[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"app-navigation":3,"blog-category-arties-eight":138,"posts-6-10-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":266},[144,158,170,182,194,206,218,230,242,254],{"id":145,"title":146,"uri":147,"content":148,"excerpt":149,"date":150,"modified":151,"categories":152,"image":155},"cG9zdDo0MTM0","Secrets of a Visual Poet: Meet Collage Artist Richard Curtner","/arties-eight/richard-curtner-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">“A picture is worth a thousand words.” We’re all familiar with that saying, but Richard Curtner puts a clever twist on the adage with his one-of-a-kind collages. Armed with an X-Acto knife and an eye for detail, Richard blends visual beauty with verbal poetry, attracting clients from across the country — including at least one famous fan, Tom Hanks. (See Tom’s handwritten thank-you note on Richard’s \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/curtner_art/?hl=en\">\u003Cspan class=\"s2\">Instagram\u003C/span>\u003C/a> page.)\u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">Painstaking precision.\u003C/span>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">Richard’s subject matter runs in themes. One series is devoted to cities: San Francisco, Chicago, Boston, London and Paris among them. He has created whimsical works with cocktails and romantic couples as the star subjects. A recent focus is his “library” series — like the girl-in-window-seat collage shown here, titled “Collection.”\u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">No matter what the scene, Richard’s process involves looking through magazines in search of the perfect words, phrases and color palettes. He trims out hundreds of details by hand with an X-Acto blade, glues them together and tops the finished work with a layer of varnish. After purchasing “Chaotic Embrace,” one Curtner aficionado wrote the artist saying, “I am still finding new lines to read every day.” \u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">Balancing the complexity.\u003C/span>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">When an artwork is so meticulously detailed, it’s important for the framing to complement the piece and not overwhelm it. Richard appreciates Frame Destination’s wood frame \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/wood-frame-profile-852.html\">\u003Cspan class=\"s2\">Profile 852\u003C/span>\u003C/a> for that reason. “The frame is modern-looking, and just enough to add elegance to the artwork without taking away from the complexity of the art itself,” Richard says. \u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">See more of Richard’s work.\u003C/span>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">Based in Palm Springs, California, Richard is a prolific exhibitor, annually participating in 26 shows and festivals in 11 states. In lieu of a road trip, you can visit Richard’s \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/curtner_art/?hl=en\">\u003Cspan class=\"s2\">Instagram\u003C/span>\u003C/a> page for his latest work, or see his complete collection via his online \u003Ca href=\"https://curtnerart.com\">\u003Cspan class=\"s2\">portfolio\u003C/span>\u003C/a>. In my Q&A below, you’ll learn how this artist sees his role in society, and the tender age at which he created his first collage.\u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Richard Curtner …\u003C/span>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s2\">\u003Cb>\u003Ci>1. What is your backgrou\u003C/i>\u003C/b>\u003C/span>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">\u003Cb>\u003Ci>nd; how did you get started?\u003Cbr>\u003C/i>\u003C/b>\u003C/span>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">I don't remember a start, because as far back as I can remember I've always had a pencil or paint brush in my hand. I recently found a collage I created as a kid; my mother estimates that I was three years old. I don't remember a time where I wasn't creating, drawing or painting. It really has been my life-long passion, and if I am not creating I feel less than whole. I feel so privileged to be able to provide for my family of four financially with something that I love to do. \u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s3\">\u003Cb>2\u003C/b>\u003C/span>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">\u003Cb>\u003Ci>. What role do you think the artist plays in society?\u003Cbr>\u003C/i>\u003C/b>\u003C/span>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">The artist serves as the eye of society, causing viewers to stop and reflect on expressions of the artist, but also to see expressions of themselves in the art. Art transports people to a favorite memory or a feeling, and it connects people to each other. It starts conversations and relationships. It adds flavor to life and is so much more than decor or pretty pictures, although it can also be just that when needed.\u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">\u003Cb>\u003Ci>3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003Cbr>\u003C/i>\u003C/b>\u003C/span>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">The best formative experience has been the process. The process of making the art as well as selling that art and marketing the art. To get to any level of perfection many wonderful learning mistakes are made along the way. \u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">\u003Cb>\u003Ci>4. What ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003Cbr>\u003C/i>\u003C/b>\u003C/span>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">I am a fan of the visual arts as well as the literary arts. I have created a combination of both loves. I am fascinated how words on a page can create images in your mind. Artwork that includes those words adds another dimension to the artwork. It fills gaps in the visual imagery. I love that my selected words words within the works can reach the viewer on an emotional level. My art tells stories literally. It draws people in out of curiosity, but also keeps them there as they discover new elements, new phrases that speak to them. \u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">\u003Cb>\u003Ci>5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003Cbr>\u003C/i>\u003C/b>\u003C/span>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">I have found that an artist has blocks just as a writer would. Sometimes it is a matter of just setting a set schedule of time to create and once creating it starts a momentum that helps you break through the block. Kind of like the idea behind \"a body in motion stays in motion.” An artist in creation stays in a creative mode. Once you get that inspiration, you need to maximize it and work as long as humanly possible without stopping, because that's when everything flows together so easily and effortlessly. \u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">\u003Cb>\u003Ci>6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003Cbr>\u003C/i>\u003C/b>\u003C/span>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">An X-Acto knife and a love for meticulous details.\u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">\u003Cb>\u003Ci>7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003Cbr>\u003C/i>\u003C/b>\u003C/span>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">My artwork seems to evolve in phases. The themes change from year to year. One year the main focus of the pieces can be figurative pieces, the next year city scapes. This year the running theme seems to be my library series, literary-themed pieces.\u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">\u003Cb>\u003Ci>8. What is your favorite paint color name?\u003Cbr>\u003C/i>\u003C/b>\u003C/span>\u003Cspan class=\"s1\">Favorite color name is “periwinkle” just for the name. Favorite color is “terra cotta.”\u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8-Hero_Richard_Curtner2/FD-Arties8-Hero_Richard_Curtner2.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1982,h_1034,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661503796/blog/FD-Arties8-Hero_Richard_Curtner2/FD-Arties8-Hero_Richard_Curtner2.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Richard Curtner Headshot\" class=\"wp-post-4134 wp-image-4137\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661503796\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"has-text-align-center\">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 class=\"has-text-align-center\">\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","\u003Cp>“A picture is worth a thousand words.” We’re all familiar with that saying, but Richard Curtner puts a clever twist on the adage with his one-of-a-kind collages. Armed with an X-Acto knife and an eye for detail, Richard blends visual beauty with verbal poetry, attracting clients from across the country — including at least one […]\u003C/p>\n","2020-04-30T09:40:23","2023-02-08T17:28:31",[153],{"name":140,"slug":154},"arties-eight",{"url":156,"label":157},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/FD-Arties8-Hero_Richard_Curtner.jpg","Richard Curtner - Featured Artist",{"id":159,"title":160,"uri":161,"content":162,"excerpt":163,"date":164,"modified":164,"categories":165,"image":167},"cG9zdDo0MTEz","Discovering a Sense of Place with Photographer Ian Macleod","/arties-eight/ian-macleod-spotlight","\u003Cp>Having worked in the music and medical journalism fields, Ian Macleod has had his photographs featured in The Boston Globe, The Tacoma News Tribune and even a few album covers. These days, this Seattleite is focused on documenting the city’s fast-changing architecture. He sees the urban landscape as a “cinematic experience” that, through photography, is “collapsed into a singular, recontextualized instant.” We couldn’t have said that better ourselves.