Embracing Beauty: The Story Behind "Radiant Bloom"

I'm excited to share with you the journey behind my latest creation, "Radiant Bloom." This acrylic masterpiece is a celebration of beauty, inspired by the captivating essence of blooming flowers and the vibrant colours they bring to life.

As an artist based in Berkshire, my passion for art has always been fueled by a desire to capture moments of wonder and inspiration. With "Radiant Bloom," I wanted to delve into the enchanting world of floral artistry, exploring how colours, shapes, and textures can evoke emotions and tell stories.

The central theme of "Radiant Bloom" is the burst of vibrant colours, predominantly pink, stretching across the canvas. This burst symbolizes the beauty and energy of blooming flowers, radiating joy and vitality. As you gaze upon the painting, imagine the delicate petals unfurling, the intricate veins that hint at nature's meticulous craftsmanship.

For me, creating "Radiant Bloom" was not just about painting a canvas; it was about capturing a moment of awe and sharing it with others. Art has the power to uplift, inspire, and transform, and I hope that "Radiant Bloom" does just that for you.

As you explore this newsletter, I invite you to immerse yourself in the world of artistry and beauty. Let "Radiant Bloom" be a reminder of the magic that surrounds us and the endless possibilities of creative expression.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Let's continue to embrace beauty, creativity, and inspiration together.

Warm regards,

Roy P. Awbery

Artful Escapes: Unravelling the Stories Behind My Paintings

It's been a while since we've delved into the vibrant world of my artistic creations (partly because I’ve been distracted with my novel writing and finishing my latest children’s book - always busy!), and I'm thrilled to bring you behind the scenes of my recent abstract series of paintings. In this edition, we'll embark on a journey to unravel the stories and inspirations woven into the kaleidoscopic tapestry of these unique paintings. Remember, I never repeat a painting and never create prints or copies of my work so each one is genuinely unique.

Genesis

At the heart of this series of paintings lies my fascination with the interplay of colours, the dance of hues carefully orchestrated to appear random yet inherently harmonious. This is all the more interesting to me because my colour vision is extremely limited, so I must employ a little help to ensure I get the balance exactly right. The seemingly arbitrary blocks of colour are, in reality, a meticulous selection designed to complement and contrast, injecting dynamism into the artwork. Have you ever wondered how your favourite colours might interact in an abstract composition?

I must be honest and confess that many years ago I really did not understand abstract art. I thought much of what I saw was simply random splashes of colour on a canvas, deliberately intended to provoke a reaction in the viewer. I could not see the skill involved or understand how much thought actually goes into examples of good abstract art (not all art is equal!). As I learned to become an artist and explore abstract art, I also learned to understand the truth. Good abstract art is far more complex than I had previously realised.

Texture as a Visual Symphony

I enjoy abstract art, but I think it can sometimes be a little one-dimensional. I like to see something dynamic and moving. This led me to begin exploring the realm of texture. In what may be considered a bold departure from conventional approaches, I introduced elements like modelling paste and other media to construct elevated lines and ridges within my paintings. This textural experimentation added a layer of intrigue, transforming the artwork dynamically under the play of light. Each piece becomes a living canvas, its appearance shifting with the angle and intensity of illumination. Can you visualize how the texture might change the way you experience the art in different lighting conditions?

“Myriad” by Roy P. Awbery - 11 x 14” abstract

Inspiration: Pushing Colors to the Edge

The driving force behind this series emerged from a personal challenge—to push the boundaries of colours without descending into chaos. It's a delicate balance, a nuanced dance where vibrant tones meet structured lines. The controlled chaos of colours converges with the ordered geometry of lines, resulting in a visual symphony that invites viewers to explore the depths within. How do you feel about the bold use of colours, and does it resonate with your own sense of aesthetics?

Creating Depth Through Structure

Structured lines serve as the backbone of this series, leading the viewer's eye through the intricate dance of colour. These lines, often horizontal and vertical, provide a framework that guides the visual experience. It's an exploration of organised chaos, where the structured and the spontaneous coexist in a harmonious dance. Can you identify the structured lines within the paintings, and do they draw your eye in a particular direction?

“Singing in the Rain” by Roy P. Awbery - Sold!

Viewers' Perspective

As I crafted each piece, I couldn't help but wonder how viewers would interpret and connect with these abstract compositions. The beauty of abstract art lies in its openness to interpretation, inviting each observer to bring their unique perspective to the canvas. I'm eager to hear about the emotions and stories these paintings evoke in you. What emotions do you feel when immersed in abstract art, and do you find your mind creating its own narratives?

Evolution of Style

This series marks a significant evolution in my artistic journey. The incorporation of texture and the bold use of colour represents a departure from earlier works, highlighting a continuous exploration and refinement of my creative style. What elements do you find yourself drawn to in other artists' work?

“Fire Dancers” by Roy P. Awbery - 100 x 50 cm abstract

Engaging with Art

I like to think that art is a dialogue, a conversation between the creator and the audience. As you explore this series, I encourage you to not only observe but also engage. What resonates with you in this series? Is it the vibrant colours, the structured lines, or the texture that adds an extra layer of intrigue? Does this style really jar with you and, if so, tell me why?

