Moon Art Design- The blog of artist Michael Mooney

I am shutting down the blog.

2013-09-15T13:12:00.000-07:00

Adios, arrivederci, turn out the lights, lock up the doors!

I am leaving blogger......

and moving all my blogging to my website. This has been a long time coming and it makes a lot of sense for me.

It's a lot easier and it's best to keep people all in one place instead of bouncing all over the web.

Anyway, everything can be found at my site- www.MoonArtDesign.com

I look forward to seeing you there.

Cheers!

Business Card Design

2013-09-05T19:12:00.001-07:00

As any artist knows, it can be hard to create something for someone with a specific vision in their mind and it's even harder when their vision is blurry. Allow me to explain.

"A designer knows he has achieved perfection not when there is nothing left to add, but when there is nothing left to take away."

-Antoine De Saint-Exupery

I know what I want.

How many designers out there have heard this before? Surprisingly, some people know exactly what they want, that’s great right? Well, not always. When a client knows what they want, however, they are unable to describe what they want to you, lots of time can be wasted.

I have worked with someone who said, this is how I want it -they had a layout idea- I created exactly what they wanted it and they didn’t like it. I created a new version using some of their ideas and a few of my own and they didn’t like it. Then they said, "you know what , I guess I don’t know what I want”.

There are also times, when a client is able to define how a design should look and things go very smooth for both parties and everyone is happy. These are few and far between.

If you are a designer and are considering buying a tablet to design with... I highly recommend it. I have had one for 4-5 years now and I can't even think of designing without it. Using the pen tablet has increased my productivity and has made me a more accurate designer, especially when I create vector graphics using Adobe Illustrator.

*Disclaimer- It does take a few weeks of steady use to get acclimated to your new pen tablet, but it is well worth the temporary frustration.

Blurred Lines.

On the flip side, when someone doesn’t know what they want, I start with blank canvas and this is where I start to shine. Here I explore all the possibilities in a brain storming session, create a few samples and email my client the top designs.

They critique my work, make a few suggestions and I alter the design to their new found vision. I make a few changes and the client is as happy as a pig in mud!

The other day I got a request to design business card in a hurry. My client knew what she wanted but needed some help bringing everything to life. I made a few samples and she wanted me to make some minor tweaks and I was done in about a half hour. Designing for someone doesn’t always go this well, but it sure is great when it does.

Here's what the Business card looks like:

The Front

The Back

The QR code was blurred out and the text was edited to keep my client anonymous.

If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment below. If you need me to design you a business card or anything at all, feel free to send me an email.

Are you ordering from Amazon.com (affiliate link) any time soon? Click on this link or the web banner I have to the right of my blog. Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

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Cheers!

Lola, L-O-L-A......

2013-08-28T18:04:00.003-07:00

Lola.

Here she is in all of her glory- Lola is a friend of Duncan. If you don't know who Duncan is, you can learn all about him here.

Anyone, this post isn't about Duncan, it's all about Lola! What a beauty! I created this shortly after the last Duncan painting I created- Duncan III. This is also an acrylic painting, however, instead of painting on canvas, I used a canvas board that's been sitting around the studio.

Buy prints of Lola on canvas here.

Want to create your own paintings? I recommend using Basics paint and canvas board below:

As you know, I am preparing for Art in the Park and I can't wait for this weekend! If you are going to be in the Keene area, come on down and say hi! There is going to be some great art from over 85 artists on display.

Anyway, I just wanted to touch base before art in the park and update you on some of the new art I've been working on.

If you have any questions, feel free to comment in the comment section below.

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Cheers!

Work, Work, Working........

2013-08-25T15:03:00.001-07:00

........Like a dog. Boy, I tell, it's not easy working a full time job and being an artist at the same time. Things get tricky too when you are exhausted from doing too much of any one thing.

I have a lot of projects going at the moment so, blogging has taken a back seat to the rest of my life. Although, I do feel like I have been able to keep up fairly regularly, not doing the one a week art project has done two things:

1. Allowed me to slack on blogging/posting new art
2. It has allowed me to focus on a few projects that I have been pushing off

One of those projects is getting ready for Art in the Park labor day weekend. I have been doing some major slacking here but I am going to put some work in this weekend and next weekend and everything will be okay! :)

Another project I have been working on is creating a kids book. Although this has not been an easy task, it has been a fun and interesting learning experience. I have written and illustrated the entire book and I am still in the middle of editing, enhancing and improving the book right now.

