[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"app-navigation":3,"blog-category-arties-eight":138,"posts-2-10-arties-eight":142},{"tree":4,"leafs":137},[5,30,47,64,77,133],{"uid":6,"label":7,"to":8,"children":9},"MTM0","Custom Frames","/ctg/custom-frames",[10,14,18,22,26],{"uid":11,"label":12,"to":13},"MjI3","Custom Wood Frames","/ctg/custom-frames/wood",{"uid":15,"label":16,"to":17},"MjI2","Custom Metal Frames","/ctg/custom-frames/metal",{"uid":19,"label":20,"to":21},"MjI4","Canvas Floater Frames","/ctg/custom-frames/canvas-floater-frames",{"uid":23,"label":24,"to":25},"MjI5","Stretcher Bars","/ctg/custom-frames/stretcher-bar-frames",{"uid":27,"label":28,"to":29},"MjMw","Frame Samples","/ctg/custom-frames/frame-moulding-samples",{"uid":31,"label":32,"to":33,"children":34},"MjMz","Glass & Acrylic","/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic",[35,39,43],{"uid":36,"label":37,"to":38},"Mjk0","Non-Glare Glass & Acrylic","/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic/non-glare",{"uid":40,"label":41,"to":42},"Mjky","Standard Glass & Acrylic","/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic/standard-glass-acrylic",{"uid":44,"label":45,"to":46},"Mjkz","UV Filter Glass & Acrylic","/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic/uv-filter",{"uid":48,"label":49,"to":50,"children":51},"MjMx","Matboard","/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board",[52,56,60],{"uid":53,"label":54,"to":55},"MjY0","Custom-Cut Matboards","/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board/pre-cut-mats",{"uid":57,"label":58,"to":59},"MjM2","Full Sheet Matboards","/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board/full-sheet-mat-boards",{"uid":61,"label":62,"to":63},"MjM1","Matboard Color Samples","/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board/mat-board-samples",{"uid":65,"label":66,"to":67,"children":68},"MjMy","Foamboards","/ctg/framing-supplies/foam-board",[69,73],{"uid":70,"label":71,"to":72},"Mjg5","Custom-Cut Foamboards","/ctg/framing-supplies/foam-board/custom-foam-board",{"uid":74,"label":75,"to":76},"MjM3","Full Sheet Foamboards","/ctg/framing-supplies/foam-board/full-sheet-foam-boards",{"uid":78,"label":79,"to":80,"children":81},"MTM1","Framing Supplies","/ctg/framing-supplies",[82,107,120],{"uid":83,"label":84,"to":85,"children":86},"MTM1-group-0","Assembly & Mounting","/ctg/framing-supplies/assembly-and-mounting",[87,91,95,99,103],{"uid":88,"label":89,"to":90},"MjQz","Adhesives & Glue","/ctg/framing-supplies/photo-mounting-supplies/adhesives-glue",{"uid":92,"label":93,"to":94},"MjQy","ATG Tape","/ctg/framing-supplies/photo-mounting-supplies/atg-tape",{"uid":96,"label":97,"to":98},"MjQw","Hinging Tape & Tissue","/ctg/framing-supplies/photo-mounting-supplies/hinging-tape-tissue",{"uid":100,"label":101,"to":102},"MjQx","Photo Corners & Strips","/ctg/framing-supplies/photo-mounting-supplies/photo-corners-strips",{"uid":104,"label":105,"to":106},"MjM0","Picture Frame Spacers","/ctg/framing-supplies/picture-frame-spacers",{"uid":108,"label":109,"to":110,"children":111},"MTM1-group-1","Hanging & Finishing","/ctg/framing-supplies/hanging-and-finishing",[112,116],{"uid":113,"label":114,"to":115},"MjQ0","Hanging Hardware","/ctg/framing-supplies/picture-frame-hanging-supplies",{"uid":117,"label":118,"to":119},"MjQ2","Cleaning Supplies","/ctg/framing-supplies/cleaning-supplies",{"uid":121,"label":122,"to":123,"children":124},"MTM1-group-2","Protection & Storage","/ctg/framing-supplies/protection-and-storage",[125,129],{"uid":126,"label":127,"to":128},"Mjk4","GalleryPouch™ Art Bags","/prod/gallery-pouch",{"uid":130,"label":131,"to":132},"Mjc4","Photo Storage Boxes","/ctg/framing-supplies/backing-and-protection-supplies/clear-bags-and-storage-boxes",{"uid":134,"label":135,"to":136},"Mjgx","Sale","/ctg/picture-frames-discount",{"MjI3":10,"MjI2":14,"MjI4":18,"MjI5":22,"MjMw":26,"Mjk0":35,"Mjky":39,"Mjkz":43,"MjY0":52,"MjM2":56,"MjM1":60,"Mjg5":69,"MjM3":73,"MjQz":87,"MjQy":91,"MjQw":95,"MjQx":99,"MjM0":103,"MjQ0":112,"MjQ2":116,"Mjk4":125,"Mjc4":129,"Mjgx":133},{"id":139,"name":140,"description":141},"dGVybTozMzc=","Artie's Eight","In this series, we'll be spotlighting different artists, designers and photographers each month, digging deep into their creative and artistic processes. Whether you are just starting in your creative journey or a seasoned professional, you'll find inspiration at Artie's Eight.\r\n\r\nWith each interview, we will be asking 8 thought-provoking questions, ranging from their personal motivations to their go-to \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/framing-supplies.html\">framing supplies\u003C/a> like \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/framing-supplies/mat-board.html\">matboard\u003C/a> and favorite \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/picture-frames.html\">frames\u003C/a>. The best part is, the answers will come straight from the artists who have real life experience in the topics.",{"posts":143,"total":268},[144,158,171,184,196,208,220,232,244,256],{"id":145,"title":146,"uri":147,"content":148,"excerpt":149,"date":150,"modified":151,"categories":152,"image":155},"cG9zdDo3OTQy","Paint, Pencils, and Healing: Meet Artist Veronica Winters","/arties-eight/veronica-winters-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>For Veronica Winters, the road from Russia to Naples, Florida, was rocky yet fruitful. This prolific artist studied classical art traditions at three schools (earning a BFA and an MFA), using art to process her emotional journey. Along the way, she learned how to handle creative blocks according to their root causes.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Secrets of the Universe\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Today, Veronica is an artist, instructor, and author who takes viewers to a mystical realm as she aims to paint stories of healing that capture the relationship between mind, body, and spirit. For example, in her “Divine Spirit” shown above, a 24” x 36” oil on canvas panel, Veronica seeks to reveal a supreme intelligence that we may not see in our daily lives. Her other medium of choice is colored pencil, a time-consuming process that produces exquisitely detailed, vibrant drawings, such as her “Omnipresent Mind” shown below.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Clean and Simple Framing\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>“Omnipresent Mind” was juried to the 30th annual international exhibition by the Colored Pencil Society of America in 2022. Because the show required unembellished framing, Veronica chose Frame Destination’s \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/wood-frame-profile-502b.html\">Wood Frame Profile 502B\u003C/a> in white, a versatile frame that evokes a gallery vibe. For glazing, she selected our \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/non-glare-acrylic-1-10-inch.html\">Tru Vue Reflection Control® Acrylic Non-Glare\u003C/a>. “I like the clean look of the frame,” Veronica tells us, adding, “The non-glare acrylic allows people to see my art with no reflections.”\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_VeronicaWinters-OmniMind/FD-Arties8Blog_VeronicaWinters-OmniMind.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1011,h_1024,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1701192127/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_VeronicaWinters-OmniMind/FD-Arties8Blog_VeronicaWinters-OmniMind.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Framed flower and person artwork\" class=\"wp-post-7942 wp-image-7944\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1701192127\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u003Cem>“Omnipresent Mind,” (19” x 25”) a colored pencil drawing on paper, is framed in Frame Destination’s Wood Frame Profile 502B with Tru Vue Reflection Control Acrylic Non-Glare glazing.\u003C/em>\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See More of Veronica’s Work\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Veronica’s \u003Ca href=\"https://veronicasart.com/\">website\u003C/a> showcases her work, art tutorials, instruction books, a podcast, and a blog, where she writes on topics like “Best Brushes for Oil & Acrylic Painting.” On Veronica’s \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/veronicawintersart/\">Instagram\u003C/a>, you’ll find art blended with meditations on life, as well as a walk through her book titled “The Colored Pencil Manual” (see 7/15/23 post). To discover how she handles creative blocks based on where they’re coming from, see my Q&A with Veronica below.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Veronica Winters…\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Col class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>When I graduated from high school in Moscow, I didn’t know what to do with my life. I relocated to the U.S., introverted and without a clear direction, attending art schools to fill the gap I felt inside me. When I turned to painting in my early 20s, I had already earned a college degree in business administration, but I lacked big aspirations or plans for myself. I couldn’t imagine working in an office, performing tasks, and crunching numbers. I had a different calling. I took some art classes at a local community college for the fun of it. My immediate goal was to learn realistic drawing. Because classical art education was almost nonexistent 25 years ago, I spent years learning the craft by going to various art schools. A few years later, I turned inward, painting stories rather than objects. I began painting stories in portraits and figures to process my emotions. A lot of my art reflected my search for “self” and my lack of belonging. I spent years in an internal search for validation or reasons to live, finding it hard to connect to anyone or anything that would give my life meaning. I had a few breaking points that changed my understanding of reality. It’s vital to find the unique connection to yourself to arrive at a deep state of peace and balance. I want to bring feelings of joy, peace, and inspiration to your heart. Through my art, I wish to create a more loving world without violence, judgment, and fear.      \u003Cbr>                                                                                       \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>What role do you think the artist plays in society?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Why do we always look back at human history in terms of art? Early excavations, Renaissance masters, modern art, and so on. It’s because art isn’t created in a void. It reflects, comments on, and juxtaposes various points of view mixed with emotion. Art is the depiction of feelings we often hide, suppress, or don’t even think about unless we encounter art. It’s also a tool to express political and economic glory. Art is a visual language that’s often taken for granted because it’s all around us. But if we removed every picture, poster, cover, book, and song just for one day, we would experience a profound lack of beauty, thought, and inspiration.