rest, and clear up the house, and make some art work. I know I make choices, some of them were unknown to me (of the impact of them that is), others I try to make now in a more informed manner.

I listened to a talk by this man, and found myself questioning the understanding of 'absolutes' in the world. The tyranny (or so it seems) of 'signifiers' and the 'signified', versus the gentleness and fluctuating organic feel of personal symbols and intuition. Without intuition I would not be where I am today. Luce Irigaray talks of the world as a state of 'becoming', not resolute, concrete staticism (my interpretation). A dire need for the creative, organic flow and sense of being that comes with simply 'being' and of getting in touch with your inner tutor (intuition) - my own thoughts here.

I leave you with my thoughts. Tea is ready, we need to eat. And I have just overflowed the bath writing this blog post!

Amelia.x

Art Angel + Open Studios opens 24th Nov . . .

2011-11-21T23:31:00.000-08:00

"We were at a point where certain orthodoxies of Modernism had been convincingly dismantled. The idea of the tabula rasa, of starting with a blank canvas, was pretty hard to sustain. It wasn't necessary to eliminate a sense of environment, history, the layering of culture, the experience of the street from the work. The Arte Povera artists, for example, had opened up a very different kind of aesthetic space. We were interested in the idea that there could be a seepage of the work into the world and vice versa, to break down where the edge of the 'made' work might be, and where the edge of the 'found' world might be. In many of the projects with which we've been involved there is this kind of seepage of the one into the other. The choice of location is never secondary, and is often something that contributes actively to the meaning of the work. It's not just a container."

James Lingwood from: Off Limits: 40 Artangel Projects

This Thursday sees the opening of the Wimbledon Art Studios Open Event - I will be there in studio 307 with a collection of my art relating to fairy tales and stories. Come along and visit. Late night opening on Thursday and Friday evening (until 10pm):

Amelia.x

the tales of forests and symbols . . .

2011-11-10T02:59:00.000-08:00

above: a mini forest I've made in my living room. It's currently on the ironing board - ironing? What's that? - and in the background you can see the front door, stairs, part of my wall and one of my favourite glitter balls peaking in on the top right! The forests' idea is in keeping with my latest research in to stories and tales as I embark on phase 2 of my art MA. This is a small part of a bigger idea that is slowly formulating and all will be revealed in due course . . .

I am enthralled by "The Uses of Enchantment" book (see post below) which has led me on to this book: Man And His Symbolsthe symbolism of the forest is intriguing and used widely in fairy tales. I'm finding a way to link these ideas to my own story and to delve deeper in to symbolism in general and how they affect each and every one of us . . . travelling down the path I'm on has led me to these current conclusions, and I transcribe here what I scribbled in a notebook late one night . . . (note: these are subject to change as they reflect current thoughts at this stage of my research):

thoughts on art and life and the role of art/artists:

The role of artist's is to re-ignite enchantment, to engender and encourage fantasy (healthy ones!) and imagination as a means to positive expression that pertains more particularly to the emotional and feeling aspect of humans. Too much empirical information (i.e. rational and logical) can cause an imbalance, with a loss of the intuitive and instinctual side of life.

Stories/story-telling both orally and through art (not necessarily representational imagery) allows an emotional and intuitive state of play to come forth, encouraging the processing of 'information' in an alternative way (subconscious processing).

An 'internal' truth (your own personal truth) can also be explored, but it's a truth that's not necessarily static and factual, but subjective and nebulous - like life itself. 'Fixing' things and making them static can destroy creativity and at times can overwhelm - single, fixed points can diminish life rather than add to it it, whilst a rich variety of multitudes can enhance human life.

The artist can suggest through symbolism, in turn allowing the viewer to transfer or project their own stories, or individual 'challenges' and thus art presents a space to process, or resolve things at an emotional and unconscious level through the very experience of, and interaction with art, and what it may suggest to each individual viewer.

There are the worlds of consciousness and rationality, and there are worlds of emotion and intuition, both are as valid and as important as each other and both benefit from being in a state of balance, and so do we. . . . is this what art can do?

notes/thoughts on Nov 14th 2011

If you would like to know where I got my mini forest bits from, it's here: http://www.modelshop.co.uk/

Amelia.x

PS don't forget to book a spot on the crafty pint Christmas making extravaganza (you can make your own mini collaged canvas with me!) and there are places available on the Open Access experimental art e-course . . . and PPS thank you to those who've bought my e-book so far :) And thank you too, to those who continue to support my MA Fundraiser - you won't be disappointed by what I'm planning . . . . I just hope I can pull it off :0

it's been too long - a list for you

2011-11-03T00:36:00.000-07:00

time has flown and continues to fly. The evening's are getting darker now, it's cooler here in London with November skies, but still pleasant enough. There is much to get through and much to attend to, so before I head off on my bike through the back streets of London to college to day I leave you with a list, and every intention of being back sooner than last time . . . .