This textured abstract art series encapsulates the essence of pushing artistic boundaries, a journey where colour, structure, and texture converge to create a visual feast. As you explore these abstract creations, I invite you to reflect on the interplay of chaos and order, spontaneity, and structure—a dance that mirrors the rich tapestry of life itself.

Until next time, keep discovering the beauty that lies within the strokes of colour and the dance of lines. I'd love to hear your thoughts and interpretations—drop a comment and let me know!

Exploring the Emotional Palette of Art - Why colour means so much to us

Welcome to this week’s edition of my newsletter. As you can see below, I have decided to embrace my new branding. I hope you like it. Let me know what you think. Today, we embark on a colourful journey, delving into the mesmerizing world of art and the emotions that swirl within its palette. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or just dipping your toes into the vivid ocean of creativity, join me as we unravel the secrets behind the shades that stir our souls (I think I’m becoming more poetic with each issue!).

Colours - what a delightful language they speak! And they really do speak to us. They whisper stories, evoke feelings, and paint the canvas of our emotions. And what better place to start than understanding the very psychology of colours?

The Psychology of Colors

Have you ever noticed how certain colours seem to tug at your emotions while others playfully dance on your senses? Colours have a remarkable ability to influence our moods and perceptions, a phenomenon rooted in colour psychology. Imagine walking into a room bathed in calming blues, or a space adorned with fiery reds—each hue carries its unique energy. Blues might instil a sense of tranquillity, while reds might ignite passion or excitement.

Nebula (sold) with its rich complementary colours.

As you explore the vast spectrum of emotions tied to colours, consider the colours that resonate with you personally. What shades make you feel alive, calm, or invigorated? Understanding this personal connection is like unlocking a secret door to your own emotional landscape.

You may not think colour theory is something that affects you, but I promise it does and you didn’t even realise it. There is an entire industry built around the psychology of colour and how it affects consumer behaviour. Manufacturers, supermarkets and even clothes designers spend a fortune working with experts who understand colour and how it influences how and what we buy. Don’t believe me? Read this insightful article and then look around you at the things you’ve bought. Colour theory and colour psychology are everywhere.

Emotive Hues

Let's take a plunge into the ocean of emotive hues. The spectrum is vast, ranging from the serene blues and greens that echo nature's calming embrace to the passionate reds and yellows that ignite the flames of energy. Each colour tells a story, and every shade carries its own emotional weight.

Consider the calming allure of greens—nature's embrace in a myriad of hues from deep emerald to vibrant lime. Greens often signify growth, balance, and renewal. Now, imagine the fiery embrace of reds and oranges. These warm hues can evoke feelings of passion, energy, and even urgency.

As we explore this emotional spectrum, take a moment to think about the colours that dominate your surroundings. Are you surrounded by the soothing coolness of blues and purples, or does your space pulse with the warm energy of reds and oranges?

Creating Mood with Colours

Now, let's talk about the magical art of creating a mood with colours. Artists, much like sorcerers of the visual realm, use colours to evoke specific emotions and atmospheres within their work. Picture a sunset painting awash in warm oranges and pinks—doesn't it instantly transport you to a serene, dreamy landscape?

When visiting an art gallery or perusing artwork online, pay attention to the colours that resonate with you. Are you drawn to the calming pastels that evoke a sense of nostalgia, or do you find yourself captivated by bold, contrasting hues that demand attention? Your preferences are your artistic fingerprint, guiding you to the pieces that speak to your soul.

In the vibrant tapestry of art, colours are the threads that weave stories and stir emotions. So, what colours speak to you, and how do they shape the canvas of your emotions?

Now, this is a newsletter to also entice you into looking at my artwork so why not explore more captivating colours and emotions by visiting awberyart.com and immerse yourself in a spectrum of emotions? From tranquil blues to passionate reds, each artwork is a brushstroke in the colourful narrative of emotions (well, I like to think so). Dive into the collection and discover pieces that resonate with your unique palette of feelings. Which paintings strike a chord with you and why? Let me know in the comments.

Unleashing Your Creativity: A Guide to Creating the Perfect Abstract Painting

Introduction

Welcome to the world of abstract painting, where creativity knows no boundaries and self-expression takes centre stage. In this blog post, I will guide you through the process of creating the perfect abstract painting by harnessing your artistic instincts and exploring various techniques. We will delve into the essence of abstract art, discuss the key elements that contribute to its success, and provide insights into the techniques used by abstract artists.

How to Create the Perfect Abstract Painting

Creating a captivating abstract painting requires a unique blend of spontaneity, intuition, and intention. While there are no rigid rules to follow, the following steps can guide you in your artistic journey:

Embrace spontaneity and intuition

Abstract painting is a realm of artistic freedom where you can let go of the need for perfection. Allow your instincts to guide your brush, embracing the fluidity and unpredictability of the creative process. Trust your inner voice and take bold leaps into the unknown.

Start with a concept or inspiration

Though abstract art doesn't aim to represent tangible objects, having a concept or inspiration in mind can provide a starting point for your artistic exploration. It could be a particular feeling, a memory, or even a specific colour palette that resonates with you. This initial spark will serve as a guiding force as you embark on your abstract painting journey.