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I've been working as a professional artist for over two decades and one central lesson that I've learned is this: To bring in consistent business, you must be socially engaging with as many relevant people as possible to generate interest in your art, your personality, and your offerings.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>In what ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I’ve always painted what I wanted. So, my art is a direct reflection of my thoughts and emotion expressed in color, symbols, and figures. I paint visual stories and concepts that interest me — like the idea of being at a crossroads of body, mind, and spirit. I'm curious about the depiction of the secrets of the universe and how it all coexists and functions.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Yes, I do get the blocks sometimes. To overcome one, I try to understand the reason I’m having the creative block, because they're all different. Some of them happen because of complete burnout doing something that doesn't work. So, I try to relax and reflect on my failures; then I can learn from them and pivot if needed. Other times, the block happens because of a deadline. If that's the case, I break down a big task into smaller ones and make myself do small tasks daily. Finally, there could be a creative block because all my ideas are seemingly gone. There's no interest or satisfaction with the work. I don't like anything and I see no reason to continue doing it. When this is the case, I take a break and do something else creative, like looking at other artists’ work, reading, or even walking. Over time, these activities rebalance me and I feel inspired to create again.\u003Cbr>           \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I must have my large monitor in my studio. It's by HP and it’s 27 inches long! It allows me to see lots of detail and color shifts that are impossible to gather looking at a large photo. My Nikon D500 is a useful tool because I do figurative art painting from my own pictures for the most part. But ultimately, my imagination is the most valuable tool; without it, creating is impossible.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I want to establish and run an annual art contest for talented high school students. However, I find it overwhelming to do in terms of marketing and financials.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>What is your favorite color to incorporate into your art?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I'd say its pink and turquoise with a gold or silver accent.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ol>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_VeronicaWinters-ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_VeronicaWinters-ByLine.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1024,h_534,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1701192124/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_VeronicaWinters-ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_VeronicaWinters-ByLine.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Veronica Winters fine artist\" class=\"wp-post-7942 wp-image-7945\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1701192124\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT?\u003C/strong> Simply respond to the questionnaire \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/interviewform\">here\u003C/a> to apply to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Last Updated November 28, 2023\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\n","\u003Cp>For Veronica Winters, the road from Russia to Naples, Florida, was rocky yet fruitful. This prolific artist studied classical art traditions at three schools (earning a BFA and an MFA), using art to process her emotional journey. Along the way, she learned how to handle creative blocks according to their root causes. Secrets of the […]\u003C/p>\n","2023-11-28T11:29:50","2023-12-20T12:40:53",[153],{"name":140,"slug":154},"arties-eight",{"url":156,"label":157},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/FD-Arties8Blog_VeronicaWinters-Hero.jpg","Veronica Winters",{"id":159,"title":160,"uri":161,"content":162,"excerpt":163,"date":164,"modified":165,"categories":166,"image":168},"cG9zdDo3ODky","From Critique to Refocus: Meet Artist and Photographer Alison Thomas","/arties-eight/alison-thomas-spotlight","\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_FogLake-1/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_FogLake-1.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1000,h_242,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1698248697/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_FogLake-1/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_FogLake-1.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Fog lake\" class=\"wp-post-7892 wp-image-7896\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1698248697\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u003Cem>\"Fog on the Lake\" by Alison Thomas.\u003C/em>\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Have you ever felt the sting of a critical remark about your artwork? \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When a fellow artist told Alison Thomas that her photography looked like everyone else’s, she was taken aback. But then the Louisa, Virginia, artist used that feedback as fuel, finding a way to differentiate her art and raise it to a new level. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Finding the Essence\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Alison bravely faced the truth that her nature photography didn’t stand out. And so she began to digitally manipulate her photographs, giving them a more ethereal quality. Now, her goal is to reveal the essence of a scene rather than an exact recording. “Fog on the Lake” (shown above) is a beautiful example, as is “Blue Fog” below. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Format is another way Alison’s work is distinct. Her vertical panoramas appeal to customers looking for art that fits nicely into tricky spaces, like an entryway or beside a china cabinet in the dining room. Her horizontal panoramas are ideal for placement over a fireplace, sofa, or bed. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_BlueFog/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_BlueFog.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_731,h_1024,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1698248557/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_BlueFog/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_BlueFog.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Blue Fog\" class=\"wp-post-7892 wp-image-7895\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1698248557\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u003Cem>“Blue Fog” by Alison Thomas.\u003C/em>\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Enter Frame Destination\u003C/strong>\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Alison didn’t discover Frame Destination until she had been exhibiting her work at Florida art festivals for a couple years. “Since then, I have been using your products exclusively for frames, mats, and glass for my smaller framed pieces,” says Alison. She purchases our satin-finished \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/nielsen-profile-24.html\">Nielsen Profile 24\u003C/a> black metal frame, \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/mat/bainbridge-4ply-alphamat.html\">Bainbridge 4Ply Artcare Alphamat Matboards\u003C/a> (“Snowflake” with black core), and \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/artcare-foam-3-16.html\">Artcare Acid-Free Archival Mounting Board\u003C/a>. “Everything has always arrived quickly and well-packed. They’re well made and a good value.” \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_Grouping/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_Grouping.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_537,h_600,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1698248761/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_Grouping/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_Grouping.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Images in groupings\" class=\"wp-post-7892 wp-image-7898\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1698248761\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u003Cem>Alison’s images are available in groupings. \u003C/em>\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>See More of Alison’s Work\u003C/strong>\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Visit Alison’s online portfolio, \u003Ca href=\"https://serenityscenes.com\">Serenity Scenes\u003C/a>, to view an array of landscape panoramas. If you’d like to see her photography in person, check out this list of \u003Ca href=\"https://serenityscenes.com/pages/upcoming-events\">galleries and upcoming exhibits\u003C/a>. Alison’s \u003Ca href=\"https://serenityscenes.com/blogs/news\">blog \u003C/a>dives into her childhood in Korea, photo trips, and more. How does she overcome blocks, and what’s her latest project? Find out in our Q&A below. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Alison Thomas…\u003C/strong>\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>1. What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When I was 19, I found the camera that my older sister had left behind when she went away to college. It was old and not very fancy, but it had an adjustable f-stop and shutter speed. Around that same time, I received an ad for the Time Life series on photography. I got the first book, a roll of Tri-X film, took the camera out, and learned how to use it. Because of a troubled childhood, nature was an important part of my life; I found peace and solitude in the woods across the street. As I started photographing nature, I began developing my own black-and-white photographs and even had a few exhibits in local libraries. Life, however, got in the way: I got married, took a real job, and had a daughter. The camera was untouched for many years until I went on a trip with friends to Assateague, Virginia, and realized how much I missed taking photographs. I bought a new camera, and a few years later, my husband and I moved to Florida, where I discovered art festivals. At first, I showed straight photographs and then panoramas, and with my first copy of Photoshop, I moved into digital manipulation.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>2. What role do you think the artist plays in society?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>There are many roles that artists play in society. There is art to bring voice to issues in the world. There is art to make us smile and laugh. My purpose is to bring beauty and serenity into the world.   \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you've received within your career?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Twice, people have given me advice that initially upset me but then positively impacted my career. The first time happened when I was considering entering art festivals. Some friends suggested I attend a festival on Sunday morning before the show opened, when artists may be open to answering my questions. While looking at the artists' tents and walls, I figured I could start cheaply. I asked an artist about getting an EZ-Up tent. In a booming voice, the man told me, \"If you're going to do it, do it right! Get the good tent. Get the good walls.