LainyArt

The End of 366 Days

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Sun, 23 Dec 2012 21:58:00 +0000

Day 345 of my Drawing Project

When you spend so much time on something, you get attached. It happens with every piece of artwork I’ve ever created. But this year-long drawing project has become such a major driving force in my life and here we are with only a handful of days left… so how do I feel?

Relieved. Accomplished. Overwhelmed. Overjoyed...And sad that it’s nearly done.

This year has been an amazing journey. I’ve smashed the walls of my little comfort zone and met some truly inspiring people. I’ve found support for art and a cause that means the world to me and when I sit and try to wrap my head around this year – it’s just impossible! No matter what kind of crazy happened in my family and personal life – setting the goal to draw everyday with a purpose has made this year SO much brighter and more colorful than any 366 days I’ve ever known.

Now, you may wonder – what’s next? How do you follow a year like that?

A little rest, for one!

But I want to take everything I’ve learned on these tiny, daily canvases and make something MASSIVE and beautiful. Pumping inspiration into an artist’s heart on a daily basis does amazing things and I’ve been sketching and jotting down big ideas ALL year.

2013 is going to be year devoted to true, original creation. I want to go on another adventure! And if you’re up for it – I’d love to share this new year with you, too.

Thank you to my family, friends, collaborators and supporters and the wonderful people at Alternatives to Violence(ATV) who made this project such a HUGE success!

Me on my 23rd Birthday!

All the love in the world,

Lainy

P.S. Stay tuned for the final tally of funds raised for the Safehouse!

An Interview - by YOU!

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 00:26:00 +0000

We just passed the 6 month half way marker for my 366 Charity project and I knew there were lots of people with questions out there, so here we are!

(Questions come from various supporters from DeviantArt, Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr!)

Q- Tarashima/ SierraLD12 - I would really want to know how the idea came into your mind; What events, thoughts or ideas led you into starting this project?

A - Doing something art-related every day for a year is something I've always wanted to do! And after 2011, when my little brother had 5 serious hospital stays, my art took a backseat most of the year so I could help care for my brother and my family. I also happened to sprain my wrist 3 times that same year, which kept me from drawing most of the year.

I guess when 2012, a brand new year came around, I needed to do

something big!

But to be completely honest, I wouldn't be motivated to keep going if I was just doing this for me. I wouldn't be doing this at all if it wasn't for the Safehouse. The people that need a safe haven in my hometown are the reason I keep drawing every day. There is no greater joy for me than to make a difference by doing something I love.

Q- Robert Jackson - Do you believe you will continue this project to some degree after this year is over?

A - Absolutely! I will always support the Safehouse and continue to raise funds for them. I’ve loved doing the cards so much, I plan to continue on into 2013, doing 2-3 a week – with 100% going to the Safehouse of course!

I also aim to continue adding to my print collection, & add postcards and calendars as well – with 25% also donated to the Safehouse.

Q - Norbert Reichinger - Where do you get all the ideas for your pictures? Do you use photos for reference?

A- I do use a lot of photos for reference, especially when I want a very realistic drawing. I’ve partnered with many talented photographers on DeviantArt and Flickr who have volunteered their work for my project!

Q - Shawn Cernik - Your subjects are so diverse. Is your subject matter predicated on various inspirations and if so what are those inspirations?

A - My motto for this whole year has been “One day at a time”. Slowing down and taking in the world has been one of the biggest sources of inspiration for me. Anything I see throughout the day is something I can put into my card- like a color that caught my eye, or a shirt pattern, or a ladybug… maybe the sunset that day was especially spectacular. It can be anything!

Q - Whitetippedwaves

- What is your biggest inspiration?

A - My friends, my family, and my hometown. I couldn’t do any of this without their love and support. And my beautiful hometown is the whole reason for this project! I could never dream of living anywhere else!

Q - When during the day do you work on the project?

A - I usually work on my card around 3-6pm, after I’ve finished work on commissions for the day and rested my hands a little bit. When I started at the beginning of the year, I didn’t have my routine quite down and was squeezing them in at the end of the day. If you count 1-3AM the end of the day! :P

Q - Do you ever have to skip a day and do two the next to make up for it?

A - I do! If I get sick or something comes up with family and I can’t get my card done that day, I’ll wait until the next day and do two. That way I can still create a great card for someone and not feel rushed in drawing it. No matter what happens, at the end of 2012 I’ll have a full 366 cards for the Safehouse.

Q - What's the first thing you do when you sit down to draw? Do you sketch and plan out the drawing, or do you just start with a blank slate?

A- If I’m using a reference, I take a minute and just look at it! I look for important lines and features that help me with outlining and then I start sketching the outline from there.