Experiment with composition

Composition is a fundamental aspect of abstract art. Consider the placement of shapes, lines, colours, and textures within the canvas. Explore different arrangements, proportions, and perspectives to find a balance that conveys the desired energy and visual impact. Allow the composition to evolve organically as you interact with the canvas.

Making a Good Abstract Painting

While there are no strict rules for abstract painting, certain elements and techniques can enhance the quality of your artwork. Here are some key factors to consider:

Engage with colour theory

Colours hold immense power in abstract art. Experiment with different colour combinations to evoke specific emotions or create a harmonious balance. Dive into the realm of colour theory, understanding the psychological effects of different hues and their interactions. Use colours purposefully to enhance the overall impact and create a captivating visual experience.

Use varied textures

Texture adds depth and intrigue to abstract paintings. Experiment with techniques like layering, impasto, or glazing to create texture and tactile elements. Building up layers of paint or incorporating other materials can add dimension and complexity to your artwork, captivating the viewer's senses.

Establish a focal point

While abstract art does not rely on recognizable subjects, having a focal point can anchor the viewer's attention and create visual interest within your painting. It could be a particular shape, colour, or area that stands out from the rest of the composition. Use contrasting elements or techniques to draw the viewer's eye towards the focal point, creating a sense of intrigue and engagement.

Are there rules for abstract painting?

Abstract painting liberates you from the constraints of traditional rules, allowing you to explore your artistic vision freely. However, there are guiding principles that can enhance your abstract artistry:

Balance and harmony

Strive for a sense of balance and harmony within your composition. Distribute visual weight evenly, considering the placement of elements and their relationship to one another. Achieving a harmonious balance will create a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing artwork.

Experimentation and exploration

Abstract art thrives on experimentation and pushing boundaries. Embrace unconventional techniques, materials, and approaches to create unique and intriguing artwork. Challenge yourself to explore new territories and uncover hidden depths of your creativity.

Authenticity and personal expression

Abstract painting provides a platform for personal expression. Avoid trying to mimic other artists' styles and focus on developing your own artistic identity. Embrace your unique perspective and let your artwork reflect your authentic self. Unleash your emotions, thoughts, and experiences onto the canvas.

What are the 6 key elements to abstract art success?

To achieve success in abstract art, consider these six key elements:

1. Composition: The arrangement of shapes, lines, colours, and textures within the artwork plays a vital role in its visual impact. Experiment with different compositions, exploring the interplay between various elements to create a visually appealing and balanced artwork.

2. Colour: Colours have the power to evoke emotions and set the mood of your artwork. Explore different colour palettes, combinations, and contrasts. Consider the psychological effects of colours and use them purposefully to enhance the overall impact of your abstract painting.

3. Texture: Texture adds depth and tactile interest to your artwork. Experiment with techniques such as layering, brushwork, or mixed media to create varied textures that engage the viewer's senses. Incorporate elements that invite touch and exploration.

4. Contrast: Contrast adds visual interest and helps create focal points within your abstract painting. Experiment with contrasting colours, shapes, or textures to create dynamic compositions. The interplay between light and dark, smooth and rough, or bold and subtle can heighten the impact of your artwork.

5. Movement: Abstract art often conveys a sense of movement or energy. Explore the use of lines, shapes, and brushstrokes to create a sense of flow and rhythm within your painting. Consider the direction and velocity of your marks to evoke a dynamic visual experience.

6. Emotional resonance: Abstract art has the ability to evoke emotions in the viewer. Aim to create artwork that resonates emotionally, whether through the use of colour, composition, or personal expression. Infuse your artwork with your unique perspectives and experiences, allowing the viewer to connect with the emotions conveyed in your abstract painting.

Techniques Used by Abstract Artists

Abstract artists employ a variety of techniques to create their unique artworks. Here are some commonly used techniques:

Layering

Building up layers of paint adds depth and complexity to your artwork. Experiment with transparent and opaque layers to achieve desired effects. Each layer interacts with the previous ones, creating a rich and visually engaging surface.

Brushwork

The choice of brushes and brushstrokes can add texture, expressiveness, and movement to your abstract painting. Vary the brush sizes, angles, and pressure to create a range of effects, from delicate and controlled to bold and expressive.

Pouring and dripping

Pouring or dripping paint onto the canvas can result in spontaneous and organic patterns. This technique allows for chance and serendipity in the creation process, leading to surprising and captivating results.

Collage and mixed media

Incorporating different materials, such as paper, fabric, or found objects, can add texture, dimension, and visual interest to your abstract artwork. Experiment with layering various materials to create unique and compelling compositions.

Sgraffito

Scratching or scraping the surface of the painting can reveal underlying layers and create intriguing textures. Use tools like palette knives or the end of a brush to scrape away paint, adding depth and visual interest to your abstract artwork.

Conclusion

Abstract painting is an exhilarating journey of self-expression and creative exploration. By embracing spontaneity, experimenting with composition, engaging with colour theory, and exploring various techniques, you can unlock your artistic potential and create captivating abstract art. Remember, there are no limits to your creativity in the abstract realm. Embrace the freedom, follow your intuition, and let your artwork reflect the depths of your imagination.

