Learn To Paint Blog

Painters Guide For Selling

2010-06-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

You´ve Painted - Now What?

Painters may not have any difficulty making painting, crafts and personalized arts, but they may get stumped on how to sell their own paintings. The success of clinching sales does not only rely on marketing strategies but also in other methods. There are even paint lovers not necessarily makers, who made a successful business of selling paintings.

Process

Generally, there are three “phases” in clinching sales: preparing for selling your paintings, the actual sale and of course, post-sale. What are these “phases.”

• Preparation

Everything starts with a business plan. When writing a business plan, there are several things to consider like your budget, market research about your art competition, and never forget to highlight the things that make your art and craft business unique. The plan should also include back-up plans to address unexpected events or changes. When unexpected and sudden blunders happen, you do not have to abandon the whole plan.

Whenever you are entering a business, it is important to never undermine or shortchange your competition. You do not have to declare war against your competitor, they are the best source of information about the market. Remember what product or your craft that makes you different from other handcrafting art business.

Aside from the competitors, also never assume that you know everything about the market and the customers. Include customer demands and getting to know their behaviour in your market research. To get an idea, attend craft fairs festivals and galleries to see what kinds of paintings are getting attention and sales.

A business plan should include plans on whether you will make wholesales, profit margin, maximum or number of painted items you can sell to a buyer, and how will you fulfill orders. One of the biggest problems of entrepreneurs would be failure to follow the business plan.

• Actual sale

Just because your little shop/galleri is already open and/or your paintings are already painted, it does not mean you have to stop promoting your paintings. There are easy ways to continue marketing and promotions without spending too much. Participate to community events like shows, festivals, community auctions, library-events, explore your bank-window for evt local displays, and even school activities. Participation would allow possible customers to know your art-based store and your products (art-material and so forth). You could donate and give away some items as an introduction-teaser, a prize or an auction item.

When attending craft shows and festivals, show and maintain professionalism in your booth design. Make sure to price your products in the same range with that of the other crafts on sale. Pricing it too low can cause speculations on its quality, pricing it too much will drive away customers.

A useful addition to your shop and whenever you are participating in fairs and shows would be a credit card machine. Since most people have credit cards, this would be great way to make a sale. Aside from that, if your crafts cost much then credit cards could provide safety.

Maximize online sales and promotions. Online shopping has increased in popularity because of its convenience. There are also different craft sites where you could advertise or plug your products in discussions and forums. You could also lend your talent and host craft classes to both children and parents.

• Post-sale

It does not end in selling. Just because a customer bought your product it does not mean that you would stop building relationships with your customers. A painting-related business could be tough, since stores would build their own niches or place in a market. You need to build a solid and loyal clientele. Painters could conduct post-sale surveys to check the customers on how they could improve craft-objects and services.

Material For Your Painting Business

Search Amazon.com for painting business

Art Based Business - Painting Contractor Business Plan - MS Word/Excel

New Sheduled Plein Air Workshops

2009-06-06T13:46:00.000-07:00

Real Life Art Painting And Landscape Experiences

Discover the little artist inside you starting today.

Learn to paint - outdoors - landscape - painting.

Sheduled live workshops summer and autum 2009.

June 6-7, 2009- Niagara Falls, NY - oil, acrylic.

June 22-23 Niagara on the Lake,Ont - oil, acrylic.

July 3-4-5,Niagara on the Lake, Ontario - watercolor only.

Monhegan Island, Maine August 10-14, 2009 - oil, acrylic.

Monhegan Island, Maine August 15-16, 2009 - oil, acrylic.

August 25-26-27, Niagara on the Lake - Watercolor only.

Sept 11-12, - Niagara Falls, Canada - oil, acrylic.

Sept 28-29-30, Niagara on the Lake - oil, acrylic.

Oct 11-12, Niagara Falls Ontario - oil, acrylic.

For more information about specifics, accommodation, enrollment, what to bring with you just call Phone: 1 800-393-7270 between 9-5 or by chance and/or visit http://artworkshops.homestead.com/

The Bob Ross approach, known from the Air Force, footprints on Alaska, the wet-on-wet technique and 'happy little trees', is another way for making paintings in a joyful pace (1) and as Peter Lawrence would say when learning students to complete a painting over a day....'it is not so much what you put up on your canvas, palette management does' (2).

* Happy Painting *

How To Draw A Dragon

2008-09-13T06:10:00.000-07:00

In many myths dragons symbolize a myriad of real and imagined terrors, which supposingly originated from the real beasts that roamed ancient forests. But for modern storytellers, it is ordinarily the majestic hero in the story. The best thing in drawing dragons is that you could keep in mind that all those pictures you've seen are all derived from mere imagination only. Thus, there is no right way of draw a dragon. You get to have all the creative freedom that you want in drawing one.

What Kind?