\" And so I did. While it poured rain during my first art festival, I thought, \"I can't quit now. I have too much money invested.\" If I had bought that EZ-Up, I'd have bailed right then and there. The second instance was even more critical. I complained to a group of art festival friends about not selling much at a recent show, and someone said, \"That's because your work looks like everyone else's.\" I was upset for a few days until I started looking at others' work — that friend was right. So, I started doing the digital manipulation to create a more unique look.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>4. In what ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>As a young child, going into the woods gave me calm and peace. It still does. I found my photographs improved greatly when I moved from Florida back to my home state of Virginia; I connect more with Virginia scenes since they were what I grew up admiring.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Sometimes, I return from a photo trip and can't find anything that works. I planned an image to crop a certain way, but now it doesn't work. So, I put the photos away for a month or so. Then I can look at them with fresh eyes because I've forgotten the plan and see something totally different.  \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.) \u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>My eyes, my mind. The photographs are just raw material for my creations.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>This year, I am retiring from art festivals. So, I am learning the ins and outs of selling online. I am also thinking about writing a book about my experiences doing art festivals — not as a how-to but as a collection of stories.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>8. What is your favorite color to incorporate into your art?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I like using vivid colors, but I don't have a favorite one.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_ByLine-1/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_ByLine-1.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1024,h_534,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1698282013/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_ByLine-1/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_ByLine-1.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Alison Thomas photographer and artist\" class=\"wp-post-7892 wp-image-7908\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1698282013\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT?\u003C/strong> Simply respond to the questionnaire \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/interviewform\">here\u003C/a> to apply to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Last Updated October 25, 2023\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\n","\u003Cp>Have you ever felt the sting of a critical remark about your artwork?  When a fellow artist told Alison Thomas that her photography looked like everyone else’s, she was taken aback. But then the Louisa, Virginia, artist used that feedback as fuel, finding a way to differentiate her art and raise it to a new […]\u003C/p>\n","2023-10-25T10:50:11","2023-10-25T20:00:34",[167],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":169,"label":170},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/FD-Arties8Blog_AlisonThomas_Hero.jpg","Alison Thomas",{"id":172,"title":173,"uri":174,"content":175,"excerpt":176,"date":177,"modified":178,"categories":179,"image":181},"cG9zdDo3NTA4","Art With a Twist: Meet Chenille Stem Artist Greg Domres","/arties-eight/greg-domres-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>Calluses, scratches, and scars. These are the physical discomforts that Greg Domres puts up with while twisting and molding chenille stems — aka pipe cleaners — into still life and landscape images. While we’re sorry his art comes with pain, we’re also delighted by the winsome results.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Color, Texture, Depth\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Greg refers to his art as “stemming,” and compares it to the early 20th-century Fauvism movement, known for its bold colors, textured brushwork, and non-naturalistic depictions. Although chenille stems come in limited colors, Greg leverages the texture and dimensionality to render depth. For his 15”x12” artwork titled “Ready,” featured above, Greg portrays a duffel bag, surfboard, open door, and window to deliver the message that a beautiful day awaits outside.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Softer Gaze\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>“I believe everyone could benefit from a softer gaze,” Greg says, adding that his work often appears pixelated from afar. We can especially see this quality in “More Vivid in Memory,” shown below. Inspired by a strong memory of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, he crafted a piece that’s muted and quasi-abstract. A tinsel pipe cleaner creates the lighthouse glow to reflect the setting sun.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Greg is fond of our \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/wood-frame-profile-506b.html\">Wood Frame Profile 506B\u003C/a>. “I’m so grateful to have found Frame Destination,” says the artist, who lives in the New York City area. “Framing really makes a difference in presenting work. But so many people don't want to pay for framing and this is a great way for me to self-frame to present beautifully.”\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_GregDomres_Art2/FD-Arties8Blog_GregDomres_Art2.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_2421,h_2000,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1692633431/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_GregDomres_Art2/FD-Arties8Blog_GregDomres_Art2.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-7508 wp-image-7509\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1692633431\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">For “More Vivid in Memory,” 14”x17”, framed in our \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/wood-frame-profile-506b.html\">Wood Frame Profile 506B\u003C/a>.\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See More of Greg’s Work\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Visit Greg’s website to enjoy a range of galleries, from “Blue Iconic,” Greg’s take on hand-painted Dutch tiles, to “Night Trees,” reversed-out trees against a dark sky. To find out his most indispensable tool and what he always says “yes” to, scroll down to my Q&A with Greg.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Greg Domres…\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Col class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I am almost entirely self taught. Over 20 years ago, while working at a marketing agency, I was given a bundle of chenille stems (aka pipe cleaners). One day I began working with them, wondering what I could use them for. I made a cornucopia, which lead to a large ear of corn and more sculptural work. Eventually I decided I wanted to explore still life and landscapes — leading me to refine my craft and go down the creative path I am on today.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What role do you think the artist plays in society?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I believe the artist plays a number of roles depending on approach. One could be a documentarian when exploring current issues or popular trends, or a societal therapist providing a mental break. Creativity is critical for change and artists provide a source for that.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Many years ago, when I was probably still dabbling but knew I was creating something special, I asked a friend (who was a very successful artist) what he thought about my work. He enjoyed what I was creating and said I could easily continue the path I was on, selling to a specialty store as a product. Or I could take it further, presenting as an artist, happy simply to show the work, even if it was at a gas station and I sold nothing. I chose the latter, and I am so much happier with what I’m creating and what I've sold. I would still be thrilled to show in a gas station if asked. I say yes to showing.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>In what ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Chenille stems are very limited in color — most often simply primary, rarely a hue. I love bold color and am so thrilled to reflect that. I also like it when my work inspires both delight and a softer gaze in the viewer. I believe everyone could benefit from a softer gaze.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>If stuck or unsure, I just try something. I can always adjust or undo it but it usually works itself out in the process.\u003Cbr>           \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Needle-tipped pliers, not that I don't use my fingers and they aren't seriously callused.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I am currently working on the largest piece I've ever attempted. So far I'm 1,122 chenille stems in and it's approximately 32\"x40”, which is very difficult to get my arms around but I persevere since I'm excited to see it come to fruition.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your favorite color to incorporate into your art?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I don't paint, but I love Poppy Red.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ol>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_GregDomres_ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_GregDomres_ByLine.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_840,h_438,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1692633734/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_GregDomres_ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_GregDomres_ByLine.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-7508 wp-image-7510\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1692633734\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT?\u003C/strong> Simply respond to the questionnaire \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/interviewform\">here\u003C/a> to apply to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Last Updated August 21, 2023\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\n","\u003Cp>Calluses, scratches, and scars. These are the physical discomforts that Greg Domres puts up with while twisting and molding chenille stems — aka pipe cleaners — into still life and landscape images. While we’re sorry his art comes with pain, we’re also delighted by the winsome results. Color, Texture, Depth Greg refers to his art […]\u003C/p>\n","2023-08-21T11:20:40","2023-08-21T14:02:38",[180],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":182,"label":183},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/FD-Arties8Blog_GregDomres_Hero.jpg","",{"id":185,"title":186,"uri":187,"content":188,"excerpt":189,"date":190,"modified":191,"categories":192,"image":194},"cG9zdDo3NDY0","Into the Wild: Meet Artist Andrea Brunais","/arties-eight/andrea-brunais-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>For some lucky individuals, talent begets more talent. Andrea Brunais is one of those fortunate few. As an author, poet, photographer, and former newspaper journalist, this Bluefield, West Virginia, resident recently discovered she can also paint. And beautifully at that.