1. my second e-book has arrived in the virtual world:

you can read more and buy the book here . . . (I styled and took the photo for the cover too - am quite proud ;)

2. I'm excited to announce that Open Access experimental art e-course has taken off with a flying start and great group of people - if you want to join see here - a whole year of access to my course and art!

3. a friend has launched her new arty, mosaic site

4. I will be running a drop in Christmas workshop (make a mini collaged canvas) as part of the craftypint workshops on December - book a ticket and come along and make art with me!

5. I'm currently attempting to locate a BIG object to make my latest art idea . .. it's exciting and I will keep you posted. I've embarked on an ambitious idea but WILL find a way to make it work ;) quite inspired by this book: The Uses of Enchantment: The Meaning and Importance of Fairy Tales (Penguin Psychology)

6. I am so grateful to all of you who have and continue to support my MA fundraiser - you are AMAZING - thank you

7. my November newsletter is late, but is coming soon and will be packed with arty tidbits when it does arrive - if you want to sign up for it see left-hand column

8. I'm testing out google ad's (see bottom of left-hand column) I've mixed feelings this as there's a lot of debate in some parts of the blog world about ad's, however, I like to think it would offer you interesting places to visit that are art related - I've seen some that I don't think that much of, but have yet to figure out how to change them! . . . I also wish to draw attention to the ad's and they are all I intend to have ad-wise (apart from the support to small creative business in the right-hand column). I would be interested to hear your thoughts on this i.e. my having these here . . . . ?

Back soon and stay creative. . .

Amelia.x

How To Fill Your Sketchbook: 12 exciting art experiments

2011-10-21T06:02:00.000-07:00

I guess this is a pre-Christmas present . . . I've been working away on some e-book ideas and decided I should do one for you for FREE as a present to say THANK YOU! thank you for the support, the kind words, the visits, and the amazing leaps I've seen people take on the experimental art e-course . . .. so if you would like to find out more, and get my first ever e-book, head over to my shiny new 'art mailing list' and sign up to get your free copy (cover above - designed by me and the book has art made by me in it too!)

Also, my sis is giving away free tickets to a lovely event if you check out this post here . . . and I've finally made it back in to college for the beginnings of Year 2 of my art MA. I feel some installation art coming on amongst other things . . . watch this space. . . .

And remember, there is currently an early bird price offer on the SHINY NEW OPEN ACCESS experimental art e-course. Places are filling up . . so head over and grab your spot too if you want to join the party! You get to do art for the same whole year I'm doing art (on my MA) too.

LETS FILL THIS WORLD WITH ART AND CREATIVITY! :)

Amelia.x

lets make some great art + some other creative experiments

2011-10-13T05:26:00.000-07:00

Let's Make Some Great Art

it's been WILD around here. Lots of experiments and creating living. A little bit of cloud watching and wishing life wasn't quite so tough in some areas. Meetings about exhibitions. Plans to increase finance to get through the MA (ps thanks to those of you have joined in with my MA fundraiser, I'm having so much fun making little pieces of art - it's ongoing for those of you who would still like to join in!)
which brings me on to these things . . .

amazon affiliate!:

I've become an amazon affiliate seller! (see new latest art book discovery too at top, which I thought I would share with you to celebrate!) My world is not the same without books and so some of my absolute best ever, life-changing books are listed in the right-hand column on my blog and have been since its inception, but only now I've linked them as an affiliate! Check them out and if you like, go ahead and add them to your collection too - you won't regret it I can assure you ;) On my experimental e-course I list all my essential art books and on JYD others (which I think I'll be adding here on my blog!) I love life with books.

Speaking of the art e-course . . . creativity and being experimental right now . . . here's an example . . . . think of DRAWING say - how many think of drawing as picking up a pen/pencil holding it as you would if you were going to write and then using lines to depict something in front of you? Well, maybe many of you DON'T see it like that and I certainly don't. What if you were to use something different to draw with? 3D drawing and drawing the air? Drawing without looking? There are so many possibilities and I find them all so exciting. This is what you will find on the course and I've decided to do a creative experiment with my own art e-course.

my experimental art e-course announcement:

I'm going to make the experimental art e-course OPEN ACCESS. For one year (1st November 201 until 1st October 2012) I'm offering places on a brand spanking new course site! PAY ONCE at any point from NOW and you'll get to access the whole course in its entirety until October 1st 2012. Work at your own pace, connect with a community, share ideas, and study and dip in at your leisure. The main differences are: it will not run for 6 weeks (it'll run for one year or 11 months to be precise) and will not be 'tutored' as such by me, it's more a communal/own study route for those who want to art away at their leisure, PLUS it will also have new links, updated info such as where you can buy art materials from and instead of offering a free book you'll get a discount on my new (coming soon) e-book, HOW TO MAKE MONEY TO DO WHAT YOU LOVE (in this case your art?)

I will be increasing the price on November 1st 2011 to £90, but right now you can sign up and get the early bird price for the OPEN ACCESS EXPERIMENTAL ART E-COURSE which is still £75.

