Category: marketing

California photographer Millicent Harvey captures the ethereal beauty of smoke trees and their desert environment. See more of her portfolio on her website.

Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, my photographic journey spans four decades. In my early years, I immersed myself in both fine art classes and hands-on training. I navigated the commercial realm of photography under the guidance of seasoned photographers.

“Candescence” photography, sizes vary

In the last 15 years, my exclusive focus has been on landscape photography. It is a realm where my emotions, instincts and interests seamlessly intertwine. Presently, my lens captures the essence of landscapes for landscape architects, publications, and personal endeavors.

“Rhapsody” photography, sizes vary

For me, photography is a visceral connection between the subject and photographer.  This connection is fueled by the elements that naturally inspire me. Light, shadow, atmosphere, and the dance they share with design elements like form, shape, line, patterns, and texture to transform the mundane into the beautiful. My aspiration is to reveal beauty and nuance in subjects often overlooked such as the Smoke Tree native to the desert washes in Palm Springs, California.

“Rejoice” photography, sizes vary

Having transplanted myself from Boston to Palm Springs in 2010, I was immediately captivated by the diverse desert flora. The Smoke Tree, a revered subject for plein air painters since the early 1900’s, became a focus of my photographic curiosity. Thriving in the desert washes, these trees became my teachers.  I began understanding the nuances of desert light and the paradoxical beauty hidden in the seemingly barren landscape.

“Adieu” photography, sizes vary

Often dismissed as dry and lifeless, the desert pulses with a vibrant tapestry of beauty, color, and life. The Smoke Tree epitomizes this paradox. It appears soft and ethereal from a distance, but reveals an intricate structure of slender spines up close adorned with luminous color variations of grey-blue, sage green and ochre. Come early June, buds burst into deep indigo blue flowers, offering a brief two-week window to revel in their bloom. In this period I am dedicated to trekking through the desert washes, wholly engrossed in capturing this breathtaking sight.

“Purple Majesty” photography, sizes vary

I use a medium format camera. My lens choices are geared towards capturing the viewer’s experience as if they were right there. This involves selecting lenses that closely replicate the natural vision of the human eye.

“Silent Burst” photography, sizes vary

Immersing myself in the extensive Smoke Tree project fostered a deep reverence for the desert. Though I photographed Smoke trees in various desert washes over the years, Araby Wash in Palm Springs emerged as my haven. It is a sanctuary I frequented throughout the seasons and times of the day. Regrettably, in 2019, torrential rains wiped out the Smoke Trees in Araby Wash.

“Smoke Trees In Araby Wash” photography, sizes vary

Fortunately, I possess a distinctive and meaningful body of work. It is a one-of-a-kind testament, aiming to kindle inspiration for others to explore the hidden beauty of the desert.

Millicent Harvey invites you to follow on Instagram.

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Justin Ruby – Booth 1312

Kushiani Jayasinha – Booth 1109

Kushlani Jayasinha is a unique talent in the art world, born and raised in Sri Lanka during challenging social times. Her artistic journey is as multifaceted as her background, blending her Buddhist upbringing with her tech-savvy career in Silicon Valley and her scholarly pursuits in physics.

While her work may appear abstract, there’s an undeniable scientific undertone; each piece reflects her conscious consideration of physical properties. The resulting art strikes a unique balance: it’s both tactile and dreamlike, offering viewers a truly unique sensory experience — whether it’s an ethereal coastal mist, a distant city shrouded in fog, or a serene body of water.

Artist Harrie Handler shares a vibrant portfolio of abstracts and her compelling story of finding herself through painting. Visit her website to view more.

The principle that has always guided me through my work is seeing with my heart. I hope this idea will lure the viewer into my abstracts to experience calmness with movement, peacefulness with spaciousness, and tranquility with optimism. Creating beauty is the ultimate goal.

“Changing Reflections” acrylic, 40″ x 30″

While trying to produce images that were timeless, transcendent and impassioned with scintillating raw emotion, something else happened. I didn’t realize until viewing my last two years of work that seeing with my heart wasn’t the only thing going on. I was also feeling with my heart.

“A Fire in Heaven” triptych, acrylic, 40″ x 48″

About two years ago, my husband of 45 years, Jeff, suddenly passed away. One minute alive and the next minute gone. I was swimming in grief, and the emotional struggle of survival was breaking through me and into my paintings.

“Journey Home” acrylic, 30″ x 40″

A week after his death, I opened the website of an international online monthly contest titled Abstract that I had entered. There was one of my paintings, The Melting of Winter, my name and the words “First Place” staring at me. My excitement lasted about a minute. Sorrow then enveloped me. Jeff wasn’t here to see this and share my accomplishment. It was bittersweet. I decided to view it as a sign from him of the path I should follow.

“The Melting of Winter” mixed media, 36″ x 36″

A few weeks later, picking up a paintbrush and having a dear friend who is my mentor by my side, I painted. It was the most difficult painting I have ever created. Friends said they could see heaven and earth depicted and felt that Jeff was watching over me. Another friend saw the face of death in the painting. I named it What New Path Awaits, trying to convey some optimism.