Before you can start drawing, you should first decide on what kind of dragon is it that you want. What is the environment that shaped your dragon? Is it a green forest or a mountainous desert? If it's one of those mediaeval fire-breathers you might want to consider referencing historical sources. If it's a fantasy creature, then it all depends on the course of your imagination.

Think of its key features. Do you want it as a slender, lizard-like dragon with filmy wings, or do you want it to be a mighty beast that has the arching back and chest of a war horse? Try to think and sketch out rough ideas like these before you proceed.

Be Convincing: Find A Reference

The best way to have a convincing dragon drawing is by having an anatomy which flows together and has some sense in it. Thus, try to make use of real animal anatomy for your reference. Does your character have wings? If so, are they decorative or functional?

Also, think about the skin. Is it the leathery type with fine reptilian scales or is it crocodile rough? How about the color? Do you you want it to be in camoflage browns and greens or would you want it in bright rainbow colors? Once you've decided on these things, try to make a sketch or a list of all the characteristics. Then, go and search the Internet for photos. Make sure that you learn from your references and not copy.

Be Realistic: Have A Light Source

The light source of your drawing is also important. Although it is from your imagination, pick out one light source that you want your character to be subjected to. If you have various image sources, also be aware of their lighting. The light source of the crocodile picture you are looking at and that of the snake picture may be different. Thus, be careful and make sure that the shading of your picture would sync with the light source you've chosen.

Pin point if the source is overhead sunlight, the moon, a window or a cave opening. Take note that light waves travel on straight lines. This could help you know where your shadows are. Keep in mind too that light bounces. Thus, there may be some lighted areas within the shadowed areas. If you are having a problem with this factor, go and get some plastic dinosaurs. Use a flashlight as the sun and you'll see the shadows you are looking for.

Fire And Smoke

Another important factor would be the fire and fire-breath, if your dragon has this kind of feature. Do not experiment with flamethrowers just to get this right! It is quite easy to reach this kind of effect. All you need to do is make use of tones. Give contrast to the smoke and flame by using shades of black, grey and white.

Drawing Tecniques: Japanese Animation

2008-09-09T13:09:00.000-07:00

Learn To Draw Japanese Animation

Japanese Animation or Anime is one of the most beloved kinds of cartoons all over the world. These are basically cartoons that are based on Japanese Manga series, or comics that were brought to life by being animated. If you want to learn to draw Japanese Animation, here are the things that you should know.

They Are Based On Manga

One thing that you should remember when drawing Japanese Animation is that they are based Manga. Thus, the style of drawing would be pretty be pretty much the same, only that they are moving for the animated version. Here are some things that you should take note in drawing this style of cartoons.

Characters Have Wild Hairstyles

If you observe characters in this kind of genre, you’ll see that they usually have wild hairdos. More often, male characters have long hair. In fact, there are some shows that sometimes men are mistaken to be women because of their long tresses. Their hair colors are also wild too. You can see pink and green haired characters. The style of their hair could be very extreme also. Often times, their hair would be sticking up and out to different directions.

When drawing hair, all you have to do is draw them into clumps that would stand as hair strands. For female characters, ponytails, headbands, pigtails and loose hairstyles are common. For men that have long hair, loose let down hair is also in fashion along with ponytails. Bangs are also in for both sexes.

The General Male

Most male characters would be muscular. A lot of them are depicted to be warriors of some sort. A lot of them are also lean and tall. It is normal for you to see blue or even pink colored hair male characters. However, this doesn’t really mean that they are gay.

The General Female

Most female characters are depicted to have slim bodies and long legs. These features are also emphasized by the type of clothing that females wear. More often they wear clothing that shows off their long legs, especially if the setting of the story is in the modern times. The breasts are also prominent. Women also have sharper chins and snub noses.

Little People?

Do not be surprised if you get to see characters that look like little people. These are called “Chibi’s”. These are basically distorted versions of characters. Although proportion is a rule when drawing, Chibis are intended to have a distorted proportion. This is done to achieve a ‘cuteness’ factor. This type of drawing is usually applied for child-like characters. They have big heads, small bodies, big eyes and no nose.

Villains

For villains, characters are usually drawn to be more realistic. There is more shading to make their faces look scarier and the lines used are more crooked than smooth and straight. You could usually find them in the form of mafia’s or gangs. Big bosses are also usually not seen. Body parts such as hands, feet or a mouth smoking a tobacco are the commonly used images whenever the big boss is focused on.

Cute Vs. Macho

For cute Anime’s the drawings are often simplistic with huge eyes and a lot of hearts and touches of pink. However, for macho type of Anime’s, the characters have more details and are rendered to be more realistic.

Drawing And Painting Basics

2008-09-06T12:46:00.000-07:00

Learn To Draw And Paint

Everybody at some point in their life wanted to learn to draw and paint. Just by watching children, you could see that these skills are one of those that entice them during their early years. However, not all people decide to take this goal seriously, especially when adulthood comes around. Nevertheless, if you do want to develop this innate skill, it is still possible. Here are the basics that you have to know.