I'm excited about it all and have been beavering away to get these things up and running, phew, they all take soooo much time. I've been building away at my little online art empire for the last 2 years nearly and have so many ideas to take it all further, but there's only so much a little person can do whilst parenting, working, studying etc so they are coming, slowly but surely. I am living my message. If I can do it, you can do it too and I want to share all I am learning and doing myself as a creative person, artist and small business runner . . . I am also plotting a pay by referral scheme for those who have done the course and refer it on to others who then sign up - I will pay you for spreading the word. I'm still working out the best way to do this!

I start my MA now and so I'm getting all these things done as soon as I can . . .

Thank you to everyone who came to the Wandsworth Artists Open House Event, these past two weekends too. Lovely to meet you! And thank you for purchases too :)

Back soon!

Amelia.x

10 tips to help productivity and maintain creativity

2011-10-05T09:16:00.001-07:00

Here I am in the middle of the Artists Open House event. A busy weekend of visitors, cake eating, art viewing, and thank you to those who bought work too :) Another weekend of the same coming up . . .

I've got some other projects on the go that involve E-BOOKS for you. Ones to help us artists in the art-world and ones that talk about money to get there ;) . . . my head is always full of ideas and getting them out is a challenge and juggling act (one I enjoy of course!) and all of this before I delve head-long in to my art MA year two (am soooo excited!)

With that in mind, I've been thinking about productivity and maintaining creativity within a busy, hectic schedule. Those on my e-course are also talking about this and making wonderful art-work that speaks of it - and it's all brilliant! Am loving what's being created and generated on the course.

So here are things I do to keep up with myself, and maintain productivity and creativity:

Visualisations: I was once told and shown how key it is to do a conscious intention and self-protection each morning before the day gets in to full swing. Now before I start my day I do a five point visualisation that includes 'asking' and imaging. The whole grateful but asking thing too. We have free will but we need to ask for support in our endeavours.
Physical exercise: - I can't accentuate this one enough. If I cycle (I used to walk a lot but those days are currently in the past!) to my studio I find I can get my head down and be so much more productive than if I drive or haven't done any exercise at all
Eat well: hmmm we all know this one, but cooking with love, eating fresh foods, drinking a tonne of water all helps the body to operate at peak ability :) try it and see!
Research: I know I often find myself saying "how did they get there?" or "how do they do/manage that?" and whilst I don't know the answers I find it really inspiring to read up, or ask someone I admire the burning questions I have! Do some research; read some books, email some people you admire and ask a couple of questions, look on the net - get re-inspired to continue on your own creative/productive journey!
Do, don't think: sometimes I can think myself into frozen paralysis. This is even worse if you are a perfectionist like I tend to be. Nothing gets done when I think too much. At times I stop and instruct myself to start doing, because inevitably the act of doing leads to 'something' and quite often it can be something new, or even just achieving something that wasn't getting done
Write a list: writing lists (I'm convinced!) sends a message to the brain that the thing being written is going to be done, so it finds a way to get it done. I've often written dream or wish lists and found them years later to discover they've come true! This is one of the things that inspired me to create the Journal Your Dreams e-workshops - there's something powerful about writing and imaging out our intentions!
Collaborate/speak to others creatives! With your fellow creative community share ideas, ask for help, speak to people, ask the questions you have bubbling around your mind. I find this helps me so much and again I get re-inspired with a burst of creative energy to get productive again. Collaborate, don't compete!
Take time out in nature: I find nature simultaneously restorative, inspiring, gentle and healing. Try going for a walk, sitting, dreaming, observing and generally soaking up the atmosphere somewhere with nature and see how you feel
Do nothing/rest: I genuinely find some of my 'best' answers and ideas come when they have had time to quietly seep. Sometimes I ask a question or have a challenge I want answered before I go to sleep and in the early hours an 'idea' in conjunction just appears. Or when I have a nap, day-dream or generally 'not work' I'm amazed by the minds ability to conjure up solutions and imaginative, creative ideas and thoughts. Try it!
Play: this is the best. What do you like doing or 'playing' at? what do you find fun and frivolous? what fills you with joy? takes you back to childhood? DO IT NOW. Grab a sketchbook fill it with doodles; potter in the garden and make mini colour co-ordinations; write a play; design a piece of clothing . . . do something that is not related to work or other obligations or earning money!

back soon . . . .

Amelia.x

the adventures of art (and life)

2011-09-29T12:00:00.000-07:00

gold leaf, collage, enamel paint, acrylic and varnish on board - a piece I sold recently . . .

It has been unusually warm here . . . balmy heat like mid summer, yet the leaves are falling softly and frequently in my garden. huge spiders are spinning some of the most elaborate webs and I keep finding myself swept in a lingering strand . . . I'm emptying my house, all the downstairs is finding it's way upstairs and to the shed. This in between cooking tea, folding washing, and hobbling. My foot plagues me and I understand it's a form of inflammation - cause unknown - just life. I look in Louise Hay's book: inflammation = anger. I believe that emotional well-being (or not) manifests itself physically. I can think of many reasons why I might have this. yet now it needs to be about ways to heal. I've tried that inner questioning . . what can I feel . . . what's my body saying . . I am not sure at the moment. All I know is I clear the decks of my house for this weekend when my own home will become a gallery; an installation; a pod for showing and viewing works of art . . . I like the change, the transformation; with work, any area of life can be transformed, or at least that's what I aspire to. I hope for the same transformation physically.