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kaleidoscope of Color\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Living in the Mountain State affords Andrea ample opportunity to express her adoration of nature through painting. She is drawn to soft pastels because their pure pigments “create delightful explosions of fresh, saturated color,” says Andrea. Case in point: “Where the Waterfall Ends,” featured above. The depiction of gloriously backlit fall trees won Best in Show in the Appalachian Artist Association’s 2023 exhibit. Below, “Alone Yet One With Everything” is the pastel representation of an image captured by photographer Benjamin Allison that made Andrea’s heart sing. This painting earned a Silver Award in the international Shades of Purple 2022 Exhibition at Camelback Gallery in Scottsdale, Arizona.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Glass Enhancement\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Andrea’s husband is her source for frames. He builds and stains reclaimed hardwood for all her paintings. However, she does purchase \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/ultravue-uv70-picture-frame-glass.html\">anti-reflective UV glass\u003C/a> from Frame Destination. “My husband and I often joke that the paintings somehow look better with the glass over them,” Andrea tells us. “Even though the glass is the most expensive part of [framing], every penny is worth it.”\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/Alone-Yet-One-With-Everything_soft-pastels/Alone-Yet-One-With-Everything_soft-pastels.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1024,h_805,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1689170540/blog/Alone-Yet-One-With-Everything_soft-pastels/Alone-Yet-One-With-Everything_soft-pastels.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-7464 wp-image-7468\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1689170540\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">“Alone Yet One With Everything” was awarded Silver in Camelback Gallery’s Shades of Purple competition.\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See More of Andrea’s Work\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Andrea’s \u003Ca href=\"https://www.facebook.com/AndreaBrunaisArtist/photos_albums\">Facebook page\u003C/a> is her primary portfolio. Her \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/andreabrunais/\">Instagram\u003C/a> feed is gorgeous, and even includes a self-portrait in pastels (See 4/22/2020 post). Over the past few years, Andrea couldn’t resist combining her poetry with watercolor images of adorable orangutans, giraffes, and other wildlife — you can \u003Ca href=\"https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/andrea-brunais\">see the whimsy here.\u003C/a> To discover her favorite artistic investment (for under $10) and how planning beats spontaneity (sometimes), scroll down to my Q&A with Andrea.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Andrea Brunais…\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Col class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I began painting right before Covid 19 hit. A lifelong writer and photographer, I had never painted before except to occasionally play around with craft-type projects. I never expected YouTube to change my life, but after I followed a couple of pastel artists, I took an online course or two. I was hooked! My earlier professional career had centered on journalism; later, on higher-ed communications. So I was surprised to discover that I seemed to have an aptitude for painting with soft pastels. I’ve painted for less than three years, but I’ve already won awards in juried competitions and been invited to do solo exhibitions.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What role do you think the artist plays in society?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Artists interpret the world in ways that express our highest humanity. I love the natural world’s beauty and its kaleidoscope of colors, and I can only hope to weakly emulate the astonishments of creation. So it’s a challenge to even hint at nature’s mysteries, to evoke some feeling of resonance, perhaps akin to what one feels at seeing the glint of sunlight on flower petals or the hint of a summer breeze! I feel a strong calling to works of beauty, and yet visual art also plays a role in shaking up the status quo and bringing political thought to deeper levels.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I like to dive into the middle of things. But then a voice comes into my head, something I learned early in this artistic journey: If it’s worth painting, it’s worth planning. Sometimes that means refining the composition, giving thought to the color palette, and doing thumbnail sketches to determine values and simplify the subject.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>In what ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Color! I love color. And sometimes my paintings are loose and quirky. Other times I can make a statement. An example is a painting I did recently for a pop-art-themed juried exhibit. I painted a portrait of poet Amanda Gorman, who stirred the nation with her exuberantly devastating poem, “The Hill We Climb,” on inauguration day 2021. I combined it with an excerpt of her speech.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I don’t often get them, but when I do, all I have to do is look at other artists’ work. Then I can’t wait to get back to the easel!\u003Cbr>           \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>A red and green Cottage Mills Color Evaluator set. They’re made of thick acrylic, and when I hold them over a pastel stick, they neutralize its color. This is helpful in determining value. A good investment for less than $10. I also must mention that every one of my paintings is framed with custom reclaimed hardwood and \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/ultravue-uv70-picture-frame-glass.html\">Anti-Reflective Water White-ArtGlass AR70.\u003C/a>\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>In keeping with my journalism background, I’m building up two social media sites called Handmade in Appalachia – one on Facebook and one on Instagram – to highlight the work of artists and artisans throughout Appalachia.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your favorite color to incorporate into your art?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Purple! When in doubt, add purple.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ol>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AndreaBrunais-ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_AndreaBrunais-ByLine.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1024,h_534,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1689170433/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AndreaBrunais-ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_AndreaBrunais-ByLine.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-7464 wp-image-7467\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1689170433\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT?\u003C/strong> Simply respond to the questionnaire \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/interviewform\">here\u003C/a> to apply to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Last Updated July 12, 2023\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\n","\u003Cp>For some lucky individuals, talent begets more talent. Andrea Brunais is one of those fortunate few. As an author, poet, photographer, and former newspaper journalist, this Bluefield, West Virginia, resident recently discovered she can also paint. And beautifully at that. Kaleidoscope of Color Living in the Mountain State affords Andrea ample opportunity to express her […]\u003C/p>\n","2023-07-12T09:17:06","2023-07-12T09:17:52",[193],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":195,"label":183},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/FD-Arties8Blog_AndreaBrunais-Hero.jpg",{"id":197,"title":198,"uri":199,"content":200,"excerpt":201,"date":202,"modified":203,"categories":204,"image":206},"cG9zdDo3MzQ5","In Pursuit of a Simple Beauty: Meet Photographer Adam Scales","/arties-eight/adam-scales-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>As a law professor at Rutgers Law School in Camden, New Jersey, Adam spends his days teaching students about accidental injuries. But when he’s not in the classroom, Adam enjoys the peace and quiet that comes with the solitary pursuit of photography.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Focus and Patience Are Key\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>As Adam worked on the featured photograph above with unswerving concentration, ration, the pink bloom brought to his mind the Starship Enterprise. But later, when a friend suggested that it resembled a woman wearing a traditional Japanese dress, he went with the title “Kimono Flower.”\u003Cbr> \u003Cbr>For “Sunlit Rower” below, Adam was set up and ready to shoot the golden rays of sunset that fell on a bridge crossing the Schuylkill River. But he had no subject for the magical background. The light lasted exactly six minutes. In minute five, “this guy came sculling through,” Adam recounts. “By the time he reached the right-most edge of the frame, the light was gone. His work was done!”\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AdamScales_Image1/FD-Arties8Blog_AdamScales_Image1.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1200,h_801,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1686844900/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AdamScales_Image1/FD-Arties8Blog_AdamScales_Image1.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Rowing Calm Water Under Bridge\" class=\"wp-post-7349 wp-image-7352\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1686844900\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">“Sunlit Rower,” Adam’s best-seller.\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Of Pouches and Pets\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Adam’s favorite Frame Destination product is our unique \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/ctg/photo-storage/gallery-pouch.html\">Gallery Pouch™\u003C/a> — a reusable, double-laminated protective bag that’s rigid, so art slides in and out quickly and easily. “This is the best solution for moving art around I have found,” says the Philadelphia-based photographer. Apparently his dog, Bernie, agrees.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AdamScales_Image2/FD-Arties8Blog_AdamScales_Image2.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1200,h_900,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1686844925/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AdamScales_Image2/FD-Arties8Blog_AdamScales_Image2.