Category: marketing

Project Antelope, a new online marketplace for Indigenous arts, has launched for the new year. In 2024, Native artists are making their mark, and Project Antelope is leading the way.

Created as a centralized, year-round alternative to regional Native art shows, Project Antelope.com promotes artists from North America as well as around the world, selling a curated collection of traditional and contemporary visual art, jewelry, music, fashion, and home goods. Both casual shoppers and high-end collectors can find treasures on the site, but what sets Project Antelope apart from many other marketplaces is that the artists define for themselves what Native art is, setting their own standards for genre, medium, and style.

“We love Indigenous art, and we all have different tastes, so the curation on Antelope isn’t necessarily what one might expect. We focus on the quality of materials and craftsmanship, whether for beaded earrings or a painting, or an electric guitar,” says cofounder Tailinh Agoyo.

After a soft launch during the summer, 50 new artists are in the process of getting their work on the site. Artists already making sales include Glenn Hill Jr., a Mohawk luthier, J. NiCole Hatfield (Comanche/Kiowa) who makes stunning beaded jewelry, Taino painter Priscilla Bell Lamberty, and jewelry maker Kristin Gentry (Choctaw Nation). There are dolls, ribbon skirts, pop-art posters, ledger art, portrait paintings, and more, including sheet music by contemporary composers like Pulitzer Prize finalist Leilehua Lanzilotti (Kanaka Maoli), who is offering her 2023 creation, “embryology of the heart,” for solo cello.

Courtesy of artist Kristin Gentry

Project Antelope is opening the doors to more artists in the highly competitive Native art world. Summer Peters has made her way in this scene but says her career has often felt at the mercy of gatekeepers and “cool people.” Project Antelope is different, explains the Saginaw Ojibwe artist known for her beadwork and fashion. “The Project Antelope founders have believed in me from the first time I met them and provided me with opportunities to grow my business while raising my children.”

Dawn Spears (Choctaw/Narragansett) considers Project Antelope a place to try new things, like producing greeting card sets and posters from her paintings and getting her hand-illustrated tote bags to people who might not run into her at art shows. “Joining Project Antelope is like a stepping stone, to see what sells, and to push myself to learn a new side of the art business. It’s also this chance to kind of up your game, to put your best foot forward within this community of artists, and maybe even make content especially with Project Antelope customers in mind.”

Courtesy of artist J. NiCole Hatfield

Native art shows have been vital to collectors of Indigenous art for more than a century. But collectors aren’t the only people looking for Native goods, and in the internet era, limiting the bulk of sales to annual, regional events that require both vendors and buyers to show up in person is an outdated model. While Agoyo understands that Project Antelope isn’t a wholly new idea—many Native artists have put their work online—she and her business partners dreamed of a user-friendly, community-driven platform that can serve thousands of artists at once.

“It’s time for a radical shift in the Indigenous art world,” Agoyo says. “Native art is a billion-dollar business, but for too long, the value of our work has been determined by non-Natives, our traditional artforms routinely appropriated and cheapened, and most of our sales depend on a few large, annual markets. We’re shattering these outmoded constructs with a sophisticated online platform where customers can shop year-round—and trust that the art comes from the source.”

Agoyo is leveraging connections with and opening doors for people she’s met over a lifetime in the Native art world. She grew up in an artist family, spending many summers at her father’s artist booth at SWAIA Indian Market, where she later led the marketing department. She’s the founder and director of We Are the Seeds Philadelphia, a non-profit organization that supports East Coast Indigenous arts and culture. Project Antelope grew out of that work, coming to fruition a few years ago when she and Colleen Farwell, her former roommate from Dartmouth College, realized they were missing an opportunity to promote Native makers.

Courtesy of artist Roberta Begaye

“It came largely out of frustration,” Farwell said about the idea to create Project Antelope. “We loved supporting Indigenous artists, but every time we found something online, it was already sold. Indigenous makers are selling fabulous art through their Instagram profiles, but what is missing is a centralized venue and real-time availability. To see everything at once, you have to get to a show, but not everyone can travel at the right time of year, and there are so many buyers who cannot alter their schedules to attend a show.”

Farwell works with Indigenous manufacturers and retailers as the founder and CEO of Black Canyon Distribution. She knew there had to be a better way and was willing to find the capital. “As I was talking to Tailinh about the possibility of creating an Indigenous website where there’s real inventory, she said another friend had approached her with the same idea, and we should just do it.” Beyond filling a much-needed niche in the Native arts world, Farwell was motivated to invest in Project Antelope because she wanted to support people in the way she was supported early in her career.

Courtesy of artist Tchin

“So many artists have day jobs and families, and they don’t have time to maintain a website. Or there are Elders who live in rural areas who don’t know how to navigate the technology. We can make it easy for them to sell their work,” Farwell says.

With Project Antelope poised for rapid growth, the team has added staff: Taikwan Wright as head of product, and Xiao Hui Star Chin supporting strategic operations. Wright and Chin bring decades of experience in back-end development, project management, and operations experience, working with multidisciplinary teams of creatives, strategists, and technologists.