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>From people to places.\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>As his focus moved from people to documenting places, Ian decided to earn a master’s degree in architecture. Apparently he tapped into that same resolute spirit the time he trudged 10 miles to capture a radio tower from different perspectives.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Professional presentation.\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Ian enjoys being hands-on with his work, including the presentation. He appreciates Frame Destination’s high-quality, affordable moulding and glazing for DIY framing projects. “In particular, I’m a fan of Nielsen Profile 97 in Florentine Black,” Ian tells us. “For larger prints, this moulding is bold enough to set off the image from the wall, but subdued so as not to distract front he subject matter. The Florentine finish gives just a hint of texture and produces a very professional product.”\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>See more of Ian’s work.\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>If you Google “Ian Macleod,” you’re likely to wind up on the home page of the spirits distiller by the same name. You can skip that step and visit \u003Cstrong>Ian’s \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/ian.m.photo/\">Instagram\u003C/a> page\u003C/strong> to enjoy his latest images. To view his full portfolio, including upcoming exhibit dates, go straight to his \u003Cstrong>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.ianmphoto.com\">website\u003C/a>\u003C/strong>. And to discover Ian’s childhood fascination, his biggest career regrets and his take on super long-focus lenses, check out our Q&A below.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Ian Macleod …\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>1. What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>\nI don't think I'm unique among photographers in saying I was interested in the medium from a very early age. As a kid, I was fascinated by Polaroids—the magic of a print developing before your eyes. Initially I was far more interested in the technical aspect of instant photography and trying to understand the machinations behind the magic, but quickly grew to embrace the immediacy and objectivity of recording our individual experiences. About a decade later, I pursued an undergraduate degree in photojournalism.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>2. How important is it for a photographer to “connect” with their subject?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nI think this depends on the type of photography one practices. For my own work, it's highly divergent. For example, in street photography, it's more about connecting with the scene and setting, and allowing the pieces to fall into place. When traveling to a new city, I'll wander for hours to gain a sense of place, and plant myself on a street corner waiting for action to happen. Photographing architecture requires knowing a building’s character and background, so I'll do as much research I can on the architect and its history. Basically I treat the subject building much in the same way as I would photograph a person, attempting to capture its personality in a unique light.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nPerhaps it's cliché, but “never stop shooting.” Don't worry about wasting film, or card space. Once a shoot is done, it can never be recaptured. Film and hard drive space are cheap compared to time, whether that's time spent on a shoot, or time passed since a shoot. My biggest regrets in my career are the photographs not captured, for posterity's sake or for the few extras that might fill out the story of a shoot. Your client might only choose one ‘highlight\" image for their own purposes, but it's the photographic “b-sides\" that end up going in my portfolio.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>4. What ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nMy own work is, in a way, both a reflection and a counter to my personality. My mind is a bit of an \"organized chaos,\" and photographing my day-to-day life is a way to sort out my memories and experiences. Compositionally, my work is antithetical to the way my brain works. I tend to favor the asymmetrical and off-balance, but the overarching theme is a subdued minimalism. In a way, focusing on conveying the most with the least is a way of taming my thought process. At any given time I have about 10 different projects cooking on the back burner, and focusing on simple composition allows me to tackle them.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nAnyone who works in a creative field inevitably gets them. Since taking up photography for the third time in my life, that often comes in the form of flashes of self-doubt—waking up and thinking, “What on earth am I doing?” Yet those inklings are what keep me on my toes and moving forward. Resolving it might be in the form of a dose of affirmation: framing and hanging an older piece I can be proud of, and see the finished result of hard work. Other times it's getting out and seeing something new. This doesn't have to be traveling to an exotic locale, but perhaps visiting a part of town I haven't viewed through a camera lens.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nAs a Northwesterner, it's hard not to say coffee—and I'm a huge fan of our independent roaster scene, which makes up for my deficiencies trying to roast my own. There are probably five or so coffeehouses within a few blocks of my home that make for a nice workspace when I need a little sunlight. Aside from that, my own two feet. My undergraduate professor forbade us from using zoom and long-focal-length lenses, imploring us to explore our subject more viscerally. With longer distances, you never know what you'll find along the way. On occasion I've taken that to the logical extreme, having once walked 10 miles across town to photograph a radio tower from different vantages!\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nLike I mentioned, I've usually got a few projects simmering, but lately I've been interested in pushing photography to its extreme with highly abstract architecture, landscapes and macro-photography, the latter a more recent interest. However, because I’m a native Seattleite and work in the historic preservation community outside of photography, my work has taken me to document the city's rapidly disappearing architectural fabric, a subject rich in different representational opportunities.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>8. What “fad” gadget do you most regret purchasing?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nIt's hard to say, but likely lenses that are at the extreme—fisheye and very long-focus lenses. They look very impressive on the camera and can add interest on a shoot when used sparingly, but more often than not, they take up too much bag and closet space. There's plenty of rental houses out there these days that let you play to your heart's content without spending several figures.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8-Hero_Ian-Macleod2/FD-Arties8-Hero_Ian-Macleod2.jpg\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-post-4113 wp-image-4116\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_951,h_497,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661452718/blog/FD-Arties8-Hero_Ian-Macleod2/FD-Arties8-Hero_Ian-Macleod2.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661452718\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/p>\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 \u2028to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>Having worked in the music and medical journalism fields, Ian Macleod has had his photographs featured in The Boston Globe, The Tacoma News Tribune and even a few album covers. These days, this Seattleite is focused on documenting the city’s fast-changing architecture. He sees the urban landscape as a “cinematic experience” that, through photography, is […]\u003C/p>\n","2020-04-20T14:12:01",[166],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":168,"label":169},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/FD-Arties8-Hero_Ian-Macleod.jpg","",{"id":171,"title":172,"uri":173,"content":174,"excerpt":175,"date":176,"modified":177,"categories":178,"image":180},"cG9zdDozODAy","Beauty and the Beach: Meet Fine Art Photographer Bobby Baker","/arties-eight/bob-baker-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>Some invaluable advice helped shape the artistic success of this former musician and marketing executive: “Your work is beautiful, but we can easily find beautiful work. Give us something narrative, something special.” Those aren’t exactly the words an artist yearns to hear. Fortunately, Bobby Baker allowed the critique—from a prestigious art society—to positively motivate him on his journey from professional musician to sales and marketing executive to fine art photographer.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Coastal emotions.