Embracing the Artist Within: Balancing Work and Creative Passions

Introduction

In the fast-paced world we live in, finding a balance between work and personal pursuits can be challenging. As a scientist with a full-time job, I understand the importance of maintaining a good work-life balance. While you may be interested in my art and book writing rather than my day job, I believe that striking a harmonious equilibrium between professional responsibilities and personal passions is key to living a fulfilling and enriched life. In this blog post, I'll share my journey and provide practical tips on how I manage to pursue my creative endeavours alongside my demanding career.

Introduction

In the fast-paced world we live in, finding a balance between work and personal pursuits can be challenging. As a scientist with a full-time job, I understand the importance of maintaining a good work-life balance. While you may be interested in my art and book writing rather than my day job, I believe that striking a harmonious equilibrium between professional responsibilities and personal passions is key to living a fulfilling and enriched life. In this blog post, I'll share my journey and provide practical tips on how I manage to pursue my creative endeavours alongside my demanding career.

Discovering My Creative Passions

For me, the journey into art and book writing began with a desire to explore new hobbies and indulge in learning new things. It was a thoughtful gift from my wife—a watercolor set—that sparked my interest in art, while my love for writing was nurtured through years of journaling. These creative outlets became an essential part of my life, allowing me to escape the demands of work and express my inner thoughts and emotions.

Time Management

To make room for my artistic pursuits, I prioritize efficient time management. I mark out my working day calendar, ensuring that I typically finish work by 4pm. This allows me to create clear boundaries between my professional and personal time. Calendar blocking has been a game-changer for me—I allocate specific time slots for meetings, emails, and other work-related tasks, as well as dedicated blocks in the evenings for my writing, planning, painting, and engaging with social media and marketing efforts.

Transitioning from Work to Creativity

Transitioning from the demands of my day job to the realm of creativity requires a deliberate mindset shift. Taking 30 minutes to wind down after work helps me decompress and mentally prepare for my creative projects. Additionally, I find it essential to have separate spaces for different activities. While my office serves as a workspace for my day job, I've designated a separate desk for writing, complete with a mood board for inspiration, and a dedicated studio space for my paintings. This compartmentalization helps my brain recognize which activity I'm focusing on and allows for smoother transitions.

Setting Boundaries

Creating a healthy work-life balance also means setting boundaries and avoiding work-related distractions during personal creative time. After 4pm, I intentionally disconnect from work by not having my work laptop or mobile phone accessible. This practice ensures that I can fully immerse myself in my artistic pursuits without the intrusion of work-related matters.

Finding Inspiration

Inspiration can be found in the world around us. As an observant person, I draw inspiration from my surroundings, incorporating what I see and hear into my writing and artwork. I also seek inspiration from online resources, such as videos and blogs by inspirational artists and writers. Engaging with their work sparks my creativity and fuels my passion for continuous growth.

Prioritization and Goal-Setting

Lists are my trusted allies in maintaining focus and prioritizing my creative endeavors. I keep a list of long-term goals for both my work and my artistic pursuits, breaking them down into manageable weekly and daily objectives. This approach ensures that I dedicate time to writing blog posts regularly and creating new artwork consistently. By organizing my goals, I am able to balance my professional responsibilities with my personal passions effectively.

The Crossroads of Work and Creativity

Embracing creative outlets alongside my scientific career has brought numerous benefits into my life. Engaging in art and writing expands my mind, constantly challenging me to learn and grow. These pursuits not only provide me with personal fulfillment but also offer unexpected advantages in my day job. Developing writing skills has improved my formal report writing, while my knowledge of social media has enhanced my presentation abilities. The intersection between my personal interests and professional life has created a dynamic synergy, benefiting both aspects of my life.

Final Thoughts and Advice

To those struggling to find time for their own creative passions, my advice is to evaluate the free time available and make conscious choices. Eliminating or reducing time spent on activities like excessive TV-watching can free up valuable hours for meaningful and enjoyable pursuits. Remember, balance is achievable with careful planning and prioritization. Embrace your passions, allocate time mindfully, and witness the transformative power of creative expression.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is a continuous journey that requires intention and effort. As a scientist with a love for art and writing, I've learned that dedicating time to my creative passions not only enriches my personal life but also enhances my professional growth. By implementing strategies like effective time management, setting boundaries, finding inspiration, and prioritizing goals, I've been able to strike a harmonious balance between my day job and my artistic pursuits. Embrace your inner artist and create a life where work and creativity coexist in harmony—it's an incredible journey worth embarking on.

Thank you for reading Roy P. Awbery Fine Art. This post is public so feel free to share it.

The Power of Daily Sketching: Unleashing Your Creativity

Introduction

I’ve sketched for as long as I can remember. I can’t say I was ever particularly good at it and I never researched the subject in my youth (I wish I had now). Over the years, I have found that I mainly sketched to relax. In our fast-paced world, I think taking time for self-expression and creativity is often overlooked, especially when I see so many people ‘relaxing’ with their phones! However, engaging in a daily sketching or drawing practice can have transformative effects on your life. Whether you consider yourself an artist or not, the act of putting pen to paper holds incredible potential. Here are some compelling reasons why you should make sketching or drawing a part of your daily routine. Trust me, if you get started you won’t regret it and you never know where it may take you.