Soon, Agoyo says, Project Antelope artists will be able to connect and collaborate with each other, and take advantage of other expanded opportunities. “It’s not just getting on the site and selling your work. Each artist receives individual, customized attention. This is about partnerships, about creating generational wealth, about Indigenous artists from around the world tapping into the global marketplace.”

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Author bio:

Jennifer Levin is an arts and culture writer living in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She wrote for Pasatiempo Magazine at the Santa Fe New New Mexican for many years, and now writes for several publications and non-profit organizations. She is working on a memoir, All the Girls in Their Cages, about generational trauma and chronic illness.

Mixed media artist John Wesley presents a compelling collection of boldly colorful abstract paintings. Visit his website to see more of his portfolio.

I like the labels on all the items in my refrigerator to face the same way, and I try to make my closet look like one of those ads in home magazines for closet organizers. Not sure if it’s the Libra in me or some other unrecognized contributing factor, but I can be a bit anal in some areas of my life. Everything has its place, symmetry matters and clean lines are preferred.

“The Blues” oil and acrylic on canvas, 36″ x 48″

But when I paint it allows me, and sometimes forces me, to free myself from those restrictions and experiment with the chaos. The end product must still be visually appealing to me, but I’m free to push past those mental constraints and be okay with the result.

“Pop Culture” acrylic and spray paint on canvas, 36″ x 36″

Many of my works are created using only acrylic paint, but I also incorporate oils, spray paints, charcoal, pencil and ink. I’m no stranger to bright colors and not married to any particular style.

“Basic Arithmetic” acrylic on canvas, 24″ x 36″

For me, inspiration comes from the beauty that I see in the world, which can come in various different forms. But I’m not generally attempting to recreate that beauty. It may be a bit egotistical, but I paint in an attempt to add to the beauty of the world. Some write. Some sing. I paint.

“Hummingbird” acrylic on canvas, 36″ x 48″

My artistic journey has taken me through many different phases. Currently my works are generally a reflection of the mood I’m in at the time. Happy, excited, reflective, sad, appreciative, heartbroken, silly, contemplative, whatever it is, it’s going on a canvas.

“Silence the Chatter” acrylic and spray paint on two canvases, 36″ x 48″ total

A lot of times the mood is simply “creative” and I’m just choosing a color scheme and seeing what the end product turns out to be. Some of my works though, do actually have an end goal in mind. They generally represent something I’ve seen and find beautiful and many incorporate and satisfy my love of clean lines and sharp angles.

“In the City” acrylic and spray paint on canvas, 36″ x 48″

What do I want to say with my art?  I don’t think I have one cohesive message. Each piece is subject to interpretation and my only hope is that it says something to you, even if your reaction is “I don’t like it.” You looked at it long enough to provide feedback and that’s all I can ask for.

“Powering Through” acrylic on canvas, 36″ x 48″

Now if you like a particular piece enough to want to purchase it and display it in your own home or office that would be absolutely wonderful too!!

John Wesley invites you to follow on Instagram.

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Artist Grace Marquez explores the fascinating underwater realm in paintings based on scuba diving experiences. See more of her portfolio on her website.

I was born on a tiny island dubbed the “heart” of the Philippines. I still consider myself an island girl of sorts, though I grew up living on the Great Lakes in Ontario, Canada. I’ve always painted or drawn since I was very young and pursued that in my education with a Bachelor of Fine arts. I dreamed of being an artist.

“Afterlife: Swept Away” acrylic on canvas, 30″ x 24″

But life took a different turn, and I forgot about that dream. It wasn’t until much later after building a career in design for marketing, advertising, and tech that I woke up and realized that if I didn’t take my shot at it, I would regret it for the rest of my life. So, I left my successful career of 20+ years to pursue my art because I just couldn’t ignore that nagging voice anymore.

“Reclamation: Fujikawa Maru”
acrylic on cradled wood panel, 30″ x 40″

So here I am now, painting my other love—the water world. As an avid scuba diver, it wasn’t until I started painting the underwater world that my art started to take on more meaning for me.

“The Playground” acrylic on canvas, 24″ x 48″

I paint the underwater world to share the childlike sense of discovery and wonder I experience on each scuba dive. It’s not about capturing realism or accuracy but the impressions of light, movement and colour. I’m in awe of this parallel world beneath the water that most people have never really experienced. I want to share what beauty there is in our world.

“Promenade on the Nippo Maru” acrylic on canvas, 24″ x 18″

I’ve learned much about the water world because I get curious about what it is I’m looking at. Why is it that shape? What gives it that colour? How does it feed? Where does it grow? When did that happen? I’ve learned more about world history, geology, ecology, biology, engineering, evolution and more, by just getting curious about the world underwater.

Artist Grace Marquez scuba diving

Being underwater is the only place where I feel 100% present in body, mind and spirit. I’m not distracted by anything happening in the world above the waterline. Instead, I’m fascinated by the metamorphosis and reclamation that happens underwater with water shaping, moving and growing life.