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Maybe it’s the panda in me, but black-and-white photography truly speaks to me. Bobby masterfully captures the lines, patterns, and natural beauty of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, through stunning black-and-white imagery, as well as in vivid color. Of course his work isn’t just about the subject matter, but the feelings these scenes conjure. And now that he’s retired from his music and sales careers, Bobby focuses on his art from an antique Cape Cod home with a charming studio barn.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A longtime fan.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Bobby tells us that he’s used Frame Destination products for years. His gallery walls feature many prints in our \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/wood-frame-profile-503.html\">Black Wood Frame Profile 503\u003C/a>, and “always” with Bainbridge 8-Ply white mats. His dramatic “Fenced In” photograph is custom framed in a \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/wood-frame-profile-s24.html\">White Wood Frame Profile S24\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See more of his work.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Since we can’t show you all of Bobby’s work here, be sure to see his latest efforts on \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/bobbybakergallery/\">Instagram\u003C/a>, \u003Ca href=\"https://www.facebook.com/BobbyBakerPhotography/?__tn__=,d,P-R&eid=ARBvInFjQtgeLG0qOjxcBbq0t3nyzbO8W4hanIsZ-_x9VmbS8sun7n4QFxM4xmuSvLfJoXxK3cF_jyMy\">Facebook\u003C/a>, and on his \u003Cstrong>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.bobbybaker.com\">website\u003C/a>\u003C/strong>. If you’re wondering about his musical destinations and his most indispensable photography tools, your curiosity will be satisfied in my Q&A below.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Bobby Baker…\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>1. What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I am an artist whose medium is photography. My life has been spent in the arts in some fashion, from grade school to present. I spent a great deal of time as a professional musician, before a 25-year career as a sales and marketing executive. My photography career began in the late 1970s as an assistant to an event photographer in Palm Beach, Florida. A demanding tour schedule with a musical act relegated my photography to the backseat for a while. However, it was through my musical travels across the U.S., the Caribbean, and Mexico that I was treated to an incredible smorgasbord of vistas, people, and cool things that stirred my creativity. From day one, the ocean and all things coastal provided inspiration, and it remains so to this day. About 15 years ago a coworker viewed some of my work from my “musician on tour” period and encouraged me to get serious about my art. I heeded her advice and began to show new work with quick success that moved me to remain on this artistic path. With the executive career now in my rear view mirror, my time was now about my art. And with Cape Cod so often at the center of my creativity, it only made sense to live on the Cape full-time. Four years ago my wife, Dena, and I purchased a charming antique house and barn on the Cape. We converted the barn into the Bobby Baker Gallery featuring my work and that of some very talented Cape artists.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>2. How important is it for a photographer to “connect” with their subject?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I think it’s very important for any artist to “connect” to their subject. A work of art should stir emotion – and if the artist is not connected in a special way to the subject of their work, the piece will probably be void of emotion.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Many years ago when I was working to have my art accepted to one of the country’s most important art societies, I received this critique: “Your work is beautiful, but we can easily find beautiful work – give us something narrative, something special.” This simple piece of invaluable advice caused me to rethink what I was creating and made a world of difference in my success.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>4. What ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I think I have always been a “beach bum” at heart. That is where I have always been happiest — at the beach. My work is about all things coastal; the ocean, beach, sun, and the emotions that these special scenes can evoke.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Not really. It’s hard not to be inspired when you live in a place like Cape Cod.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>My eyes. My creative vision is what sets my work apart.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I am always working on creating art that conveys the special feelings I get from living on the Cape. You can follow my latest work on Instagram (@BobbyBakerGallery) and two Facebook pages (@BobbyBakerPhotography and @BobbyBakerGallery).\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>8. What “fad” gadget do you most regret purchasing?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Nothing fad-wise, but I have far too many tripods from being in search for “just the right one”!\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8-Hero_BobbyBaker2/FD-Arties8-Hero_BobbyBaker2.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1982,h_1034,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661472255/blog/FD-Arties8-Hero_BobbyBaker2/FD-Arties8-Hero_BobbyBaker2.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-3802 wp-image-3813\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661472255\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"has-text-align-center\">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 class=\"has-text-align-center\">\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","\u003Cp>Some invaluable advice helped shape the artistic success of this former musician and marketing executive: “Your work is beautiful, but we can easily find beautiful work. Give us something narrative, something special.” Those aren’t exactly the words an artist yearns to hear. Fortunately, Bobby Baker allowed the critique—from a prestigious art society—to positively motivate him […]\u003C/p>\n","2020-03-04T11:24:50","2023-02-08T17:14:05",[179],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":181,"label":169},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/FD-Arties8-Hero_BobbyBaker.jpg",{"id":183,"title":184,"uri":185,"content":186,"excerpt":187,"date":188,"modified":189,"categories":190,"image":192},"cG9zdDozODAw","A Fresh Take on the Familiar: Meet Photographer Jack Kosowsky","/arties-eight/jack-kosowsky-spotlight","\u003Cp>Eighteen years of photography have taught Jack a few things. Like presenting familiar objects in new ways. But Jack Kosowsky will tell you that he spent 18 of the last 20 years taking “really crappy photos.” It all started when he wanted to capture his son playing ice hockey. Those first images may not have landed him on any sports magazine covers, but this New Jersey photographer kept practicing, learning the intricacies of his newfound art over time.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>“Talk to me.”\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>The efforts have paid off—perhaps because of Jack’s desire to connect to his subjects, which are primarily New York cityscapes, the Jersey shore, and nature. “I want the subject to talk to me,” Jack explains. He does extensive research to understand the architecture or the landscape he’s planning to shoot, striving to capture the familiar while presenting it in fresh ways.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Virtual chat.\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>When four of Jack’s flower photos were selected for a local gallery show, he realized quality frames would enhance his work. Jack was a bit overwhelmed by the selection he found on Frame Destination’s website. “I ended up doing an online chat,” Jack says. “The customer service rep spent over an hour with me, explaining different choices. I was thrilled with the frames.” Our pleasure, Jack. We think you made a great decision to go with the \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/custom-frames/metal/nielsen-profile-15.html\">Profile 15\u003C/a> in Silver (Anodized) with a Snowflake White \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/framing-supplies/mat-board/bainbridge-4ply-alphamat.html\">Bainbridge 4Ply Alphamat\u003C/a> and \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic/uv-non-glare-acrylic.html\">UV/Non-Glare Acrylic\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>See more of his work.\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>To see Jack’s crisp, colorful photography (black-and-white, too), visit his \u003Cstrong>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.jaxpropix.com/\">online portfolio\u003C/a>\u003C/strong> or follow him on \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com\">Instagram\u003C/a>. To find out what Jack is working on next and how he avoids ruining his composition, read on.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Jack Kosowsky…\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>1. What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nI got into photography about 20 years ago, when my son began playing ice hockey and I had visions of capturing photos of him playing. This was around the same time that digital cameras were becoming more common. In my head, my photos were going to be worthy of Sports Illustrated. I was clueless and my photos reflected it! I spent a lot of time teaching myself photography and Photoshop. It was a very slow process. In hindsight, I spent about 18 years taking really crappy photos. Two years ago, I decided to go “all-in\" and find out if I could begin to take photos that I'm truly proud of. I signed up for a leading photography/photoshop training website, taking many classes and shooting every opportunity I could. I'm very happy with the results.