Drawing Versus Painting

One important factor that people do not understand is that drawing is different from painting. Thus, if you want to learn how to draw and paint, this means you have to develop two different skills. Drawing is generally defined as depicting a subject by the use of lines. On the other hand, painting is the art of coating surfaces with paint for artistic or utilitarian purposes.

Thus, the medium you’d be using would be the main difference along with the process itself. Nevertheless, these two disciplines are still related and most often combined to make an art work. Most of the time, drawing becomes a prerequisite of painting; although this is not always the case.

Drawing Basics

For you to start having drawing skills, you should constantly practice your hands and eyes. Do this by sketching. Constantly sketching is the best way for you to learn how to draw more artistically and professionally.

Remember that drawing is developed by constant practice of your hands. This is not improved by merely reading or acquiring whatever book based knowledge that is available. Thus, practice your hand to draw. Be very observant with your surroundings. Try to sketch things or people during your idle time. Doing this is really one worthwhile hobby that could pay off in the future.

Copying is your stepping stone in drawing. Get a model and copy it. It is all right to make mistakes. This is exactly what erasers are for any way. Also, do away with the notion that you need to have professional materials for your work to look good. A simple sketch book and basic drawing pencil and eraser would do.

Painting Basics

On the contrary, painting would entail appropriate materials so that your work would end up nicely done. You would need a couple of brushes that come in different sizes. You also need acrylic paint of various colors, but most importantly, you should have the primary colors, a bigger tube of white and black. However, if you do not want to buy a black tube, you could simply create your own. Do this by combining all the primary colors.

It is best to start with Acrylic paints because these are the easiest to work with. Thus, the general painting developmental stages would be mastering acrylics first before aiming to learn oils or water color. Also, this kind of paint is easily mixed with water. All you’ll need would be a glass or a bucket in which you would put the water in for cleaning purposes. You also use this water to keep your paint moist, it dries up quickly. A pallet is needed too. If you don’t have one, you can improvise by using paper plate that has Aluminum foil covering.

To start painting, you have to draw on your canvas first. Draw your subject and other details of the pictures’ environment. After this, add on the color using your paint. Keep on practicing by choosing different subjects. Also, try to experiment with the colors you’ve got.

Make full use of your pallet and create various shades of colors. Continue on sketching and painting like this and for sure your skill would start to develop in no time.

Paint A Room On A Budget

2008-06-15T22:20:00.000-07:00

Adding Color To Rooms When You Don’t Have A Lot Of Money

You can spruce up any room at a low cost. There are
many things you can do without having to spend a lot
of money. Many of the items you can purchase to liven
up a room include paint, paintings, and rugs.

White walls can be very boring in a new apartment or
home. You might not have a lot of money to spend for
decorating or design but you need to do something.

Painting the walls can make a really big difference in
a room. Some people favor sponge painting because it
looks as if the paint changes the texture in the
walls.

However, finding the right paint can create a mood in
the room you are looking for that is pleasurable and
calming.

Adding a painting to a wall makes a statement. You can
find cheap artwork for your wall that you enjoy and it
will say something about you. Some people like to add
a painting to a wall to create a focal point in a room
and it does work well. It will surprise you the
difference a picture or a painting will make in a
room.

Adding a colorful rug to a drab room will make an
amazing difference with the look and feel. A rug can
brighten up and make the room look brand new.

Depending on the style of your furniture, you might
consider an area rug as your center point in the room.
You will be surprised with the difference you can make
by laying out an area rug.

How To Paint Roses In Oil

2008-06-08T16:33:00.000-07:00

This flower painting video is a freehand painting instruction for roses using decorative painting methods and contributed by Marjorie Harris. She is traveling around US and shows other people in seminars how to paint roses as she is used to paint a rose. You will find elements from the fine art tradition in this video.

Painting Workshop July 2008

2008-06-02T18:31:00.000-07:00

New 5 Days Plein Air Painting Work Shop

Monhegan Island Maine

July 7-11 2008

Find Out More At

artworkshops.homestead.com

Fine Art Education Possibilities

2008-06-02T18:23:00.000-07:00

Fine Arts Degree

When many people think of going to art college, they imagine a person devoting his or her life to being a painter, sculpture or someone else devoted to fine arts. There are many different arts that are taught in art college. Most people do not major in fine arts unless they either have serious aspirations to be a painter, artist, musician or they want to teach fine arts.

Although someone may have an appreciation for fine arts, anyone who has ever tried to make a living as a painter, sculpture, musician or even an art photographer knows how difficult such a living is to attain. If there is artistic talent, a degree may fine tune it, but the talent will still be there. If there is no talent, no amount of school in the world is going to give someone that gift.