“The Ice Tunnel” acrylic on canvas,: 14″ x 11″

It’s an ongoing cycle of life and death underwater that continues with or without our presence. Our presence may slow it down, but mother nature always wins. I love the adventure to be found underwater.

“Burning Bush” acrylic on paper mounted on cradled wood, 24″ x 18″

For me, the process of painting what I experience underwater is a way for me to stay connected to it. I love it when non-divers have questions about it, because it’s in that curiosity that we as a species connect to our world and grow. If my art can help people see how special our world really is, and walk away feeling more connected and alive, then that’s a win!

Grace Marquez invites you to follow on Instagram and Facebook.

Derailed into writing early on, Wallace Wyss re-entered the art field some 30 years later by accident and hasn’t looked back. Some artists, admittedly, get a slow start. One example is Wallace Wyss who in 1962, enrolled in art classes at Wayne State in Detroit. He was a year in, learning oil painting and charcoal techniques, when an ad agency came to the college to interview for interns. The day of the interviews he was told all art positions had been filled. “What’s not filled?” he asked. “Copywriter.”

Wyss volunteered that he was a published writer and had even won a national writing award. So suddenly he was a copywriter. After three decades in publishing and writing, he moved to the west coast as a car magazine staffer and segued into writing car books, eighteen in all. One, about race driver Carroll Shelby, became a best seller.

Wyss frequently attended car shows to take pictures for his books. In 2009, as he prepared to go to a Beverly Hills car show, he decided to make a painting of Shelby and take It to the show along with his latest book on Shelby.  At the show, he sold the book and showed the same buyer a snapshot of the painting. The buyer said, “Go get it, I want the painting too.”

When he returned home, Wyss decided to paint car portraits.  He already had thousands of pictures of cars to provide inspiration. It took months of experimenting with paint and paper before he began paintings.  When he finally began marketing them, he decided to not sell his originals because they were done as small 11” x 17” works. Instead, he decided to sell only canvas giclee prints. Today, his favorite giclee size is 20″ x 30″ but he can be persuaded to go larger. Sometimes he embellishes the canvas. “To some artists, embellishment is just a dab here or there—with me it’s painting the whole picture again on top of the print.”

Short WBSE Ferrari by Wallace Wyss

A one-time member of the Ferrari Owners Club, he specializes in Italian cars. Wyss’ love of Ferraris is quite evident in his work. But there’s one marque from the 60’s he’s painted a dozen times although still relatively unknown — a Bizzarrini. He paints it because he first glimpsed one in 1968 in Detroit and that vision confirmed his tilt toward the automotive world.

He annually treks to the Monterey Peninsula for Car Week where he has a booth at Concorso Italiano with his wife Angelita, selling his books, which are now all out of print, and his giclee canvases.

Ferrari Racing Engine by Wallace Wyss

Ironically his two best-selling paintings, a Ferrari race car and Ferrari racing engine, show he’s not far from racing, just not trying to capture action on the track. He is enamored of a misty fog in the background. “I tried having the crowd at a car show be prominent—but focusing on one or two individuals would be distracting, so I paint the crowd first, then lay in mist so the car is the star.”

Shelby Portrait by Wallace Wyss

“Cars are about people,” he says. He plans to include more people in his compositions in the future. His favorite so far is a Shelby Cobra at a race. “I’m almost emotional about it,” he says. “Since I knew those same mechanics when I did my first book on Shelby. I’d like to work more folks into my car portraits—especially if they were involved with the history of that model.”

In August 2022, he consigned two of his Ferrari giclees to Mecum Auctions at Monterey in a category titled Road Art. “I had thought ‘road’ art was gasoline globes, or kiddies pedal cars. And I thought their audience was more about muscle cars. But they accepted them and the day I delivered my work, I saw they had real Ferraris to sell too.” He took a chance and placed them with no reserve, which means a bidder could have bought them for a dollar. But they both sold well, and he left with a new avenue for his works.

Low Rider by Wallace Wyss

Wyss is currently working on another automotive subject that is the opposite of classic cars—hot rods, especially those popular in Latin-American neighborhoods. He says he really can’t help himself because they are history too.

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About bio:

Wallace Wyss is letting it be known that he’s open to submit work on consignment to galleries for those interested in an adventure into automotive art. He can be reached at malibucarart@gmail.com

Professional presentation makes a great first impression and helps you gain traction with your art website. Here’s how to start.

People who buy art or fine craft don’t want to buy from amateurs. They want to buy from artists who are experts and know what they’re doing. Although that should be fairly obvious, many artists give the impression that they aren’t professionals when you take a look at their online presence.

Your art website is your headquarters on the internet, open to a global audience. To appeal to collectors, draw interest and make sales, your site must have credibility. This leads to gaining the trust that is essential in acquiring customers of all types.

Here’s how to increase your authority and credibility online:

Use excellent photos.

You work hard in your studio to make beautiful art or handmade items. When you post poor photos of your collection, it hurts you more than you might think. Blurry, out-of-focus images, with inappropriate backgrounds or poor lighting come off as amateurish. Your competition has great photos; you need them also.