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>2. How important is it for a photographer to “connect” with their subject?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nAlthough most of my photography is of architecture and landscapes, it’s still necessary to create a connection with my subject. Before going out to do a shoot, I'll research the building or area that I'm planning to shoot. I want to understand its history, the role it plays in the local community. In short, I want the subject to “talk to me.” This puts me in the best position to really capture its true beauty and not just take another snapshot of some famous building.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nThis is easy! Best advice: Keep practicing and don't be afraid to fail!\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>4. What ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nPhotography helps define who I am. Growing up, I always felt I had zero creative ability. I know now that I've become a very creative, artistic individual. I see beauty every day and everywhere I go. I've developed a great respect for all types of art and the talent of those who create it. I’m amazed by the art that so many talented individuals are able to create.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nAbsolutely! Like an author, I think that all photographers suffer from the equivalent of writer’s block. I know I do. I'll go out on a shoot and come back and review my work and hate everything! Maybe the next time out, the same thing will occur. Usually, I'll put that subject aside, move on and come back to it at a later date. Eventually I'll break through and get my mojo back. As long as I come back from a shoot with one good photo, I consider the shoot to be a success.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nI'll say my mind and my eyes. My mind is always working. Trying to come up with creative things to shoot and how best to capture them. When doing a shoot, my eyes are everywhere, not just looking through the viewfinder. I want to see every detail of what I'm attempting to capture. I also want to make sure I see things that I don't want in the photos and make sure my composition doesn't include them. Many potentially great photos have been ruined by garbage cans, power lines, telephone poles and fire hydrants.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nI do. There is a photography contest now going on in the state where I live. The prizes are significant. Entries must be taken in my state. I've several ideas I want to try. My objective is to create something that is completely unique. To capture something that people will recognize but haven't seen it in the way that I present it.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>8. What “fad” gadget do you most regret purchasing?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>\nProbably a little mini tripod that had flexible legs that you could wrap around anything. It was crap and absolutely useless. If I'm going to spend money on equipment, I'll do my research and make sure what I'm buying is worth my money.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8-Hero_JackKosowsky2/FD-Arties8-Hero_JackKosowsky2.jpg\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-post-3800 wp-image-3816\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1024,h_534,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661570751/blog/FD-Arties8-Hero_JackKosowsky2/FD-Arties8-Hero_JackKosowsky2.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661570751\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/p>\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 \u2028to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>Eighteen years of photography have taught Jack a few things. Like presenting familiar objects in new ways. But Jack Kosowsky will tell you that he spent 18 of the last 20 years taking “really crappy photos.” It all started when he wanted to capture his son playing ice hockey. Those first images may not have […]\u003C/p>\n","2020-02-17T12:22:02","2020-03-02T09:59:07",[191],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":193,"label":169},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/FD-Arties8-Hero_JackKosowsky.jpg",{"id":195,"title":196,"uri":197,"content":198,"excerpt":199,"date":200,"modified":201,"categories":202,"image":204},"cG9zdDozNzkz","Art From the Outside In: Meet Photographer-Decorator Cheryl Williver","/arties-eight/cheryl-williver-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>Combining a love for outdoor photography with her interior design background,\u003Cbr>Cheryl Williver enjoys creating connections. From the day her pictures won Best in Show/Student Division in a local county expo, she has been smitten with the art of photography. Since then, this New Jersey girl has enjoyed capturing nature in the form of landscapes, waterscapes, and wildlife, although architecture and commercial work show up in her portfolio as well.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Looking ahead.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>A mentor once told Cheryl to “look ahead” of her image — meaning, see the entire scene before choosing the composition. She lives by that to this day. Lately she’s had fun incorporating her interior design background, turning printed images into home decor items like glass cutting boards, ornaments, and mugs.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Clearly beautiful.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When Cheryl was looking for a way to protect her photo notecards and matted prints, she chose our \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/protective-crystal-clear-bags.html\">Protective Crystal Clear Bags\u003C/a>. “Both the card sizes and print sizes work perfectly,” says Cheryl, adding, “I’ve been ordering Frame Destination’s pre-cut mat boards and \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/framing-supplies/foam-board.html\">backer boards\u003C/a> for years as well! They make my life so much easier.” As artists and craftsmen ourselves, Frame Destination is all about protecting beautiful art, and making life simpler for artists!\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See more of her work.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Check out Cheryl’s photography and photo products through \u003Ca href=\"https://cheryl-williver.pixels.com\">Fine Art America\u003C/a> and on social media like \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/imageseverythingphotography/\">Instagram\u003C/a>, \u003Ca href=\"https://www.facebook.com/Imageseverythingphotography/?ref=hl\">Facebook\u003C/a> and \u003Ca href=\"https://twitter.com/ImagesEverythin\">Twitter\u003C/a>. And if you’d like to learn more about Cheryl’s thoughts on connecting with her subject, along with her worst “gadget” purchase, scroll down for my Q&A with with this enthusiastic artist.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Cheryl Williver …\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>1. What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I got my first camera for Christmas at age 12. I took pictures all spring and summer! That summer, I entered 2 photos into the County Fair, and I won Best in Show in the Student Division! I was hooked, I haven't put my camera down since! I started my business 16 years ago, and I enjoy photographing everything from flowers and gardens to real estate and architecture, landscapes and waterscapes, animals and birds. Anything that interests me, really. And having an interior design and decorating background, I like to put my images on anything people use in their homes. I create photo notecards (which is why I order so many Frame Destination \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/protective-crystal-clear-bags.html\">Protective Crystal Clear Bags\u003C/a>), matted prints (more \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/protective-crystal-clear-bags.html\">bags\u003C/a>!), home decor and crafts with my photos. I also have professional print labs who can print my images on things like glass cutting boards, mugs, mousepads, ornaments, etc. It's FUN work!\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>2. How important is it for a photographer to “connect” with their subject?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Imperative! If photographers make a connection with their subject, living or non-living, we have told a story. Stories that connect with people on a personal level — that is what makes art relatable. If you've been to a certain place, or eaten a certain food, or owned a certain product, it makes that connection. If the image has great depth of field, or great lighting, or great composition, or all of these things, it creates a story that helps to make that connection.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>One of my mentors told me to \"look ahead of my image,” to plan ahead. This, in particular, was regarding sports photography, so that I could be ready for the shot. However, I've applied the advice to every aspect of my photography, because it means I have to look at the entire scene before I compose. Take out the things that don't belong, include the things that help tell the story. I may need to change my perspective, or lens, or settings, to get the shot just right.