That's new with me, What have you been up? Leave comments below. Don't forget about my Summer Sale....... learn more here.

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Cheers!

End of Summer Sale

2013-08-16T19:08:00.004-07:00

How has Summer been treating everyone? I hope you have had plenty of time to enjoy the sunny warm weather-when it's not raining- and were able to head to the beach, play on the lake or read a nice book and relax.

Unfortunately, Summer is starting to wind down as we are well into August now and the weather is sort of starting to take an uncharacteristically turn towards some fall weather. I have been saying for years now that I feel that seasons are changing starting to shift and that the "Poles- North and South" are changing roles. However, this would mean the poles are going counter clockwise, so what do I know I am an artist.

Although I love the Autumn weather and everything that comes along with it.. camp fires, warm clothing, flannel shirts, hoodies, and those tasty seasonal beers from Southern Tier Brewery and Smuttynose Brewery, to name a couple, I am still looking for some hot Summer days!

Anyway, as I stated, the Summer is winding down and I need to make room in the studio for new art! So, I am going to offer up a 50% off sale for the rest of the Summer until Tuesday September 3, 2013!!!

That's right, I will be selling all of my original art for half off. This is a limited time offer so you must act soon.

LIMITED TIME OFFER-

All my art is currently 50% off until 9/3/2013.

Please visit MoonArtDesign.com to view my art. *Please note, some art that you see on my blog has not been added to my site. Please email me with any questions.

**Shipping will be added to the final cost and is not discounted.

Ordering from Amazon.com (affiliate link) any time soon? Click on this link or the web banner I have to the right of my blog.

Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

Like me on Facebook.

Cheers!

Duncan 3

2013-08-13T03:31:00.001-07:00

Here is the third installment in my Duncan series "Duncan 3". He's addicted to sugar and it only takes him one lick to get to the center of a lollipop. Aside from being busy working on a children's book, I have actually been taking some time to work on couple of other birds as well.

Prints available here.

However, it's been tough finding time for other projects. Once Art in the Park is over and I have made some great progress on the kids book. Once I have more information on the book, I will let you know.

In other news, Summer feels like it's over huh? The weather has made a huge shift from hot to extremely nice weather during the days (rain aside) and cool nights... which I love!

Fall is around the corner and I can't wait. I hope you are able to enjoy the rest of Summer while it lasts!

Ordering from Amazon.com (affiliate link) any time soon? Click on this link or the web banner I have to the right of my blog.

Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

Like me on Facebook.

Cheers!

Art In the Park is coming up!!!

2013-08-07T05:50:00.001-07:00

The Summer is starting to wind down- even though it hardly feels like we've had much of a Summer with all this rain. Either way it means it's that time a year again, Art in the Park (in Keene, NH) is only a few weeks away!

This is the 55th year of Art in the Park and it is sure to be the best one yet! This event takes place outdoors so weather is always a concern, but there is typically a good turnout.

Art in the Park is Labor Day weekend Saturday and Sunday from 10-4 both days. There are 80+ artist who put their art out there for all to enjoy! Come visit me and check out my art at the Brown Tent- which is tent 32!

Here is a picture of the First place winner for Photography 2012 of Sue O'Connor Photography!!!

She is also my mom and we share a booth at this great event.

I am so proud of her and she has an amazing eye for photography.

If you only have a few minute to to stop by and check out some great art, please do, you won't be disappointed! Besides, don't you need some new art for your walls?

We have a bunch of new art to display and can't wait for Labor Day!

Ordering from Amazon.com (affiliate link) any time soon? Click on this link or the web banner I have to the right of my blog.

Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

Like me on Facebook.

Cheers!

Duncan II

2013-08-01T18:07:00.000-07:00

Here is the second of three paintings I created recently. Duncan II isn't he so cute? He has such a sweet tooth too! I have a few others I have been working on.

I am actually thinking of working on a larger version of Duncan, I am talking about a 5' Duncan! What do you think of that!?!?

Buy prints here.