It can be just as satisfying for someone to make a career teaching art appreciation to students. Many people get a degree in fine arts with a minor in education so that they can become art teachers. Teachers are always in demand and there is no more rewarding career than being a teacher. In many cases, teachers can also pursue their own dreams of art greatness while earning a living teaching others how to paint, draw or take photographs. Art teachers teach from the elementary level to the college level.

Those who want to teach younger children can do well with a bachelor degree in fine arts and the proper teaching certifications. Those who wish to teach high school or college students will most likely need a master degree instead of a bachelor degree in arts.

A teacher of fine arts has the best of both worlds. A steady income in a position that is always in demand as well as the opportunity to pursue their own artistic endeavors. During the summer, when school is closed, a teacher can have plenty of opportunity to spend time with their own art.

In addition, a teacher also has the opportunity to give the gift of art education to his or her students. What can be nicer than developing the curiosity of a child or young person and teaching them to appreciate their own talent. All of the great painters learned their craft from others, although few of them had a formal art education.

However, they still learned from others who helped them hone their craft. Imagine being the mentor to the next Van Gogh or Picasso. You never really know how your influence can affect a young person who may be on the verge of discovering their own artistic talent. What could be better than discovering a new talent and seeing it blossom?

If you have a love for fine arts as well as a love for teaching children or even adults, a fine arts degree is something that you should think about pursuing. You can virtually be guaranteed a decent job that is both creatively and financially rewarding as well as inspiring.

Art Degree Options Internet

2008-05-29T15:18:00.000-07:00

Online Art Schools

Those seeking an art degree can find a number of online art schools to train for many different creative occupations. If you are seeking a career in graphic design, fashion, interior design or media arts or even advertising, online campuses await you.

Many people like the idea of earning a college degree online. Many reputable colleges also have online divisions as more people are either beginning or continuing their education over the internet. Because one can study from their own home and move at their own pace, an online education is ideal for someone who has small children or works a full time job. In this way, they can still earn their degree while working around their busy schedule.

The Art Institute of Pittsburgh is one art school that has a noted online division. There are programs in Advertising, Culinary Management, Digital Design, Fashion and Retail Management, Game Art and Design, Web Design, Interior Design and more available at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh online division. If you have always had a hankering to either learn more about modern arts or wish to pursue a career that is creatively fulfilling, an online education to earn an Art Degree may be for you.

In addition to allowing you to study at your own pace and learn about some of the most exciting new fields of art, an online Art Degree can offer you financial aid and even career placement services. Although you are learning online and not in a traditional classroom setting, you will still get the benefit of feedback from your work as well as career counseling services.

Westwood College is a popular online college that offers degrees in business, design, health care and technology. If you are seeking an Art Degree in design, whether it is fashion, accessory or interior design, Westwood College may be a good option. Here you can also learn from your own home at your own pace and earn a BA degree in design if you so choose. Westwood College also offers financial aid for those who feel they are trapped in a low paying job and want to earn more money and find a more creatively rewarding career.

Careers that require a creative mind can be quite lucrative, if you have an art degree. Unfortunately, no matter how much of a creative genius you may be, you will need to have an art degree to pursue a career in the creative fields such as advertising, culinary arts, and design. Because of the advent of the internet, other careers such as web design and graphic arts design are not only lucrative but in high demand. There are many different options for someone with creative gifts when it comes to obtaining an art degree.

Because many people find out later in life rather than sooner, that they would prefer a career that tests their creative drive, many are trapped in jobs that may pay well but are creatively unfulfilling. For this reason, online art schools can be invaluable. A person can continue to keep their current job while studying at night or on the weekends towards their art degree. Once the degree is obtained, they can then use the services of the school to try to seek out employment.

Other online art schools include the International Academy of Design and Technology, Academy of Art University, Kaplan University and University of Phoenix Online. No matter what online art school you choose, once you have earned your degree in the creative field of your choice you will be able to pursue the career you always dreamed of having.

Media Art Training

2008-05-27T18:40:00.000-07:00

Media Art Education

Media art is an ever growing field and encompasses all forms of media. Many people who may enjoy working in television or with different two dimensional formats. If you have a knack for drawing figures or designs and wish to make them "come alive" in the media, either on television or online, then you may be interested in obtaining an art degree in media art.

Media art is something with which we encounter every day but pay little attention to. If you are watching television, chances are that you will see examples of media art when the station broadcasts their upcoming events. Media art concentrates on making two dimensional images come to life as three dimensional images. Images can be of people or designs.

People who seek to obtain an art degree in media art should have some drawing experience and be able to draw quite well. Most people can learn to draw if they apply themselves to this art. You do not have to be Picasso to be able to do well as a media artist. If you have a rudimentary ability to draw and a desire to learn, you can be taught the different aspects of media art.

Because of the introduction of the internet into our lives, media artists are in high demand. Not only do they work in media such as film and television, but they also work for online companies. Any time you see designs coming to life, you are witnessing the work of a Media Artist.

