Staging a Virtual Art Show - Painting & Drawing Tips

Times have changed

Opportunities are different.

Virtual instead of Real is now the Way of Things

OMG!  I was offered the chance to have my own Virtual Art Show. 

Click for 

Introduction to "Wild n Free" 

I know we have all been part of some kind of online Gallery Show at some time or other.  One picture among a large group.  But this was a full show, 24 pictures. 

How to stage a Virtual Art Show.  There are no rule books to follow, it is really new ground.  Unfortunately/or fortunately, it is one that will be around for awhile yet.  I thought as I set up for my show I would share some thoughts. Somethings are universal but others a groundbreaking. 

***See the Full Show at Arts Council of Surrey Webstite here.***  

Staging my first Virtual Show

 1.  No matter what, you need a theme/purpose for your show. I am a wildlife artist and I wanted my show to showcase my work. Some is quite traditional wildlife work while others is more experimental: I decided to call my my show "Wild n Free", playing off those two ideas.  

PERCHED ON A BARREL - $115 - Ink & Watercolour mounted on Wood Block, 7 x 5 inches

2.  Drafting an Artist Statement  for my show is standard. But this is where I felt quite lost.  Yes, I could write my statement and put it out there.  However, this did not give me a chance to really express myself.  My work is more than a tightly written paragraph or two.  I wanted the opportunity to be physically part of the show and express my feelings.  Really engage and connect with my viewers.  I decided to do a video Introduction to the show which introduced me and my work and acted as an artist statement as well.  You can see the Introduction here: Wendy Mould - Wild n Free. 

SHORT EARED OWL ON THE PROWL - $650 - Graphite, Framed 20 x 16

3.  Advertising the show is a major requirement. But the advertisement has to be internet based in order to include the link to the show.  It needs to be in way to encourage 'the click'.  To follow the link.  I have used several methods: blogging about the event, as I am doing in this blog; sending out a e-newsletter to my network; posting it on local online event calendar boards; posting on Facebook and Instagram. 

4.  Developing activities related to the event is something else I would normally do.  Give a talk, reception, do a demo would be some of the things I did before.  However, they are not applicable now.  This is where you want to think outside the box.  Going Live on Facebook or Instagram for a 10 minute Talk/Show Intro would be neat.  Especially if you were a small group.  Talking about your art and the art show with a small group and taking questions after would be cool event. Ahh. . .  makes you think eh?!    It isn't something I will do this time but will certainly look into it for the future.

I do have a second interactive item.  There is a 3-D piece of art for my show, a Book Art Piece called "Ducks on the Water".  It too has its own video to show it off.  See Ducks on the Water Video here.  

Book Art: Ducks on the Water - $300 Mixed Media 

5. Taking good pictures of each of my pieces is also very important.  Pictures don't have to be framed for the show but good picture files are a must.  Each picture file must be labeled and tagged with all the important information.  

VARIED THRUSH DOWN FROM THE MOUNTAINS - $400 - Ink & Watercolour mounted on Wood Block 16 x 9 inches

All is not Rosy, there are a few problems with a Virtual Art Show to be aware of:

1.  You are not setting up the show, a computer tech with the gallery is doing that.  So you need to send detailed, easy to follow information to be sure your show goes up correctly.

2.  You might have ideas how your work should be set up but it will depend on the restrictions of the software that is used for the gallery.  Some galleries have very sophisticated software that allows for many interesting permutations while others is very restrictive. This will determine the order and placement of pieces.

3. Scheduling is depended on the computer technician.  There is no point sending your viewers to a site that is not yet up and running.  

***See the Full Show at Arts Council of Surrey Website here***  

Definitely Virtual Art Shows are here to stay.  Getting the most out of the exposure is really up to you.  This is my first and I really scrambled to make it happen.  As my computer skills increase I am sure I will think of other things to try.  

Have you been involved with a Virtual Art Show?  Any thoughts on things to do?  I would love to hear them.  This is really uncharted waters for all Artists.  

Outdoor Sketching Classes !! 

Ready to go out and do some sketching?  Have fun painting and sketching while learning new tips and techniques. Capture a moment in time without worrying about the World and the crazy problems of today.  Come Join me for a session or two.  Beginner to Advanced are welcome.

Class Size: max. 3.   Rescheduling for Bad weather.  Covid  Rules and Social Distancing will be followed.  

Sessions 2.5 hours, in local North Surrey Parks, Tuesdays 10-12:30 or Set up Special Times for yourself and a friend or two

Cost: $45 tx incld

August Dates: Tuesday, August 18 - 2 Spots;  Tuesday, August 25 FULL:  Time:  10-12:30:pm

Save a Spot Now. Contact Wendy    More information: artbywendy.com 

 Do you have big/small projects on the go?  

Looking for a sounding board, help, suggestions, techniques. You and your Inner Critic looking to expand your discussions.  I am available for Online Coaching/Teaching  (3 sessions 30 minutes each $75). more info here.   