“What New Path Awaits” acrylic, 36″ x 24″

Family and close friends were always there to help me cope with my grief, despair, loneliness and depression. I was trying to find joy in everyday life. I always saw the beauty in the smallest objects, forms, color and textures in our world, but where was the joy? Painting became my crutch and therapy, and my paintings helped me find my way.

“Before the Sun Disappears” acrylic, 30″ x 48″

To keep myself further engaged in the art world, I entered a juried art fair in Carefree, Arizona. There I met a man who loved my work and started texting me. He was compassionate and caring, helping me through my emotional struggles.

“Halfway to Heaven” acrylic, 36″ x 48″

Soon the texting became phone calls, and many friends started telling me that my paintings showed I was happier, especially in the color palettes. Still dealing with grief, I discovered that I had fallen in love with an incredible man who showed me joy and wanted to be part of my life.

“Crushed By a Wave” acrylic, 36″ x 36″

I realized, again, that painting helped me find my way.

Harrie Handler invites you to follow her on Instagram.

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Exhibition curation is organizing and managing collections of artwork or artifacts for public display. Historically, curators were the learned caretakers of cultural heritage, tasked with collecting and preserving precious items. Today, curation goes beyond mere preservation; it’s about creating a dialogue between the exhibit and its audience. The essence of compelling exhibition curation lies in the curator’s ability to translate a thematic vision into a physical experience that resonates with visitors. This transformative process is critical, for it defines the cultural and educational impact of the exhibit. Mastering this craft is pivotal in art and museum displays, making it imperative for curators to weave context, story, and engagement seamlessly into the fabric of an exhibition.

The Role of a Curator Is More Than Just Selection

The role of a curator extends far beyond selecting items for display. This pivotal position is multifaceted, encompassing the responsibilities of a historian, an educator, and a visionary. Curators are stewards of culture who preserve and interpret each piece’s significance within a collection. Essential skills for successful curation include a keen eye for detail, a deep understanding of art history, strong organizational abilities, and exceptional storytelling prowess. Furthermore, curators must possess the capacity for critical thinking and an understanding of audience engagement strategies. Through the careful arrangement of exhibits and insightful interpretation of themes, curators profoundly shape the viewer’s experience, transforming a simple visit to a gallery into an enlightening encounter with art, history, and heritage.

Crafting a Narrative of a Compelling Exhibition Curation

Storytelling in curation is not just an added benefit. It’s the backbone of a memorable exhibition. The narrative crafted by the curator guides visitors, giving context and meaning to the displayed works. To create this cohesive narrative, curators begin with a central theme, a thread that connects disparate pieces. They then carefully select and sequence exhibits to build upon this theme, much like chapters in a book. Each item is placed to contribute to the unfolding story, providing depth and building on the visitors’ understanding. Also, curators often utilize descriptive labels, audio guides, or digital media to further enrich the storyline. This ensures that as visitors move through the space, they are engaged in a continuous, unfolding dialogue that educates and inspires.

The Importance of Understanding Your Audience 

Understanding your audience is fundamental to compelling exhibition curation. A curator must know who the exhibition will speak to. Be it art lovers, history buffs, school children, or the general public. This knowledge shapes the way information is presented, and the stories told. Strategies for audience research include analyzing visitor data, conducting surveys, and engaging with communities through social media or public programs. Curators can discern preferences, knowledge levels, and cultural interests from this data. Subsequently, curation styles can be tailored: interactive displays may engage younger audiences, while scholarly panels might be reserved for academic circles. By aligning the exhibition’s narrative with audience expectations and interests, curators foster a more resonant and enriching experience for each visitor.

Darya Sannikova for Pexels

Balancing Cohesion and Contrast Selecting Artworks

Choosing pieces that align with the exhibition theme is a thoughtful process. It involves an intricate balance between maintaining thematic cohesion and injecting enough contrast to captivate visitors. Curators must first immerse themselves in the theme, selecting works that embody the concept and communicate with one another, creating a visual and conceptual dialogue. Then, they introduce contrast to keep the exhibition dynamic, perhaps through varying artistic styles, periods, or mediums. This breathes life and complexity into the theme. This balance is a delicate dance: too much uniformity, and the exhibit risks monotony. Too much disparity, and the theme loses clarity. The goal is to create a tapestry of artworks that, while diverse, speak to a harmonious narrative, offering visitors a compelling journey through the theme.

The Logistics of Exhibition Design: Space, Flow, and Display

The physical layout requires a strategic approach, where space allocation must serve both display aesthetics and movement’s practicality. Attention to traffic flow is essential to avoid congestion, guiding viewers naturally from one piece to the next. Engagement is enhanced by considering sight lines, ensuring each work can be appreciated individually and as part of the collective theme. Effective utilization of space calls for creative display methods—whether that’s varying the height at which you hang the artwork, employing multimedia platforms, or designing interactive installations. These considerations create a harmonious environment that encourages contemplation and interaction, allowing the narrative to unfold gracefully around the viewer.