A good example of media art is the MGM lion. This was the brainstorm of one individual. The MGM lion would roar at the beginning of an MGM film and was surrounded by an artistic design. As the years wore on, the MGM lion became more of a sophisticated icon. In most cases, the media art is used to portray something that signifies the television channel or film that you are watching.

The average individual observes the media art and associates the art with a particular television station or other form of media. They do not often think about the art itself. For this reason, many media artists are considered unsung heroes of the art world. Their work is well known, but they are not. However, they are well compensated for their efforts. Media art is a growing field and one that can be quite lucrative.

Many people think that getting an art degree is a waste of time. They imagine artists as starving, living in attics and not having any money to eat. They have watched too many films and believed too many myths about the "starving artist." Contrary to popular belief, most famous artists lived to see their genius discovered and today there are thousands of opportunities for artists to not only find employment, but also to make a very good living. A creative mind is a gift and many people are paid well for having this asset.

If you enjoy working with designs, drawing and have a creative flair for turning images into 3-D designs, you may choose to obtain an art degree in media design. You will have the satisfaction of having your work noticed by millions of people and be well compensated for your efforts. In addition, your craft will always be in demand.

Visual Effects

2008-05-25T18:17:00.000-07:00

Visual Effects Art Degree

Visual effects are everywhere. We see them on television, on line and even in the theater. We also see them on billboards and advertising in print media. Visual effects are those which capture our attention in a dramatic way and force us to take a look at a certain product or idea. Those individuals who work with these sort of eye catching effects are trained to know what will catch our eye after they have attained a visual effects art degree.

Using visual effects is an art form. There are many different types of visual effects that can be used in a vast array of media. The purpose of visual effects is to draw your attention to a page, billboard, product or something online or on television. This is not to be confused with an advertising campaign. There are all sorts of reasons why visual effects are used in print media, although many of them have to do with advertising. A visual effect is almost like a slap in the face. It quickly gets your attention by the use of something drastic from which you cannot turn away.

There are many different outlets for such visual effects that can range from photographs to special types of drawings or even lettering. Billboards are great outlets for visual effects. Because billboards are often seen on highways and people do not have time to read them, it is important that they pack a good punch for the passing motorist and give him or her something to remember.

Visual effects are also important in the print media. Many ads just feature a photograph and nothing more except the name of the product. This is one way of advertising without driving home a point. It is subtle and the visual effect of the add conveys what the advertiser is trying to say.

Someone with a degree in visual effects should be self confident, have a vast knowledge of all aspects of art including photography and graphic design, and not be afraid to take a chance on a wild notion. Although this is not the career for everybody, it can be quite lucrative as a successful visual artist will generally be in high demand. And there is nothing more satisfying for anyone with a creative streak than to know that their idea is being portrayed to hundreds of thousands of people on a daily basis.

Visual artists, like most artists, also have to have thick skin. What is seen as genius by some may be seen as pointless or weird by others. Not everyone will "get" the statement you are trying to make with visual effects, but this is the nature of the beast. This is not a career for someone who is thin skinned and takes every rejection or criticism to heart. Be prepared to be criticized because your visual effect is going to have to go out on a limb in order to be something that will attract attention.

A visual effects art degree can be a great investment into ones future if they are the type of person who does not mind taking chances, is uniquely creative and really likes to make a splash. It can be fun, exciting and one of the most rewarding art careers one can have.

How To Paint A Flower Using Watercolors

2008-05-23T01:36:00.000-07:00

Video demonstration on how to paint a flower using watercolors here made with an eastern touch ( source;bonggorospeon on YouTube).

How To Use A Round Brush

2008-05-22T08:29:00.000-07:00

Watch video tutorial on how to use a round brush. Online painting instruction for acrylics.

Graphic Design

2008-05-21T18:44:00.000-07:00

Art Degree in Graphic Design

If you enjoy working with color and creating interesting designs, you may enjoy pursuing an art degree in graphic design. Graphic artists are always in demand and as the internet is now part of our daily lives, there are even more opportunities to prosper in the field of graphic design.

Those who are interested in obtaining an art degree in graphic design should like to work with color. In art school, you will learn all about how to use color as well as different software that is now available for graphic design artists. Someone who enjoys creating designs that are used in packaging and advertising will enjoy learning this art form.

An art degree in graphic design can be obtained either at art school or even at an online school. Graphic design is one of the few art degrees that are available online. If you are stuck in a job that you do not like, that does not make use of your creative talents and flair for color, you can attend online art school without having to leave home or leave your current position.

Once you have earned your degree as a graphic artist, you will most likely work for a corporation that designs packaging, posters or even websites. As is the case with any other position, your education will get you in the front door, but you will have to start out in an entry level position such as a designer or layout artist before becoming a noted graphic design artist. However, because the media world is ever expanding, there are plenty of employment opportunities for those qualified individuals with a degree in graphic arts. Even entry level positions can pay well and will give you creative fulfillment.