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Photos in Galley Pouch\" class=\"wp-post-7349 wp-image-7353\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1686844925\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Bernie the dog guards Adam’s collection of Gallery Pouches.\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See More of Adam’s Work\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>To peruse an array of beautifully captured subjects — from black-and-white portraiture to African landscapes — visit Adam’s online portfolio, \u003Ca href=\"https://www.invisiblelenses.com\">Invisible Lenses\u003C/a>. For a looser edit, check out his \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/invisiblelensphotography/\">Instagram feed\u003C/a> and scroll through photos of Adam’s family, Philly street life, and his Alaskan adventures. And when you’re ready to hear about Adam’s artistic influences and how he “recharges” his inspiration, check out the Q&A below.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Adam Scales…\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Col class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Six years ago, I went on a safari in Tanzania. So, I bought a camera and a book on how to use it. On the next-to-last day, I took a picture of a solitary elephant in the Ngorogoro Crater. When I saw that image on my giant monitor a couple weeks later, I knew my life had been changed.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>How important is it for a photographer to \"connect\" with their subject?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>For portraits, it is the only thing that really matters. See your subject truly, and everything else falls into place. Fail to see what is in front of you, and $10,000 worth of gear won't help.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>American photographer and conservationist Art Wolfe says to look for landscapes in places no one else is looking. I've also been strongly influenced by Irving Penn, whose approach to portraiture was simply to create an environment wherein the subjects could reveal themselves. Inevitably, they did.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>In what ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Photography is a solitary pursuit. It rewards the ability to concentrate, often with unsettling single-mindedness, on that which is in front of you. Oddly, given that I make my living with words, the practice of photography allows me the true peacefulness of silence; I can make pictures all day without saying a word. Then I can let my images speak for themselves.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I rarely lack for inspiration, because there are beautiful things to be seen and photographed everywhere. But, when I need a recharge, I reach for \u003Ca href=\"https://www.amazon.com/Democratic-Forest-William-Eggleston/dp/0385266510\">The Democratic Forest\u003C/a> by William Eggleston. It reminds me of the transcendent beauty of small and simple things.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I'm a great listener, which is the key to seeing.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I've been approached by a local developer about developing a series of \"portraits\" for several of their buildings around town. Between checking my email one hundred times a day looking for that magic \"Yes!\" to arrive, I like to take long walks and imagine the images I would create for them…If only that phone would ring!\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What \"fad\" gadget do you most regret purchasing?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>May I answer this somewhat differently? My first prime lens was a 43mm film-era classic. The very first image I made with it was of my father, then visiting. He passed away last year, and in my grief, I turned to that photograph. I have purchased many lenses, lights, cameras, modifiers, and doohickeys in the past five years. Had I stopped after that first prime, I think my satisfaction and development as an artist would've been about the same as it is now. Maybe even better.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ol>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AdamScales_ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_AdamScales_ByLine.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1269,h_662,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1686844944/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_AdamScales_ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_AdamScales_ByLine.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Fine Art Photographer Adam Scales\" class=\"wp-post-7349 wp-image-7354\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1686844944\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT?\u003C/strong> Simply respond to the questionnaire \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/interviewform\">here\u003C/a> to apply to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Last Updated June 15, 2023\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\n","\u003Cp>As a law professor at Rutgers Law School in Camden, New Jersey, Adam spends his days teaching students about accidental injuries. But when he’s not in the classroom, Adam enjoys the peace and quiet that comes with the solitary pursuit of photography. Focus and Patience Are Key As Adam worked on the featured photograph above […]\u003C/p>\n","2023-06-21T10:10:24","2023-06-23T18:11:57",[205],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":207,"label":183},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/FD-Arties8Blog_AdamScales_Hero.jpg",{"id":209,"title":210,"uri":211,"content":212,"excerpt":213,"date":214,"modified":215,"categories":216,"image":218},"cG9zdDo3MzU2","Essence of the Moment: Meet Artist Keith Wicks","/arties-eight/keith-wicks-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>Art has been the bedrock of Keith Wicks’ life since sixth grade, when he took first place in an art show in his native Bakersfield, California. From commercial success in L.A. and San Francisco — including a stint with George Lucas’s Industrial Light & Magic — to teaching and charity work, Keith has built his life around his passion.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Purity of Light\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Recognizing the importance of sketching and seeing color values and temperatures, Keith is able to paint scenes with a gorgeous luminosity. Take his “Paris Waiter,” featured above. He recently framed the 30 x 40 oil on canvas in a \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/c/french-grey-plein-air-wood-frame-with-mat-p742.html\">French Grey Plein Air Wood Frame\u003C/a> from Frame Destination. We’re delighted he chose this wide-faced, lightly distressed frame for this stunning piece.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Focus on the Essence\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When Keith is teaching his plein air students, he works with them on simplifying their approach to create a strong composition. You can see this method at work in all his paintings, including his 22 x 28 “Ready to Ride” below. Along with teaching, Keith cares deeply about ensuring public schools have access to art education. He founded Sonoma Plein Air Foundation and donates time, as well as paintings, to various charities that promote these efforts.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_KeithWicks_Image1-edited/FD-Arties8Blog_KeithWicks_Image1-edited.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1092,h_830,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1687451924/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_KeithWicks_Image1-edited/FD-Arties8Blog_KeithWicks_Image1-edited.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Ready to Ride Canvas Oil Painting\" class=\"wp-post-7356 wp-image-7401\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1687451924\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">“Ready to Ride,” 22 x 28 oil on canvas.\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See More of Keith’s Work\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Keith’s \u003Ca href=\"https://www.keithwicks.com/\">online portfolio\u003C/a> showcases collections ranging from still life to images of Japan and the San Francisco Ballet, along with opportunities to participate in his plein air workshops. His \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/wickskeith/\">Instagram\u003C/a> reveals works in progress, scenes from his workshop travels, and more. To discover Keith’s most trusted artistic tool and how his work reflects his personality, head to to the Q&A below.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Keith Wicks…\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Col class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>My artistic journey started in 1971 at age 11. That was when I created my first oil painting, and I’ve been painting ever since. After high school, I started a design business that led me to owning a small advertising company in my 20s. But I found that the business of running an agency was taking away from my creative side, so I moved on and went to the ArtCenter College of Design and got my degree in illustration. I worked in many fields — multimedia, illustration, and fine art. I also became a drawing and painting teacher at Academy of Art in San Francisco.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What role do you think the artist plays in society?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Art is a mirror that reveals society at its best and worst.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Follow your heart.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>In what ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I think I have a few things in common with my work: a sense of romanticism, luminosity, and the ability to capture a mood that affects us all in our everyday life.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Stress from the outside world can stop me from creating, seeing, dreaming of new images. The only thing to do is go into the studio and begin working; in no time I find something that starts the spark and pulls me out of the stress.\u003Cbr>           \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>All the tools to make art are useless without imagination.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>My work is always evolving. I move from one subject to another; that's what keeps me motivated. I may be painting cityscapes from some trip abroad and the next day start a figure or portrait.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your favorite color to incorporate into your art?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Vermillion. I have always like that color — as well as the name. I once named a gallery Vermillion Art.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ol>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_KeithWicks_ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_KeithWicks_ByLine.