I have spent days locked in my studio between school hours with shafts of sunlight and the noise of industrial workers around me. Some days flowing well, others days the art feeling . . . well . . . not sure. I am clearing the work decks too to enable a full sinking into the MA so that all I have to concentrate on is raising my children, and completing my MA to a standard I consider right for all the time and effort I've put in. This isn't a hobby. It's my life, my career, it's what I teach, what I felt I was born to do. It's not easy but sharing the journey has made it more interesting. Recording steps along the way via this web . . a virtual diary. A sharing that may or may not help others, but a window into moments; being an artist, a mother, a runner of a small creative business . . . some-one who would rather find a way than give up.

Yesterday in the heat I sat with two friends from the MA on the river at London Bridge . . we spoke of an exhibition we would like to do. I love it when ideas and collaboration come together. Flying fiery sparks of inspiration. Some days I can explain why art matters so much, other days it's just a feeling in the heart. But it has to be shared. I know I do too much but I just can't help myself. We have the opportunity of a large space in London Bridge. This inspired by my daughter and friends who got the space and put together a great show over the weekend in said space. Totally impressive. With talented friends putting on the music/singing too. My daughter is fortunate enough to go to a school where everyone is encouraged to do what they love the most and what they do best (see one of her friends here - all lyrics, music etc written, played and performed by him - I think it's amazing, he's 17!)

If you are around this weekend, come and visit me and Rebecca Lucraft for tea, cakes and art . . you might even get to see the spiders in the garden too - it's meant to be a gorgeous weekend . . there will be homemade lemon and ginger cake . . . and you can see what I've been up to in the studio . . . download the brochure for the whole event here.

Amelia.x

PS hello to new followers and thank you again to EVERYONE who's joined in with my MA fundraiser so far . . . it's ongoing so do spread the word ;)

the art of making money to do what you love . . .

2011-09-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

this is research material for new art works I'm working on (source unknown) - it will be built in to something bigger and thought I'd throw it in here as it's a nice image, but not sure how it relates to the post . . dreams?

dear all,

thanks for taking the time to read, to comment, and to pledge for my fundraiser. I've been on the phone this week and there are no loan or grant options for those studying Fine Art MA's so it's down to the good ole person in question doing the MA to finance it themselves (me).

Whilst this is tough for people juggling up to their eyeballs, it brings out the 'right, how can we do this?' in me AND that's what my fundraiser is about. I HAVE to make it work. Whilst other work pays bills and covers the mortgage doing an art MA is expensive, because art materials are expensive, production of art is expensive, as are other MA costs and travel blah di blah. But no. I am determined.

I was determined when I set out to run my own creative business at the start of last year and whilst I may be determined to my own detriment - and there are times I feel like giving up - I'm not going to give up, I will continue to find those ways!

and so the e-book idea arrived:

And so I've been thinking. I've done so much already to have got this far. I don't have anyone supporting me financially so I've had to generate all the money myself to get my creative business up and running and work as an artist and tutor . . . I found a way to save and create cash to do what I love the most. SOOOOOO I've decided to share it in an e-book. What better time when fundraising by asking, than to also give back by sharing . . .

I've written all that I know (and have done) down (and I've even got some key people to add an interview and some top tips too - shhh all will be revealed soon), and I'm going to share my strategies to save and stockpile cash to enable you to do what you love and want to do. I realise it is an art in itself. If one is a creative person (we all are though really) then we can apply that same creativity to get the cash flowing toward our dreams . . .

So, I wanted to ask you WHAT WOULD YOU REALLY LIKE TO KNOW ABOUT HOW TO GENERATE MONEY TO DO WHAT YOU LOVE? . . . . ask me some questions, tell me your concerns and I will endeavour to weave them in to the book so that I cover as much as possible . . .

Sometimes the money doesn't come straight away from doing what we want to do, so we need to feel safe in finding and generating money to enable us to take that leap and that's what I want to talk about in the e-book, because that's what I did (and am still doing!). . .

So let me know your thoughts and concerns . . . and talking of dreams, there is still time to join the Journal Your Dreams e-workshop where I also share books, techniques and ideas that have taken me to where I am so far in my dreams (and believe me they are a long way from where I once was! ;) and it's a PAY WHAT YOU CAN, because dreams are free (although I did put a lot of work in so that's what your donation covers :)

Amelia.x

At last: the MA fundraiser inspired by Tracey Emin

2011-09-19T05:09:00.000-07:00

Please post to:

Amelia Critchlow - Studio 307, Wimbledon Art Studios

Riverside Yard, Riverside, Road, London SW17 0BB (UK)

ART - OPPORTUNITY FOR INVESTMENT

Dear you,

I’m writing with excitement as Year 2 of my Fine Art MA looms . . . . I’m at Wimbledon College of Art due to graduate in September 2012. One year from now I’ll be an official postgraduate artist continuing in my journey as an artist, (please see page two for my art practice and research). I am writing to you because . . .