If I’m not using a reference, I just go for it! I start scribbling out the idea and refine it along the way until it matches the image in my head.

Q - Do you have any tips for another artist who may want to start a 365 day project?

A- Find your motivation before you start! What goal is going to

drive you for the whole year?

-Choose a project that you have time for. Something small every day really adds up, so go small! After 365 days, it will feel HUGE. :)

Q - Is there ever a day where you just can't seem to get your ideas flowing and pencil moving?

A- Of course! I think every artist runs into that wall. And most days like that I just push on through and draw anyway. But when I can’t – I listen. I take a day off and let myself rest a little and catch up the next day. You’d be surprised what a day can do!

Q - Have you ever started an ACEO card and then decided to throw it out and do something completely different?

A – Only once! It was a space drawing I tried in a new medium and I just didn’t like how it looked! I think I ended up doing a cityscape instead.

Q – De5srtRo5e- How many hours a day do you spend on a project/piece on average?

A- On average I want to say around 3 hours a day. But it also takes about 30 minutes for each card to photograph, seal with fixative, and then post and share with everyone on all my favorite sites.

Q - Do you ever get sick of doing this project?

A - There’s really only been one stretch of time so far that I really didn’t want to continue- and that’s all due to my right hand having pain and trouble from all the extra drawing and work. But it turned out to be a blessing in disguise! How else would I have had the chance to train my left hand to draw in such a short amount of time? I can now call myself an ambidextrous artist because of this project!

Q - Do you try to do the project all at once, or do you break it up and do some at the beginning of the day and some at the end?

A - I usually do it all in one go. Being able to finish something in one stretch of time is actually a really great feeling! I’m used to taking 30-120 hours to finish anything over 2-6 weeks.

For my more detailed portraits I do split up the time I work on them. They take about 5 times as long to finish, So I like to split those up over the course of the week- and still finish one card for each day on top of that. That’s probably why you don’t see as many portraits with this project! haha

Q - Are you considering doing any kind of physical art show to show the public what you've been working on?

A- I would love that! It’d have to be prints, of course. I hope to have all the originals sold for the Safehouse!

Q - Why did you pick this charity?

A - The Safehouse Project and the Alternatives to Violence organization is one that I’ve always found incredibly worthy and very important – But people are also less aware of it. I guess it’s one of those things we would rather forget about, or not talk about, or leave these dark parts of human nature… well, in the dark. I want to help change that.

It’s vital that people know they are not alone when they face a situation of abuse. It’s even more important that they have somewhere safe to go, where every need can be taken care of to help them find the road out of abuse and into a life of healing and hope.

The safehouse is exactly what they need – and I’m honored to be able to help in any way I can to help make that safe haven a reality.

Q - Savanna Miller - Well you've had a wonderful 6 months meeting cool people and changing lives (I'm so very proud of you. ^_^) What do you see for the next 6 remaining months of this project and do you think you'll do anything else in the name of charity in the future? (After a well deserved break I hope.)

A - It’s been an incredible first 6 months and I have seen so many wonderful people come together for this project in a way I never expected! It’s already gone above and beyond my biggest hopes – I’ve no idea what the possibilities are in the next 6 months!

I would love to raise more awareness for this project locally, like in a few upcoming art shows, Pastels on 5th(An art-benefit for the Safehouse that I also volunteer with!) and maybe an article in my hometown’s paper to really get the word out!

As for future charity work, I plan on continuing with my cards after 2012 and volunteering with Pastels on 5^th every year. When they break ground and start building the safehouse, I also hope to create and donate full-size pieces of artwork to help decorate the new space! If they’ll have them, of course!

New questions pop into your head? Ask away!

Also – for those awesome people who have bought cards to support the Safehouse – send me a picture of how you’re displaying/collecting your cards! I’ve heard so many nifty ways, I’d love to share them! :D

Home Sweet Home

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Mon, 09 Jul 2012 21:30:00 +0000

I love traveling to see family and it's definitely a special occasion when we can! We drove a total of about 20 hours and played countless awesome games of Skip-Bo with my Grandmas! We also celebrated my Mom's birthday on the 4th with a red,white, and blue cake and our favorite flavor of homemade ice cream - Yellow Cake batter! Mmm ^.^

I also snatched some time here and there to draw a little. And being on vacation, I let loose and tried some new things!

Next up? Some catch up! I have a handful of cards to draw and I'm looking forward to getting back to my commissions!

It's Vacation Time!

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 20:39:00 +0000

BubbyAndBean

So, I just made it through the first 6 amazing months of my year-long project for charity and I just so happen to have a family trip! Great timing for a break, huh?

Me, my mom, my youngest brother and sister are taking a road trip out to see my grandmas. It's been about 6 months since I've seen them last(And last time was because one of them was in the hospital on life support. Not a happy visit!) SO we're all super excited to go and see her and my other grandma now that she's all recovered!