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1269,h_662,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1686846639/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_KeithWicks_ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_KeithWicks_ByLine.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Keith Wicks\" class=\"wp-post-7356 wp-image-7360\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1686846639\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT?\u003C/strong> Simply respond to the questionnaire \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/interviewform\">here\u003C/a> to apply to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Last Updated June 15, 2023\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\n","\u003Cp>Art has been the bedrock of Keith Wicks’ life since sixth grade, when he took first place in an art show in his native Bakersfield, California. From commercial success in L.A. and San Francisco — including a stint with George Lucas’s Industrial Light & Magic — to teaching and charity work, Keith has built his […]\u003C/p>\n","2023-06-21T10:10:01","2023-06-23T18:07:53",[217],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":219,"label":183},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/FD-Arties8Blog_KeithWicks_Hero.jpg",{"id":221,"title":222,"uri":223,"content":224,"excerpt":225,"date":226,"modified":227,"categories":228,"image":230},"cG9zdDo3MjU1","Bee’ing Beautiful: Meet Encaustic Artist Kara Brook Brown","/arties-eight/kara-brook-brown-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>Sometimes going back to your roots can spark imagination, leading you to new adventures. For example, Kara Brook Brown left a corporate career and returned to her childhood passions of painting and philanthropy — and found a way to blend them into a business.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Waxing Poetic With Paint\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>To supply beeswax for her encaustic paintings, Kara started beekeeping on a portion of her Chesapeake Bay farm. The Maryland artist uses various encaustic techniques, from monotypes to classical paintings on wood panels, enjoying the similarities between the way that both she and her winged friends build up layers of wax. In fact, when Kara finds herself in a creative block, she calls to mind the honeybees: “When I can feel that I am a part of their way of being, life and art make sense.”\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Kara’s featured work above is titled “Copper Study.” The piece below, “Poppy,” is framed it in the Charcoal Woodgrain finish of our \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/wood-frame-profile-549.html\">Wood Profile 549\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Natural Progression\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Along the way, Kara learned how vital bees are to the planet’s sustainability, as well as how valuable honey is for healing and nurturing. Soon a new business was born: \u003Ca href=\"https://beeinspiredgoods.com\">Bee Inspired.\u003C/a> Merging art and altruism, Bee Inspired offers artisan-crafted, ecologically respectful gifts, like candles, bath and body products, flavored organic honey — and her fine art. For a benevolent twist, the giver receives a free gift and a nonprofit partner receives a grant.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-BlogHero_KBB/FD-BlogHero_KBB.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1200,h_628,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1684426238/blog/FD-BlogHero_KBB/FD-BlogHero_KBB.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-7255 wp-image-7260\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1684426238\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">“Poppy,” displayed in Frame Destination \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/wood-frame-profile-549.html\">Profile 549\u003C/a>, Charcoal Woodgrain.\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See More of Kara’s Work\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Kara’s art can be found in the \u003Ca href=\"https://beeinspiredgoods.com/collections/art\">Home+Art\u003C/a> section of her Bee Inspired website. Three percent of all sales from her fine art is donated to her alma mater, the Maryland Institute College of Art. To read which opportunities have challenged Kara (in a good way), and how her work connects viewers to their emotions, scroll to the Q&A below.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Kara Brook Brown…\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Col class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I declared myself a painter at age four. My parents didn’t have much money to spare, but they allowed me to take art lessons from a neighbor who championed annual art projects to benefit the local youth. The experience shaped my life. Fast forward to graduating with a dual degree in Visual Communications and Art History from the Maryland Institute College of Art, and starting on a winding road back to painting after a graphic design and communications technology career.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What role do you think the artist plays in society?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I believe that my work is a catalyst that connects the viewer to their emotions, aspirations, hopes, and memories. Art calls a person to pause – and in that moment, to step outside his or her routine and see something with fresh eyes.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Over the last two decades, I’ve been able to meet emerging artists and discuss their work with them at art shows in New York and Europe. These opportunities have encouraged and challenged me to try new methods, subjects, and art forms.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>In what ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I experience the mystery and joy of life through my art. In 2010, I became captivated by encaustic art and its sustainable properties. Building up layers of wax is fascinating; so tactile and satisfying. It is slow and difficult – just like bees building the honeycomb within hives. This practice takes me into the heart of nature, where I thrive. I want my art to inspire with its translucence, radiance, and harmony of the multiple layers, so that you want to preserve it for generations.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Sure. I get creative blocks when my hands are not delivering my imagination. I overcome the block by re-engaging the medium as a creative partner, to get back into the flow. These last 10 years, I also frequently call the honeybees to mind. When I can feel that I am a part of their way of being, life and art make sense.\u003Cbr>           \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Observation and appreciation are my guiding lights. Being relaxed and still, listening to my heart.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>At the encaustic table, I am currently focusing on the powers of color and texture — separately and together. I am working in abstract to release possibilities for each individual viewer to respond at a deep level and see the message they need to receive.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your favorite color to incorporate into your art?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I love how even the tiniest pop of red energizes my work.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ol>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_KaraBrookBrown-ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_KaraBrookBrown-ByLine.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1269,h_662,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1684425372/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_KaraBrookBrown-ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_KaraBrookBrown-ByLine.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-7255 wp-image-7257\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1684425372\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT?\u003C/strong> Simply respond to the questionnaire \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/interviewform\">here\u003C/a> to apply to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Las Updated June 22, 2023\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\n","\u003Cp>Sometimes going back to your roots can spark imagination, leading you to new adventures. For example, Kara Brook Brown left a corporate career and returned to her childhood passions of painting and philanthropy — and found a way to blend them into a business. Waxing Poetic With Paint To supply beeswax for her encaustic paintings, […]\u003C/p>\n","2023-05-18T11:27:13","2023-06-22T13:39:13",[229],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":231,"label":183},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/FD-Arties8Blog_KaraBrookBrown-Hero.jpg",{"id":233,"title":234,"uri":235,"content":236,"excerpt":237,"date":238,"modified":239,"categories":240,"image":242},"cG9zdDo3MDk5","Window to the Soul: Meet Fine Pencil Artist Barry King","/arties-eight/barry-king-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>He won a nationwide art competition at age 9. He’s created commissioned portraits of Muhammad Ali, Marvin Gaye, and Barbara Bush. He’s directed celebrity-studded TV commercials. Yet he’s never had an art lesson. Who is this creative wonder? Say hello to Barry King.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Capturing the Essence\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Barry has always been interested in the story behind a person’s eyes. In fact, the right eye is where he begins every portrait. His commission clients are often surprised at how his drawings have more depth than the photographs he works from. One example is his pencil drawing of Reverend Albert E. Chew featured above; you can see his portrait progress through various stages \u003Ca href=\"https://www.barrykingart.com/how-barry-works\">here\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tower of Power\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Barry’s artistic toolbox includes his go-to ebony pencil, shading stumps, kneaded erasers, and a chamois cloth he’s used for over 50 years. He created “Tower of Power of Support,” featured below, for the M2G Donor Soireé. This event raises money for research on depression — a struggle Barry has shared about in his own life. He framed the piece with Frame Destination’s \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/metal-profile-11.html\">Metal Profile 11\u003C/a> in Matte Black. “Frame Destination has amazing quality at a GREAT price,” says Barry.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/1650579183_1/1650579183_1.jpeg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_639,h_1024,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1683055931/blog/1650579183_1/1650579183_1.jpeg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-7099 wp-image-7100\" data-format=\"jpeg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1683055931\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Barry’s finished drawing of “The Tower of Power of Support,” which raised $8,200 in an auction benefitting mental health awareness.