Anyway, I have been working on a lot of projects lately so it's been hard to take time away to scan, crop, and upload art for viewing on the blog... I know "first world problems".

I am sorry and I will "try" to be more diligent about it. However, I am an artist (not a writer) and I will do what I can.

I will however, reveal that I have been working on a book, a kids books and it is really coming along! I am very excited about it and I look forward to sharing more with you soon! This has been consuming a lot of my time recently so I appreciate your patience in between each blog post. I promise it will be all worth it, plus your kids will be very excited!

Ordering from Amazon.com (affiliate link) any time soon? Click on this link or the web banner I have to the right of my blog.

Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

Like me on Facebook.

Cheers!

Duncan I

2013-07-26T17:41:00.003-07:00

Duncan is a new character developed from an ink drawing from my series, the Back Rooms of My Mind. If you go back through a few of my posts, you will see that I extracted this character and decided he had enough charisma to stand out on his own.

DDI Acrylic Paint Set - 18 col (Google Affiliate Ad)

The physical form and features of this bird, literally came from the Back Rooms of My Mind, however, the music I was listening to is what stimulated the chords, deep within my soul to develop and then create this character.

Buy prints here.

Duncan was named after the brilliant comedian, Duncan Trussel. He's a comedian and actor with a very open mind. He is a man in the middle of his own voyage to find the answers to his questions as he continues on his journey through the multiverse.

I took a break from painting for about a year and switched gears to work on some drawings I have been wanting to create as well as some watercolor drawings. It was nice to finally paint again and truth be told, it's been hard to put down the brush.

I am currently working on about 15-20 pieces right now. They are all in various mediums and are all in various stages. At times it can seem chaotic, but that's how my mind works and I am okay with that.

I have a few more of these paintings ready to go and I can't wait to share them with you!

Buy this drawing here.

Ordering from Amazon.com (affiliate link) any time soon? Click on this link or the web banner I have to the right of my blog.

Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

Like me on Facebook.

Cheers!

Staying Healthy - Mind, Body, & Soul Part-2

2013-07-18T06:03:00.000-07:00

Part-2 The Body

Here is Part 2 of 3 on Staying Healthy.

“Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity.” - John F. Kennedy

If you want to be a great artist or just great at everything and anything you do in life, you need to be healthy. By keeping your Mind clear, your Body in shape/well nourished, and your Soul free of bad vibes/negativity, you will allow yourself to succeed in life.

Think of yourself like the engine of a car (every once in a while you need to have repairs done), by taking care of these three things, you will allow yourself to perform at a high level and your body will be able to fire on all cylinders.

I have found that living a healthy lifestyle (eating well, working out, taking breaks away from art and enjoying life) makes me a better artist. Life is all about balance.

There are as many nights as days, and the one is just as long as the other in the year's course. Even a happy life cannot be without a measure of darkness, and the word 'happy' would lose its meaning if it were not balanced by sadness.
~ Carl Jung

Working On The Body

About two years ago I started making small changes in my day-to-day life. Small changes eventually work their way up to being big changes. It all starts with baby steps. We all live busy lives and changing or doing something out of the norm., can seem like such a giant task.

Let me back track a bit. As long as I can remember, I've never been one for working out (still to this day, I don't like going to the gym). I always thought it was a waste of time and that I could be doing or working on something of higher importance.

I use to play high school hockey and we had to hit the gym, to make ourselves stronger than our competition. I hated this then and as you know from above, I still do. In the off-season, I joined the cross country track team and quit after the first practice. Why you ask? Yup, you guessed it, because they wanted us to "hit the weights"! Seriously?? Lift weights for track? I knew right then and there that track was not for me!

I carried this mentality with me after high school and essentially the rest of my life till about a couple of years ago. My mind set was, the gym = meat head and I personally didn't care about being "jacked". I've always been athletic, playing hockey, basketball, soccer, ultimate frisbee, wiffel ball, bocce ball... Bocce ball is athletic right??

Fast forward to a few years ago. I was listening to a podcast and later on speaking with a few friends and they were both saying the same thing.

Working out doesn't mean getting "huge" "ripped" "jacked" or having muscles upon muscles??? Boy was I wrong! It's about being healthy and keeping your body performing at maximum capacity. If you're body running well, your mind will run well, and you will be able to produce more quality art!