1. Unlocking Creative Potential

Creativity is a fundamental aspect of the human experience. Engaging in daily sketching exercises helps you tap into your creative potential. For example, you can dedicate a small portion of your day to sketching a random object you find at home or capturing a moment from your surroundings. By exploring different subjects, experiment with colours and lines, and push your artistic boundaries, you'll discover new ideas and perspectives.

If you want to get started, create a dedicated space for your sketching practice, free from distractions. You should, if possible, set aside a specific time each day to sketch, even if it's just for a few minutes - it will help relax you. Perhaps use it as part of your end-of-day wind down process. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different mediums, such as pencil, pen, charcoal, or watercolour, to keep your practice fresh and exciting.

Recommended Reading: "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron provides valuable insights and exercises to unleash your creativity and overcome creative blocks.

2. Enhancing Observation Skills

Sketching trains your eye to see the world more attentively. By focusing on the details of your subject, you become more observant of the intricacies and nuances in your surroundings. You can start by sketching everyday objects in your home, such as a coffee mug, a potted plant, or a piece of fruit. Pay close attention to their shape, texture, and lighting.

Of course, you can also combine your other daily routines with sketching, for example:

• Take regular walks where you live and sketch interesting scenes or objects you encounter.

• Practice sketching from life whenever possible, as it allows you to observe and capture the unique characteristics of your subject.

• Experiment with different sketching techniques, such as contour drawing, cross-hatching, or gestural sketching, to further develop your observational skills.

Recommended Reading: "The Zen of Seeing: Seeing/Drawing as Meditation" by Frederick Franck explores the connection between art and meditation, emphasizing the importance of observation in the creative process.

3. Practicing Mindfulness and Relaxation

Engaging in sketching or drawing provides a meditative experience that promotes mindfulness and relaxation. When you immerse yourself in the act of drawing, you enter a state of flow, where time seems to dissolve, and you're fully present in the moment. To enhance this experience, consider sketching natural scenes, such as landscapes or flowers, allowing yourself to connect with the tranquillity of the environment.

Suggestions for Success:

• Create a calming atmosphere by playing soft music or lighting candles while you sketch.

• Practice deep breathing exercises before and during your sketching session to centre yourself and enhance relaxation.

• Embrace imperfections and focus on the process rather than solely on the end result. Sketching is about the joy of creation and self-expression.

Recommended Reading: "Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain" by Betty Edwards offers valuable insights into the creative process and how drawing can enhance mindfulness and self-expression.

4. Tracking Personal Growth and Progress

Daily sketching allows you to document your artistic journey over time. By committing to regular practice, you can witness your progress first-hand. Consider keeping a sketchbook dedicated to your daily sketches, allowing you to look back on your earlier drawings and compare them to your present work. Celebrate your improvement and recognize how far you've come as an artist.

I have tons of Moleskine sketch books, which although not cheap are high quality, but you could use any notebook you can find. As you begin recording your sketches be sure to date each sketch in your sketchbook to keep track of your progress and don't be afraid to experiment and take risks in your sketches. Push yourself out of your comfort zone to foster growth and development. If you’re brave enough, seek constructive feedback from friends or artists you may know or join online communities where you can share your work and receive encouragement.

Recommended Reading: "Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative" by Austin Kleon encourages embracing the influence of others while maintaining your unique artistic voice.

5. Enhancing Visual Communication Skills

Visual communication is a powerful tool that transcends language barriers. Through sketching or drawing, you develop the ability to convey ideas, emotions, and narratives visually. To enhance your visual communication skills, consider sketching people, capturing their expressions and gestures, or creating visual stories through sequential art.

If you get really into sketching then you could also try the following ideas to help you improve:

• Experiment with different composition techniques to create visual impact and guide the viewer's attention.

• Study the work of artists known for their storytelling abilities, such as graphic novelists or storyboard artists, to learn effective visual narrative techniques.

• Practice simplifying complex concepts into visual representations, such as diagrams or infographics, to improve your ability to communicate ideas concisely.

Recommended Reading: "Visual Thinking: Empowering People and Organizations through Visual Collaboration" by Willemien Brand provides insights into the power of visual thinking and communication in professional and personal settings.

6. Cultivating Self-Expression and Personal Style

Sketching regularly enables you to explore and develop your unique artistic style. As you experiment with different techniques, materials, and subjects, you discover what resonates with you and what makes your work distinct. Embrace this journey of self-discovery and allow your sketches to be a reflection of your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

Suggestions for Success:

• Study the work of various artists, both traditional and contemporary, to expose yourself to different styles and approaches.

• Keep a collection of images, objects, and ideas that inspire you and refer to them when seeking inspiration for your sketches.

• Experiment with different mediums, styles, and subjects to find what resonates with you and allows you to express yourself authentically.

Recommended Reading: "The Creative License: Giving Yourself Permission to be the Artist You Truly Are" by Danny Gregory encourages embracing your artistic voice and finding inspiration in everyday life.

Conclusion

Sketching or drawing every day offers a myriad of benefits that extend beyond the realm of art. From unlocking your creative potential to improving observation skills, promoting mindfulness, enhancing visual communication, tracking personal growth, and cultivating self-expression, the power of this simple practice is undeniable. So, grab a sketchbook and a pencil, and embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and artistic expression. Make sketching a part of your daily routine and witness the transformative effects it can have on your life.