Matheus Natan for Pexels

Incorporating Technology and Interactive Elements

Incorporating technology and interactive elements into exhibitions has become a prominent trend, enriching the visitor experience through engagement and education. Interactive touchscreens, augmented reality (AR) overlays, and virtual reality (VR) stations are just a few of the elements that modern exhibitions might feature. These technologies offer multi-sensory involvement, enabling visitors to delve deeper into the context of the artworks. For instance, AR can bring historical artifacts to life, providing a 3D view and backstory with just a smartphone. VR can transport visitors to the artist’s studio, or the period being depicted. Interactive elements encourage participation, such as digital guestbooks or social media integrations, allowing visitors to become part of the exhibition’s story.

Attracting and Engaging Visitors

Marketing is vital for exhibitions to capture attention and draw visitors. Compelling marketing materials should resonate with the target audience and vividly preview the experience. High-quality images, engaging descriptions, and clear, attractive designs are fundamental in promotional flyers, posters, and catalogs. Today, social media and online marketing play a crucial role. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook serve to announce exhibitions. Also, to create buzz through shareable content, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and interactive posts. Utilizing online advertising tools, such as targeted ads and search engine optimization, can significantly boost visibility and attract a digitally savvy audience to the physical space of the gallery.

Conclusion

Compelling exhibition curation requires a blend of historical knowledge, audience insight, narrative skill, and logistical precision. Incorporating interactive technology and strategic marketing further enhances visitor engagement. As the field evolves, curators must remain committed to learning and adapting. This dedication to growth ensures that each exhibition displays artifacts. Also, to tell a story that resonates deeply with its audience, fulfilling the true calling of curation.

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Author’s Bio:

Sasha Riffe, a former logistics specialist at helixmoveva.com, applies her expertise in movement and flow to the art of curation. With an eye for detail honed through managing intricate relocations, Sasha brings a unique perspective to exhibition design, skillfully orchestrating the dance of space and narrative that characterizes exhibition curation.

by Carolyn Edlund

Making art and selling art are very different things. Doing both in your small business requires different mindsets.

The art that you make is valid, no matter whether you sell it or not. But if you do plan to sell, you must understand the nature of business, and the reality that making art doesn’t always equal selling art.

Your inspired state of mind in the studio helps you design, innovate and create amazing art. Making sales, however, involves someone else’s mindset—that of your customer. What do customers care about most? Themselves. They want what makes them happy or fills a perceived need.

The Venn diagram on this page illustrates the relationship between what you make in the studio, and what people want to buy. Where they cross over is your sweet spot. Hopefully a diagram showing your results would have a very large sweet spot, reflecting that you love what you are doing, and that other people love much of what you make. That’s a perfect situation.

The more you know about what your audience wants and needs, and how to communicate the ways that your art is a perfect fit for them, the more you can tailor your marketing content and your sales presentation to successfully make sales.

Nobody cares as much about your art business as you do.

This simple fact speaks to your mindset more than anything. Are you willing to take ultimate responsibility for making sales of your work and growing your small business? As an entrepreneur, founder and CEO as well as an artist, it’s up to you to set goals and create systems and business practices to meet them.

A mature fine artist reflected on his successful career. He had been selling his paintings for many years, developing a base of over 800 collectors. In addition, four art galleries represented him. The artist stated “Most of the sales I’ve made have not been through my galleries. I’ve sold them myself.” The artist maintained that his mindset was his most powerful tool, knowing that he had more ability than anyone to connect and engage with potential customers. He took the initiative, and used that to build a solid foundation for his business.

Artists who shun the business side of art, and want to turn everything over to an agent or representative, may be doing themselves a great disservice. It’s understandable that they don’t want to deal with the sales side of things. But what will happen if their representative quit, or retired? Or if they never find anyone at all to run “the business side” of things?

The more you know about your customers and their mindset, and the more you cultivate your own entrepreneurial mindset, the better. Although art can be very personal to the artist, sales are business transactions. Finding a balance between the two will allow you to gain more collectors and earn more while doing what you love.

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!

For more than 40 years, the revered Argentinean fine art photographer, Aldo Sessa, has become one of the world’s most acclaimed on the international stage, with works currently displayed in collections at the Museum of Modern Art in Bogotá, Museum of Modern Art in Buenos Aires, Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C, NASA’s Lyndon Johnson Space Center in Houston, and at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, among numerous other museums and private collections throughout The Americas and Europe.

A new virtual exhibit showing Aldo’s exclusive works from the book Seances and Ghosts, authored by the renowned American science fiction writer, Ray Bradbury, is now being shown by the Aston Martin Residences Art Gallery for the first time.  The 1989 collaboration between Sessa and Bradbury on Seances and Ghosts catapulted Sessa’s notoriety from the museum world to the publishing business, and became one of Sessa’s most publicized projects at the height of his career.

“Photography is the closest thing there is to magic,” says Sessa. “To think that you just click, and now the image is sitting on the film’s emulsion, or inside the digital camera, as a trapped picture that is floating there, brings something unexpected, something no one else saw but you. Being able to visualize and give perspective to it and take it to a certain scale, from something that was only one inch, to now two yards, from an original picture that no one but you will know.”