* Remember, you don't have to work out to have a six pack, working out = staying heart healthy!

Excuses

Believe me I know them all- it's too hot, I can't afford the gym, I am sore, I am tired, it's a holiday, etc. Have you seen the video about the couple talking about working out?? It's hilarious because it's true.

Here it is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2JSWgkwRL4

The point this is making is nobody really wants to do it, but if you can make it a routine and think about creating art after you are finished as your reward, it won't seem too bad. Start slow and make small goals and each day or every other day, add on a few more reps each time.

I am currently up 50 sit-ups a day. I started at 0 because the only way I could do them was with the couch holding my feet down (using it as leverage). I know I remember a friend doing this in elementary school gym class too! * Now I can do them all by myself- like a big kid! :)

Here are some items I recommend buying if you are thinking of working out at home. I bought some kettlebells and a kettlebell video to help with some exercises. I personal love under armour gear and it helps reduce the sweat when working out while keeping me cool.

Eating Right

It's easy to eat every meal of the day via fast food places and restaurants. Who doesn't love getting a donut or cheeseburger every now and again? I am sure there are many people. (There is always an exception.) Either way, it's worth taking the time every day or every week to make meals at home instead of eating out- plus you will save lots of money doing this too! I'm sure your thinking oh yah right, I'm not going all vegan or vegetarian, I need my meat, I need my beer! I hear you loud and clear and I am the same way... All I am saying is think about the choices you make and cut back on some of the drinking (if you are drinking everyday, you know it's too much). Remember it's all about balance in life.

I try to eat really good during the week and some times 6 days a week and have one or two cheat days, because like I said, I like my beers, meat, chocolate, and ice cream too! This is the kind of diet where you can have your cake and eat it! I am on the whatever I want diet. I eat whatever I want once or twice a week. Nothing in excess is ever good.

Why Should I Care About My Health?

I am going to keep this short. You only have one body and one life. If you aren't working out and not eating healthy, I doubt you will be creating any art. Besides, does anyone really want to be sick or feeling so bad you don't want to create art? I sure as hell don't!

Now, get off that couch, step away from the computer! Clean out your fridge, buy some weights (gym memberships can be costly) and get to work on helping your body (your minds engine) fire on all cylinders. Once you do that, go create some art!

Best of luck to everyone on your path to a better you! I can't wait to hear from you and see how this helps you become a better artist. To quote What About Bob, "It's all about Baby Steps".

Are you looking to order anything from Amazon.com (affiliate link) any time soon? Click on the web banner I have to the right of my blog or on the link.

Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

Like me on Facebook.

Cheers!

Summer is finally here!

2013-07-06T21:23:00.000-07:00

Boy oh boy, has it been hot and humid or what?? It appears that Summer is finally here, espically after kicking off another 4th of July weekend! I hope you all had a fun Independence Day and didn't get into too much trouble.

I've been doing everything I can to keep cool and one thing that helps is wearing less clothing! Hey now- get your mind out of the gutter, I am talking about wearing tank tops!

Here are the Summer Ultimate Frisbee tank tops I posted about in the Winter. I figured it's time to make some more noise about them now that Summer is finally taking over.

Buy this tank top here.

These tanks are sure to keep you cooler (and looking cooler) all Summer long.

*These designs are also available on a t-shirt. Please specify this on the order form.

Stay tuned for more clothing!

Are you looking to order anything from Amazon.com (affiliate link) any time soon? Click on the web banner I have to the right of my blog or on the link.

Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

Like me on Facebook.

Cheers!

Is Creativity A Gift or A Curse?

2013-06-28T21:08:00.000-07:00

It's an honest question and one that typically goes without being asked. Is creativity a gift or a curse?

“ Having once found the intensity of art, nothing else that can happen in life can ever again seem as important as the creative process. ” — F. Scott Fitzgerald

I feel that the general consensus would say, " ...of course it's a gift" and not think twice about it. How can it be mistaken for anything else? While the creative people may take some time to debate this question and discuss the pros and cons, they may end up siding with the general consensus.

It's A Curse!

Don't get met wrong, I do believe creativity is a gift, however, there are times when it can seem like a curse. For me, creativity comes flying at me from every direction, at a million miles an hour- even when I don't want to be creative.