This letter forms part of my FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN. I’m inviting YOU to be involved with an opportunity to invest in my creative potential whilst receiving something amazing in return.

Why I’m doing this:

I'm determined to finish my MA with aplomb whilst supporting myself and two children, and to be able to invite you to an MA Preview Night and exhibition you will be proud of
I wish to be an example to myself, and others, as to how artists can support themselves ie. a living example of MAKING IT WORK!
I would like to offer you an opportunity to invest in my art career so when I'm flying higher, you will have made a great investment early on ;)

What I’m offering:

1. For £15: a signed and dated original cargo label piece of art, size: 6x12cm, including postage

2. For £25: a one year subscription accompanying me on my journey over the next year of my MA – this includes four personally addressed letters to you signed by me, between now and September 2012, plus a signed and dated postcard print, (including all postage)

3. For £?: donate any amount of your choice (as little or as large as you like) and you will be invited to my MA show & PV night in September 2012 to see what your donation has supported

*please note, you can choose more than one option!

If you wish to invest, please tick the appropriate box, sign and return the slip below with the correct cash, postal order, or cheque (payable to Amelia Critchlow), or if you would prefer to pay via paypal see here: http://101birdtales.blogspot.com/p/ma-fundraiser.html

I look forward to hearing from you, seeing you at the MA show, or any art/other event in between :)

Lots of love,

Amelia Critchlow, September 2011

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Yes, I would love to invest:

☐1. £15 Signed/dated original cargo label art-work

☐2. £25 One year subscription including 4 letters and signed/dated postcard print

☐3. £? Any amount of your choice and you’ll receive a PV invitation to the MA Show 2012

Signed:_______________________________________________________ Date:___________________________

PLEASE REMEMBER TO INCLUDE YOUR POSTAL ADDRESS BY RETURN www.ameliacritchlow.co.uk

ART RESEARCH AND PRACTICE:

Liberty’s Room, 2011 (photographic print)

Hand-painted and crafted installation with hand-made, bought and borrowed objects: filmed and photographed

You might like to know what your funding will go toward, so to put you in the ‘picture’ :) my art and research at this time involves the exploration of stories and fairy tales and their legacy in contemporary culture. I’m making work in the form of photography, collage, video, installation and other mixed media. Work may change and evolve but the sharing of stories and exploration of traditional tales remains at the core of my work. Your funding will help with:

key MA costs
materials
hire of spaces
photography
the making of objects
final production of artwork
ensuring you get a great piece of art, a fantastic experience at the MA show, as well as the inspiration to share your own story in the world too

To read and see more go to: www.ameliacritchlow.co.uk (website), or www.ameliacritchlow.com (my online research folio), and finally my blog: www.101birdtales.blogspot.com

Please feel free to email me about ANYTHING in this letter if you want to know more, at: ameliacritchlow{@}hotmail{dot}com

And if you know ANYONE to all that would be open to receiving this letter, and the offers herein please do forward this letter or this link to them: http://101birdtales.blogspot.com/p/ma-fundraiser.html

Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you. Amelia.x

PS this fundraising campaign has been inspired by Tracey Emin’s early entrepreneurial enterprises. Thank you Tracey.

PPS. Please know I won’t be offended in any way if you choose not to take part in my fundraiser x

how to stay motivated when living the creative life . . .

2011-09-17T09:22:00.000-07:00

know WHY you are doing what you choose to do . . . . (write it out if you need to)
remember how much it has taken for you to get this far, it's a slow build and you can't/don't want to give up (so don't!)
remember that it's your life's purpose (and you are making choices every step of the way)
by sharing what you do you are assisting/supporting/inspiring others (and no doubt giving permission too :)
question: do you want to live with regret? (by not doing what you do)
If you didn't do it, what would be doing instead? (would you want to be doing 'that' instead?)
the world would be a duller place if you played it safe and didn't do what you really yearn to do
you are listening to your heart and there is no better thing to do :)
life is not the same without dreams to chase - keep your dreams and chase them gently or chase them hard - it's up to you
it's NEVER too later to start living a creative life you dream of, if you haven't already - start today! (take one step)

And . . . the winner/s of the give-away is as followers . . . . (random selection courtesy of my youngest):

Sarah (please email me Sarah!) wins the goodies featured in the photo and Jacqueline has won the place on the Journal Your Dreams e-workshop (if you want to sign up there is still time and places available - we start next Monday :)

Amelia.x

the 1000 give-away . . . .

