My wife and I started BlueFlax.co, an online shop for stationery and upcycled craft supplies. All the cool things I’ve found or made that go with journaling, crafting, or vintage-style fun are now there. Some of my art might also show up in the shop.

On NateCreates.com, you’ll find my main artwork, like oil paintings, drawings, ceramics, and prints (on canvas, cards, and more).

I’m also changing how I do events. Instead of doing them under Nate Creates, I’ll promote Blue Flax at four events this year at Unity Collectibles in March, June, September, and December. You can find more details on Facebook (Unity Collectibles) or our blog at Blue Flax Stationery. I’ll sell my prints at these events through Blue Flax, but you can still order my art here on my website anytime.

This year, I have a big art goal! I’m going to make one painting each month based on a theme for that month. If I already have a painting for a certain month, I’ll skip it, but by the end of 2025, I hope to have a collection that captures the spirit of each month.

I’ll also keep posting here on NateCreates.com, work on my Patreon, make some video tutorials, and—like always—take on way too many projects because that’s just what I do!

Good luck in the new year, and thanks for stopping by!

—Nate

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October 25–26, 2024—Harvest Festival

There will be a Harvest Festival at the Electric Sundown. It will be two days, October 25th and 26th, from 12pm–8pm, and I’ll be there both days and hopefully until 8pm. I may close up early if it’s slow. Even if it’s not a big event, it will mean more space, so stop by, and check it out. I hope to have some new stuff, perhaps sales on old stuff, and be doing a live painting.

November 16, 2024—Mystical Market

The third Saturday of every month means attending the Unity Collectible’s Mystical Market. This will be a chance to get early presents.

December 21, 2024—Mystical Market

The third Saturday of every month means attending the Unity Collectible’s Mystical Market. This is the chance to get in last-minute gifts for those that need something just a little bit more original.

The post Harvest Fall Events 2024 appeared first on Nate Creates.

I’ve left Instagram (and Facebook and all things Meta) after nearly 10 years on the platform. With this transition I’ll be posting about my art here, on my own blog, on a platform that I own, and am not subject to the same draconian, arbitrary Terms and Conditions of some behemoth corporation that doesn’t care about users, only about profit.

The truth is, the journey of leaving Instagram is many years in developing, but the suspension of my art account (@nate_sullivan_artist) and my design business account (@mountainhutmedia) in June 2024 has meant, one, the platform could not be used by me, and two I realized that any amount of appeal was going to be a nightmarish journey of wasted life energy for what accounted for a few social media followers, and so the journey was concluded much sooner than my lackadaisical approach to this point.

If you stumble on this post and you’ve followed me on Instagram, thank you. I really appreciate the support. While I can’t return the favor through social media, I’ll do my best in other ways when possible. Leave a comment, say high. I’m going to get into regular posting here. And I’ll also be working on a monthly art-related newsletter so stay tuned.

The post Quitting All Things Meta appeared first on Nate Creates.

I’ll have the usual fare of prints, stickers and cards and little trinkets. Will also have some jewelry items and I’m hoping to do a live painting during the three days – it just depends on how busy things are.

Hope to see you there.

Details:

Friday, Saturday, Sunday, 11am-7pm at the Electric Sundown. 14 SE 3rd St, Pendleton, OR, United States, 97801

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The Initial Fascination

Even looking at photos of the artwork today—it has a certain beauty. It was a nice “artwork.” It was the classic portrayal of a ballerina putting on her slipper, on a craft-tone paper. It had hints of ink color and it was definitely old. When you took it from the frame, the edges had lead white paint, and there was a varnish on it that, with it’s crackle, seemed authentic. The woman’s name on the back, “Ruth Pearce McEldowney” was a real person, serving as president of the Chicago Heart Association in the 1940s. This pulled me deeper into its intriguing narrative.

The Mysterious Font

As a graphic designer, the one thing that stood out to me was this slightly obscured font that appeared to be part of the paper. The numbers, “5796” seemed like the should mean something. Was it the type of paper Degas used? That seemed odd. Also old, the type of font was actually not used until the 1920s…perhaps it was printed after Degas. Little did I know but these numbers would actually be the solution to the puzzle. You can also see in this image the texture of the piece. It’s compelling!