If you are the type of person who has always enjoyed creating logos or posters and working with design, an art degree in graphic art may be right up your alley. Even if you have aspirations of being a famous sketch artist or painter, such a degree can do wonders for a creative person as it can provide a way to make a good living while pursuing other creative endeavors.

People who enjoy careers in graphic design are often those who create video packaging, album covers, posters, product packaging, logo designs and more. An eye for color and detail is important but a person does not have to be a sketch artist to succeed as a graphic designer. As is the case with most creative careers, an active imagination and creative background are more important than drawing abilities.

For those who love working in the art world but do not want to struggle along painting or trying to eek a living out of sketching or drawing, a career in the world of graphic arts can be the ticket to the creative career they envision. If you are the type of person who enjoys working with color and has an active imagination and enjoys using the creative part of your brain, consider getting an art degree in graphic design from an accredited art college or online university.

How To Use A Double Loading Carousel When Panting

2008-05-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

Video tips for to use a double loading carousel when you paint. Seems useful and practical for all kind of coloring material. Good for an organized painting session and helps you to maintain the colors as they are ie clean from the beginning, I suppose. However, you can still use your normal supplies or just a paper for placing your colors when painting.

Do You Like To Draw?

2008-05-19T19:04:00.000-07:00

Illustration Art Degree

If you like to draw, you may be interested in obtaining an illustration art degree. A degree in illustration can be used for a variety of different careers. Many people think of illustrators as those who draw fashion pictures or even cartoon figures. These are two examples of those who have majored in illustration. There are many different facets to this art and the type of illustration that appeals to you will determine your career choice.

Many people who work as illustrators work for print media such as a newspaper or a magazine. They often work as cartoonists or in some other capacity. A successful cartoonist illustrator can have a comic strip that reaches syndication, which is a very lucrative career.

A person who works as an illustrator should be an excellent sketch artist. They should have a thorough knowledge of anatomy and be able to accurately draw a person. Illustrators do not only draw people, but also work on drawing homes and just about anything else.

Take a look at a magazine and notice the sketches that it contains. These were all done by illustrators. People who went to art school to further learn to perfect this natural gift. Illustrators work not only in print media, but also in corporations. Some work as book illustrators, particularly as artists for books for children. Many work for advertising companies where they illustrate campaign ads. There are many different opportunities available for someone who decides to become an illustrator.

Accurate drawing is a gift that not everyone possesses. Because this is a rare gift, a talented illustrator can have many different opportunities when it comes to employment in the field. Depending upon what he or she enjoys drawing will determine the path the illustrator takes towards their career.

Some illustrators who began their careers working for magazines have, over time, become celebrated artists in their own right. One such example is Vargas who illustrated models for different magazines in the 1950s and whose work is highly sought after today. Illustrator are artists in their own right. They normally work with sketching papers and pencils.

Anyone who has the unique gift of being able to draw should think about getting an illustration art degree. Not everyone can draw accurately; it is truly a inherent talent that few can boast of. Those who have this gift can find many career opportunities as an illustrator if they attend art school and obtain an art degree. Although talent is important, it is just as important to learn the craft in art school and get an art degree. This demonstrates that you are serious about your craft and wish to make a career as an illustrator. No matter which direction your illustration art degree takes you, it will be something that you most likely enjoy doing.

There cannot be a more creatively rewarding career for someone with artistic abilities than that of an illustrator. If you have the talent of being able to draw, think seriously of entering art school and obtaining an illustration art degree.

Visual Communication Described

2008-05-14T18:26:00.000-07:00

Art Degree in Visual Communication

What is visual communication? Visual communication can be defined as any type of media that gets a point across to another individual by sight. An art degree in visual communication can encompass many different career fields.

For example, if someone enjoys working with computers, he or she may opt to use their degree to work with online companies in communication. Visual communication entails contact with customers, clients or other individuals through design, photos or graphics. It is a very large spectrum and can have many different facets.

Someone who wants to earn a degree in visual communication will probably learn a little about graphic arts, advertising art, media art and other visual arts. They will learn the most effective ways to get a point across to a large group of individuals using different media. Just as a broadcast communications expert learns how to speak effectively, a visual communications expert learns how to use images to attract the attention of a viewer.

Visual communications encompasses print media, online media, television, advertising and film. Just about all communication is visual with the exception of radio and telephone. For the most part, people rely on the sense of sight and images often have a large influence on what people purchase, who they vote for and where they go. Visual communication is not an art form that can be taken lightly.

If you are the type of person who enjoys learning about different aspects of communication and is highly creative, an art degree in visual communication can be your ticket to a rewarding career. Once you have discovered the many facets in this field, you can then zero in on what you choose to do with your career.