2011-09-14T04:15:00.000-07:00

the 1000 give-away is here! listening to the comments and taking on board some ideas I've come up with the following:

an original piece of cargo label art by me (on left) signed and dated
a calico bag to hold all your art/mementos/gorgeous bits - this can be left plain or decorated by you
a hand-made envelope with white clay labels and cream string - again hand made by me :) and they look beautiful with pencil writing or drawing on them . .
that's my business card there too (centre) which will come in the envelope
and for another person . . . . .

a FREE place on the next Journal Your Dreams e-workshop starting September 26th 2011 . . . .

So there will be two winners: one lucky person will get the goodies at the top and the other lucky person a place on the JYD workshop . . . . just to let you know this online workshop is pay-what-you-can scheme anyway. The suggested fee is £30, but you can pay as little or as much as you wish so if you don't want to wait for the give-away head over here to name your price and sign up!

I just discovered a couple of other nice little places you might want to visit too:

papermash

the future mapping company

I love maps! Mapping is something we look at on the experimental art e-course too and there is still time to sign up!

To be in for winning the give-away prizes you must be a follower (you can join now! ;) and please answer the following question in the comments (and remember to leave your email so I can contact you):

"what makes you decide to buy a piece of art (or would make you decide to buy a piece of art)?"

- this is the other question I mentioned in an earlier post I would be asking . . . I will announce the winner on Friday.

See you soon,

Amelia.x

a celebration, some bits and bobs + a question for you

2011-09-10T12:31:00.000-07:00

2 years this month of blogging and 1000 followers, and e-course no. 7 - things to celebrate

a restful Saturday in amongst the mayhem today, a feeling that I should do more of what this post talks about as there is a sense of continually rushing about in my life that sometimes doesn't feel productive . . . and it appears my body is also telling me this!

an exciting link over here, and a celebration because after 2 years to the month of blogging away I've reached 1000 followers! So encouraging to know you guys like/enjoy taking a peak into this corner of the virtual world. the interaction with you all makes it enjoyable for me too - I appreciate your virtual connection and support soooooo much, believe me. Every comment and email is read and although there are times I'm not able to get back in touch, you are there in my thoughts :)

I want to do a give-away to celebrate. DO give me some ideas. What would you like? A piece of original art? A book? Some ideas? A course place? if you read my blog, what would mean the most to you? email me or comment and I'll get my thinking cap on :)

back soon with more . . . I have another question I want to ask you too (so watch this space!) . . .

Amelia.x

PS still time to join us for Monday's start of the Autumn 2011 experimental art e-course: sign up here!

why my art is aligned with my very core + the power of stories

2011-09-08T03:03:00.000-07:00

new work I've been doing: oil, collage and acrylics on canvas: size: 30x40 inches

Recently I've been getting email newsletters from key women on the net and it's got me thinking. This lady is one. Passion and inspiration oozes, but also the questions. Suddenly although I kind of know it . . . I am re-thinking WHY I'm doing what I'm doing. No doubt this has to do with lots of thinking that's been brought up by the tougher waves that are cresting in my life right now ;)

I stepped out a year and a half ago into the world wide 'sea' of running an online business in conjunction with my own art practice. A way to make a living from what I love, whilst sharing with others, and raising children. But there's more to it than that.

Whilst at art school I noticed the 'key' figures or masters we know in the art world tend to be men. Yet the women-artists I found inspired me, particularly by what they shared in their art. artists who have made it in a pre-dominantly 'male' sphere. The ones who share their stories resonate with me, and finally I am not alone in my experiences. The ones who have moved through raising children and still come out the other side with a successful art career encourage me.

But then WHY art?

well art moves, art questions, art carries the blueprint for possibilities. art is a map forward whilst documenting history - I'm interested in herstory too. that's why my art research on the MA is about 'stories' the one's we tell ourselves, the cultural stories, the ones we are fed by the media, but more importantly the ones we have yet to write. What would you scribe about, and into your life?

I'm interested in the new paradigm - power through self-sufficiency and independence. This includes the power from earning doing what you love, with a potent message for others at the heart of it. I choose not to be a wage-slave but it's MORE THAN THAT. I am a carer of children. I am raising the next generation. One of them has aspergers and this job is neither easy nor paid therefore I HAVE to find a way to pay myself whilst I am looking after others. Money on the table earnt through something that drained cost more in life-value and so I made a decision. . . . . I would find a way to generate an income through what was MOST important to me, art and creativity because through them new ways are forged. And new ways are needed (my opinion). new possibilities.

I wish to be one of those at the forefront of a new movement that says we can. Being dependent, or earning menial wages for menial work because I am a mother who works part time (there is still a pay gap for women and those who work part time) is not something I wanted to be party to. How and where I earn my money should be - and is - of importance to me. I wish to be free from reliance on others, whilst learning how to be reliant on myself. Maybe I am shooting myself in the foot, yet at the same time all I've ever known is self-sufficency because I've been left alone to cope when it comes to parenting and earning, (something that pains me yet has taught me valuable life lessons).