Couple of downsides though.

1:No internet access. So that means no new art cards until I get back on the 9th. So when I get back I'll be drawing 2 cards a day until I'm all caught up(unless I find the time while I'm away to draw!)

2: I'll be making the 9.5 hour trip with a sprained knee. I've been hobbling around on the poor thing for a week and a half. And I don't even have a cool story to share about how I did it. haha

So wish me luck! And see you all on the 9th!

My 365 Project - ACEO Sketch cards for Charity

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 20:41:00 +0000

For every day of 2012, I will be drawing one ACEO sketch card. Every single one will be for sale - ALL proceeds to be donated to charity at the end of 2012.

My charity of choice is a local foundation called Alternatives to Violence, who is currently raising money to build a safehouse. This safehouse will provide a secure shelter to women and children who have recently escaped physical and sexual abuse.

With the safehouse, 312 individuals every year will receive crisis intervention, counseling, safety planning, advocacy and shelter.

Together, through art, we can help make a difference.

The Plan:

♥My cards will range from $5 to $11 depending on subject and detail.

♥Only my costs(Etsy, Paypal, Material fees) will be deducted and the rest will go to Alternatives to Violence(ATV) at the end of the year.

♥I will share every card I create - that means a new piece of art to see and share every day, through my DeviantArt, Facebook, Twitter, Etsy and Tumblr.

♥I will be drawing various subjects, including portraits from the casts of Supernatural, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Sherlock, Star Wars & Firefly. Also musicians such as Michael Jackson, Tokio Hotel, Jared Leto, Lady Gaga and lots more. And whatever else I can think of!

-Send me requests, I will need lots of ideas!

♥At the end of each month, I will tally up how much we have raised and let you know which cards from that month are still available for you to purchase for charity.

My 365 project will be done in addition to all my usual art creations and commissions, so this is going to be a busy year! I’m looking forward to all there is to create and capture and inspire. I’m looking forward to the challenge and all I have to learn. But more than anything, I’m looking forward to helping families find a new beginning, find hope, and a future with new light.

Visit ATV and read about the safehouse project details at: AlternativesToViolence.org

Crazy Life

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 16:18:00 +0000

So things have been really quiet around LainyArt and I just wanted to give you all an update and let you know I’m still here and that the lull in updates is temporary!

Over the summer, my little brother Colby has been through 2 major back surgeries resulting in 15 fused vertebra, a heart surgery, and two blood clots. I’m writing this update from his ICU room in the hospital as we work through and take care of his second blood clot. This is his 5^th hospital stay since February and I’ve been by his side nearly 12 hours every day he’s been in the hospital(when I’m not sick myself :P) and ‘playing nurse’ when he comes home. Colby is a real sweetheart and big trouper, still optimistic and making jokes and friends with all his nurses. A real amazing guy, I tell you!

Around that, you all know about my wrist injury that kept me from drawing for quite a while – which is thankfully now healed! I’ve been sketching on and off here at the hospital and hopefully I’ll have a drawing to share with you all soon! I’m still working on commissions, too. I have 5 at the moment that I’m making progress on, so don’t worry!

I’ll do my very best to keep updated and creating!

How to Create Your Own Scrabble Pendant

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 22:03:00 +0000

What you’ll need:

Scrabble game tile

Glue on bail

Epoxy lens

Drawing paper

Acrylic paint

Glaze (I use polycrylic)

Paintbrushes

Scissors

Tacky glue

Jewelry cement

Trace your tile using your pencil to outline your drawing space on your paper.

Create your art in any medium in your outlined square. Go crazy – this is the best part!

Cut around your design with your scissors. Use the same Scrabble tile you traced from to carefully trim each side to fit on top of the tile with no overlap.

It's important to make sure it fits, so trim little bits at a time until it is the perfect size. This part took a little practice for me, so you may want to try with a piece of scrap paper first.

Paint the sides of the tile with acrylic paint to match to your design. Do as many coats as you want - for mine, I layered blue acrylic paint and glitter... 'cause who doesn't like sparkles?

Seal sides of pendant with the polycrylic glaze. This may take 2 coats to reach the level of shine you want. Let your glaze dry completely because you will need to touch the sides of your pendant for the next steps.

Put a drop of tacky glue on the blank side of the pendant and use your paintbrush to evenly spread the glue over the surface.

Go all the way to the corners and edges!

Carefully position your trimmed design on the glue and press tight to remove any air bubbles. Make sure your letter is right side up on the back.

Ready your epoxy lens and very carefully position over your design. You only get one chance to get it straight, so take your time!

Press your lens tight to remove all gaps and air bubbles.