Cosmic Reflection courtesy of Aldo Sessa

Sessa has also created an original photographic interpretation for the Aston Martin Residences’ permanent collection, entitled Cosmic Reflection, inspired by the residences’ sail-shaped architecture and immense towering height.  The image portrays the 66-storey building illuminated under the moon against an incessant galaxy of stars.

Reflecting on this exclusive work, Sessa says: “In my artistic life, space has always occupied a privileged place in my mind. When working on this piece for Aston Martin Residences, I had a vision related to the immensity of space and infinite magnetism of the moon and the stars that illuminate it. The magnificent architectural presence of the building is enhanced by the blue diaphony of its crystals that merge in this magical night panorama.”

As a young boy, Aldo Sessa studied painting and drawing at the De Ridder Atelier and worked at his father’s printing press in Argentina. As Sessa’s artistic career progressed, his oeuvre grew to include graphic design, graphic arts, cinematography, and photography, with his photography eventually taking center-stage. Sessa’s work has since appeared in over 200 exhibitions worldwide.

In 1976 he held his first solo show at the Museum of Modern Art in Buenos Aires, followed by two additional shows in 1977 and 1978 at the same institution.  His first publishing collaboration came in 1979, when Sessa illustrated the book The Ghosts of Forever with essays and poems by one of the most celebrated 20th-century authors and screenwriters, Ray Bradbury, that was published by Rizzoli International in the U.S. In 1989, Sessa was honored with the first retrospective exhibition of a living Argentine artist at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes in Buenos Aires. Gaining recognition and highlighting photography as a fine art form, Sessa was soon after Named Honorary Member of the Argentine Federation of Photography in Buenos Aires and Named a Member of the National Academy of Fine Arts in Buenos Aires in 1991.

Dseta courtesy of Aldo Sessa

In 1980, his painting Humorum was selected for the collection in the National Air and Space Museum at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C, and in 1976, the Argentine Government selected his triptych Before the Beginning as a gift to the U.S. Government to commemorate the Bicentennial Celebration of Independence. This work is still displayed at the Lyndon Johnson Space Center by NASA in Houston, Texas.

Sessa participated in his first group exhibition in 1952, and in 1958 he began working as freelance photographer for La Nación newspaper in Buenos Aires. After studying cinematography in Hollywood, he worked as an illustrator and freelance photographer for La Gaceta newspaper in Tucumán, and he signed his first contract as an artist with the Bonino Gallery in 1972.  In 1976 Sessa illustrated Cosmogonies, a book with poems by Jorge Luis Borges.  He has since published more than 40 art books, and his work is included in the permanent collections of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, Santa Barbara, CA; The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, TX; The National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC; Victoria and Albert Museum, London, England; Museum of Modern Art, Bogotá, Colombia; Museum of Modern Art, Buenos Aires, Argentina; National Academy of Fine Arts Collection, Buenos Aires, Argentina; National Museum of Fine Arts, Santiago, Chile; Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Los Angeles, CA, and the International Center of Photography, New York, NY.  Sessa was named an Illustrious Citizen of Buenos Aires and a Member of the National Academy of Fine Arts. His photographs are housed in private collections and museums worldwide.

Beta courtesy of Also Sessa

Sessa approaches all of his image-making with a passion, to illuminate the subject from his unique perspective and convey his fascination with light and shadow. Always carrying a camera, Aldo Sessa finds much of his inspiration in New York City and Buenos Aires, allowing his strong connection to each city to lead him to uncover extraordinary observations.

“I always try to have my camera ready.,” states Sessa. “If I change my path and the light changes, I adjust the diaphragm, even if I haven’t found what I want to photograph.”

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Aldo Sessa’s Seances and Ghosts exhibit can be viewed from Thursday, November 23 at the Aston Martin Residences immersive 3D virtual gallery, at https://astonmartinresidences.github.io/virtualtour/.

Artist Paco Martin presents an amazing portfolio of photorealistic drawings created with colored pencils. Enjoy and find more on his website.

Since I was a child, I have harbored an unwavering passion for colored pencils.

 

“End of Game” colored pencils on paper, 30cm x 21cm

 

Over the past eight years, I’ve had the privilege of working as a professional artist. I have conducted workshops both online and in person. My journey has taken me to various corners of the world, from Spain to the United Kingdom, Bulgaria, and the United States.

 

“Sweet Temptation” colored pencils on paper, 20cmx 22cm

 

Throughout my path, I have solidified my love for the technique and art of portraying inanimate objects on paper. Still lifes have always been my greatest source of inspiration.

 

“Spherical Reflections” colored pencils and graphite on paper, 29cm x 44 cm

 

The beauty of still life, with its ability to represent the harmony of everyday life through shape, volume, texture, and composition, has been a recurring theme in my work. In my relentless pursuit of artistic expression, I have tirelessly experimented with these elements. I want to capture the essence of the objects that surround us in our daily lives.

 

“The Dance of The Leaves” colored pencils on paper, 39.5 cm. x 29.5 cm

 

For me, every mundane object is an opportunity to explore the world of creativity and personal expression.