  
Many find this post helpful: Turn your Inner Critic into your BFF

 

Be sure to like and share my posts.  You won't miss a single post if you Follow by Email 

Have a great Artful Day,

Wendy  

Time to Change it UP - Painting and Drawing Tips

As the World teeters from one Disastrous News Bite to another, it is Discombobulating.  There is a loss of HOPE. I'm feeling that way, you probably are too.  I nearly didn't post this week because of it.  But

I am Not. Ready. To give up. . . . 

We are all entering a life of self quarantine. I think, we are needing to learn new things more than ever.  So . . . .  here goes. . .

BALD EAGLE: SALMON ARE HERE WIP- Graphite 12 x 16 - Eagles feasting on the dead salmon is a common sight along the Fraser River in the fall when the Salmon Run starts.  Not all eagles want to share their food!!

As many of you know I love to golf.  I run a Tuesday night golf group and we golf every Tuesday night at the same course.  Have for many years.

Boring . . .  You might think. . . But no.

Golfing at the same course gives you a sense of calmness.  You know the course, you know the obstacles, you can focus on your shots.  When I play a hole well, I can compare my performance to previous scores.  I can measure my improvements.  Really golf is about playing yourself.  Comparing yourself to your performance, not others.

SHORT-EARED OWL: ON THE PROWL- Matted 20 x 16 Graphite $500.  Loving this new long narrow vertical format, turns out most of my work has been horizontal. 

Very much like your art work. . .

You draw/paint the same kinds of things.  Comfortable. Comforting.  Relaxing.  You can focus on improving your technique.  Knowing exactly where you are going.  And you do improve.  Slowly.

NOW you have time, so now it is time to Change It UP. . .

I golf other days but always on other courses.  The first time on a new course is always a major learning curve.  The hazards are different.  The greens a challenge.  The score is high.  But after a few rounds things change.  I start using different clubs.  Hitting different kinds of shots.  Approach the course in a new way.

Changing it UP can bring new changes to you. . .

When I return to my regular course I try these new things. My play changes and I definitely see a change in my score.

Taking those new techniques back to your 'usual work' will bring a difference to you as well. Your approach will be different. Your focus changed.  Growth will result.

ROBIN: ON HIS OWN - 5 x 7 Vanished Watercolour - $160 - This mix of Abstract with Realism inspire me to launch into a mini series.  Read more . . .

Does Changing It UP . . . mean getting a whole new box?

No.  Try just jumping in and out of the box. . . .

Change can be using a new colour.  Trying a new Perspective.  Zooming in or Zooming out.  Trying a different size.  Different shape.  New subject.  Mixing your Medium.  Mixing Abstract with your Realism or Realism with your Abstract.

HUMMING IN THE HOLLYHOCKS -  Matted 20 x 16 - tried hiding my bird inside the painting rather than making it the subject.  

You decide how big a Change Up to make. . .

My picture at the beginning of the post, Bald Eagles: The Salmon Are Here is a different view point for me - worms eye view.  It came about as I got my reference pictures laying on the sand behind a log. (I took many shots of this eagle and used different views to construct my picture.)

I find I like the idea of looking over the eagle's shoulder to see the other eagle feasting on the dead fish.  Several eagles gathering and fighting over their bounty is a common sight when the Salmon are running.

Have to get back to work, my Eagles aren't finished yet.

Further Reading:
The Trail: From Inspiration to Creation - focus on your goals and recognize Your Trail
Watercolour Surprises Many - looks at a new way to present your work
Catching the Light - Out Door Sketching - heading outdoors to sketch and using new medium (pen and ink with coloured pencils)

There is something you can do . . .

I am thrilled to be named a Finalist for the YWCA Women of Distinction for Arts, Culture and Design for my volunteer work.  Although there is no public voting for these awards there is one part of the event that is a People's Choice Award. 

It is the Connecting the Community Award.  (🡨link) 

It's purpose is to create awareness for the YWCA Community Programs.  This award is by People's Choice.  So follow the link and vote for me and my choice "Reducing Child Poverty".  Vote as many times as you like, results tallied in early May 2020.  Thanks for your support.
When Life settles down: 

Art by Wendy Studio/Gallery is always Open

Looking to move your Drawing Skills to the Next Level?

Book a 3 Pack of Private Lessons with Me - 3 Lessons 2.5 hr each $225

Drawing/Painting lessons in graphite, ink, watercolour, watercolour pencils or coloured pencils Or any combination of these.
Flexible Schedule, at my Studio/Gallery, N. Surrey. 

Gift Certificates Available 

Be sure to like and share my posts to keep me coming into your box, 

You won't miss a single post if you Follow by Email or Like my Facebook Page.

Have a great Artful Day,

Wendy

The Trouble with Photo References - Painting and Drawing Tips

It was one of our West Coast Snow Days.  
2 - 3 inches of snow on the ground, cloudy sky and rain ready to fall to wipe out the snow.

SHORT-EARED OWL: ON THE PROWL - Nearly ready for my Up Coming Show on March 6-8 

I was out in the park with my grand-kids.  I snapped a few pictures.  They were Awesome.  (Well, they are my grand-kids).  But really they were good.  The lighting was just right.  No shadows, great colour, wonderful clarity. The portraits I took were soooo cute.  I was thrilled. 