Include photos of yourself.

Help your site visitors come to know you as an artist. A photo of yourself on your About page helps you become more real to the site visitor, and more memorable. Share shots of yourself working in the studio, at a gallery opening or a festival. This reinforces your involvement in your studio practice and as a professional.

Provide third party testimonials.

Word of mouth carries more weight than advertising. Online reviews and services such as Angi exist because people trust other people’s recommendations. Testimonials from satisfied customers are like gold, and can be placed prominently on your website. This is a very effective way to gain credibility.

Detail your expertise.

Are you an artist who has been creating for many years? Have you developed your own technique, which hasn’t been used before? Have you taught a class, written a book or an article about what you do? Build your authority and your credibility by sharing that information on your website. Who is the expert on your own work? You are. Beginning there, describe how you work and how you have mastered what you do.

Keep it free from typos and grammatical errors.

Have you ever shopped on a website that was rife with grammatical errors or typos? Doesn’t really inspire trust, does it? Make sure your own site is as perfect as possible when it comes to spelling and grammar. Review your website for any of these problems by reading each page out loud. This technique will help you spot problems more easily.

Include your bio and resume.

What is your background, education and experience? Write a professional CV that details your experience and recognition you’ve received. Share those credentials on your art website. Include exhibitions you’ve participated in and awards you have received, as well as a list of group or solo shows.

Share press mentions.

Have you been interviewed for an article on a blog or podcast? Is your work included in any magazine or newspaper features? Press begets press. Once a reporter or blogger has written about you, you are seen as newsworthy, which tends to recommend you for more press attention. You may even want to share the logos of the publications where you have received coverage on a “Press” page, or on your website Home page.

Update your site regularly.

As events happen, keep your site current. Do you have a calendar of upcoming shows and fairs? Make sure you stay on top of that list. Are you coming out with new work? Upload images of your most current art or handmade goods. An out-of-date site looks abandoned, so you must review it regularly and keep it updated.

Including these elements in your artist website will let visitors know that you are an active professional. Each part of your website should work together to support other pages. This creates a compelling presentation that will engage your audience and lead to a more successful art business.

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Mindful art consumption is a significant shift that’s redefining the industry. As collectors and art enthusiasts become more conscious of their choices, they influence everything from artistic creation to market dynamics. This movement towards mindful collecting is shaping a new narrative in art. Here, each piece holds a story, a purpose, or a message that resonates deeply with its audience. So, let’s explore how this mindful approach to art is transforming the way we engage with creativity.

The Rise of Mindful Art Consumption

The trend of mindful art consumption is rapidly gaining momentum, reflecting a deeper, more thoughtful approach to collecting art. This motion is driven by a growing awareness among collectors of their impact on the art world and society at large. They are now seeking pieces that appeal aesthetically and resonate with their values and beliefs.

This conscious collecting is further influenced by technology and social media. They offer unprecedented access to diverse artworks and artists, enabling collectors to make more informed and intentional choices. The result is a more engaged and discerning art audience, shaping a market that values depth and meaning over mere possession.

Artists and Galleries in the Age of Awareness

In response to this evolving landscape, artists and galleries are adapting in dynamic ways. Here’s how they’re responding to this growing trend:

• Artists focus on themes that reflect social, environmental, or political issues, attracting collectors who value substance.
• Galleries emphasize the stories behind the artworks and artists. This way, they are creating a deeper connection with potential buyers.
• The market strategy has experienced significant change. It has shifted towards showcasing diverse, underrepresented artists to meet the demand for unique, culturally significant works.

This change in focus aligns with the idea that galleries adapt to conscious collecting, offering art that not only captivates visually but also engages on an intellectual and emotional level. As a result, the art world is witnessing a significant transformation. This movement is setting new standards in the industry. It’s paving the way for a future where everyone values art for its ability to inspire, educate, and provoke thought.

Art in the Echoes of Society

In contemporary culture, art mirrors and shapes societal narratives. This goes beyond mere visual appeal. Nowadays, many artists actively engage with and comment on pressing social, political, and environmental issues. Their creations are powerful conduits for dialogue and change, often sparking deep reflections and discussions among audiences.

Art in this context becomes a dynamic participant in societal discourse, offering insights and challenging perceptions. It’s not just about creating beauty. More importantly, it’s about the artists’ role in society, where they use their craft to amplify voices, highlight causes, and sometimes provoke necessary conversations. This transformative power of art makes it an essential element in understanding and navigating the complexities of our world, bridging aesthetics with impactful social commentary.

Technology: The New Brushstroke

Technology is revolutionizing creativity in the modern art world. Artists are gradually using digital tools, like Photoshop and Procreate, to design and refine their concepts before traditional execution. 3D printing is another game-changer, enabling sculptors to create intricate designs that were previously impossible.