Use your jewelry cement (or something like DiamondGlaze) and put a small drop near the top of the letter side of your Scrabble tile.

Set your bail into the cement and make sure it is straight. Let it dry design-side down until firmly secure.

Enjoy your new art pendant! You can string it on organza ribbon, ball chain, or snake chain - really anything you want.

Now, this pendant has already sold, but if you want something like it, I do custom pendants, too! Just message me with what you would like!

Have fun creating and let me know how you do!

Pastels on 5th

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 20:43:00 +0000

Several months ago a good friend of mine told me about an art event in my home town called Pastels on 5^th. On September 10^th, about 2 weeks away, a lovely collection of local artists will get together and turn my town’s 5^th street into a sidewalk gallery! Quite literally, actually. We will be using Arist’s Soft Pastels on the sidewalk cement all the way down the street.

And it’s all to benefit Alternatives to Violence to raise money for the Loveland safehouse. The safehouse will provide a refuge for women and children, crisis intervention, and counseling. It will be a secure place to stay for families to escape abuse, heal, and rebuild.

To raise money, businesses and organizations will purchase a sidewalk square and be partnered with a local artist. So far we’ve raised $10,000 and over 50 sponsors! There will be live music and food will also be provided by local bands and restaurants.

I have the honor of being partnered with Faith Church (my home church) to create art on 5^th street! This mission is close to my heart and I can’t wait to participate and help raise money.

To read more about Alternatives to Violence and the Safehouse, please visit their website.

Or Check out the Pastel’s on 5^th fanpage on Facebook!

I’ll be playing with the Artist’s Soft Pastels on my front walk this week, so I should have a sneek peek for you later!

Back to Beads

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 22:09:00 +0000

I haven't been able to sit and makes new beads for about a month so it felt great to sit and get started on a new set!

So... lots of new beads are on the way...which reminds me...I have about 25 finished paper bead jewelry pieces I need to photograph for Etsy. Oh my, I'm a little behind! haha

Color me Inspired: Book Art!

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 23:16:00 +0000

As an avid reader and writer, (and artist, but you already knew that.) I love to see how other people combine their hobbies. Ingenuity is a huge part of my life and I'm most inspired when I find some truly unique ideas!

Like these book paintings for example! I never would have thought to use a book as a canvas and really love the effect!

Check out more of his work!

And how about these bookmobiles? Looks like the perfect way to recycle a book that's maybe seen too many days. If I had a library to decorate, this would definitely be in it.

The Shophouse

Ambidextrous?

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 23:30:00 +0000

I love challenging myself and giving non-dominant drawing another try was the perfect way to spend my afternoon today! ((Feel free to click pics to zoom in!))

Getting the lines right was hardest because my left hand still feels awkward with a pencil in it!

A little further along! Starting to get the hang of it?

Not too shabby? I had a lot of fun with it and will probably keep challenging myself to get better with my left hand. Have you tried it yet?

Waiting Room Blues

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 18:38:00 +0000

Blue is one of the most powerful colors. It can convey deep emotion and reminds us of the sky and sea. For me, it makes me feel right at home. My kitchen is decorated in bold cobalt and sometimes, while you're away from home in a waiting room, a little taste of home is just what you need.

Pictured above are a few of my favorites from Etsy!
♥Twilight Art Print by BestArtStudios2
♥Art Deco Necklace by boylerpf
♥Super Sparkler Studs by Mashugana
♥Dance Troop in Blue by clementseye
♥Marigold Paper Flowers by DragonflyExpression

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Left Handed?

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 20:10:00 +0000

I remember slow days at the start of the school year when teachers were still pulling together projects for the semester. In my first high school art class, the teacher encouraged us to try drawing with anything other than our dominate hand.

Students started using their feet, toes, mouths, and non-dominate hands to create art! I remember how horrible a simple flower looked and gained a brand new resolve not to use any one else's pencils after that day!

The little heart above is my second attempt at drawing with my left hand (the first being that day in high school) I was honestly surprised I could even get it to look like a heart!

I'm still patiently waiting for my right hand to heal from a little mishap so I can draw again, but the urge to create apparently can't be stopped!

Have you ever tried writing or drawing with your non-dominate hand before? How'd you do?

Portfolio Process –Step Two

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 22:03:00 +0000

Now that my portfolio has arrived (And I love it!), it’s time to focus on the art! I wanted to wait until I had the portfolio in my hands so I could measure the actual sleeves. I need to be confident in ordering the right size of prints. It’s nice to know that the measurements given for a portfolio are for the actual size of art you will need, not the outside measurements!

The portfolio I chose has 24 8x10in clear sleeves. Which can be doubled to front and back views to hold a total of 48 pieces of artwork.