You will need to have a four year degree in visual communication from an accredited school. In most cases, you will need to actually attend school, although there are a few online schools that offer degrees in this field. You may also wish to minor in a field that is close to your heart, as visual communication encompasses so many different facets. For example, you may have a major in visual communication and a minor in journalism. This may be an excellent start towards becoming a photo journalist.

As media continues to change and we become even more dependent upon the internet in our daily lives, there continues to be a growing need for people with an art degree in visual communication. The days of simple audio or print communication are coming to a close. Many people prefer getting their news and ideas from videos instead of reading or hearing about it. Video advertising is just now beginning to blossom online. Many people with an art degree in visual communication are concentrating on video advertising to make their mark in the world as this is definitely the way of the future, particularly online. People who spend time on the internet would rather watch a video than read print media.

An art degree in visual communication can be a lucrative way to make a living in this every changing world in which we live. Keeping with the current trends, visual communication is now the way of the future and for those who want to keep up with modern times, have good communication skills and are highly creative, this is most definitely a career to bank upon in the future.

Art Schools

2008-05-11T18:19:00.000-07:00

The Best Art Schools in the United States

If you are serious about earning your art degree, you need to investigate the many different schools throughout the United States that offer degrees in your field. You may want to get a degree in art at an accredited university or college and then proceed to specialize in a certain field. Finding the best art schools in the United States depends on what field of art you plan to work in. What may be an excellent school for one field may be inappropriate for another.

If, for example, you wish to go into the culinary arts, you are going to have to train with a professional chef. There are many culinary arts schools in the United States. Culinary Arts Programs vary from school to school. If you are interested in learning French Cuisine, you may be interested in attending a LeCordon Bleu Culinary Program. If you like to bake and want to learn how to specialize in gourmet pastries, you may try a pastry arts baking school. Most culinary arts schools not only teach how to cook, but also about how to maintain sanitary standards, how to run a kitchen and even the business aspects of running a restaurant.

If you want to be a painter and have always dreamed of painting portraits for a living, you can attend art college but will then want to study with an individual artist. Many museums have resident artists who work with a select number of students who are deemed to be gifted. In order to get into one of these programs, you will have to submit your work for approval.

The best art schools in the United States for anyone who wants to specialize in the fine arts, such as painting or drawing, would be within the art institutes in various cities where one can have the opportunity not only to exhibit their work but also work with a professional artist.

To find the best art school for the field in which you want to go into, you will have to think of several things. First and foremost is the budget that you have to enter school. Although there are scholarship programs available, if you travel far you will have to consider room and board while attending art school. You will also need to purchase supplies. Fortunately, most people who attend art school tend to be very creative and can find creative ways to earn money while attending school. They can teach classes for children or paint portraits at craft and art shows to earn some money.

Another consideration must be made to location. How far are you willing to travel to go to art school? This will also be determined by your budget. However, there are many different financial aid programs for someone who has talent and ambition but not a lot of money to make their dream of going to art school a reality.

When searching for the best art schools in the United States, consider your budget and the distance you will have to travel to reach the art school. Also make certain that the art school has the appropriate classes in the art for in which you plan to specialize. Most important, make sure that the school is accredited and that earning a degree from the school will put you on the path towards the art career you have always wanted.

How To Paint A Cabbage Rose

2008-05-11T08:04:00.000-07:00

Superb description on how to paint a cabbage rose. Video instruction made by Donna Dewberry. She uses here the one stroke technique ( source: plaidcrafts/YouTube). Now anyone can go and paint a flower by using this technique. Watch and try out yourself. No need to be perfect.

See also: Cabbage Rose Essentials In Aromatherapy

Let The Color Run Method

2008-05-07T16:57:00.000-07:00

Search Amazon.com for watercolor techniques

Great easy to apply video tutorial on how to let the colors run when painting with watercolors. In this case you will learn how to paint a flower using water colors. You will find the woman's homepage in the video. She is a teacher in painting and artist as well. Her contributions to the internet is widely appreciated.

See also:

Wet-in-wet painting techniques.

Oil Painting Fundamentals

2008-05-07T08:48:00.000-07:00

The best way to learn how to paint is to explore the basics of different art material, drawing and composition aspects. Today you can get a lot of useful information and instructions on the internet about painting. If you have thought about how oil paintings can be done look no further. Here is some useful resources. Read on...

What is Oil Painting?

Oil painting definitely is a good hobby to take up. It is beginning to become one of the rarer forms of painting, although it is still practiced by many people throughout the world. Many people look at the Mona Lisa or Vincent Van Gogh’s popular oil painting for reference at how great oil painters of the world made their success. Fortunately for them, their oil paintings are not hung in museums and carbon copies are made to hang in people's homes.

But what exactly encompasses the whole oil painting idea? As one could guess, there are a variety of oils and even painting mediums that one can use to produce an oil painting. A few of the types of oils and a few of the different ways to oil paint are presented here for those who either want to take up oil painting as a hobby, or for those who just would like to expand their area of knowledge.