Photo courtesy of Bruce Mars for Unsplash

This blend of art and technology expands creative possibilities and aligns with conscious art consumption. It enhances how artists express themselves and offer collectors new, immersive ways to experience art. As technology evolves, it becomes a vital part of the artistic process. It’s inviting both artists and audiences to explore and engage with art in innovative ways.

The Global Canvas: Economic and Market Impacts

The trend of mindful art collecting is significantly influencing the global art market. It embodies a change that goes way beyond personal preferences to affect economic realities. This phenomenon is evident in the rising demand for artworks that display cultural and social significance, consequently altering their market value. Recent data suggests a notable increase in the valuation of artworks that address topical issues. This is also true for art created by underrepresented groups, reflecting global trends that influence art collections.

This shift is also impacting art fairs and galleries, with many now prioritizing diversity and inclusivity in their showcases. Such changes are reshaping investment patterns in the art world as collectors seek pieces with both aesthetic appeal and meaningful narratives. This evolution in collecting habits is not just a cultural evolution but an economic one. It’s signaling a new era in the art industry where value is increasingly measured by relevance and impact.

Trending Now: Purpose-Driven Collections

What’s trending in the world of conscious collecting? It’s all about purpose and passion. Collectors are gravitating towards works that have a story, a heritage, or a message. Be it eco-conscious art, pieces by underrepresented artists, or works that challenge societal norms, the current trends are all about collecting with intent.

What the Future Holds

With all this in mind, the art industry is poised for continued evolution, influenced by the changing dynamics of art collection and appreciation. This forward movement is more than a trend; it’s a fundamental switch in how we interact with and perceive art. Future collectors are expected to further emphasize the significance of storytelling, cultural representation, and social impact in their acquisitions.

Photo courtesy of Antoni Shkraba for Pexels

Additionally, technology will play an even larger role in the discovery and purchase of art and its creation and presentation. Augmented and virtual reality could bring new dimensions to art, offering immersive experiences that challenge traditional boundaries. This progressive outlook promises a diverse and enriching future for the art world, where innovation and consciousness work together.

Art for Thought: Embracing Mindful Art Consumption

As we embrace mindful art consumption, we’re not just collecting art; we’re curating experiences and stories that resonate with our deepest values. This journey of conscious collecting is about more than just owning a piece of art; it’s about being part of a larger narrative, one that values authenticity, responsibility, and the transformative power of creativity.

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Author’s bio:

Vlad Iglin is a vital member of the marketing team at Royal Moving and Storage California, which is renowned for its reliable and efficient moving services. His innovative strategies and dedication to customer satisfaction have been key to enhancing the company’s profile as a trusted leader in the moving industry. His work promotes the company’s services and ensures a positive and seamless experience for every client.

Digital artist Hariclia Michailidou presents a collection of abstracts inspired by deep space and faraway galaxies. View more from this artist on her website.

With nothing in my mind—or perhaps with everything in my mind—in 1998, I began to paint freehand watercolor circles. It felt so satisfying and, almost addicted, I continued to paint watercolor circles for over a year.

“1.1,48,m1,3,1fsec1,m1Untitled1c2″ digital art, 24″ x 18”

Later, with the aid of the computer I scanned the original watercolors and created a series of collages, mostly of radial patterns I called evolutions. I used the series on evolutions as building blocks and created groups like interludes. Those I launched into the space of my computer screen and created what seemed to be the night sky, a universe.

“1a.night246,m4,w3,f1,m1,m51Untitled199” digital art

I should say it happened almost accidentally. After modifying them, reducing and increasing, there were patterns bursting with light. I understood them as the stars and galaxies in very deep space. Since then, all that happens on my computer screen is of the universe and is in the universe. It is of the poetics of space, of cosmic nights, cosmic scapes, manifestations, abstractions, strange appearances in the universe.

“1a.night246,m2,2,c222,m7Untitled159” digital art

My work shows cosmic metamorphosis, strange phenomena in the universe, streaming universes, the plasticity of the universe, warping in the universe, cosmic creatures, cosmic goddesses, and more. I haven’t left the universe since then, and I believe I will not.

“1.1,alines1,l2,m5,m1,2and,m1,m,m3,Untitled 286,v1,c2” digital art

While most artists focus on this life, on this planet, I turn my eyes away from this planet. I look away from its weariness and vast sadness and turned my eyes towards the sky. I go far, far above the skies, soaring deeper and deeper through space, contemplating, modifying it, playing with the universe, the universe within, yet so very often resembling the universe we see through the telescope.

“1.1,8,m,m2,m7,mUtitled217,3″ digital art, 24″ x 18”

For there is an eye within that sees clear and far, far beyond the sparkling mirrors of the telescopes.

“1a.night246,m5,m1Untitled293c2” digital art

Some artists choose to elevate humans higher and higher. I choose to elevate them above the neighboring stars and far beyond the neighboring galaxies. Going far away and still farther, the farthest the universe and the cosmic gods inhabiting them will allow us to rise and still rise.