Maybe you’re like me and that number, even the 24, is incredibly daunting. Sure, I could fill it with everything I’ve ever drawn… but the concept of a portfolio is to showcase your best work. The crème de la crème, so to say. That can be a tough one from the artist’s point of view. Every piece is special on a personal level. So how to you choose?

The first thing I looked at is a piece’s availability to the gallery/shop I hope to contact. If you have the original(especially if well-framed) make sure to include it.
Another great place to start are any pieces that you have available for prints. Not only is this also a plus for the gallery/shop … but if you think it’s good enough to create prints, then it’s good enough to be included in your portfolio.
‘Round out’ your portfolio. Don’t choose works from just your favorite medium. The people you are meeting with want to know what you can do! Make sure your portfolio is as diverse as you are.
MOST important? Be you! I was tempted to fill my portfolio with landscapes and still life works. But my love has always been in portraiture. Include what you love, not what you see already in the gallery. Why would they want to see more of the same? Include work that is unique to you.

Now that I have my portfolio and a selection of art (I pictured a few of my considerations up at the top!) It’s time to start hunting for the best price and quality in prints so I can start putting everything together!

Portfolio Process - Step one

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 17:46:00 +0000

The most important thing about creating a professional portfolio is having a case that looks professional. Simple, right? I thought so, too. The most helpful tips I’ve found when in search of a great presentation case have actually been common sense!

Keep it simple: It’s tempting to go over the top with a case that is bright and patterned but you are trying to showcase the art. You want your audience to remember you and your work, not the case it was in. Black and brown(neutral shades) are the best colors to look for in a clean and simple portfolio.
Go with a firm cover. It will better protect your art and feels more professional in the hands of shop and gallery owners. (Who wants beautiful art flopping around everywhere?)
Size matters! So keep it portable and easy to handle. A 8x10in - 9x12in size is perfect.
Have a place for business cards, CD’s and notes. That way everything you may need during a meeting will be one place.

Jerry's Artarama

This is the one I chose, Available at www.Jerry’sArtarama.com. After research and going through this checklist, I felt this one was the best bang for my buck to meet my needs. What caught my attention was the easy-to-clean textured cover and the acid-free divider sheets that will act as a backdrop for my art. It also happened to be on sale. ;)

I’ve placed my order and it is estimated to arrive on the 12^th!

Remember, if you’ve already been through this process, drop me a line! I’d love to know what you learned and how you feel about your own portfolio!

Portfolio Process

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 16:11:00 +0000

The BigHaramph's Print Shop

The months have rolled around to July and I’m finally getting a start on the huge project of making and putting together a professional portfolio to take around to galleries and shops. This is the first baby step in reaching one of my biggest goals this year, so I want to do it right!

Being an avid Do-It-Yourself-er and Google user, I started the search on the internet for the best way to go about this seemingly simply project. But I wanted a walk-through for first timers from an expert who knew what they were talking about…no such luck.

I found lists and pointers, which have all been helpful… but what about the young artist who’s never actually seen a portfolio with her own eyes? Little troublesome to know where to start.

So, since there’s no step by step from an expert, I figured I’d write my own as I learn all the best tips, tiny details… and what not to do. I’m positive I’ll have plenty of those moments, too!

Commissions

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 21:45:00 +0000

I believe in taking special care with each and every custom artwork and take anywhere from 15 to 120 hours for each one to create something truly special for you. Your portrait can be finished between 5-10 weeks depending on the size/medium you choose.

Remember, I am not limited to portraits! If you have a furry friend, favorite location, home, or heirloom item, I can create a piece of artwork for you, too!

As I work, I will take pictures of my progress of your drawing and email them to you for feedback and updates! I love to share a bit of the process with you, so you can see how it's done and the work behind it. This keeps us in contact and communicating until the art arrives safely at your door!

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

● So, how do we start?
Email/convo me! Let me know what you are interested in or send me a picture if you already have one in mind for me to draw from. I am always happy to walk you through the process of choosing sizes and mediums that will best fit what you are looking for.
**All my mediums and sizes are detailed below to give you a head start.**

● Payment process?
Once you are decided on what you would love, I can either set up a custom listing for you on Etsy, or I can send you a direct invoice through Paypal. If you are interested in a payment plan, I am flexible in working with you on that, too!

● Which pictures are best to work from?
High Quality! The clearer and more detailed the picture, the more realistic your artwork will be! If you are interested in a portrait, make sure facial features are clear and defined so that I can work my absolute best to make it look just like your loved one.

● ● Shipping is not included as it is different for each area and Artwork size.●●

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♥Lainy’s Chalk and Charcoal♥ – My own unique trademark medium that uses a special blend of chalk and charcoal pencils and a highly textured paper. I also use powdered forms of each that I grind and mix by hand for the perfect texture. The chalk’s special qualities catch light and add a lifelike edge to every portrait that makes them ‘pop’ right out of the paper!