If you do get started, feel free to show me your creations. I started out sketching years ago and it eventually led me to becoming a successful semi-professional artist. Who knows where it may take you?

How to Choose the Right Artwork for Your Home

Introduction

Welcome to my blog! I believe that art has the power to transform and enhance the ambience of any living space. In this post, '’ll guide you through the process of choosing the perfect artwork for your home. Discover how to find pieces that resonate with your personal style and create a harmonious environment that truly reflects who you are. If you have any questions or need personalized advice, don't hesitate to reach out to me. I’m here to help!

Understanding Personal Style

Your personal style is unique, and art should reflect that. Take some time to explore different art styles, from abstract and contemporary to impressionistic or minimalistic. Visit local galleries, browse online art platforms, and immerse yourself in various artistic expressions. Pay attention to what captures your attention and stirs emotions within you. Do you find yourself drawn to bold and vibrant colours, or do you prefer softer, more muted tones? Are you captivated by intricate details or more intrigued by simplicity? Understanding your personal style will help you curate a collection that speaks to your heart.

City Limits by Roy P. Awbery

Consider the Space

When choosing artwork for your home, it's essential to consider the space in which it will be displayed. Analyze the available wall space and take note of the dimensions. In larger rooms, bold and statement pieces can make a powerful impact, while smaller spaces may benefit from smaller or medium-sized artworks. Experiment with different orientations, such as horizontal, vertical, or square, to find the best fit for each room. For example, a tall and narrow wall may benefit from a vertical piece that emphasizes the height, while a wide and spacious wall could accommodate a larger horizontal artwork that creates a focal point. Consider the overall layout of the room and how the artwork will interact with other elements. By carefully considering the space, you can choose artwork that not only fits well but also enhances the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of the room.

Harmonizing Colors and Themes

Add abstract art by Roy P. Awbery to your home decor.

Colours have the power to create a harmonious and visually pleasing environment. When selecting artwork, consider the existing color scheme of your space, including the walls, furniture, and decor. Choose artwork that complements or introduces new colors to enhance the overall ambiance. For instance, if your space features warm earth tones, consider artwork with complementary colors like blues or greens to create an intriguing contrast. Additionally, align the themes and subject matter of the artwork with the overall theme or vibe of the room. If you have a coastal-themed living room, artwork depicting seascapes or beach scenes can bring a sense of serenity and connection to the space. Pose questions to yourself: How can the colors and themes of the artwork enhance the atmosphere you want to create? What emotions or feelings do you want the artwork to evoke? By carefully considering the colors and themes, you can curate a collection that not only looks visually stunning but also resonates with the overall ambiance and personality of your home.

Finding the Right Balance

Integrating artwork into your space requires finding the right balance. Consider the interplay between artwork, furniture, and other decor elements. Create a focal point by placing a captivating piece in a prominent position, such as above a fireplace or at the centre of a gallery wall. Allow the artwork to guide the arrangement of other decorative items, ensuring a harmonious and visually pleasing composition. Experiment with different arrangements and groupings to find the perfect balance that highlights both the individual artwork and the overall aesthetic of the room. Take a moment to step back and assess the visual balance—does the artwork draw your eye in without overwhelming the other elements in the space? Remember that balance doesn't necessarily mean symmetry; it can be achieved through the careful placement of different elements to create visual harmony. Challenge yourself to think creatively: How can you arrange the artwork to create an interesting flow? What other elements in the room can complement and enhance the presence of the artwork? By finding the right balance, you can create a space that feels cohesive, visually engaging, and inviting.

Exploring Artistic Mediums

Artistic mediums offer unique qualities and visual effects that can significantly impact the atmosphere of a room. Paintings, prints, sculptures, and photography each bring a distinct character to a space. Explore different mediums and experiment with textures, materials, and finishes to add depth and variety to your collection. Consider the impact of a large-scale abstract painting, the intricate details of a handcrafted sculpture, or the captivating storytelling of a photographic print. Each medium carries its own expressive power and can evoke different emotions and moods. Pose questions to yourself: How do you want the artwork to interact with the surrounding space? Do you want a three-dimensional piece that adds depth and dimension, or a two-dimensional artwork that adds a splash of color and texture? By exploring different artistic mediums, you can find the perfect combination that resonates with your personal style and elevates the visual appeal of your home.

Seeking Authenticity and Meaning

When choosing artwork for your home, seek pieces that hold authenticity and meaning. Investing in authentic artwork or limited-edition prints adds value and significance to your collection. These pieces not only reflect your unique style but also support artists and their creative journeys. Take the time to connect with artwork that resonates with you on a deeper level, evoking emotions and telling stories that align with your personal narrative. Challenge yourself to think beyond mere aesthetics and consider the deeper meaning behind each piece. Does the artwork evoke memories or experiences? Does it convey a specific message or evoke certain emotions? By seeking authenticity and meaning, your collection becomes more than just decorative pieces—it becomes a reflection of your values, passions, and personal journey.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect artwork for your home is an exciting and fulfilling endeavour. By understanding your personal style, considering the space, harmonizing colours and themes, finding the right balance, exploring artistic mediums, and seeking authenticity and meaning, you'll curate a collection that reflects your individuality and enhances the atmosphere of your living spaces. Let your home become a gallery of your own, filled with art that brings joy, inspiration, and meaning to your everyday life. If you have any questions or need personalized advice in choosing the perfect artwork for your home, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to help you create a space that truly represents who you are and resonates with your artistic vision. Happy art hunting!