“1a.night246,m2,4,m7,m6Untitled1,vc2” digital art

As an interesting coincidence, I translated Charles Baudelaire’s poem “Elevation” this morning. It tells of the same experience, of the soaring of the soul, and the sounds of silence. The last verse goes like this:

Behind the weariness and the vast sadness
That charges with their weight the foggy existence
Happy who can with a vigorous wing soar
Towards the sky in the morning take a free flight
Who glides above life and understands without effort
The language of the flowers and of silent things.

Want to stay current on cutting edge business articles from Artsy Shark, plus artist features, and an invitation to the next Call for Artists? Click below to sign up for our twice-monthly email. You’ll get all this plus opportunities and special offers that you can’t get anywhere else!

Oil painter Carol Roark shares a beautifully classic portfolio of landscapes that captures the spirit of the South. Visit her website to see more of her work.

I have been intrigued with drawing since childhood, but I believe it was years of exploring nature and walks through the woods with my father that turned me into the artist I am today.

“Evening Song” oil, 18”x 24

I love all of the beauty present in our natural environment. It remains a constant source of inspiration throughout my work.

“Ready To Pick” oil, 24” 36”

My landscapes mainly depict the outdoor scenes in Mississippi—a landscape that most people overlook. My studio sits high atop the bluff of the Mississippi Delta, which is a vast alluvial plane created by the Mississippi River thousands of years ago.

“Gnarly” oil, 20” 20”

I can see wide, western skies with the open farmland that is ever changing with the seasons. It is from here that my painting ideas emerge.

“Sturgeon Moon Setting” oil, 16″ x 20”

I spend many hours in the field painting plein air. However, I do not go out with the objective of completing a painting, although it happens from time to time. The main goal of these trips is to develop references from reality, which I then use as a tool in my studio. This is a must for me as a landscape painter!

“Beautifully Strange” oil, 18” x 24”

Although you will see me work in gouache and pastels, my medium of choice is oils, even when sketching color thumbnails in my sketchbook. There is a richness to the color and texture of oils that I do not find as easily achievable with other mediums.

“Autumn Appearing” oil, 24” X 30”

I love teaching almost as much as I love painting. I want to share the joy painting brings me with as many people as possible. It is my feeling that we all have a “gift of creating” inside of us. It makes me happy when I can help others discover that!

Carol Roark invites you to follow on Facebook and Instagram. 

Want to stay current on cutting edge business articles from Artsy Shark, plus artist features, and an invitation to the next Call for Artists? Click below to sign up for our twice-monthly email. You’ll get all this plus opportunities and special offers that you can’t get anywhere else!

NEXT ROAD TRIP: Joshua Tree National Park Art Collecting  

Don’t miss visiting the Joshua Tree National Park Association Store’s West location during one of the local Yucca Valley 3rd Saturday art walks. These art walk exhibitions offer a unique opportunity for visitors, including art collectors, to experience the convergence of artistic expression and the preservation of Joshua Tree National Park. One of the highlights of any trip to Joshua Tree is immersing oneself in the vibrant art scene that has flourished within the park and its surrounding areas. The Joshua Tree National Park Store [JTNPA] showcases at each artwalk exhibition a wide variety of artwork, ranging from intricately woven tapestries to striking concrete sculptures, breathtaking photography, and captivating original paintings. With each exhibition centered around the park’s unique landscape or topics related to its conservation, attendees will see how the park inspires artistic expression and how each artist captures the essence of Joshua Tree National Park.  

Joshua Tree National Park Association Store, West Location

The west location store is in a charming western-style building with easy parking on the side streets. The staff are friendly, and you can see the pride they take in representing the park and the inspired artists at each artwalk exhibition. As an art collector, you’ll be pleased to know that the Joshua Tree National Park Association (JTNPA) Store’s West location plays a crucial role in supporting the park’s programming goals in education, interpretation, scientific research, and activities. By visiting the store and attending the artwalk exhibitions, not only will you have the chance to acquire unique artworks inspired by the majestic Joshua Tree National Park, but you’ll also contribute to the preservation efforts and the promotion of artistic expression.

JTNPA RECENT EXHIBITIONS

Illustration of “Dewey The Coyote Series” by Sherri Scott

Exhibition: “Desert Nocturnals”

This exhibition featured artwork showing the nighttime activities of the park.  Visiting the park during the day and hiking is not to be missed, but including an evening visit allows you to see the change of light and abundant activity that starts to happen at the end of the day.  As part of this exhibition a local park ranger gave a talk about light pollution.  Designated as an international dark sky park, Joshua Tree works to protect its night sky.

If you want to see the stars, planets, and passing meteors, the Joshua Tree National Park offers visitors the chance to admire them all.  The park is protected by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA). When you do come to the park for a night viewing please use red lights only. Do not use bright white flashlights, headlamps, or cell phones. It takes 20-30 minutes for the human eye to adjust to very low-light conditions.  Bright lights delay this process.  Note: you can turn a regular flashlight into a red light by covering it with red cellophane or similar item.

Cement Sculpture, “Box Canyon Tablet” by Chris Sanchez

Exhibition: “Where two deserts Meet”

There are two desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, that come together in Joshua Tree National Park. You can see the diversity of plants and animals that make their homes in a land based on the climates in each ecosystem.