\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See More of Barry’s Work\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Barry’s \u003Ca href=\"https://www.barrykingart.com/open-edition-prints\">website\u003C/a> showcases open-edition prints and best selling portraits, along with a page to request commissions. There you can also read more about his career as an advertising creative director. Visit his \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/barrykingfineart/\">Instagram\u003C/a> for videos of Barry’s work as it progresses, including a portrait of his wife, Leah (see 6/23/22 post). Want to know what he vows he will never do with his talent, and which new medium he wants to try this year? The Q&A below tells all.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Barry King… \u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Col class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Upon reaching the third grade, I entered a worldwide art contest for children sponsored by UNICEF. My entire elementary school got involved, and my entry into the contest was a painting of pro football player Jim Brown. Much to my surprise, I won first place among all of the entries from around the world. From that day on I knew I wanted to be an artist! My specialty is people. More specifically, faces. I’m fascinated by the story the eyes tell, and many people comment first on the eyes of my subjects. I don’t sketch out the drawing in the traditional way most artists do. Each one of my drawings begins with the subject's right eye — the one to my left when I’m facing the illustration board. Yes, I literally start with the reflection in the person’s right pupil. The subject guides me from there. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of selling original pieces to Muhammad Ali, Marvin Gaye, and Billy Paul (of \"Me and Mrs. Jones” song fame). I also presented President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush with a portrait of Barbara Bush that I completed before an exhibit that I participated in at the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in Dallas, Texas. I draw a limited number of commissioned originals annually.\u003Cbr>\u003Cbr>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What role do you think the artist plays in society?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Inspiration. In my childhood, I discovered the gift of drawing brings joy not only to myself, but to others. To this day, I’ve never had a lesson. I have no idea how the execution of my work happens. When I finish a piece I’m as surprised as others are when they view my gift! What I do know is that I am only the co-pilot of this skill. I truly believe we all are gifted with a skill. My hope is that whoever looks upon this gift of mine will know that they, too, have a gift — and here’s hoping they will be inspired to find theirs if they haven’t. I’m living proof that finding it is possible.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Do NOT waste my gift. I know it is special, as is everyone’s.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>In what ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I’m not sure that one can truly see their own personality. But I will say this: As a Libra, I’ve been told that this particular Zodiac sign comes with artistic ability. Other Libras who are are in the artistic and performing arts world include Caravaggio, Vermeer, Greco, Leibovitz, Pavarotti, [Chuck] Berry, Lennon, Tutu, Thatcher, and [Ralph] Lauren.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Never had one, fortunately.\u003Cbr>           \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>People and their unique faces.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I want to start sculpting busts in 2023!\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your favorite color to incorporate into your art?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Given my medium of pencil drawing, Ebony.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ol>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_BarryKing-ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_BarryKing-ByLine.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1269,h_662,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1683056807/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_BarryKing-ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_BarryKing-ByLine.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-7099 wp-image-7101\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1683056807\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT?\u003C/strong> Simply respond to the questionnaire \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/interviewform\">here\u003C/a> to apply to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Las Updated May 2, 2023\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\n","\u003Cp>He won a nationwide art competition at age 9. He’s created commissioned portraits of Muhammad Ali, Marvin Gaye, and Barbara Bush. He’s directed celebrity-studded TV commercials. Yet he’s never had an art lesson. Who is this creative wonder? Say hello to Barry King. Capturing the Essence Barry has always been interested in the story behind […]\u003C/p>\n","2023-05-02T14:55:43","2023-05-04T08:56:12",[241],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":243,"label":183},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/FD-Arties8Blog_BarryKing-Hero.jpg",{"id":245,"title":246,"uri":247,"content":248,"excerpt":249,"date":250,"modified":251,"categories":252,"image":254},"cG9zdDo3MDIy","Creative Instigator: Meet Photographer Stephen Guenther","/arties-eight/stephen-guenther-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>From fine art to corporate films, Stephen Guenther considers himself a “creative instigator.” Titles like design director, film director, creative lead, and executive producer surely back that up. But before any of those roles, back in the 1970s, photography paved the way.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Darkroom Enlightenment\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>As an undergraduate student of Visual Psychology, Stephen tagged along with a friend who was developing film in a dark room. Watching the image come to life awakened a passion for the art, prompting Stephen to attend the Center for Photographic Studies under the instruction of C.J. Pressma. He describes that early training as “profound and lasting.”\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Remnants of Reality\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Stephen’s current work was born during the homebound days of covid. As he looked through a box of vintage printed images, he started seeing an “image within an image” — portions of the prints that could stand on their own. What ensued became a series of untitled works he calls “Remnants.” The featured photo above is from an image of the iconic Taos Church; the enlarged lithography dot pattern added to the abstract edge of the image, allowing him to present a unique vision.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The ocean wave piece below, part of the “Suiseki-Water-Stone” series, is framed in our \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/nielsen-profile-95.html\">white Nielsen Profile 95\u003C/a>, an elegant aluminum frame. “Frame Destination not only has the products I need, but also the service,” says Stephen.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8_StephenG_Remnants/FD-Arties8_StephenG_Remnants.jpeg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_936,h_673,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1680102540/blog/FD-Arties8_StephenG_Remnants/FD-Arties8_StephenG_Remnants.jpeg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-7022 wp-image-7023\" data-format=\"jpeg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1680102540\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">This ocean wave photo, from Stephen’s \"Suiseki-Water-Stone\" series, is framed in our \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/nielsen-profile-95.html\">Nielsen Profile 95\u003C/a>.\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See More of Stephen’s Work\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Stephen’s website is a treasure trove of still photography, featuring images from the Bahamas, Berlin, and beyond, as well as intriguing portfolio categories like “Texture” and “Fallen.” You can also peek at his \u003Ca href=\"https://stephenguenther.com/motion\">motion work\u003C/a>, comprising corporate and nonprofit efforts, like a touching video for the Rio Branco School for the Deaf in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Peruse his \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/sguenther/\">Instagram\u003C/a> for “daily random fotos” and his 2023 Graphis Gold Award-winning image (see 1/9/23 post). To discover Stephen’s latest passion and what he experiences in lieu of creative blocks, scroll to the Q&A below.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Stephen Guenther…\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Col class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>While in my last year of undergraduate study (Visual Psychology), I joined a friend working on a senior project in Architecture. It was there, in a darkroom, that the full weight of photography connected with me. The magic of the obfuscated image in the developing tray coming to life was the moment. My formal education in photography began at the Center for Photographic Studies in Louisville, Kentucky, where my first teacher was C.J. Pressma, a protégé of Henry Holmes Smith and Minor White. It was a profound and lasting experience. After that, my professional development led to a Masters in Fine Art in Photography. What came next was a 40-year career in graphic design, with my final role as design director for my own company. Filmmaking took over during this period as my visual skills were honed and applied as a director of both film and photography. Looking through the lens at the flow of motion was mesmerizing. I have spent the better part of the last decade traveling the globe to document NGO humanitarian projects, from education for children with disabilities in Andong, South Korea, to women weavers in Maheshwar, India. With 30+ years of photography experience, I remain committed to explore, to learn, and to help others find their path to self-expression and documentation via photography.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>How important is it for a photographer to \"connect\" with their subject?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>Connection is a challenging word. I think that the photographer either has to recognize something or respond to something — consciously or unconsciously.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I’ve been greatly influenced by a quote from Minor White: \"While we cannot describe its appearance (the equivalent), we can define its function. When a photograph functions as an Equivalent we can say that at that moment, and for that person, the photograph acts as a symbol or plays the role of a metaphor for something that is beyond the subject photographed.