-Due to its special qualities, I do not seal this medium with fixative or sealant as it dims the chalk and charcoal values. My alternative? A high quality Non-glare acrylic glass with a protective UV coat. This is included with your commission prices and is safe for shipping!
-A simple white matting and backing is also included! If you are interested in a custom color, please contact me for options.

       *5x7----$100
   *8x10 ---$150
   *9x12----$180
   *11x14---$250
   *16x20---$300
   *18x24---$350

+$30 for additional portraits, full body, detailed background, or high detail pieces.

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♥Charcoal♥ - With this medium I mainly use charcoal to create value and depth, using chalk for only bright highlights and details. I use a much smoother paper that makes it easier to capture a lot of detail and texture for that photo-realistic touch.

-Sealed with a protective fixative that prevents smudging and fading.
-A simple white matting and backing is also included! If you are interested in a custom color, please contact me for options.

*5x7 ---$70
*8x10 ---$100
*9x12----$150
*11x14---$180
*16x20---$230
*18x24---$280

+$30 for additional portraits, full body, detailed background, or high detail pieces.

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♥Pastels/ Tinted Charcoal♥ – This is the ultimate crossover from my charcoal mediums for color. If you love the way chalk and charcoal looks but really want a full color piece, this is the way to go! I use pastel pencils, bars, as well as powdered forms of any color that I grind and mix by hand. I also use shades of tinted charcoal for darker colors and colored pencils over top for detailing.

-Sealed with a protective fixative that prevents smudging and fading.
-A simple white matting and backing is also included! If you are interested in a custom color, please contact me for options.

        *5x7 ---$90
        *8x10 ---$120
        *9x12----$170
        *11x14---$220
        *16x20---$280
        *18x24---$320

       +$30 for additional portraits, full body, detailed background, or high detail
        pieces.

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Email me at a.ferguson.artistry@gmail.com to get started or with any questions.

Please visit my online portfolio for more examples of my work: http://alainaferguson.artworkfolio.com/

Healing HeART

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Fri, 13 May 2011 16:44:00 +0000

When my emotions are frayed, chaotic and tired, my creative juices are just as zapped.

So that’s why things have been a little slow around here. I haven’t drawn in two weeks, which is strange for someone who spends 6-7 hours drawing and creating each day.

It’s really hard for me to pick up a pencil again after I’ve lost someone very dear to me. Creating art has always been such an emotional and spiritual thing for me and when my heart takes a blow like that, it takes time before I can draw again.

But how do I know when it’s time to pick up the pencil again? How do I know when I’m ready?

When I feel I can draw the loved one I lost.

Now, they may not be the first I draw when I continue, but having that confidence in my healing is what enables me to start creating again. And then I will draw her. Because it is the best way I heal and remember and honor someone I love.

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Tue, 10 May 2011 00:21:00 +0000

(drawing aftermath- chalky fingers :P)

I know it may not mean the world to most people…but I love connecting with strangers. Brief comments, maybe even smiles I won’t see because they’re on the other side of the country or even the other side of the world, mean I’m doing something that matters.

I’m the kind of person that says hello to a passerby with a huge smile because -just maybe- they needed one.

Odd, since I’m on the most extreme side of being an introvert! But it all works out somehow.

Somehow.

And then I remember why: The heart of it all is art.

Happy Birthday!

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 20:14:00 +0000

Today marks my Etsy Shop’s first birthday! I can’t even begin to say how much I’ve learned… or imagine how much I have yet to learn. But in celebration of one year, I have three new prints of some new and old favorites. Here’s to another year!

::My current Prints::

::New Prints!::

You can see them all here:

PS: Get ready for some changes around here because it’s time my blog received a little T.L.C. It’s makeover time.

Getting Creative in the Waiting Room

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 16:38:00 +0000

Today, I’ll be nervously waiting in the hospital while my brother has back surgery. Background noise from the TV, randomly passing people and typically bland décor does nothing for creativity… so I got to thinking….what does a person do when caught without a creative spark?

Well….

My first reflex is to turn to music. Whether the inspiration comes from the music, or the people who create it, music is always sure to set fire to my creative side and conjure up an idea to draw! Pick a song and let the lyrics create the picture for you.

No Ipod? Do some people-watching. Your mother likely taught you it’s not nice to stare, so try not to get caught! I love watching people’s behavior and reading their body language. You may notice something you never had before… perhaps a gesture to include in your newest story or an expression you’d love to capture on paper!

You know those magazines they place on coffee tables all over the room? They’re full of clear, beautiful pictures, yes? Draw one! Flip to a random page or search for one that catches your eye and draw away!