I think creativity might be similar to being a medium that communicates with the deceased. They try to connect with you at odd times and when you least expect it. Especially when you just want to be.

As an artist, my mind is constantly working and creating new ideas for creations and new projects all the time. I am serious too, it's really hard to shut down and turn my mind off. There are very few times when my mind is actually switched off.

It's A Gift!

Being creative is a gift!... Right? What am I contemplating? Of course it is!... Right? In all honesty, I do believe that creativity is a gift. However, I all too often hear people say, "I wish I was creative" and "I'm just not that creative".

If it weren't for the creativity of people thinking outside the box, going where most minds can't or won't go, we would have never evolved nor would we continue to advance in life. For all intents and purposes, we could still be hunter and gatherers living in caves. Clearly creativity has been percolating all along. From hunting with your hands and using sticks and stones. Gradually, man continued to evolve and created bows and arrows, setting traps and eventually developing guns.

The point is, creativity is vital to our lives and our existence. If we didn't come up with new ways to survive, we would have died. Even to this day, scientists are creating new ways to fight disease and developing new technologies which allow us to live longer.

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up." -Pablo Picasso

I feel that everyone has creativity locked up inside them. However, it may take more effort for some to access their hidden creative talents.

"I'm an idealist. I don't know where I'm going, but I'm on my way." -Carl Sandburg

All in all, I am glad I am blessed with this ~~curse.~~.. I mean gift!

Well what do you think? Is creativity a gift or Is it a curse? I would love to hear your thoughts.

Are you looking to order anything from Amazon.com (affiliate link) any time soon? Click on the web banner I have to the right of my blog or on the link.

Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

Like me on Facebook.

Cheers!

A Quick Update

2013-06-23T20:18:00.002-07:00

I know I've been MIA over the past few weeks, so let me catch you up to speed.... I've been busy! :) Likely story right? I know you've heard it before but hey it's true. Between working the day job, working on new/old projects, trying to figure out what to do with my computer situation, trying to help plan a wedding (trying), trying to enjoy life, workout and stay healthy, as well as submitting art o galleries. I've also been working on some art and it's hard to scan a drawing when you don't have a computer.

Anyway, enough bitching- Here is a sneak peek look at one of the drawings I've been working on. This was taken with my ipod touch, so the quality is low but no scanning necessary!

Giant Chess (Google Affiliate Ad) Travel Magnetic Walnut Chess Set (Google Affiliate Ad)

I'm not sure if you new this but I love chess and I have been wanting to work on a new chess related drawing. I had some left over paper and decided to go for it.

I will continue to take photos and update you on the progress!

That's it for now, I am tired!

Cheers!

Staying Healthy - Mind, Body, & Soul Part-1

2013-06-06T17:49:00.000-07:00

Part-1 The Mind

Staying Healthy is vital to the success of being great at anything and everything you do. I feel that being healthy is so important and is a pivotal link between happy and unhappy people. A topic of this magnitude cannot be answered in one blog post therefore I will be breaking this up into three sections- Mind, Body, & Soul.

If you want to be a great artist or great at everything and anything you do in life, you need to be healthy. By keeping your Mind clear, your Body in shape/well nourished, and your Soul free of bad vibes/negativity. By doing so, you will allow yourself the opportunity to succeed in life.

Think of yourself like the engine of a car (every once in a while you need to have repairs done), by taking care of these three things, you will allow yourself to perform at a high level and your body will be able to fire on all cylinders.

I have found that living a healthy lifestyle (eating well, working out, taking breaks away from art and enjoying life) makes me a better artist. Life is all about balance.

“Be aware of wonder. Live a balanced life - learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and dance and play and work every day some." - Robert Fulghum

Wise man that Robert Fulghum is.

For a good read, check out Mr. Fulghum's Book "All I Really Need to Know I learned in Kindergarten" here:

Keeping My Mind Right

About two years ago I started making small changes in my day-to-day life. Small changes eventually work their way up to being big changes. It all starts with baby steps. We all live busy lives and changing or doing something seems like such a giant task. If I were to say I wanted to create 52 or more drawings every year, I probably would try and then loose focus and never finish that goal. That is why I started a One A week Art Project- inspired by the TwinGeekz Art Project.