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>4. What ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>My work is all about the things I enjoy, so I would have to say 100 percent! My personality shows through my images because if you know me, you know I love nature and beautiful places and things. I stop and appreciate them, and I see them differently, as many photographers do. I take the time to capture them, so that others may enjoy them.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Everyone gets creative blocks! If this happens, a change of scenery is what works for me. I get out of my office or \"comfort zone\" and get out and explore! I also like to look online for inspiration, because it often fuels more ideas and I then get to test them out. Creative block — gone!\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>My craft room! I love creating things with my hands, and I love to get creative in other ways. Recently, I've been pairing the two together, so I'll take a printed image (as my \"focal point”) and then create something for or with that print to transform it into home decor to be used in a new way. I've actually tagged Frame Destination in some of my \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/imageseverythingphotography/\">Instagram\u003C/a> posts (around Christmas time) so you can see what I mean!\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>As I just mentioned, creating home decor with my images is my passion, and I'm happy that I'm able to do that and combine my two talents. It's fun, and it's being well-received at my shows.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>8. What “fad” gadget do you most regret purchasing?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I bought a camera bag that was supposed to fit around my waist, to keep my arms and shoulders free while hiking and shooting, but it fell apart the day I got it! I was on vacation, and couldn't return it.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8-Hero_CherylWilliver2/FD-Arties8-Hero_CherylWilliver2.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1982,h_1034,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661449545/blog/FD-Arties8-Hero_CherylWilliver2/FD-Arties8-Hero_CherylWilliver2.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-3793 wp-image-3819\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661449545\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"has-text-align-center\">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 class=\"has-text-align-center\">\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","\u003Cp>Combining a love for outdoor photography with her interior design background,Cheryl Williver enjoys creating connections. From the day her pictures won Best in Show/Student Division in a local county expo, she has been smitten with the art of photography. Since then, this New Jersey girl has enjoyed capturing nature in the form of landscapes, waterscapes, […]\u003C/p>\n","2020-01-22T11:23:03","2022-12-07T18:14:41",[203],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":205,"label":169},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/FD-Arties8-Hero_CherylWilliver.jpg",{"id":207,"title":208,"uri":209,"content":210,"excerpt":211,"date":212,"modified":213,"categories":214,"image":216},"cG9zdDozNzkw","Introvert Turned Explorer: Meet Artist J Craig Platt","/arties-eight/introvert-turned-explorer-meet-artist-j-craig-platt","\n\u003Cp>This western Montana artist embraces detail and simplicity at the same time. A former introvert, J Craig Platt was drawn out of his shell by his high school art teacher and by the University of Montana dance program. This art-loving panda is grateful to both of these sources, because they nudged him to become a disciplined artist who creates works that are simple and intricate all at once. Even when he’s not creating, he is working at his craft, daily.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Watercolor and beyond.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>J Craig isn’t bound by one medium at a time. Although he tends to favor watercolor, his portfolio is an exploration of artistic mediums including pastel and ink; pastel and graphite and colored pencil; and ink on newsprint. Oh. And he also makes some very cool jewelry.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Minimalist framing.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>For J Craig’s watercolor titled “Inglorious” — an abstract “spiral” whale — he chose the \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/nielsen-profile-100.html\">Nielsen Profile 100 Metal Frame\u003C/a>, a sleek black metal frame ideal for shadow boxes. “I ordered one, unsure if this particular frame would be the one,” says the self-taught artist. “Turns out, perfect. I ordered 10 more. I would also comment that Frame Destination has THE best packing department I have yet to come across.” (We’ll pass that along, J Craig!)\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See more of his work.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Take a peek at J Craig’s online portfolio of paintings and jewelry, located at \u003Ca href=\"http://blueharestudios.com/index.html\">\u003Cstrong>Blue Hare Studios\u003C/strong>\u003C/a>. Keep an eye out for his upcoming series that infuses each painting with a “kaleidoscope of color.” To learn more about his mood-lifting bud vase and the color he has “a thing for,” see my interview below.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with J Craig Platt …\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>1. What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>The majority of my artistic side is self-taught. Though I will give a good deal of credit to my high school art teacher, Ms. O'Leary. Her support and encouragement helped mold a quiet, introverted boy into someone better. Thank you, Ms. O'Leary! I studied dance at the University of Montana; this expanded my horizons, pulling me away from my last remnants of introversion and opening new worlds for me. I've been exploring more new worlds within the realm of art ever since.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>2. What role do you think the artist plays in society?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>This depends upon the individual artist and if they want to make an impact on society. As artists, if we are using our skills to influence society, we must be cognizant of what we are putting out into the world. We all see the world through our own eyes, and artists can inadvertently affect a single person or larger society with their work. My own work is, of course, is simply my personal viewpoint and emotions poured into the subject — which is part of the end result, but not the most important part of the piece. Art should inspire mindful and emotional reactions in those viewing the work. Even a negative reaction can cause one's work to be remembered. I fume to this day about what I perceived to be a bad work of art I saw in Minneapolis in 2000. All these years later and I am still shaking my head at the images. So, yea. Good or bad (though I prefer good), if I can cause a thought-provoking or emotional response in those who view my work, I feel I have done my job.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>If art is going to be your world, you have to work at it every day. In direct thought or physical form. Creativity isn't always easy, you can't force the creative juices to flow. But you can work at your craft even if you are not working on something you very much want to start or finish. For myself this means sketching, writing, painting, designing jewelry, cooking — anything creative to keep my mind and spirit active and hungry for more. Every day.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>4. What ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Multifaceted and maybe a bit controlled (but not controlling). While my style is embedded into each painting and series, I like to believe that each one takes on a life of its own, different from its predecessors. Too much repetition makes a very dull boy.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Creative blocks … yes, I get them. To answer this question, I'll loop back to question #3 on best advice: Keep working. On something, on anything that keeps your creative mind flowing. The blocks will soon fall away.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Well, it's not exactly a “tool.” It is a small Japanese bud vase where I keep my tiny 5/0 brushes. The vase is full of memories and makes me happy to see it. It always helps to be in a good mood when you're working.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I have a new series of six or nine paintings. I never know the actual number of paintings until I get to the end. This series will be free form and a kaleidoscope of color within each painting. A new challenge for myself, to just let go.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>8. What is your favorite paint color name?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Puce. Though, I never actually use that color. I just like the word, puce. My favorite color is a watercolor, lapis lazuli. It paints much different that it looks coming out of the tube. Also, I have a thing for lapis lazuli.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8-Hero_JCPlatt2_3805572e4/FD-Arties8-Hero_JCPlatt2_3805572e4.