Unraveling the Mystery

While I delved into the history of Ruth, learning of her own past, of how she had a relative related to Anais Nin, and Chicago connections that were at the edges of wealth, it seemed feasible that this could have been a valid piece. There was history. Not only that, Chicago had a large part in the success of early Impressionsists in America. Had a Degas print gotten lost?

The Pawn Stars Wasted $150

I even went as far as paying $150 to have the art appraisers from Pawn Stars take a look at it and give me their best judgement. I learned they know little. I would solve the riddle before their response, but let’s say…they were off by a couple $1,000.

The Font Reveals…

After a bit of madness as I went further down the rabbit hole (even going to the point of accidentally dropping the print and damaging it’s edge), I came across a print from the 1930s. It was for a Degas lithograph “La Barre” by Raymond and Raymond NY. And guess what it had in the upper right hand corner…a series number. Not this number but the exact same font. Ahhh….so it was nothing more than a cheap lithograph, probably worth $40. While a bit of a downer, it was also extremely satisfying. I’d bested the appraisers, and I’d learned about an ordinary woman with a remarkable past. I learned to appreciate Degas, the Impressionists, and the role forgers. Was this truly an attempt at forgery? I think it was. I think in the depression, someone tried to pawn it off, and eventually it made its way as a donation to the Chicago Heart Association. I think they recognized it’s fakeness…and it went to someone’s home…it moved across the states from Chicago to Oregon. And nearly seventy years later, found itself in a bin pile of art in a thrift outlet.

Conclusion and Ultimate Satisfaction

So what do I do with this? I’d originally purchased it for the frame, but I also learned the frame was authentically painted in lead white. I decided the best thing to do was simply return it back to the outlet bins. And that’s what I did. And that day, after dropping it off, while pursuing other bins in the outlet, I look over and see this regular hold it up, a big smile on his face-intrigued by his good fortune. And all I could do was laugh and let him have his fun.

The post Unraveling a Mystery: My Encounter with a Fake Degas Print from the Goodwill Bins appeared first on Nate Creates.

1. Embrace Your Passion and Define Your Taste

The foundation of art collecting lies in passion and personal taste. Take some time to explore various art forms and styles to discover what resonates with you. Study art history. Visit galleries, attend art fairs, and immerse yourself in the vibrant art community. And don’t forget Thrift Stores! This process is about learning and self-discovery, and it’s okay if your preferences evolve over time. Whether you’re drawn to classical paintings, contemporary sculptures, or abstract photography, your taste will shape your collection’s unique character.

2. Research, Research, Research

Like any new endeavor, knowledge is key to becoming an art collector. Delve into the lives and works of renowned artists, study art history, and read about significant art movements. Educate yourself about the art market, pricing trends, and authentication processes. Join online forums and engage with seasoned collectors to gain valuable insights and advice. The more you understand, the better equipped you’ll be to make informed decisions when purchasing art.

3. Start Small and Gradually Expand

When starting as an art collector, it’s tempting to acquire significant pieces right away. However, it’s advisable to begin with smaller, more affordable works. Not only will this allow you to hone your taste, but it will also help you manage your budget wisely. As your collection grows, you’ll gain confidence and experience, making it easier to identify the pieces that genuinely resonate with you.

4. Authenticity and Provenance

One of the most critical aspects of art collecting is ensuring the authenticity and provenance of the artworks. Research the history of each piece, including its origin, previous owners, and exhibition history. For higher-value pieces, consider seeking expert opinions or authentication certificates to verify their legitimacy. As a responsible art collector, you play a crucial role in preserving the integrity of the art world.

5. Support Emerging Artists

While collecting works from renowned artists is undoubtedly rewarding, consider supporting emerging talents as well. Not only does this contribute to the growth of the art community, but it can also lead to discovering truly exceptional artists whose works may appreciate significantly in value over time. Visiting local art studios and graduate exhibitions can be an exciting way to find unique and promising pieces.

6. Balance Investment with Personal Connection

As you progress on your art-collecting journey, you might encounter the notion of art as an investment. While some pieces do appreciate in value, focus on building a collection that resonates with you personally. An artwork’s emotional and aesthetic impact can be far more rewarding than its financial potential. Allow yourself to connect with each piece, understanding that art has the power to evoke emotions and provoke thought.