Every week I have one goal, to create and post a piece of art for my One A week Art Project which is due on Sunday or in some rare cases Monday. :) This small incremental deadline keeps me focused each week to create something new every week. Thus, at the end of 52 weeks, I have 52 pieces of new art!

Like I said above, We all live busy lives- Really. Busy. Lives. But that's no excuse to avoid doing what you love and staying healthy.

Taking Breaks

I don't know about you but I love being in my studio... I LOVE IT! I love being so isolated from everything in the world so that I can allow my mind to expand, get lost, and create masterpiece after masterpiece... or at least try! :)

That said, even I know when to take a break!

"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once and a while, you could miss it."

-- Ferris Bueller (Ferris Bueller's Day Off)

Did I mention that I was a movie buff? Because I am and you will find me quoting a few movies every now and again. Have you ever seen Ferris Bueller's Day Off? If you haven't, it's a classic and I highly recommend it!

Aside from watching movies you can:

Go for a walk, hike, bike or run
Read a book
Play a game
Go to the beach
Hang out with friends or family
Meditate (I would like to start doing this)
Take a nap(I would also like to start doing this)

and the list goes on.

Can you think of any others? Leave a comment with things or ideas you do when taking a break from your routine.

Here are a few books to help expand your mind.

Ordering from Amazon.com (advertisement) any time soon? Click on the web banner I have to the right of my blog or on the link.

Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

Like me on Facebook.

Cheers!

New art: Back Rooms of My Mind Door# 10513

2013-05-21T18:24:00.002-07:00

In the middle of working on many projects, it's not always easy to finish when they are all in different stages. I went through a good streak where I was completing a lot of drawings and posting one a week. I have stepped back from cranking out the smaller drawings and have shifted to working on some paintings.

In between paintings and waiting for the paint to dry, I routinely go back my sketch pad. This is where I allow my mind to go free and conjure up new ideas for future series.

Here is the newest addition to the Back Rooms of My Mind series- Door# 10513

Prints available here.

I was thinking of water coloring this drawing in as I mainly leave them Black & White. If I do decide to work in some watercolor which I feel would really work well with this series, I will post the changes.

Here are some pens I started using for my ink drawings a while back. They are worth buying as they are waterproof and work great!

If you are looking to order anything from Amazon.com (affiliate link) any time soon? Click on the web banner I have to the right of my blog or on the link.

Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

Like me on Facebook.

Cheers!

PS Go Bruins!

Death Squad Secret Show #14

2013-05-15T19:29:00.003-07:00

New art inspired by the DeathSquad podcast Secret Show #14. If you are a fan of the DeathSquad comedy circuit, then you know all about the Secret Show and all the hilariousness that goes on. Brian Redban is the glue that keeps the DeathSquad community laughing for hours and hours. *Maybe they'll even make it out to the east coast?! :)

Secret Show #14

Big thanks to Redban and all the DeathSquad comedians for keeping us laughing!

If you are looking to order anything from Amazon.com (affiliate link) any time soon? Click on the web banner I have to the right of my blog or on the link.

Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

Like me on Facebook.

Cheers!

Update On My New Painting & Happy Mother's Day

2013-05-12T20:11:00.003-07:00

Last week I posted about some new art. Not having my computer has made scanning art, posting and updating my on-line archives difficult. The iPod touch has really helped and allowed me to keep posting.......... Things are starting to get weird and I wouldn't have it any other way!

Ordering from Amazon.com (affiliate ad) any time soon? Click on the link and Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

New Artist

I saw some new art this weekend and his paintings really inspired me to create. I don't know too much about the artist but I really love this style and these paintings. I tried searching for the artist and couldn't come up with anything. Does anyone have any information on this artist?

These colors are great so nice and vibrant. They really standout in a crowded room.

In other news, Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there! Thanks for all you've done Mom!

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Cheers!

New Painting and Stretching the Boundaries.

2013-05-05T15:43:00.000-07:00

Here's an inspiring and interesting quote from the mad man of an artist Andy Warhol.....

“Don't think about making art, just get it done. Let everyone else decide if it's good or bad, whether they love it or hate it. While they are deciding, make even more art.” ― Andy Warhol

Although, I'm not a big fan of his art, however, I like his mentality, he had a great perspective and his thoughts really resonate with me.