If we are at the edge of change, I wish to be there. If I am going to be an artist, I wish to help dispel the myth of the starving artist. If I am going to create art I wish it to hold the essence of something more than re-hashing the hardship. I wish it to speak of a truth that I know, then move on to possibilities of a new and better future for those who know what I am talking about . . . . not just for me, but for you too. That's why I have at the bottom of my blog the famous quote by Gandhi:

"BE THE CHANGE YOU WISH TO SEE IN THE WORLD"

I have to live my life the way I would encourage and advise others to live it. And I am working on art that tells a new story. I may not be fully there yet, but I get bored of the same stories that can often feed negative self imagery, or limit possibilities. One thing I feel I've learnt about humans: we are susceptible to the power of suggestion. That's why advertising messages are so powerful. What if we received totally different messages? What if we created our own very powerful messages (for others?) based on our own experience and shared? That's partly what I feel the internet does. We can broadcast to each other our own very personal, powerful and life-changing stories.

The image at the top speaks of a woman at the edge of something. She is more than a fashion model. She is a human with her own experiences, feelings, stories. What are they? Is she looking into the abyss? Into the future? Is she walking away from, or toward the things that move her? What happens when we interrupt the status quo, and decide and shout our own agenda, truth, and wishes for the future? We can decide, and then start writing and telling those stories.

Amelia.x

PS we start the new experimental art e-course this Monday! Come join the group and use art and creativity to explore and create your own stories, or simply have fun making art with an inspiring online group :) Places available - enrol here

PPS. the winner, by random generator for a place on Louise Gale's next e-course is: DARA DINES - Dara please email me as I don't have a blog/contact for you! If I don't hear I guess I will have to do it again!!!

onwards & upwards + some work in progress & some shows . . .

2011-09-06T11:26:00.000-07:00

mini 10x10cm pieces on board I'm working on - on studio floor . . .

in the studio today - first day back at school for the kids - so getting on with some work. I feel a bit better, and am on to the mystery of my pain in a big way now.

I'm excited to be doing another show this weekend. It's an intimate affair, invite only for friends and family as it's at a friend's (gorgeous) house near the river in London, entitled 'Sum at Seven' ;)

We are working to the theme of Sum, a book by David Eagleman. Themes are great for structure and inspiration - something we cover on the experimental art e-course (ps. if you want to know how I got the effects for pieces at the top I share them on the course). There are five of us, we did our BA art degrees together. Such fun doing events like this. See image at top for small board pieces I'm working on for the show, and see the invite below designed by my good friend after taking a photo of my friend's front door:

Wimbledon MA Show 2011:

Oh and before I forget, it's well worth heading down to the Wimbledon School of Art MA show 2011 (I will be doing this next year!) if you are in or near South London before Thursday. I bought a lovely print from this fellow artist . . . can't wait to put it on my wall :)

Thank you so much for the kind comments and emails I received in response to my last post - means such a lot. I know there is so much to be grateful and thankful for in my life. The show at Cork Street was an amazing experience and sales ensured costs were covered - so thank you! I just find physical (and emotional pain!) hard to handle . . . . but I know that's part of being human . . .

Amelia.x

PS. still time to sign up to the Autumn experimental art e-course and still time to leave a comment on this post for a chance to win a place on this upcoming e-course . . . so share your thoughts below! I will announce/email the winner tomorrow so do remember to leave your email address!

notes from the heart + an inspiring giveaway

2011-09-04T11:57:00.000-07:00

It's pouring with rain here and it's a day I'm fighting the blues. The show at Cork Street has ended and in between the whole event I ended up in hospital with either food poisoning or an aggressive virus. . . . or maybe it was an allergic reaction to the pills I'm taking to ease and calm pain that's been rearing itself in my right foot for the last nine months.

Being under the care of a specialist and a diagnosis I trusted in for my foot, my concern increases as it shows no signs of getting better with intervention, the pain is only worsening . . . this gave rise to a mini panic attack the other night - was it the pills? I've stopped taking them. It reminds me of the nasty episode with the anti-depressants. I don't like taking drugs at all, and this has confirmed a sensitivity that seems to throw me off at the deep end and makes me feel I'm either dying or going crazy. Believe me it's not a nice feeling . . .

I'm currently holed up in bed. Not easy when work, children and housework demand activity. This explains my blues a little.

So whilst attempting rest, I'm internet hopping and ideas-brewing and find myself here, discovering this quote:

"We each must become like fishermen, and go out onto the dark ocean of mind, and let your nets down into that sea... And the greatest good you can do is to bring back a new idea, because our world is endangered by the absence of good ideas. Our world is in crisis because of the absence of consciousness.
And so, to whatever degree, any one of us can bring back a small piece of the picture, and contribute it to the building of the new paradigm. Then we participate in the redemption of the human spirit." - Terence McKenna

It made me feel a little tearful especially as it resonates with the reason I choose to do art and the reason I wish to share art and creativity. Maybe a little tearful because I find pain hard especially when I don't know the root cause of it. Maybe a little tearful because I try so hard to locate my position in the world as a mother, a earner-of-income, and an artist who attempts to piece together the reason that women like myself find themselves where they do

. . . honestly? sometimes I want to give up the struggle. At times it feels intolerably hard and I ask myself is it only me that feels like this. I've taken the plunge to earn an income through nothing but my own capabilities (no regular paycheck at the end of the month) to try and support two children at the same time with emotional needs and special needs, whilst utilising only my income. I've never spoken about it, but my daughters father pays nothing in maintenance and never has. Years of getting over the pain and anger of that and his absence in her life in many ways, and still at times, it raises its head. It is tougher than tough at times, whilst other times I can be philosophical.