7. Preserve and Display Your Collection

As your collection expands, ensure you have a suitable space to display and preserve the artworks properly. Consider factors like lighting, humidity control, and security measures to safeguard your valuable pieces. Additionally, rotating artworks can breathe new life into your collection and provide a fresh perspective over time.

Conclusion

Becoming an art collector for the first time is a voyage of self-expression, curiosity, and cultural exploration. It’s a journey filled with excitement, challenges, and rewards. Embrace your passion, research diligently, and start small, allowing your collection to grow organically. Remember that art collecting is not just about financial investment, but about enriching your life with beauty, creativity, and inspiration. So, step into the world of art, and let the colors, shapes, and stories transport you to a realm of wonder and fascination. Happy collecting!

The post On Becoming a Small-time Art Collector appeared first on Nate Creates.

Original oil and acrylic paintings are unique creations that capture the essence of an artist’s vision. Unlike NFTs, you alone own the rights to physically hold and maintain this object. It is truly both a special privilege, and responsibility. These works of art hold both monetary and sentimental value, making it crucial to preserve their beauty for generations to come. Proper care and maintenance are essential to protect these unique works from deterioration, aging, and environmental factors that can impact their longevity and vibrancy. In this article, I’ll help you through some valuable tips and best practices for preserving the your cherished oil and acrylic paintings.

1. Display and Placement

The first step in caring for your artwork is selecting an appropriate display location. Avoid exposing your paintings to direct sunlight where they can suffer UV damage, extreme temperatures, and high humidity. Sunlight in particular can cause fading and discoloration over time, while temperature fluctuations and humidity can lead to warping or cracking of the canvas. Ideally, place your artwork in a room with stable temperature and humidity levels, away from heating or cooling vents. But just as important, place it in a location that you’ll enjoy and be able to view it often.

2. Framing

A frame not only enhances the overall presentation of your original oil or acrylic painting, but also offers protection. However there are times, especially with large abstract works where the artist has suggested not to frame it. This can provide a contemporary look to the piece (and save money). In most cases however, you’ll want to frame your work. Choose a frame that complements the painting’s style while providing a barrier against dust, moisture, and physical damage. With acrylic and oil paintings the final varnish should provide a surface that can be wiped free of dust with a soft dry rag.

3. Cleaning and Dusting

Regular dusting is a simple yet crucial aspect of maintaining the appearance of your paintings. Use a soft, clean, and dry brush to gently remove dust and dirt from the surface. Avoid using damp or wet materials, as moisture can damage the paint layers. In case your painting requires a more thorough cleaning, it’s best to seek professional conservation assistance to avoid accidental damage.

4. Handling

When handling your artwork, always make sure to wash and dry your hands thoroughly beforehand. The natural oils and dirt on our hands can be harmful to the paint and canvas over time. Hold the artwork by its frame or the edges of the canvas, avoiding direct contact with the painted surface.

5. Storage

If you ever need to store your paintings for an extended period, take the utmost care to protect them properly. Store paintings vertically, with adequate spacing between each piece, to prevent accidental contact and potential damage. Wrap the artwork in acid-free paper to protect against dust and pollutants. Find a cool, dry, and clean storage area to prevent mold growth and moisture damage.

6. Environmental Control

Maintaining stable environmental conditions is essential for preserving the integrity of your paintings. Invest in a dehumidifier and humidity monitor to keep the relative humidity level between 40% to 50%, as recommended for most artwork. Additionally, use a hygrometer to monitor the temperature, ensuring it remains consistent and within a safe range.

7. Avoiding Chemicals and Direct Contact

Refrain from using any household cleaners or solvents to clean your paintings, as they can be detrimental to the paint layers. Never place any adhesive materials directly on the painting, such as tape or stickers, as they can leave permanent marks and damage the surface.

Conclusion

Original oil and acrylic paintings are priceless treasures that deserve the best care and attention. By following these guidelines for display, framing, cleaning, handling, storage, and environmental control, you can ensure that your artwork remains vibrant and beautiful for years to come. Whether you are an art collector or an artist, taking proactive steps to preserve the beauty of your paintings will not only protect your investment but also honor the artistic expression captured on canvas. Remember, if you ever have doubts or face challenges, consult with a professional conservator who can provide expert advice and care tailored to your specific artwork. With proper care and maintenance, your original oil and acrylic paintings will continue to inspire and delight future generations.

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