What if you don’t have any paper…no pencil? Easy solution: ask the front desk for a sheet of printer paper and a pen. I’m sure they won’t mind! (Especially if you give them both back when you leave… everyone loves to see doodles.)

At the top is my waiting room creation, a portrait from my imagination. I call her Dacia.

Artists' Greatest Enemies (and the weapons against them)

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 16:14:00 +0000

I received a message a few weeks ago from someone who was struggling in their pursuit of art. As I read the message, I found myself nodding and smiling. I’ve been through all the same things before. Actually, I think every artist has! So what do we do with these ‘Art Enemies’?

*I have no confidence in drawing and my perfectionism gets in the way.

In high school I sat next to a girl who could take anything and make it a masterpiece...while mine looked absolutely elementary! I'd often walk out of the class feeling incredibly frustrated and disappointed with myself. But what helped me most in overcoming that was looking at each new drawing as a step in the right direction. I used to stick notes to my drawings and picked out what I did like in each piece. I called it my 'positive study'. It really helped me find my confidence in drawing. I kept all of those drawings. Every single one, even…or perhaps, especially if I hated it. I tucked them away in a folder and put that folder out of sight, slowly adding to it until I found that those sticky notes were getting fuller and fuller of the things I liked in each drawing. It seemed a little pointless at the time, but it became ritual. Not only did I get a lot of practice, but I gained a lot of confidence! I still do that mentally every time I’m working on a drawing. It helped me turn my perfectionism into a skill for me to use, rather than to despise.

*When I’m finally in the mood to draw, I can’t find anything too draw.

I think I hate this more than the perfectionism! So I started looking for ways to head off the problem before I ran into it again. I found a nice, fat binder and started filling it with pictures that caught my eye. For any reason. I collected magazines and calendars and newspapers and went crazy with scissors and glue! I call that bright, heavy binder my Idea Book. I’ve had it for years now and still add to it…and I still find myself referring back to it whenever I get stuck.

BUT: if you’re not such a great fan of glue and paper cuts, I also have a digital version. Just a folder on my laptop filled to the brim of pictures and art that I’ve stumbled across on the internet that inspire me. Works just as well.

*It takes me forever to even finish a drawing

Same here! Most of what I do takes anywhere from 25-45 hours to finish, spread over weeks…or even months! You just have to remember that you’re drawing for fun. Because you love it. Not because it’s something that needs to get done…even if it’s a class assignment. There’s no timer clicking down on the wall. Take every last second you need and don’t worry (or even count) how long it takes you. Just enjoy it.

*I get distracted and can’t focus enough to stick with a drawing.

Oh, the distractions and shiny things around us! The first thing I recommend is a space for you to draw. Somewhere comfortable and secluded where you can gather all your supplies to get creative. I usually choose my bedroom or my converted art studio.

But the key for me (and many others)? Music. Simply play your favorites or whatever you’re in the mood for and keep it playing in the background. Music not only keeps me focused, but I also find that I’m more inspired and creative when listening to music. I very rarely ever draw without it. (or else, I start singing some random song to myself instead)

We all have our own little quirks and tools, and I’d love to hear what works for you! Comment and let me know!

The New Year

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:28:00 +0000

The New Year is hours away and the new start means a lot of different things to a lot of people all over the world. We set goals and resolutions and take time to reflect on the past year. We aim to break bad habits and start some good ones.

Most years in the past, I look back over the past year and am disappointed with the list of things I didn’t get around to. This year, though? 2010 has been one of my best, most meaningful years to date. Especially compared to last year. In 2009 I lost my grandpa and my biggest artistic inspiration. My mother was without a job for 13 months. I took up a job in fast food at Arby’s, which sent me into an 8-month creative dry spell. It’s hard to dream when you’re dunking fries in grease all day

But to follow that with a year I am proud of? Is nothing less than a blessing from God. I started LainyArt in April relying solely on faith. To see where I am today, compared to the day I held my first prints in my hands, is more than I expected when I started out. And I know there’s only more to come!

For 2011, I’d like to take the time to set some actual goals for myself.

1. First, I need to get my license. Most people get those at 16, not 21. Though I do not expect to have a car available for me to drive, it’s one of those steps in life that (here in America) tell you you’re an adult. To be honest, I hate driving. But in the future, I’ll need to be able to run my own errands cross-town.

2. I want to finish my novel. I’ve been working on it off and on for about 4 years. Writing and re-writing and… I’m finally feeling it’s time to write the ending and head down the publishing road!

3. Expansion! I need to reach more people through LainyArt and I’ve been dreaming up ways to do that. I hope to have some funds to do some advertising this year. (local and internet!)