 

“Mandarins and Paper” colored pencils on paper, 32cm x 26cm

 

Throughout my career, I have evolved as an artist. But I have always maintained my focus on representing the delicacy of everyday life. Each day is a new challenge, a new opportunity to push my own boundaries and delve into the richness of daily existence. I have always felt that there is a world of artistic possibilities waiting to be explored in the simplicity of what surrounds us.

“Waiting for You” colored pencils on paper, 20cm x 20cm

 

Every stroke of my colored pencil becomes a form of communication with the viewer, conveying my appreciation for the beauty that is often overlooked in our fast-paced lives. The colored pencil becomes my voice, my medium for expressing what is often indescribable in words.

 

“Gumballs” colored pencils and graphite on paper, 64cm x 42cm

 

In each artwork, I seek to convey the serenity of everyday life and the harmonious beauty that everyday objects embody. These in turn have become a true art form for me to express myself with.

“Tangerine Reflections” colored pencils on paper, 27 cm x 42 cm

Contemporary art and body art traditionally exist in two separate spheres of culture and seldom present together in a gallery setting. However, at Distortion Society, a combined art gallery and tattoo studio, the two disciplines coexist with the same level of recognition. Located in the artsy city of Beacon, NY, Distortion Society was founded in early 2023 by husband-and-wife Bradley Silver (a tattoo artist) and Michelle Silver (a painter). “The name Distortion Society was born with multiple meanings: we distort the body by tattooing, the mind with contemplative art, but in a larger sense, we are distorting people’s perceptions of what an art gallery and tattoo studio can be,” says co-owner Bradley Silver. “We’re actively blurring the lines between body art and fine art.”

Throughout his career, Bradley Silver has developed a unique voice in avant-garde blackwork tattooing. His style cohesively blends abstract texture, geometric elements, and recognizable objects, referencing art history, graffiti, iconography, pop culture, and ornamental patterns. Bradley’s work, which more closely resembles collage, abstract painting, and fine art than traditional tattooing, has gained significant popularity and garnered recognition for its uncommon qualities. During his time at White Rabbit Tattoo studio, he won first place in the “Most Unusual 2020” category at the prominent Villain Arts Tattoo Convention in Philadelphia. Later that year, Bradley was accepted to join luxury tattoo studio Inked NYC, a new space started by the world’s premier tattoo media outlet Inked Magazine, as part of their opening staff. This was a major milestone in Bradley’s career as well as a great opportunity to network and collaborate with some of the industry’s finest tattoo artists and high-end media team.

Desiring a shorter commute to his home in the Hudson Valley, Bradley Silver embarked on a life-long dream to own his own tattoo studio, while highlighting non-traditional tattooing in the region. “There are some great traditional tattoo shops in the area, but since I work in such a non-traditional style, I wanted to build a studio that focused on non-traditional tattooing,” says Bradley. Non-traditional in the tattoo industry means tattooing outside of the genres of Traditional, Neo-Traditional, Realism, and Japanese. Distortion Society works with tattoo artists working in a wide range of styles, from the delicate fine line floral and abstract work of Resident Artist Choon Lee to the vibrant mix of watercolor and painterly realism of Guest Artist Jerrra Blues.

Bradley Silver’s vision for Distortion Society has been a true collaboration with his wife Michelle Silver. Michelle, whose background is in painting and graphic design, manages the gallery portion of the business as Distortion Society’s Gallery Director + Curator. She brings well-rounded artistic insight to the business. “My design career and painting career showcase different parts of my creative identity, but these experiences enable me to approach the business both through a client relations mindset and through the lens of the studio artist,” says Michelle. Her vast experience in design – working with clients such as Live Nation, Padma Lakshmi, Jim Kempner Fine Art, and Surface Design Association – has been instrumental in creating Distortion Society’s visual identity. “We’ve approached every aspect of the business with meticulous detail and the result is a very contemporary, design-focused environment.”

Echoes II courtesy of Michelle Silver

An award-winning painter, Michelle is experienced in realism and figurative painting, but her current focus is on semi-abstraction, creating what she calls “emotional landscapes” which blend figurative elements, dreamy scenery, and bold swaths of color. A solo exhibition of Michelle’s current work Between Facing Mirrors examines physical and metaphysical space through the lens of motherhood and is on view at Super Secret Projects gallery in Beacon, NY through December 3, 2023. Despite her personal preference to work with oil paint, Michelle explains from a curatorial perspective, it’s not the only focus for exhibition programming. Distortion Society works with emerging and mid-career artists in a wide range of media including photography, textiles, sculpture, video, and performance, in addition to painting.

The juxtaposition of more traditional art against the physical attributes of a tattoo studio makes for a unique environment. “The space you’re in really informs your experience, and our tattoo experience is rather different,” Bradley explains. “In our personal lives, there isn’t a difference between tattooing and fine art; they are one in the same. For a lot of the tattoo community, their artistic journey begins in fine art which evolves into their tattoo art practice. So, when we first conceived of Distortion Society, it seemed like such an obvious way to include tattooing in the sphere of fine art.”