More than one type of oil can be used when doing this type of painting. Probably the most popular form of oil to use is linseed oil, which comes from flax seeds. A few of the other types of oils include poppyseed, safflower, and also walnut oil. Now what are the difference between all of the types of oils, one might ask? There are plenty of differences in the oils if you specialize in oil painting. One of the differences among the types of oils comes in the amount of time that it takes for the oil to dry. Of course while mixing the specific oil with turpentine, which is what oil painters usually do, this will also affect drying time. But the oil that is dries the fastest would be linseed oil. So not only is linseed oil the most popular for oil painting, it also dries the quickest. This would also be the reason that many artists usually want to use linseed oil as one of the first oils that they use in their oil paintings. The quicker the oil dries, the less time is needed before they apply a different layer of a different oil.

Another issue to consider when learning about oil painting is the type of set that you'll use to make your oil painting. Just as there are many forms of oil, there are also many forms of sets that can be used. Some of these include painting oil on wood, linoleum, cardboard, and canvas. Canvas is probably the most popular set chosen for oil painting. One reason that it may be the most popular chosen is because it is heavy duty, and therefore can withstand the amount of oil that is painted on it.

No matter how you go about oil painting, the very first thing to do is research. Research how to oil paint, where to get your supplies, and what combinations of oil paints and painting mediums make the best oil painting. The more you prepare yourself for the hobby you're about to start, the more you'll enjoy actually working on your oil painting!

Source: http://www.paintinghotel.com/

I hope this article will help you on your way to begin painting yourself.

If you like you may book mark this learn2paint blog so you can return later on for new tips.

Have a nice day!

Explore The Nature Of Your Own Backyard

2008-02-13T15:13:00.000-08:00

Backyards, they are where individuals of all ages go to relax and have fun. While many people enjoy being in their backyards, they are not the only ones. In fact, when you are in your backyard, you are rarely ever alone. At any given time, your backyard is filled with amazing, living things. If you are the parent of a young child, you may want to use this opportunity to explore nature with them. Not only will it be a fun experience, but it will also be a learning experience.

Birds are just a few of the many animals that can be found in your backyard. There is a good chance that a large number of different birds will make their way into your yard, especially if you have a bird feeder. One of the many reasons why bird watching is fun is because of all the birds that you will see. In addition to just watching these birds, you may to document what your child sees.

To turn bird watching into an educational experience, you will need to purchase a few supplies. These supplies may include a bird watching book, a notebook, and a camera. Notebooks and cameras are optional; however, they are a great way to document the birds that enter your yard. While a notebook and a camera are optional, you may seriously want to consider purchasing a bird watching book or one earth science book for children. Many book stores carry a large selection of bird watching books, including those for children. A bird watching book is essential when incorporating education into this fun backyard activity.

As previously mentioned, birds are just a few of the many living creatures that can be found in your backyard. You and your child should also be able to find a large number of different bugs and insects. As with bird watching, you may want to study and examine some of these insects. By visiting your local book store or by shopping online, you should be able to find a number of insect resource guides or books that are designed especially for children.

What is nice about most bugs and insects is that you don’t just have to look at them. A number of bugs and insects can live in small containers. If your child not only wants to see an insect up-close, but see how they go about their daily activities, they should be able to that with the right supplies. Most retail stores, including science stores, toy stores, and traditional department stores, should have a wide variety of different insect catching supplies. These supplies may include, but are not be limited to, small cages, breathable containers, and butterfly nets.
Many children are aware of the fact that bugs and birds are living animals, but many do not know that plants and flowers are also living. For that reason, you may want to teach them about plants and flowers.

Depending on when your backyard was lasted mowed, you should be able to find a number of different plants and flowers. As with most other living things, you should also be able to purchase books and resource guides that cover common plants and flowers. You and your child may have fun comparing the plants and flowers in your backyard to those in their books.

It is amazing what you can find in your own backyard. While you may not give any thought to the plants, flowers, bugs, or birds that can be found in your backyard, your child will likely be impressed with them. For a fun, but educational experience, you and your child are encouraged to get outside and see everything that nature has to offer.

Then you may bring your new discovery and findings into a painting. Pick one object or a theme and experiment around it with different colors on a canvas. Maybe that bird, maybe that corner or that flower. See where it goes. Follow the flow. Let that new knowledge forms itself into a picture on the canvas. Add the atmosphere and the impression of your exploration just made. Frame it and set it up for a day to memorize.

Related resources:

Earth Science for Every Kid; 101 Easy Experiments that Really Work by Janice VanCleave

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How to Paint a Lake - Video Tutorial

2008-01-23T03:19:00.000-08:00

Touch Up Tutorial for Digital Photos

2008-01-22T14:37:00.000-08:00