The Mohave receives less summer rainfall and endures longer periods of freezing temperatures in the winter than the Colorado Desert with its more southern location, lower elevation, and exposure. The Joshua Tree is exclusive to the Mojave Desert, whereas the Saguaro cactus prefers the Colorado side.

Oil on Canvas, ”Desert Song” by Steven Wybenga

Attending a JTNPA artwalk is not only an opportunity to appreciate incredible artwork but also a chance to support the preservation efforts of Joshua Tree National Park. The association works tirelessly to promote conservation awareness and raise funds for various projects aimed at safeguarding the park’s ecological integrity. By participating in these artwalks, visitors actively contribute to the ongoing protection of this natural wonder.

If you are an Artist: By participating in the JTNPA artwalk, you have the opportunity to create artwork that showcases the unique beauty and essence of Joshua Tree National Park. By immersing yourself in the park’s environment and learning about its distinct features, you can gain deeper insights and an appreciation for its natural wonders. Through your artistic process, you can explore various themes and capture the essence of Joshua Tree in your artwork. This experience not only allows you to express your creativity but also serves as a platform to educate others about the park’s significance and the importance of conservation. By creating art that fits the JTNPA exhibition theme, you contribute to the overall narrative and understanding of Joshua Tree National Park. Your artwork becomes a powerful medium to communicate and inspire others to connect with nature, appreciate its uniqueness, and support conservation efforts. In addition to showcasing your talent, participating in the JTNPA artwalk allows you to engage with other artists, visitors, and park enthusiasts. This collaborative environment fosters the exchange of ideas and perspectives, providing an enriching experience for both artists and attendees alike. So, as a participating artist, you not only have the opportunity to create meaningful artwork but also to deepen your connection with Joshua Tree National Park and its extraordinary features. Let your creativity flourish, and use your art to inspire others to cherish and protect this remarkable natural treasure.

Image courtesy of JTNPA

Save the Date for upcoming Joshua Tree National Park Association Exhibitions:

• January – History of Joshua Tree National Park
• March – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
• May – Desert Flora

Where to Stay:  additionally, Joshua Tree National Park offers various camping opportunities for those who want to connect with nature on a more immersive level.  The park provides several campgrounds, each offering a different experience and level of amenities. Whether you prefer a rustic tent camping experience or the convenience of RV camping, Joshua Tree National Park has options to suit your needs. Camping in the park allows you to fully appreciate the breathtaking landscapes, starry nights, and peaceful solitude that make this place so special. If camping is not your preferred option, there are also plenty of Airbnb rentals available in the area surrounding Joshua Tree National Park. If you happen to be visiting during the right time, you might catch one of the music festivals that take place in Joshua Tree. The desert has been a popular destination for music events, attracting talented artists and enthusiastic crowds.

Check the event calendar using some links below and see if there’s an JTNPA artwalk, a local music festival, happening during your visit! With its captivating art scene, stunning natural landscapes, camping options, Airbnb rentals, and exciting music festivals, the desert truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re an art collector, outdoor enthusiast, or music lover, this enchanting destination is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

Learn more about Joshua Tree National Park Association [JTNPA]: https://joshuatree.org/ and follow on social @JTNPA @joshuatreenps

Learn more about featured artists and other local desert artists: Artist Studio Tours

Other Social links to follow for upcoming desert events: @visit_joshuatree, #joshuatree, #joshuatreenationalpark, #wanderlust, #joshuatreeadventures

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Author’s Bio:

After immersing herself in the action sports design world for several years, Sherri Scott is now embarking on an exciting artistic adventure.  Driven by a deep passion for the arts, she enjoys experimenting with various traditional and contemporary media in her paintings.  Inspired by her exploration of the outdoors, she finds inspiration in both the picturesque landscapes and captivating elements of land and sea. 

A versatile artist and designer, with a strong background in designing for brands including her own successful apparel line, she brings a unique perspective to her designs.  Her technical design skills and creative vision blend seamlessly to create her work.  Today her deep appreciation shines through in her artwork, she continues to push boundaries and explore new artistic horizons.   Galleries: JTNPA, 29Palms Gallery, Santa Barbara CAW and Off The Track.  Upcoming project in 2024: Yucca Valley public art project and exhibitions at the new Hi-Desert Artist gallery. Please visit her websites to view artwork at www.sherriscottstudios.com and www.yuccavalleylandings.com. 

Why do artists choose to wholesale their work? Here are seven reasons why you might want to consider it.

Artists who wholesale their handmade work to retailers are entering a marketplace that helps sustain their businesses in the long term. This model has benefits that can make a creative business both profitable and sustainable.

Wholesaling is efficient.

You only need to make one sample of each piece in your collection, then take it to a trade show to meet buyers, or place a photo on an online wholesale portal. Orders are taken from those samples, which do not leave the artist’s possession. If certain styles sell well, great! If others are slow or just don’t make the cut, not a problem. You haven’t stocked an inventory of slow sellers; you only have one of each. Sell those samples off later at retail if you like.