Maybe panic/fear attacks are brought on by acute stress and worry and I know many of us out there know this one. My concerns about finances and others welfare all gets a bit too much at times - or is just me? And now hobbling about too without knowing the cause of the pain is making me want to fish just a little deep on lots of levels: question what my foot might be telling me about this path I'm walking? Is it telling me anything?

And yes, all I want to do is dive down in to the sea of my psyche and understand a little more; piece and stitch together some semblance of sense; to understand and to weave that new story so that the hard times don't feel quite so hard . . . . I try not to cry. I don't know why I share this. I'm telling the whole world. Maybe it feels better knowing I am not alone. . . . sharing. Maybe it's all bollocks I'm making up. But it hurt at times, in more ways than one.

And how this leads on to the give-away:

I am determined to make it work. And others who inspire me help support that journey. That's why I'm happy to have teamed up with another inspiring lady to give you this great give-away . . . in Louise's words:

"Are you ready to connect with your true self, identify your passion and purpose for your life?

Registration for the Autumn session of "Big Dreams. Small Wonders" is open.

Join Artist & Life Coach Louise Gale to discover your true self, turn any negative past experiences into positive actions and uncover your purpose and passion in life. Open your heart and Invite the "Big Dreams, Small Wonders" adventure to take you on a journey of self discovery, joy and realization on how you can follow your dreams and live your passion.

You will leave the 6 weeks with a journal full of creative exploration, a clear idea of who you are, where you want to go and a roadmap to help you get there.

The journey starts on September 19th and space is limited, so sign up today to take the first step to follow your dreams

You can live the life you were born to live

This is the last class of 2011!
Register here"

But the give-away of course, is that one lucky person who leaves a comment below will be winning a FREE place on the next course . . . leave a comment below . . . . . um . . . stating what you do to cheer yourself up when you are feeling blue . . . . . . and I will announce the winner on Wednesday . . .

Amelia.x

PS this has taken me about an hour so far to 'get out there' as my internet is playing up. I'm going to publish it now before it 'goes' again and gets even more stressful! It might have errors, it might be a little 'raw', and there's no pic at the top . . . but hey . . . back soon . . .

Sharing Top Tips I've learnt about putting on an art show . . .

2011-09-01T03:51:00.000-07:00

PV night at Gallery in Cork Street opening

so learning off the cuff as I usually do . . . here's some things I'm learning with our art show at the gallery in Cork Street in case they might help you too:

have some works ready (or that you're working on) to put in a show, should one come up at any given moment without much notice ;) (this is what happened to us)
visit the gallery first to get an idea of what would go where, what facilities are available, and how to plan hanging
do a show with a friend or relative to maximise exposure, cross over customers, help each other out when it comes to food/drinks/invigilating - it just feels more supportive and less daunting
get a good friend (or yourself) to design a nice pdf e-invite to email out to your list of contacts (and get the gallery address right ie. check ALL details - yes, we learnt about this!)
have the invite printed up too if you can afford it, and send hand-written invites out to key contacts/special friends/people who've bought your work before, or those you would especially like to come to the show
get another friend, or find someone who likes baking/making food to do some canapes for a nominal fee or in exchange for a bit of art/something else . . . (reducing costs but making it special at the PV night)
remember your 'visitors' book to collect emails and contact details for new friends made and interested parties met in gallery
remember to take camera and take photos of new works in situ and take images of new works before-hand too (to put on your/or the galleries website)
plan and decide what drinks/food you will have at the Private View, Majestic Wines have a policy that if you buy and don't end up using, you can take bottles back - great!
having your name, the title of the show, the dates and times, and your website cut in window vinyl graphics is a great way to advertise your show on the front of the gallery window and leave a visible contact to you and your website at all times (image at top). See here.
have your business cards around for people to take so they can look you up when they get home
use fishing wire to hang works up in the window should you wish to do so
check you, or some-one, are available to invigilate all days the gallery is open as advertised
get a professional press release done and send out to all galleries, magazines and any other parties whom you would like to come along and see your latest works
have your price list, press release and any other info about you and the works readily available to hand out to people!
welcome those at the PV night with an introduction as to who you are and offer a drink/nibble - don't be shy about saying you are the artist . . . :)
Don't eat and drink too much at your own opening ;)
Really I am making this list up as I go along and as I learn, so if you have any top tips to add, please do share in the comments and if you have a show on too - let me know!

the experimental art e-course:

the next Autumn 2011 experimental art e-course is looming - still an opportunity to grab your spot with places available, so head over here to sign up, or email me if you want to pay a different way other than paypal!

Amelia.x