Distortion Society Gallery featuring artist Laura Bochet’s Somesthesia

Distortion Society has had the pleasure of exhibiting a few artists who have dual careers in tattooing and fine art. Evan Paul English, an artist from Boise, Idaho now based in Brooklyn, New York, had a solo exhibition Un/entangled in July of 2023. The exhibition delved into themes of romance and the process of disentanglement, analyzing ideas of American domesticity through a queer lens. The current exhibition also features a dual painter and tattoo artist Laura Bochet. Her solo exhibition Somesthesia centers around bodily reactions and memory, considering the relationship between connection and communication and how the feeling of closeness translates into memory. Flashes of eye contact and clouds of color swirl around the viewer, distant faces appear and just as quickly, disappear. Here, the observer is also the observed, immersed in a silent conversation that recollects personal feelings of closeness, longing, and nostalgia. Both artists also tattooed at Distortion Society (English as a Guest Tattoo Artist in July and Bochet currently as a Resident Artist), further blurring the line between fine artist and tattoo artist.

Distortion Society Gallery featuring artist Laura Bochet’s Somesthesia

“It’s incredible to see the way people engage with our space. We have gallery visitors with little knowledge of tattoos who sit and digest our tattoo portfolio books in the same manner with which they’re taking in the art: studying it, asking questions, really looking at each piece with an inquisitive eye,” Michelle adds, “It’s exactly the type of reaction we were hoping to gain, so it’s thrilling to see it in action.”

With a stellar exhibition lineup and an active roster of resident and guest tattoo artists, Distortion Society is gearing up for a busy 2024. “We both feel it’s really important to not limit ourselves in what we can become,” Michelle shares, “there’s such potential for collaboration and growth.”

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Author’s Bio:

Michelle Silver is the Co-Founder and Gallery Director of a combined art gallery and tattoo studio in Beacon, NY called Distortion Society. She is also a freelance branding and web designer and studio artist focusing on oil paintings that blend abstraction, figurative elements, and emotional landscapes.

Photographer Stefano Caporali presents an exquisite collection of landscapes that capture the nature of Italy. See more by visiting his website.

I was born in 1965 in Arezzo, Tuscany, Italy and grew up in the same place. Since I was young, I have fallen in love with the unique landscapes of my land.

“Crete Senesi” printed on Canson Platine cotton paper, 47″ x 24″

In Tuscany, the light paints the rolling hills with ever new colors at dawn and dusk. It creates long shadows and breathtaking shapes.

“The Cypress” printed on Canson Platine cotton paper, 48″ x 24″

Wandering around, you can come across solitary cypress trees that stand ancient at the top of the hill. Or, like soldiers, stand out on the horizon in perfect rows, sinuous and silent. Roads will lead you to remote farmhouses and picturesque medieval villages so perfect that they seem painted.

“Poppies” printed on Canson Platine cotton paper, 24″ x 12″

At any time of the year, the colors reign supreme here. The hills are painted in a thousand different shades. The cheerful red of the poppies and the bright yellow of the sunflowers, the intense ocher of the vineyards and the magical green of the olive groves.

“Poggio Covili” printed on Canson Platine cotton paper, 24″ x 16″

It’s impossible not to be inspired by such beauty and variety. I have taken many photographs for nature and travel magazines. My work has been exhibited in museums and castles in Tuscany. I’ve published photography books and made fine art prints.

“Misurina” printed on Canson Platine cotton paper, 36″ x 24″

Photography has been my job, but above all my passion for almost 40 years. I still manage to be amazed at how much beauty nature offers us.

“The Cloud” printed on Canson Platine cotton paper, 24″ x 16″

Tuscany is also a region rich in history and architectural beauty. Some of its cities are unique and famous throughout the world such as Florence, Pisa, and Siena, to name a few. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to immortalize them in all their magnificence.

“Three Peaks” printed on Canson Platine cotton paper, 24″ x 16″

In Tuscany you will also find a crystal clear sea that moves incessantly and furiously on stormy days, offering the opportunity for truly evocative shots.

“Belvedere” printed on Canson Platine cotton paper, 56″ x 24″

Although Tuscany will always remain my first great love, I discovered the wonderful landscapes of the Dolomites in Italy. I fell in love with the mountains which turn white in winter, offering magical views. In autumn, they light up with the thousand colors of the foliage.

Stefano Caporali invites you to follow on Facebook, Instagram and 500px.

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!

“If galleries aren’t going to put [my art] on the walls, then I'd rather they just contact me when they need it.”

“The one good thing about commissions is that people see themselves [in it] and they love it.”

“It's not my painting, it's their painting.”

“There’s a saying about commissions: Love to get them, hate to do them.”

“I wish more interior designers recognized the value of working with artists. Art is really the jewelry for the house.”

“I don’t want anyone who doesn’t love my work to have it.”

The Mojave Desert is known for its vast landscapes, stunning sunsets, and unique artistic community. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to visit the self-guided tour of artists’ studios in Mojave Desert, immersing myself in their inspiring work and gaining insights into their creative processes. 176 artists, 125 studios, the high desert gateway to communities such as: Joshua Tree National Park, Morongo Basin, Morongo Valley, Yucca Valley, Pioneertown, Rimrock, Flamingo Heights, Landers, Joshua Tree, 29 Palms, and Wonder Valley. In this blog post, I will share some highlights from my experience and offer valuable tips for those art lovers planning to embark on a similar adventure in the future.