I had some old canvas laying around from college and decided to create something new. As you an see in the photo, I started with a light Purple wash but decided not to cover up the entire canvas. I feel that this will add more depth to the painting.

The start of a new painting

I just finished adding a few elements to the painting... What do you think this is going to be? I have a few ideas of what direction I am going to take with this and I am planning on stretching the boundaries a bit. I love starting new paintings like this because it allows me to expand my mind and develop new ideas.

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Computer Update

2013-04-25T19:04:00.001-07:00

A couple of months ago, my computer crashed on me and I couldn't do anything. The only way I have been able post is because I had scanned drawings ahead a time before it died. I've also been able use other computers to upload everything and generate the posts.

When I brought my computer in to get diagnosed, they eventually came to the conclusion that I needed a new hard drive. Finally, the hard drive came in and they installed it. After trying to install the OS, they started to think the hard drive wasn't the issue and they now believe it's the mother board... yay!

I am now at the point where I need to get a new computer because mine is in their words "too old and not worth the money to replace the mother board".... yay!

What computer should I get?
I'm starting to research some computers and weighting the pros & cons of the situation.

Here are a few options I've been looking at:

The mac pro would be ideal... It's a beast and would be great for graphics and video work. The mini is an option, but low on the list. However, I am most likely going to go with the Macbook Pro. It's the best of both worlds, as I like the portability of the laptop and this is similar to my old computer.

The other negative from my computer dying, is the cost of buying a new one. Maybe I should start a kick starter ey? Has anyone out there started a kick starter campaign??

How did you campaign go? Was is successful?

What computer do you have?

I'll try to find someone with a scanner to upload more art, sorry for the delay.

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How To Make Money As An Artist- Part 2

2013-04-17T19:57:00.004-07:00

How does an artist make money? Part 2

As an artist, I know it's tough to pursue your passion when starting out and trying to make a living at it, I know because I am going through it. About a month ago I posted some ideas about how to make money as an artist and I said I would be posting some more ideas at a later day. Well, here they are.

Here are a few more ways to make money as an artist.

Hang Art in galleries, cafes, and shops
Submitting art to magazines and newspapers
Send art to stock photo web sites

Do you have any other ways to generate income? Post them in the comments below and help your fellow artists out!

Shop Kindle eBooks - Daily Deals

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Back Rooms of My Mind Door#16413

2013-04-16T19:58:00.003-07:00

Back Rooms of My Mind Door#16413 is the latest of my creations. It's been tough over the past few months as my computer is still down. The computer people are trying one last thing in hopes they can fix it, however, it's looking more and more likely that I will have to break down and purchase a new computer... BOOO! I will keep you updated as I know more info.

Prints available here.

I've been using these pens Pigma Micron Pen Set 0.45mm 6/Pkg - Earth/Heritage (Google Affiliate Ad) over the past few months and they are awesome for drawing with! I recommend using this for your ink drawings. The bonus is that they are waterproof.

In other news, I would like to take the opportunity announce that over the next 2 months, I will be donating half of the proceeds earned to the Greg Hill Foundation which will help anyone injured in the Boston Marathon Bombing on Monday. This was yet another senseless act of violence which seems to be happening way too often these days.

Feel free to donate directly to the cause here or purchase a print or original piece of art and support the marathon

Better Late Than Never

2013-04-11T19:11:00.001-07:00

This is a drawing I did back in December that I intended to post around the end date of Myan Calendar and Potential end of the world. Ironically enough, I never ended up finishing this drawing so I figured it was about time to post it!

Prints available here.

These pens are great for drawing and I use them all the time!

Pigma Micron Pen Set 0.45mm 6/Pkg - Earth/Heritage (Google Affiliate Ad)

I've been working on a ton of art lately and few secret projects that I can't wait to talk about!

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Back Rooms Of My Mind Door 17812

2013-04-06T20:50:00.003-07:00

Here is my latest drawing to be added to the back rooms of my mind series.

Prints available here.

Here are some pens I use when creating my ink drawings. They are great for adding detail and they are waterproof too! Check them out when you have the chance. Pigma Micron Pen Set Assorted 6/Pkg - Black (Google Affiliate Ad)

I've been working on this series for a few years now and I don't think I can ever sick of creating them!