4. One of my goals from the very beginning was to get an original of my work accepted into a local gallery for display. I will likely start with coffee shops and work my way up. It’s just one of those things I have to do. A marker of some sort, in my mind.

5. And (since my town is a fan of them) I’d love to set up a booth in one of our craft shows! It’s a great way to meet people face to face and spread the word around. (That’s and it’s a great reason to go overboard with beads and scrabble pendant stocks! :P

I think that about covers it! These are the big things I missed this year, so here’s to the accomplishments to come in 2011 for all of us! Happy New Year!

Making a list and checking it twice

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 15:24:00 +0000

To Do List by robayre

In the past months, I have discovered that writing down what you want to accomplish is the best way to get it done. Now, it’s not magic. But if you use right, it sure can seem like it! I keep a total of three lists per day. Sounds daunting, I know, so let me break it down for you.

My first list outlines my goals for the week. (I usually write this one Sunday evening) It contains ‘mini goals’ like designing 10 new pendants or completely finishing a commission, things that would take a few days before I can scratch it off. I keep this list next to my bed and keep track throughout the week of my progress.

My second list is full of all the little things that will get me closer to my weekly ‘mini goals’: spending time on a commission, cleaning up my studio, listing a new item on Etsy or a reminder to ship off a package. This list is a time saver. I’m continually going back to it and checking things off through the day. I find that I waste much less time when I know exactly what it is I need to do.

The third list is more for the sake of my family’s sanity. It has all the less fun, but also quite essential things that need to get done everyday. Dishes, laundry, vacuuming…the things that will keep the house running smoothly and toes from getting stubbed. I write this one on the same page with my Art list…otherwise, it’s far too easy to forget about it!

So, today’s the start of a brand new week full of things to finish and steps in the right direction. It’s time to make list!

Overcoming Obstacles

noreply@blogger.com (LainyArt) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 16:45:00 +0000

Things are slowly starting to come together! Just waiting on a few more things in the mail and I can make some real headway towards my Etsy shop overhaul. A lot of my job is waiting right now, which is a huge, huge lesson. And it’s given me some time to sit and reflect on some of the other lessons I’ve learned. If you’re venturing into a similar realm of employment, maybe you can learn a little from my obstacles.

Budget. Oh, the horrible dreaded word! Even with the fast food job I quit a year ago, I’ve always been thrifty and very careful what I spend money on. But with the economy and family losses, most of the funds from that job were tapped out by the time I decided to actually go for my dream. I started from absolute 0. So what are my best tips and tricks to make it?

1. Only buy what you need. No, really! Write out your goals and set them in stone. Think honestly over every potential purchase: “Will this help get me closer to my goal?” If not, take a deep breath and walk away. If so, then scour the internet and all the stores in your area for the best deal possible!

2. Shop thrift stores and take advantage of garage sales! Not only for clothes and household items, but for supplies as well. I’ve saved hundreds of dollars in frames alone!

3. Keep a close, watchful eye on your bank account. It’s so easy these days to hand over that plastic card and forget the total amount! Check it every day, if need be, and remind yourself it’s okay to be a bit of a tight-wallet! OR switch back to cash. Trust me, the spending makes a bigger impact on you if you have to count the money out and hand it over.

4. Spend money to make money…sad, but the saying is true. Just don’t go all gung-ho about it! Take it slow and start with the most important thing to get you on your way (for me, this was setting up and testing prints). Slowly build yourself up. Like I said…it can be a big waiting game, but you’ll get there if you play it smart.

Certainty. This kind of adventure isn’t for the fickle tip-toer. Be absolutely sure this is where you want to take your life before you jump in. And believe me when I say that this was the hardest part for me. With a more than shaky economy and unemployment, I had the mindset that I needed a steady job…even if minimum wage. It actually took an intervention from some close friends to make me realize this dream could be a reality. You’ve got to get rid of the ‘guilt’ of leaving the workforce, banish any crumb of pessimism, and be solid in your determination to make it!

And our good old friend, Time. When I started out, I bounced around from one thing to another without really accomplishing much. As soon as I found some sort of routine, I found myself making more and more progress every day. I usually clean in the morning, draw around 11-3, and then switch over to jewelry until around 5:30. After that it’s writing, uploading, updating and finances until bed starts to call.

The main thing to remember here is progress. Taking little bites every day won’t get you anywhere. You have to get ahead! Work hard every day, no matter the mood or task at hand. Every day should feel like a leap forward. Remember, this is a marathon. Not a sprint.

Now, don’t get me wrong…I’m still a ‘newbie’ at this. Still learning every day. But I think these are still the most important things to keep in mind if you’re heading down a similar path! Good luck to you and drop me a line if you’ve learned any other helpful hints!