\"\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>In what ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>That is not for me to say. The work speaks for itself.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I suffer more from too many ideas and sometimes the lack of confidence to pursue them.\u003Cbr>           \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>For me there was the joy of discovery in the recognition of something beyond the formal image. And recognition that there are multiple ways to “capture” an image. Alternative process, vintage historical approaches, other mechanical options as well.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I have always connected to “straight” photography, but I started looking again at some favorite photographers, like Harry Callahan, who also explore multiple images or layered composite images. This gave me “permission” to step outside of my comfort zone and create a new series of composite images with fun and excitement in each step.\u003Cbr> \u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>What \"fad\" gadget do you most regret purchasing?\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>I am not seduced by equipment; I buy what I need at the time I need it.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ol>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8Blog_SGuenther-ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_SGuenther-ByLine.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1269,h_662,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1680104169/blog/FD-Arties8Blog_SGuenther-ByLine/FD-Arties8Blog_SGuenther-ByLine.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-7022 wp-image-7025\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1680104169\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT?\u003C/strong> Simply respond to the questionnaire \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/interviewform\">here\u003C/a> to apply to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Last Updated March 29, 2023\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\n","\u003Cp>From fine art to corporate films, Stephen Guenther considers himself a “creative instigator.” Titles like design director, film director, creative lead, and executive producer surely back that up. But before any of those roles, back in the 1970s, photography paved the way. Darkroom Enlightenment As an undergraduate student of Visual Psychology, Stephen tagged along with […]\u003C/p>\n","2023-03-29T10:48:53","2023-05-01T16:13:50",[253],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":255,"label":183},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/FD-Arties8Blog_SGuenther-Hero2.jpg",{"id":257,"title":258,"uri":259,"content":260,"excerpt":261,"date":262,"modified":263,"categories":264,"image":266},"cG9zdDo2ODk5","Transcending Time: Meet Fine Artist Amelia Currier","/arties-eight/amelia-currier-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>What do childhood summers in Northern Michigan have in common with travels to Etruscan tombs, Mitla ruins, and Neolithic stone circles? They have all influenced the work of Amelia Currier, a fine artist who brings nature and ancient traditions into the modern world. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>The Art of Zen\u003C/strong>\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Amelia practices the Buddhist meditation method of daily ink gestures, or quick ink-wash paintings. She created “Tokyo,” showcased above, as an ink gesture on heavyweight paper, adding layers and depth during the process. “Tokyo” refers to the Japanese aesthetic of muted colors, simple composition, and a feeling of calm known as \u003Cem>wabi-sabi\u003C/em>. The piece is framed in our \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/nielsen-profile-99.html\">Nielsen Profile 99\u003C/a> in Brushed German Silver with an \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/mat/crescent-8ply-ragmat-museum.html\">Crescent 8-ply RagMat Museum Mat\u003C/a> and  \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/uv-non-glare-acrylic-1-10-inch.html\">UV Non-Glare Acrylic\u003C/a>. “The Nielsen 99 is a perfect choice for work that is subtle and requires a neutral, yet elegant, frame,” Amelia tells us. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>More Than the Sum \u003C/strong>\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Wood assemblages are another art form in Amelia’s portfolio. She carves and builds them out of found objects or recycled barn wood, using the ancient wood-burning technique of \u003Cem>shou sugi ban \u003C/em>to create form, texture, and depth. Amelia appreciates how wood, “heavy with its own history,” condenses the passage of time. You can see several assemblages in the photo below, hanging on the back wall of her studio.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/1647281746_2/1647281746_2.jpeg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_840,h_593,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1675270125/blog/1647281746_2/1647281746_2.jpeg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-6899 wp-image-6900\" data-format=\"jpeg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1675270125\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003Cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u003Cem>Amelia’s Michigan studio was once the hayloft of a barn.\u003C/em> \u003Cem>Her assemblages hang on the far wall.\u003C/em>\u003C/figcaption>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>See More of Amelia’s Work\u003C/strong>\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Amelia’s \u003Ca href=\"https://www.ameliacurrier.com/home\">website\u003C/a> showcases works on paper, assemblages, encaustic monotypes, and more. Check out her \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/ameliacurrier77/\">Instagram\u003C/a> for recent work as well as \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/ameliacurrier77/reels/\">videos\u003C/a>, including an \u003Cem>en plein air\u003C/em> tutorial on meditative ink gestures (see the 6/30/21 post featuring her “tailgate studio”). To discover the wise advice Amelia received while earning her printmaking degree, and to understand why she has three indispensable tools, scroll to my Q&A below.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Amelia Currier…\u003C/strong>\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>1. What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>My mother and grandfather were both professional artists, so art was a natural and fundamental expression in my home. Many hours were spent sprawled on the floor coloring with my sisters, who are both artistic. I never questioned my career as an artist. The job that paid the rent — be it house painting or waiting tables — was simply the means to an end: precious time in my studio. While my son was young, I kept my artistic  “iron in the fire” and created whenever I had the opportunity. In him, I instilled the joy and illumination of self that art can bring, and am proud to say he is a professional artist today. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>2\u003C/strong>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>. What role do you think the artist plays in society?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Now more than ever, the presence of art in our culture and environment gives people succor, insight, and an option to perceive the world in a new light. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>During my years in college, while I was working on my printmaking degree, I had a teacher named Stanley Rosenthal. He gave us two pieces of advice which I have applied over the years and found them to be invaluable. The first was, “Always reject your first idea.” I find that often the first idea needs to be further developed or scrapped all together. The second bit of advice was, “Go to your studio and work, no matter what your mood or lack of inspiration. Pick up your tool and eventually you will become engaged in your work.” Personally, I find inspiration to be a romanticized myth; if I have a successful creative outcome, it's mostly because of persistent hard work, a little talent, and trust in myself. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>4. In what ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I am an introverted, private person, who feels a deep connection to nature. My \u003Cem>raison d'être\u003C/em> as an artist is to create work that evokes the harmony, balance, and stillness that we all seek. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I follow the aforementioned advice of my teacher. I work every day but Saturday because a regular studio practice creates a flow and rhythm that moves new ideas forward. When I'm not actually in my studio, I believe my problem-solving mind is busy finding solutions to artistic road blocks like balance, composition, or imagery. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I must have music, natural light, and a somewhat organized studio. I have numerous found objects in groups around my studio. Like music, they joggle my mind and keep me from overthinking. On a more domestic note, it’s important for me to have a “clean slate” — chores done, bills paid, dog walked — so that I might breathe deeply and see what is revealed. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Presently, I am revisiting my encaustic monotype hotbox and will begin a new series of monotypes. Two years ago I changed courses and worked on found object assemblages. Having just completed a quartet of them that took eight months, working on paper is calling out to me again. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>8. What is your favorite color to incorporate into your art?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>My favorite paint color of late is “Terra Cotta,” a dusky brick red.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD_ArtiesEight-AmeliaCurrier-ByLine/FD_ArtiesEight-AmeliaCurrier-ByLine.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1269,h_662,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1675271348/blog/FD_ArtiesEight-AmeliaCurrier-ByLine/FD_ArtiesEight-AmeliaCurrier-ByLine.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-6899 wp-image-6902\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1675271348\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cbr>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT?\u003C/strong> Simply respond to the questionnaire \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/interviewform\">here\u003C/a> to apply to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Last Updated February 1, 2023\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\n","\u003Cp>What do childhood summers in Northern Michigan have in common with travels to Etruscan tombs, Mitla ruins, and Neolithic stone circles? They have all influenced the work of Amelia Currier, a fine artist who brings nature and ancient traditions into the modern world.  The Art of Zen Amelia practices the Buddhist meditation method of daily […]\u003C/p>\n","2023-02-01T11:12:48","2023-02-02T11:37:22",[265],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":267,"label":183},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/FD_ArtiesEight-AmeliaCurrier-Hero.jpg",65]