Unlocking Art's Potential: Storytelling & Visualizing for Effective Sales

Hi everyone! I hope you’re all well and, if you’re in the UK, enjoying the nice weather we are currently having. It can’t last - can it? You may have noticed that I haven’t been writing these newsletters every week. That’s because of the amount of change I have been experiencing, which has used much of my time.

The most significant change is that I have a new job after working in nuclear forensics for 8 years. I am doing something completely different and that uses my networking skills to good effect. I love meeting new people and building mutually beneficial relationships and this job allows me (indeed, requires me) to do just that. However, with any new venture, there is a lot to learn and I have therefore been swamped researching what I need to do my job well. I have also been working from home a lot less, which is actually a good thing. I forgot how nice meeting people in person rather than across a video link can be.

Last month I showed a selection of my artwork at the Burghfield May Fayre and in the last newsletter, I talked a little about the challenge of choosing the right paintings to showcase my work. I managed to sell one of my larger paintings that I wasn’t sure would ever sell (I painted it in my first year) and I also received several new commission requests that will keep me busy for the rest of this year.

I haven’t been completely idle in my studio despite being busy. I have found some time to create a new series of oil paintings that incorporate a touch of bling with the addition of gold and silver particles. These paintings have received some good reviews and I think I may create a few more in the series but make them much larger so that they become statement pieces. If you haven’t seen them yet, here are a few of the most recent creations. Let me know what you think.

City Limits

Orchid Reflections

I have also been learning about how to better show my artwork on my website and in my online marketing (which I am still trying to understand). Apparently, it is not enough to just show an image of the painting along with a description of its size. The best practice is to write a story to go with the painting to help potential customers identify with a particular piece. This has actually been fun and has allowed me to exercise my writing skills (all helps with the novel writing!) and have some fun with getting a bit creative with the descriptions. Feedback has been entirely positive with one person telling me that, although they didn’t really like one piece of artwork they loved the description and went on to say that, with my descriptions, they would happily buy a blank canvas from me!

I have also been learning that showing how the artwork will look in a home or office setting helps to increase the chances of a sale. I found a website called Canvy that allows me to place my paintings into a variety of room settings complete with the correct sizes. It even lets me choose different framing styles so that people can see how the painting may look in their own homes. I have only been trying out the free version of the website but I think I will sign up for the full package which will give me access to thousands of different settings.

I’ll let you know if it does make a difference and I would love to know what you think - does seeing a painting in a mock setting help you choose and decide to buy?

Leave a comment

That’s it for this week’s newsletter. As always, please consider sharing this with your friends and subscribing (still free and you could win a free painting!) and let me have your comments, especially if there is a topic you would like me to talk about in a future newsletter.

Make sure to keep an eye out for updates on my progress on Facebook and Instagram.

As always, I appreciate your support and feedback. If you have any suggestions for future paintings, don't hesitate to reach out to me. And if you haven't already, please feel free to share my newsletter so others can stay up-to-date on all my latest work.

Until next time,

Roy

P.S. If you're interested in purchasing any of my paintings, don't forget to check out my website. I have some amazing pieces available, and I'm always happy to answer any questions you may have.

ABSTRACT TEXTURED ARTWORK FOR THE HOME

Textured abstract artwork can create a high impact statement and great focal point

Art for your home, office or even home office space doesn’t have to be a large, grand and expensive painting but it should have an impact, After all, you only get one chance at a first impression so make it count. Textured abstract artwork could be the answer.

My latest series of abstract paintings on canvas come in a variety of sizes and not all of them are particularly large. In fact, we often forget the smaller rooms that are the first that guests see when they visit. For example, hallways and lobbies are often neglected when it comes to artwork and yet a small painting could have quite an impact and add a level of interest that was previously missing.

Textured artwork is unique

Textured artwork can bring an interesting new dimension to your decor.

Textured artwork is less well known compared with the more traditional paintings featuring abstract designs. This means that if you look for something textured you can be quite sure that no one else is likely to have anything similar and certainly not the same.

I use a mixture of plaster of Paris, modelling pastes and PVA adhesive with my acrylic paints to create a range of different textures and each painting is therefore unique. The peaks and troughs that result can change a static painting into a dynamic artwork by the way the light changes as the day progresses.

Textured abstract art as a styling aid

Bedrooms look great with calming landscapes or muted abstracts.

Textured artwork is just as versatile as any abstraact painting and the diversity of colours mean that a painting can be found to meet any decorating idea or design intent. Even subtle textures can bring a painting to life without overpowering it. In these examples silver paint has been added with texturing agents to ensure the silver dots leap off the painting.

Lighting can change a textured painting

The living room can be the most daunting room to place art - everyone will see it!

All paintings will look different under different lighting conditions. Indoor lights tend to lend an orange or green hue to paintings and can therefore mute some colours. Lighting from a window is natural and comprises the whole spectrum of colours and can lead to paintings with primary colours really coming to life as the colours begin to really shine. Textured paintings are no different - they will also respond to changes in lighting but the effects can be more dramatic. Shadows become more noticeable and can really add a new dimension to your artwork.