MEETING THE ARTISTS:

During my visit, I met several talented artists who showcased their diverse art forms, which ranged from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media. Each artist’s studio was an oasis of creativity, offering an intimate glimpse into their lives and artistic vision. Here are a few highlights:

Ben Allanoff Art

Ben Allanoff is a true master of metals, bringing wire sculptures, metal collages, and paintings to life with his unique vision. One cannot help but be drawn into his art, as his creations possess a mesmerizing quality that sparks curiosity and wonder. During my conversation with Ben, I discovered his passion for collaborative art creations with other artists. This collaborative approach not only allows for the exchange of ideas but also results in artwork that beautifully combines different perspectives and styles. Recently, I had the pleasure of witnessing some of Ben’s work at an exhibition held at the Black Rock Campground store, where his art attracted attention from art enthusiasts far and wide.

Photo courtesy of Sherri Scott

Alex Maceda Art

Alex Maceda’s artwork is a tribute to the enchanting desert light. With acrylic and mixed media washes, Alex manages to capture the ethereal essence of the desert, creating paintings that emanate a serene and calming energy. The colors blend harmoniously, bringing light, depth, and movement to every piece. As I immersed myself in Alex’s artwork, my eyes were constantly guided around the painting, exploring the play of light.

Photo courtesy of Sherri Scott

Simi Dabah Sculpture Foundation

The Simi Dabah Sculpture Foundation presents a unique form of art that can be found throughout the desert landscape. These welded steel sculptures, created from industrial scrap, have become an integral part of the desert’s identity. What makes these sculptures even more special is the story behind them. I had the privilege of learning about the foundation and its origins from a representative who shared the heartfelt tale of the artist’s 90-year-old father. The artist left behind a legacy of beautiful art, crafted from discarded materials, for all to enjoy. These sculptures not only add a touch of creativity to the desert scenery but also serve as a reminder of the transformative power of art.

USEFUL TIPS FOR YOUR HWY 62 OPEN STUDIO TOUR VISIT:

1. Vehicle Selection:

To fully explore the Mojave Desert artists’ studios, it is advisable to drive an SUV or a car with high clearance. Some studios are located off the beaten path, requiring traversing rough roads. By choosing the right vehicle, you can ensure that no artists’ studios are left unseen due to accessibility issues.

2.  Time Management:

As the artists’ studios are scattered across the Mojave Desert, it is crucial to map out your route and allocate ample time for the tour. Grouping together the studios located within a day’s reach in specific areas will help you make the most of your visit. Prioritize the ones that align with your artistic interests to curate a personalized experience.

3.  Desert-Friendly Attire:

Given the dusty nature of the desert, wearing closed-toed shoes is highly recommended. Protect your feet from sand and dust while enjoying the artists’ studios by opting for suitable footwear. Additionally, don’t forget to dress comfortably and wear sunscreen to shield yourself from the desert sun.

4.  Navigation Assistance:

It is advisable to bring the map from the events catalog or download online prior to navigate through the Mojave Desert. In some remote areas, GPS may not work reliably. Having a physical backup or digital assistance will ensure you reach your desired destinations without any hassle.

5.  Hydration Essentials:

While exploring the Mojave Desert, it is essential to stay hydrated. Remember to bring enough water to replenish yourself as you delve into the artistic wonders of the region. Staying hydrated will keep you energized and allow you to fully appreciate the artistry around you.

6. Getting Hungry?

If you find yourself in need of a meal while exploring the desert, I highly recommend checking out these top favorites of mine: La Copine Kitchen, The Tiny Pony, The Copper Room, Snake Bite Roadhouse, The Red Dog Saloon, and MasOMenos. These establishments offer delicious food and unique dining experiences, allowing you to refuel and continue your adventure with satisfied taste buds.

Embarking on a journey through the artists’ studios in the Mojave Desert is an extraordinary adventure that allows you to witness the boundless creativity flourishing in harmony with nature. Follow the provided tips to make the most of your visit and immerse yourself in the captivating world of these talented artists. Let their artworks inspire you and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the Mojave Desert’s artistic soul.

To learn more about HWY 62 Artists, please visit: https://www.mbcac.org/pages/hwy-62-open-studio-art-tour

Links to local top favorite restaurants: La Copine Kitchen, The Tiny Pony, The Copper Room, Snake Bite Roadhouse, The Red Dog Saloon, MasOMenos

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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.

Please visit her websites to view artwork at http://www.sherriscottstudios.com/ and http://www.yuccavalleylandings.com/

by Carolyn Edlund

Artists who want to sell online have choices, including third-party sites or their own websites. Here are the pros and cons.

There are many options for artists who want to sell online. One choice is to use a third-party site that features the work of many artists. Some examples are Etsy, Saatchi Art, UGallery, Artfinder and Amazon Handmade, although many others exist. Their business model is to offer access to artists and makers of all types.