It’s easier to reach your potential.

With those samples in your booth (or online page) being ordered over and over, you don’t “sell out” of any products. If you sell out of an item at a retail show, you will never know what your potential sales could have been, because they’re gone. That doesn’t happen at wholesale.

Work is sold before you make it.

This is a huge benefit of wholesaling. You aren’t investing time, money and labor in building an inventory of pieces you hope to sell. Having those orders up front means they are already sold, and cash flow is coming in. You can predict your monthly income with orders that are in-house. And often, you charge the customer’s credit card before you ship, so payment is made before the product goes out the door.

Repeat business grows your business.

Quite often, wholesale buyers remain loyal customers for years. Artists develop good business relationships with their wholesale accounts, and receive regular ongoing orders. Each year they can count on retaining most of their existing accounts and picking up new ones. This increases sales volume and income.

Wholesaling helps you stay off the road.

Burned out from endless traveling to the next retail fair or festival? Being out of the studio is a cost in and of itself, because you are missing out on time in the studio. If you want to revise your schedule with more time off the road, wholesaling is a great option.

It’s compatible with other methods of selling.

Multiple streams of income are appropriate for many artists. Wholesaling can work beautifully in tandem with other methods, such as retailing, taking commissions, or selling online. In fact, having more than one way to sell helps smooth out the “highs and lows” that your income can go through if you are only selling your handmade work through one channel.

You can have a life.

Want to schedule vacation time with your family? Want to set regular hours? By taking wholesale orders, and creating a production calendar, you have power over the amount of time you spend in the studio each day, and how much you are obligated to ship each week. This helps you decrease your stress level and maintain more balance in your work and life.

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Artist Tina Birch Chimenti shares a collection of fascinating and complex narrative paintings. Enjoy her portfolio and visit her website to view more of her work.

I paint to tell stories. I grew up in a small town 30 kilometers south of Copenhagen. As a teenager, my father would take me to live drawing classes, where I soon discovered my natural talent for drawing, form, and expression. Later, at the age of 19, right after my high school exam, we moved to Copenhagen. I began to study classical drawing five days a week, surrounded with other art students. I thrived, but, at the time, I did not feel ready to apply to the Royal Academy of Art.

“The Season of Greed” mixed media, 118cm x 138cm

Instead, I began to study art history. I think this determined my future work in terms of my own demands for quality and traditional imagery. With time, the theoretical approach was not enough for me. In 1997, I finally decided to pursue my artistic talents and move to Florence, the heart of the Renaissance. I immediately began to study the drawing technique of the Florentine masters the year after I entered the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence.

“Uncertain Future” acrylic and oil on canvas, 102cm x 115cm

I’m naturally attracted to nature (trees in particular) and people. I have a need to be both physically and mentally in touch with what I create. I’m particularly fascinated by the physiognomy of the face as well as the flow of the body and its expression. I don’t think I could thrive as an artist without having access to draw this. The intimacy, feeling and connection with the people I draw is crucial for further work. If there is no energy, there is no need to continue the work.

“For Ever” acrylic on canvas, 147cm x 140cm

Living in Italy for over two decades now has had its impact in many ways. Mostly is my choice of subject matter, which divides into two. One part is inspired by social, religious, and political issues. I also often use subjects of minorities in my art.

“Dog on a Leash” acrylic on canvas, 76cm x 88cm

The other part deals with womanhood (also a social issue) and sexuality. The moral values so very rooted in this society and the demands and expectations of being a woman, mother and wife, have influenced my work on a large scale. Not to mention the absurd juxtaposition of the Madonna and the whore, the woman torn between idolization and sin. I largely express this topic in my drawings, but also provocatively address it in my paintings.

“Dinner Party with Dog” acrylic and oil on canvas, 103cm x 54cm

The art of the early Renaissance, so very present in Florence, and the beautiful opaque colors of the murals have had a significant impact on my treatment of surface, choice of colors, composition, and storytelling. I try to be playful and inventive, and struggle hard to break away from traditional image-making. Working with watercolor collages, imprints, and different mediums on paper help me to do that.

“Olympia Revisited” acrylic and oil on canvas, 144cm x 164cm

I prefer to work with acrylics, watercolor, and ink. They are more immediate and better fit my character. But I do turn to oil occasionally because acrylic paint has limitations in depth and articulation. The surface of my paintings and the sense of texture is very important. This is the reason why I sometimes use natural materials as well, which in turn creates a curious and interesting play with the rest of the painting.

“Untitled” acrylic and natural materials on canvas,105cm x 95cm

Artists that I admire and inspire me (some in content, others in technique and composition) are Manet, Marlene Dumas, Francis Bacon, Egon Schiele, Kerry James Marshall, and Njideka Akunyili Crosby. My goals are to be recognized internationally as a contemporary artist and hopefully start to have a steady income selling my art regularly.

Tina Birch Chimenti invites you to follow her on Instagram.

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