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1982,h_1034,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661630872/blog/FD-Arties8-Hero_JCPlatt2_3805572e4/FD-Arties8-Hero_JCPlatt2_3805572e4.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-3790 wp-image-3805\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661630872\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"has-text-align-center\">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 class=\"has-text-align-center\">\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","\u003Cp>This western Montana artist embraces detail and simplicity at the same time. A former introvert, J Craig Platt was drawn out of his shell by his high school art teacher and by the University of Montana dance program. This art-loving panda is grateful to both of these sources, because they nudged him to become a […]\u003C/p>\n","2019-12-16T08:00:58","2023-01-30T15:28:07",[215],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":217,"label":169},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/FD-Arties8-Hero_JCPlatt.jpg",{"id":219,"title":220,"uri":221,"content":222,"excerpt":223,"date":224,"modified":225,"categories":226,"image":228},"cG9zdDozNjk5","Young Adult, Old Soul:  Meet Photographer Hudson Ingram","/arties-eight/hudson-ingram-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>I’m an old-soul panda, and I recognize an old-soul human when I see one. What impresses me most about this young adult is that he’s not only a student of photography — he’s a student of people. As a photography student at UNT, Hudson Ingram is currently focused on relationships and the emotions that come with them. His responses to my Artie’s Eight Q&A make this clear, but so does his work.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trios and transparency.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Our team here at Frame Destination enjoyed taking a walk through Hudson’s portfolio, which showcases a trio of series titled “\u003Ca href=\"https://www.hudsoningram.com/disconnect-2\">Disconnect\u003C/a>,” “\u003Ca href=\"https://www.hudsoningram.com/anon\">Anonymity of an Observer\u003C/a>” and “\u003Ca href=\"https://www.hudsoningram.com/new-page\">Peripheral\u003C/a>.” In each of these bodies of work, Hudson explores aspects of his relationships with friends and family. By digitally inserting a transparent image of himself into his “Disconnect” photographs, Hudson reveals the detachment and unrequited admiration many of us have felt at one time or another.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hudson’s choice to highlight his art.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>We’re excited to have framed the photograph Hudson shares with us here. He ordered \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/wood-frame-profile-852.html\">Wood Frame Profile 852\u003C/a>, which was “exactly what I asked for and helped highlight the work!” says Hudson.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See more of his work.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>You can peruse his \u003Ca href=\"https://www.hudsoningram.com/\">\u003Cstrong>online portfolio\u003C/strong>\u003C/a> or follow him on \u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/tryingtothinkphotography/\">Instagram\u003C/a>. And if you happen to be near Denton, Texas, in February 2020, check out the UNT Parallax “\u003Ca href=\"https://art.unt.edu/calendar/2019/unt-parallax-lucid-dreams\">Lucid Dreams\u003C/a>” exhibit, which will feature some of Hudson’s latest images.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Hudson Ingram…\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>1. What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I was born in 1997 in McKinney, Texas. I starting taking photographs as a child, but never really considered myself an artist until high school. That’s when I had a capstone experience on mastering camera control through a mentorship with Tin Star Photography. When I began college at the University of North Texas, I really started to view myself as an artist. My classes helped me discover how to apply a deeper meaning to my work and how that can help me not only as an artist, but as a person.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>2. How important is it for a photographer to “connect” with their subject?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>In photography there is a direct connection between what the photographer sees through their viewfinder or screen and what the viewer is shown. This enables people to experience the photographer’s perspective, and creates curiosity—if not about the subject matter, then how it was shot. The photographer's own personal connection to the subject is what drives the the photograph and can affect the image created.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>You will make work that can be absolute crap, but that crap will eventually lead you to good or even great work.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>4. What ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I am a young adult still figuring out life, and I'm pretty sure that I won't ever figure it out. But in trying to understand it through my photography, I hope that I can convey what is going on in my life to whoever sees it.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I definitely can't think of anything some days, and on those days I just take photographs of whatever I see in my daily life. Continuing to do so gives me insight to what I might be subconsciously thinking, and I create a project based on those thoughts.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Relationships with others are what has fueled not only my work but my life. Everything for me has been built on relationships or the lack thereof.\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>\u003Cbr>I am currently working with film in both 35mm and medium format to show my perspective of my own envy.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>8. What “fad” gadget do you most regret purchasing?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Mainly things that haven't worked for longer than a day. Flash sync controls, remotes, etc.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8-Images-Ingram22/FD-Arties8-Images-Ingram22.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1982,h_1034,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661454524/blog/FD-Arties8-Images-Ingram22/FD-Arties8-Images-Ingram22.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-3699 wp-image-3730\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661454524\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"has-text-align-center\">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 class=\"has-text-align-center\">\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 applyto be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>I’m an old-soul panda, and I recognize an old-soul human when I see one. What impresses me most about this young adult is that he’s not only a student of photography — he’s a student of people. As a photography student at UNT, Hudson Ingram is currently focused on relationships and the emotions that come with […]\u003C/p>\n","2019-10-28T09:14:47","2023-02-08T17:27:46",[227],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":229,"label":169},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/FD-Arties8-Images-Ingram2.jpg",{"id":231,"title":232,"uri":233,"content":234,"excerpt":235,"date":236,"modified":237,"categories":238,"image":240},"cG9zdDozNjk4","Nature on Display: Meet Fine Artist & Printmaker Mindy Lighthipe","/arties-eight/mindy-lighthipe-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>From the colorful detail of her paintings to the haunting beauty of her solar etchings, Mindy Lighthipe is a force of nature — for nature.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The call of the wild.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When an artist can find beauty in a \u003Ca href=\"https://mindylighthipefineart.com/portfolio-viewer?collection=90392#lg=1&artworkId=3087277\">Round Tortoise Beetle\u003C/a>, it’s hard to ignore. Especially when the artist imparts loveliness to an insect most of us would avoid. That’s why the work of Mindy Lighthipe intrigued me—and all of us here at Frame Destination. Mindy started her artistic career making handwoven clothing. Later, she heard the call of the wild and moved to botanical illustration. Her love for nature has inspired journeys to Costa Rica’s rainforests, where she \u003Ca href=\"https://www.mindylighthipe.com/journey-to-the-heart-of-creativity-in-costa-rica/\">leads art tours\u003C/a> and supports The Toucan Rescue Ranch.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Patience is a virtue.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Mindy’s commitment to meticulous, authentic detail extends to the butterflies, insects and botanicals she paints. She often grows the plants herself and raises the insects, which can take up to a year to get the looks she’s going for.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quality that’s customized.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>We’re honored our quality products are helping Mindy showcase her work. One frame she uses a lot is our \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/frame/wood-frame-profile-503.html\">Wood Frame Profile 503\u003C/a> (seen in her tree frog artwork above). “I really like that I can customize my order to get the acrylic and frame together,” Mindy says. “The frame quality is great and doesn’t chip, which is important since I sometimes swap out different works of art to ship to different shows.”