But they were No good for drawing or painting . . . .

Why not??      No Shadows. . . .

Take a look at these shots of a young barred owl.  My grandson found him on the trail and took me out to see him.  It was really neat to see this young owl just sitting on the branch watching people go by on the trail.  I took a few shots of him.  

Young Barred Owl on the trail - Photo

Yes, got a clear image.  Yes, got lots of details on his feather patterns.  You can even see his claws peeking out from his feathers.  But there are no shadows.  Nothing to give drama to the painting. The painting would be a good rendering of the owl.  But nothing to really grab the eye and command its attention.

Take another look at my Short Eared Owl: On the Prowl at the top of my page. Even though he is not finished -  Notice how the shadows on his face command your attention.  The darks in his feather pattern move your eye down his body but the darks in his face keep you going back to it. This adds a little tension to the picture.  Creates a sense of movement. That strong contrast of dark and light on his face commands your eye's attention.  These things all add that extra piece of drama. 

Maybe you wont want that drama in the drawing of my grandson.  He is very cute and could probably hold your attention on his own but for other things you might want more. 

Getting shots with that extra bit a drama does take time.  Early morning or late in the day are my favourite times.  The sun is at an angle and the shadow patterns tend to be more interesting.  I do a few test shots and check my angle.  Then I click away.  You never know when they will move.  I found if I wait and wait to click, it is usually too late.  Sure clicking end up with lots of shots but  . . . they are easy to delete. If I am lucky there will be 1 or 2 I can use.  

Once you have the shot, the story doesn't end there. There are other issues to deal with.   Often I take my bird or animal and put them into a new setting.  And as you suspect, integrating my subject into a new environment has its own problems. If this is part of your story too,  I suggest the following for further reading:

Integration Part 2: Art Tip - Multiple Reference Photos - putting your subject 'into' the environment
Getting the RIGHT Reference for you Wildlife Painting - things to think about when selecting a photo to work with

Time for a Photo Shoot - going on a Photo shoot

COMING UP FAST!!!!

March 6-8, 2020 - The West Fine Arts Show
In support of Langley School District Youth Homelessness Initiatives
Friday March 6, 7-9pm              Saturday March 7, 11-7pm              Sunday, March 8, 11-5pm

 Peter Ewart Middle School, 7755 202A St, Langley BC. 

 Yes, I have teamed up with this great show event: 22 Professional Artists, Awesome Art, a show you shouldn't miss.  Looking forward to seeing you there. 

Art by Wendy Studio/Gallery is always Open

Looking to move your Drawing Skills to the Next Level?

Book a 3 Pack of Private Lessons with Me - 3 Lessons 2.5 hr each $225

Drawing/Painting lessons in graphite, ink, watercolour, watercolour pencils or coloured pencils Or any combination of these.
Flexible Schedule, at my Studio/Gallery, N. Surrey. 

Gift Certificates Available 

My Etsy Store is always OPEN: Etsy - WendyMouldsArt

Originals, Prints, Commission Work and Instant Printable Cards for all Seasons available.

Be sure to like and share my posts to keep me coming into your box, 

You won't miss a single post if you Follow by Email or Like my Facebook Page.

Have a great Artful Day,

Wendy

EARLY MORNING HUNT - Short Eared Owl

NEW WORKS FROM THE STUDIO OF ART BY WENDY

EARLY MORNING HUNT  12 x 16 Available

My owl is finished and ready to show. This little short eared owl has been a very interesting project for me.  The background is a mixture of layers on top of some light washes as I wanted it not too busy but still give the feeling of depth and open fields.  I wanted that warm glow of the early sun on everything and of course my love of detail comes through in the foreground.  Let me just say I didn't do all those feathers in one go!!

I am thinking of varnishing this little guy and framing him without glass.  I have a few samples underway and I will post them over the next few days.  If you have experience or thoughts on watercolours framed without glass I would love to hear them. 

My Short-Eared Owl – WIP

NEW WORKS FROM THE STUDIO OF ART BY WENDY
It was crazy! While all the cameras and binoculars were focused on the snowy owls on the Mud Flats this winter, behind us were lots of other birds.As I walked along the dyke I saw this beautiful short eared owl enjoying the rising sun.When I really started to look around I saw there were several of them, swooping down among the grasses and bushes hunting for their prey.This was very exciting for me as it was a major bird sighting, my third owl species.Now that I have been working on my picture I realize I have seen them before in the distances but never realized it. 

My layout, I used frisket to save my foreground pieces

I loved the glow of the rising sun in my picture so I decided to use my watercolours for this project.I know a blue sky is pretty routine but honestly it was one of those cold, crisp winter days and the sky just had to be blue!!

 This is after I poured on some watercolour and then did a bit of shaping. 

Frisket is off and I started work on my foreground first to get a feel for my colours.  That and the fact I lost most of my pencil drawing when I removed the frisket so I had to redraw things!!

An exciting side note, my tulips, “Singled Out” from my last post has been accepted in the Federation of Canadian Artists juried show “Blossoms” and will be at their Granville Island Gallery from April 3-15.