In other news, my computer is still down so I haven't been able to scan in any recent creations. That said, I am still finding away to upload my art for the world to see each week! I am hoping to get my computer back soon.

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Cheers!

5 Tips For A Better Sleep

2013-04-04T18:24:00.002-07:00

For a long time, my favorite time to create art was at night. I was a night owl, staying up until 3-4am and not waking up till 10 or 11am and doing it all over again. I loved those days off from "life" where I could get lost in my own world.

Nowadays, (Sun-Thurs) I have to stick to a schedule and be in bed by a certain time in order to wake up in time to head to work in the morning- (I have to pay the bills after all!)

However, there are lots of nights where my body and mind will not agree with my schedule. Often I am rolling around restless as ideas for new drawings come to the forefront of my mind - no longer in the back rooms of my mind, these ideas are scream at me, insisting that I get them down on paper before they are lost forever. Thankfully, I keep a notebook at arms reach.

They other night, I couldn't get the ideas down and this is all I could get out...

"Can't Sleep" prints available here.

I lay awake waiting for for my mind to turn off. Sometimes it does and sometimes, I just need to turn the light on and get everything out of my mind and down on paper.

Do you have a similar issue? Here are some things I do to try and sleep:

5 Tips For A Better Sleep

1. Have a night cap. Whatever your vice may be, it can sometimes help you get into the proper state of mind to enjoy a nice deep REM sleep. I don't know about you, but I like to have a nice dream or two when I am sleeping.

2. Workout. If you sit at a desk all day and you aren't moving around, how are you suppose to tell your body to "shut down"? It's been on autopilot all day!! Can't afford a gym pass? Go for a walk, jog, hike, run, etc. Walk the dog or walk with the kids, we all know it's hard for some people to do things on their own so, feel free to bring a companion.

I've been working out a lot more over the past year and I find this helps a lot when trying to sleep at night. I also started using Kettle Bells Empower 3-In-1 Kettlebell (Google Affiliate Ad) and this DVD above, is a great dvd that gives you a ton of great information. These exercises are practical and will provide you with functional day to day life strength.

3. No Caffeine! Before bed that is. We all know caffeine keeps you awake and gives you energy. Don't be drinking 2 cups of coffee, a soda and chocolate before you lay down. Give yourself 3-4 hours (this is probably too much) for your body to process everything.

4. Creating the perfect sleeping environment. I don't know about you, but when I go to bed, I like it cold and dark! * I recommend a Lasko 2521 16" Oscillating Stand Fan It works great and keeps me cool while I am dreaming at night!

I also like to have a nice fluffy comforter or "Puff"- don't judge me :) - that I I can wrap myself up in. Believe me, when I do sleep, I don't ever want to wake up! Here's one that you may like: Orvis The Softest Blanket Ever - Yellow (Google Affiliate Ad)

5. Manage your stress. I don't stress out a lot, but I know people that do. Try not to hold on to things that bother you for too long or they will dictate your life. You will dwell on something for too long and it will be with you for a while. If it's really important, write it down and come back to it. Don't sweat the small stuff.

I hope these tips will help you out. I know that everyone's body is different and won't always react the same. Don't forget to speak with your doctor about this sleep issue too. I don't have insomnia and if anyone does, they should definitely consult their physician.

Feel free to post in the comments section and let me and other artists what you do to get a good sleep. Any personal tips or tricks that could be helpful to others would be great!

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Back Rooms of My Mind Door #25113

2013-03-31T07:24:00.002-07:00

Here's a new drawing from the Back Rooms of My Mind series- Door #25113

I know what you are thinking... boy is this guy crazy! It's understandable because it's probably true!

Prints available here.

I love creating these drawings because this is the way my mind works. If you are thinking of creating with ink I recommend Pigma Micron Pen Set 0.45mm 6/Pkg - Earth/Heritage (Google Affiliate Ad).
I started using these two months ago and I have been loving them! They are so smooth and I am able to add more details -very tiny details- to a drawing which gives them more depth. Bonus: These pens are waterproof!

Ordering from Amazon.com any time soon? Click on the web banner I have to the right of my blog or on the link.

Amazon will give me a few pennies from every purchase which helps pay for the blog.

Cheers!