\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See more of her work.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If you’d like to see more work by Mindy – including everything from owls to iguanas, llamas to toucans, macaws to boat-tailed grackles—\u003Cstrong>visit her\u003C/strong> \u003Ca href=\"https://mindylighthipefineart.com/works\">\u003Cstrong>website\u003C/strong>\u003C/a>. If you’re in New York this month (October 2019), be sure to check out Mindy’s bird paintings and solar etchings at the \u003Ca href=\"https://mindylighthipefineart.com/works\">Salmagundi Club\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Mindy Lighthipe …\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>1. What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I have always been an artist. I studied textile design in college and worked as hand weaver for the first 15 years of my art career. I created women's handwoven clothing and sold through the craft markets across the country. I decided to shift my creative endeavors to fine art. I started in the field of Botanical and Natural Science Illustration in 1989 when I went back to school and completed a 200-hour certification program at the New York Botanical Garden. I have always been a nature enthusiast and am passionate about conservation. I depict birds, insects and plants in my work and how they interact with one another. It is important to me to convey how all things in nature are connected and why it must be protected.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>2. What role do you think the artist plays in society?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Depicting lifecycles in my work allows the viewer to see a story played out in one image that is not possible in a single photograph. I carefully study and research my paintings to show the relationship of how a specific plant is important to a specific insect, bird or animal. It sometimes takes months or even years to get all the right components into my paintings to tell the full story. It is my hope that viewers find the same beauty I find in these relationships. Preserving these relationships in nature is important for future generations.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I have been traveling to the rainforests of Costa Rica for 30 years. I am awe-inspired by the diversity I have seen. I have learned that it is important to keep learning, traveling, getting out in nature. Nature is the best inspiration and teacher!!!!\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>4. What ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I LOVE color and I find that I am able to express the joy I find in nature by using color. I feel that my work shows the appreciation I have for nature by using color to express this feeling of wonder.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>At times I find that I am feeling stagnant. When this happens I usually get out of the house and get into nature. It can be planting in my garden, going out in my kayak or traveling to a favorite destination. I am also inspired by learning from other artists and continue to take workshops and classes.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Abundance of choice. I am a color junky and I find that I probably have too many watercolors, watercolor pencils, colored pencils, gouache, pastels etc. I am not a purist and often combine different mediums in my art. I am not sure I could live without all of it!\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>I am currently working on a dual show with another artist, Patricia Wynne. It is an exhibition of \u003Ca href=\"https://www.mindylighthipe.com/gallery-solar-etching/\">Solar Etchings\u003C/a> of Birds of the World. I was introduced to printmaking in college. I would have liked to pursue it but the chemicals turned me off. Solar Etching is a non-toxic form of printmaking that I am super excited about. The process is safe. I am able to create a limited edition of hand-pulled prints the old-fashioned way. Once printed in a black ink I am able to custom hand tint with watercolor to add color.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>8. What is your favorite paint color name?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003Cbr>Super tough for me. I would have to say that PURPLE is my favorite color. Carbazole purple by Daniel Smith but then there are specialty colors like Hematite, Moonglow and other paints that separate and do magical, spontaneous things on the paper.\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-Arties8-Images-Lighthipe2/FD-Arties8-Images-Lighthipe2.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_1024,h_534,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661494900/blog/FD-Arties8-Images-Lighthipe2/FD-Arties8-Images-Lighthipe2.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Mindy Lighthipe\" class=\"wp-post-3698 wp-image-3719\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661494900\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\">\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"has-text-align-left\">\u003Cem>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"has-text-align-left\">\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 Sept 18, 2024\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\n","\u003Cp>From the colorful detail of her paintings to the haunting beauty of her solar etchings, Mindy Lighthipe is a force of nature — for nature. The call of the wild. When an artist can find beauty in a Round Tortoise Beetle, it’s hard to ignore. Especially when the artist imparts loveliness to an insect most […]\u003C/p>\n","2019-10-17T09:06:01","2024-09-18T13:48:45",[239],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":241,"label":169},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/FD-Arties8-Images-Lighthipe.jpg",{"id":243,"title":244,"uri":245,"content":246,"excerpt":247,"date":248,"modified":249,"categories":250,"image":252},"cG9zdDozMzc4","It All Started with a Mickey-Matic: Meet Photographer Joshua McCann","/arties-eight/joshua-mccann-spotlight","\u003Cp>Variety is the spice of life for Joshua McCann, a commercial photographer and videographer in Michigan. “Sometimes it is the subject that finds the photographer,” he explains. Wedding photos and family portraits capture happy faces at milestone moments, while Joshua’s commercial videos record everything from synchronized skaters to the man behind a natural shoreline landscaping company.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Beautiful and brooding.\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>It seems that the beautiful, brooding work Joshua shares with us here has a cinematic vibe not unlike his commercial videography. One explanation may be found in Joshua’s answer to question #4 of the Q&A. Joshua is also certified to pilot remote drones, allowing him to capture sweeping aerial footage.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>His choice for glazing.\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Joshua’s talents extend to other media. Like old windows. Last fall, he was putting together a show of some windows he had refurbished to serve as frames for black-and-white photographs. Along with the black mat he bought from Frame Destination, Joshua says he “fell in love with the \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic/non-glare-acrylic.html\">Non-Glare Acrylic\u003C/a>.” We love helping our artists find just what they know will best showcase their creativity!\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>See more of his work.\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Visit\u003Cstrong> \u003Ca href=\"http://www.jmcpic.com/portfolio/\">jmcpic.com\u003C/a>\u003C/strong> or follow him on Instagram to see more of Joshua's work: \u003Cstrong>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/jmccann_photography/\">https://www.instagram.com/jmccann_photography/\u003C/a>.\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>If you’re curious about where Joshua was trained and the light source he can’t work without, read on.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Now for Artie’s Eight with Joshua McCann…\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>1. What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>I was given a Kodak Mickey-Matic camera when I was around 6 or 7 years of age and have been taking photographs ever since. I pursued my interests of photography and filmmaking by attending Full Sail University, completing my degree there. Now I own and operate a photography and videography service provider.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>2. How important is it for a photographer to “connect” with their subject?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>The importance goes hand-in-hand with the connection itself and sometimes it is the subject that finds the photographer. Some of my best work has come from unguided processes where I've allowed the subject to manifest on its own, instead of being directly sought out.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>There will be many obstacles and hurdles to get over and self-doubt will linger around. The best thing is to accept these truths and focus on the core love for the art.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>4. What ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>I have been told that my work has a very mysterious and ambient feel that sits somewhere between beautiful and dark. This would most likely come from my love of filmmaking and the movies I experience growing up in the ’80s and ’90s.