Benefits of Third-Party Sites

There are a number of benefits of third-party websites which make them very popular. Quite often, there is no barrier to starting your own shop, although some sites require that you must submit an applications and be approved. When setting up, you don’t have to start from scratch or reinvent the wheel. It’s easy to upload images of your work, write descriptions and set your prices, then launch.

Many times, third-party sites have high Google rankings, and a robust level of existing traffic. They provide a number of services, such as an individual page on their site for your artwork, customer service, and a secure shopping cart. It’s simple to get into the business of selling your art or handmade items on these platforms, which is a key reason many creatives use them when starting out.

Drawbacks of Third-Party Sites

Third-party platforms host artists as sellers, draw traffic, and oversee all sales. This also means that they make the rules. Any third-party platform can evict you, charge fees or increase them, or require terms that you aren’t comfortable with. And that leaves you with little recourse.

E-commerce websites are crowded with the work of many other artists and makers. Therefore, you must find a way to stand out. You might have to spend hours every week trying to get featured on the front page of the site, or pay fees to buy ads on the platform. And, regardless of the popularity of a site, you must do your own art marketing. You cannot depend on the platform to bring you all the traffic you need to make sales.

You also have no control over the quality or type of the other work displayed. Some sites have a huge mix of wonderful items and not-so-wonderful items for sale. They can resemble a giant yard sale where anything goes. You must decide if that type of platform is right for you.

One main disadvantage is that you have no way for customers to sign up for your email updates. The host site gathers email addresses from its visitors, but does not share them with you. Other third-party websites will show your art or handmade work on your page, but have images and links to other artists in a sidebar or header. This encourages visitors to click away and look at products on the site which are not yours.

Many times, artists feel that although they started out displaying their work on a third-party site, they have outgrown it. If that describes you, you will definitely want to look into making an investment in your own website.

Benefits of Your Own Artist Website

The main benefit of having your own site is that you are, of course, completely in control. No one can close you down, tell you what you can and cannot do, or change your business model.

You can gather email subscriber addresses to build a list for email marketing, which is one of the most effective ways to sell and grow relationships with collectors.

It’s easy to incorporate e-commerce right into your own website in the form of a secure shopping cart. These services are available as plug-ins on WordPress, or by using a customizable e-commerce storefronts like Shopify or Squarespace.

There are also website providers with templates that you can easily customize, and tons of features built specifically for artists. They act as the host of a free-standing art site that you own and control. FASO, Art Storefronts and Artspan are some examples of these providers. They help minimize the cost for artists who want exposure without the big price tag that a customized site can command. And, they may provide print-on-demand services that help you expand your product line with other merchandise.

Drawbacks of Your Own Artist Website

A solo art website features your work only, and can give you greater credibility as an artist. But it’s up to you to create great content, share outstanding images of your art, and provide enough information to lead visitors through to the sale. If you are just getting started and don’t have a large body of work, you may not be ready for your own site.

When you build an art website, you must pay careful attention to the elements, such as an appealing Home page, an effective About page, and a customer-centric FAQ page, to get the best results. If you are not tech-savvy, you may have to get paid assistance, which makes this option more expensive than participating on third-party platforms.

Once your site is launched, you must drive traffic to it through advertising, social media, email marketing, SEO efforts and other methods. Marketing activities are essential. And although you must also market with third-party providers as well, solo websites start from zero. They don’t get the boost of an already-busy host platform.

Getting Started

Ultimately, your choice between third-party providers and your own artist website will depend on several factors. These include your experience level and how serious you are about being an artist entrepreneur. However you decide to enter the online marketplace, you will gain exposure and have the opportunity to share your art with a global audience. That’s a great start for any aspiring artist!

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Red Dot Miami 2023 returns to Mana Wynwood December 6-10. Hosted by Redwood Art Group, Red Dot Miami features hundreds of artists under one roof. Get to know this year’s Spotlight Program recipients below.

Artboxy – Booth 406

Artboxy is an online artist community where artists can show their art in selected Artboxy partner galleries worldwide!  Artboxy is also an online art exhibition platform that helps artists sell artworks online. Artists are featured in worldwide exhibitions and sales have no commission.

Con$umr Art Collective – Booth 203

Artist Bill Hickey, known as Con$umr, has showcased his work for several years at Redwood’s Red Dot and Artexpo New York fairs. For Red Dot 2023, he debuts his skills as a gallerist and the Co$umer Art Collective. Featuring New York urban artists SacSix and Auraxdr alongside his own works, the booth will be a dynamic mix of pop and street art’s color and imagery.

Fine Art Acquisitions – Booth 513

Latchezar Contemporary – Booth 712

After settling in California, Boyadjiev worked for more than ten years in the field of optical glass, using cold work techniques such as cutting, grinding, polishing and laminating to create optical glass sculptures that were his first collections. Since there were limits to the size of his objects, he changed his glass technique from optical to cast glass.

His new and exciting work was introduced at SOFA 1997 in Chicago and the response was very enthusiastic – dynamic sculptures reflecting depth and dimension, a new approach to contemporary glass art and design. He is excited to bring his innovative works to Red Dot Miami for the very first time.

For tickets to Red Dot Miami 2023 click here.