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Creative blocks are best dealt with by taking breaks and switching projects. Taking a nap, going on a trip or working on something else always clears these up for me.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Our sun and the natural light it provides us.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Currently I am working on seasonal landscape photography of the water sheds located in my county.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>8. What “fad” gadget do you most regret purchasing?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>I am very careful with my tool/gadget purchases and I can honestly say that I currently have no gadget regrets.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8-Hero-JoshuaMcCann2/FD-Arties8-Hero-JoshuaMcCann2.jpg\" class=\"alignnone wp-post-3378 wp-image-3383 size-full\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_951,h_497,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661778960/blog/FD-Arties8-Hero-JoshuaMcCann2/FD-Arties8-Hero-JoshuaMcCann2.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Featured Photographer Joshua McCann\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661778960\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.\u003C/p>\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\u2028to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>Variety is the spice of life for Joshua McCann, a commercial photographer and videographer in Michigan. “Sometimes it is the subject that finds the photographer,” he explains. Wedding photos and family portraits capture happy faces at milestone moments, while Joshua’s commercial videos record everything from synchronized skaters to the man behind a natural shoreline landscaping […]\u003C/p>\n","2019-09-16T10:00:56","2019-10-03T15:35:38",[251],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":253,"label":169},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/FD-Arties8-Hero-JoshuaMcCann1.jpg",{"id":255,"title":256,"uri":257,"content":258,"excerpt":259,"date":260,"modified":261,"categories":262,"image":264},"cG9zdDozMzY4","A Double Take With Artist David Hoque","/arties-eight/david-hoque-spotlight","\n\u003Cp>Maybe it’s the precision and discipline of having spent his career in the military that influences the intricate, exacting detail in David Hoque’s work. Whatever it is, we admire the juxtaposition of reality with the rich jewel tones that come to life in his colored pencil drawings and watercolor paintings. They often cause viewers to do a ‘double take’ when they realize they are not actually photographs.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Travel and soul.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>David is mainly self-taught, although he has worked under internationally known watercolor masters Laurin McCrackin and Soon Warren. Born in California, David has traversed the world and is now settled in Virginia. He believes that extensive travel has greatly impacted his role as an artist to visually express a society’s soul, culture and individual states of mind.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Framing his art.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The colored pencil drawing David shares with us here is a celebration of his granddaughter, Josie. He framed the piece with our Wood Frame Profile 810, with mats in Snowflake White (8313) and Spanish White (8463). “I use Frame Destination’s products exclusively for my work,” David tells us. Thanks, David! We are humbled and happy to help showcase your amazing art.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See more of his work.\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Want to see more of David's richly detailed, colorful work? Visit his \u003Ca href=\"https://www.artbyhoque.net\">online gallery\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>For David’s insights into YouTube, yin/yang dualism and why he paints “with a heavy hand,” read the Q&A below.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Now for Artie’s Eight with David Hoque…\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>1. What is your background; how did you get started?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I am an American artist born in Monterey, California. Primarily self-taught with some formal art training in watercolor and colored pencil art pieces, I do commissions and participate in exhibitions throughout the year. I'm also a professional member of the \"International Guild of Realism\" and a signature member of the \"Colored Pencil Society of America.” I have had art pieces juried into both of their prestigious annual international exhibitions every year that I have been a member. I have also been published in Artist Portfolio Magazine, Ann Kullberg's Color Magazine and her annual CP Treasures Vol. III and IV, as well as Colored Pencil Magazine. After retiring from the military, we settled in Virginia where I have been a Magistrate for the Commonwealth since 2000.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>2. What role do you think the artist plays in society?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I think the artist plays a part in reflecting the human condition and we visually help convey the soul of our societies, our cultures and personal states of mind. We convey emotion through the mediums we use. I hope that when a person looks at one of my paintings or drawings, they do not just enjoy it, but they walk away with a richer and more expanded state of mind than before they saw it and took it in.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I think my most profound formative experience was living all over the world and being lucky to experience the people’s and cultures in many places all over the world. It’s had a profound impact on how I understood humanity and the places I’ve seen have made me believe that we are truly living on a very special planet which is abundant in beauty and life. These facts inspire me greatly and they motivate me to produce well-done, meaningful pieces of art for people to see and enjoy.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>4. What ways does your work reflect your personality?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I draw and paint with a heavy hand. Meaning I like to work the color into the surface. I also enjoy drawing pieces that have stark contrast between light and dark tones and color. I think these contrasts complement each other like the “yin and the yang.” My pieces reflect realism and balance. All of these aforementioned artistic concepts greatly reflect my personality. Although I probably would be considered an introvert, my art still reflects my strong will and a need for order and balance.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I used to get them quite a bit! Probably more frequently than I would have liked! To overcome this I’ve taught myself through YouTube and other sources how to improve my photography skills. I have found that having good skills in this field is critical as a realist painter and it also helps me to take excellent subject photos for my work. Now my creative blocks are few and far between.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I would say my personal reference photos. I am wired to draw and paint precisely what I see. Which means I don’t have much of an imagination. I’m also a realist, so I need to see great realism in front of me. To do this I have to take and use superb subject photos. Plus, most exhibition entries require that artists use their own work, including reference photos.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I just studied under the great watercolorist Laurin McCrackin. Now armed with his superb techniques in this medium, I am busy creating my own nice still-life watercolor pieces.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>\u003Cstrong>8. What is your favorite paint color name?\u003C/strong>\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I enjoy making my own “black” that I keep in a mason jar for my watercolor pieces. I’ve learned this mixing recipe from Laurin McCrackin and it’s a black that is used for my still life backgrounds.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cimg data-public-id=\"blog/FD-Arties8-Hero-DavidHogue2/FD-Arties8-Hero-DavidHogue2.jpg\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_951,h_497,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661472193/blog/FD-Arties8-Hero-DavidHogue2/FD-Arties8-Hero-DavidHogue2.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-post-3368 wp-image-3385\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661472193\" data-seo=\"1\">\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"has-text-align-center\">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 class=\"has-text-align-center\">\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","\u003Cp>Maybe it’s the precision and discipline of having spent his career in the military that influences the intricate, exacting detail in David Hoque’s work. Whatever it is, we admire the juxtaposition of reality with the rich jewel tones that come to life in his colored pencil drawings and watercolor paintings. They often cause viewers to […]\u003C/p>\n","2019-09-01T15:12:24","2023-05-15T14:06:50",[263],{"name":140,"slug":154},{"url":265,"label":169},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/FD-Arties8-Hero-DavidHogue1.jpg",65]