Textured artwork is dynamic

Textured paintings can create dynamic artwork that changes its appearance as the light changes

If texture is used carefully and thoughtfully, an otherwise one-dimensional canvas can suddenly become 3-dimensional, vibrant and completely dynamic. Shadows will move if the sun is allowed to play on the surface of the canvas and if top or side lighting is used very different appearances can be achieved from the same painting.

Check out my latest series of textured abstract paintings or contact me to discuss an affordable commissioned painting.

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How to make an abstract painting - have fun and make your own abstract art

What makes abstract art interesting and desirable such that someone will want to part with their hard-earned money and have it displayed on their walls? I once thought that abstract art was just some pretentious nonsense whereby someone randomly threw paint across a canvas, mixed it up a little, stepped back, and called it art. I also thought artists could get away with this because one often heard people saying that it was for the viewer to decide whether or not they liked it and considered it art. Well, it turns out that there’s actually a lot more to it than that, as I’ve discovered since straying into abstract painting and finding that I love it. But, it isn’t random paint throwing. Here I highlight some of the things an artist, or me at least, needs to think about before creating an abstract painting.

1. Plan the painting

Before starting, one needs to consider what size of canvas will be used. This might seem obvious but it has a major impact on how the paint is going to be applied, whether a drying retarder will be needed, the size of brushes to use, and how long you’ll need to paint. It will also affect how you paint as very large canvasses may need quick and bold brushstrokes or other techniques to allow the paint to be worked before it begins to dry.

2. Consider Composition

Caeium by Roy P. Awbery

Some abstract paintings may look random and chaotic but most good ones tend to be designed to have a focal point or a way of leading the viewers eye into the painting. With some, the focal point may not be obvious, especially with paintings where very subtle grading has been used but even here the gradient tends to lead the eye. Photographers are well aware of the Rule of Thirds. This is a way of considering an image in three sections to provide balance and is, in fact, routed in nature. For example, a well balanced landscape painting tends to show one third land and two thirds sky or vice versa. Vertically, one often sees trees being included to the left or right third of an image, again to lead the eye. This is also true in abstract paintings where the composition may be designed such that the elements are built around the same idea. Some of my more successful abstract paintings have been those where the Rule of Thirds was employed. Take an image that runs diagonally across the canvas. Here you have a top and bottom section separated by the diagonal feature - three elements and the diagonal leading the viewers eye.

3. Balancing the Blues - Colour Balance

Sky Fire by Roy P. Awbery

Unless you are incredibly famous and your followers will swallow anything you do without question, you really need to think about colour. Now, this is quite ironic that I'm going to talk about colour when I can barely recognise more than a few, being profoundly colour blind! However, bear with me. Most people are familiar with colour charts or colour wheels, the sort you often see in furniture and upholstery shops. The idea is simple: all colours have a complimentary or contrasting colour associated with it and by combining these you can achieve a colour balance that is pleasing to the eye. Equally, using different shades and hues of the same colour can also provide a balanced image rather than some discordant chaotic mess. Unless ghats what you want, of, course!

I occasionally post my initial progress on a painting and if you’ve seen them you’ll know that I like to lay down my dark colours first and gradually blend in or build up colours that get progressively lighter but also compliment each other. Sometimes this is done across the painting so one part will balance with another.

Top Tip: An artist friend once told me to photograph my painting in black and white and review the image before deciding the colours worked. If the image looks flat and washed out then it suggests there isn’t enough depth of colour or contrast in the painting. Being unable to see colours well I find this tip invaluable and I highly recommend it.

4. Flip your Focus

Vesuvio by Roy P. Awbery

When painting anything, but especially abstract art, it is always good practice to take a step back for a while and evaluate what you’ve done. Moreover, turn the painting over, 90 degrees and 180 degrees. If the painting looks unbalanced in any one direction it may well be unbalanced in all directions. Even an upside down landscape still holds its balance (rule of thirds, remember!).

What you’re looking for is to ensure all of the elements of your painting work together and not against each other. You’re not looking for exactness or necessarily symmetry but you do want an overall composition that blends together so that you are not mounting a visual assault on your viewers eyeballs!

5. Edge your bets

Easily forgotten but vitally important are the paintings edges. Edges play a role in anchoring your composition and can be used to create striking effects. In fact, some artists use the edges to deliberately strike an imbalance in the painting, which of course forces the viewer into the centre to find the balanced composition. It’s a bit like building a tunnel to draw people in. Edges csn also be used to give the suggestion that there is more of the painting off the canvas. This concept is clever and can leave a viewer pondering what’s out there beyond the edge of the present canvas.

6. Park Precision

One of the fun aspects of abstract art is to ensure that there are a diversity of features to explore on the canvas. When I first started painting abstract art I was obsessed with getting my blending precise and my brush stroke lines all equal and even. This led to some very boring pieces! I’ve since learnt that variety is key and I no longer shy away from letting the painting take twists and turns here and there. If my brush stops dead on the canvas some dramatic, but subtle, marks remain and this adds to the drama on the canvas. If some of the underpainting pulls through the surface this is fine too. When I step back the painting works and when I step closer there are things to be found. It all makes for an interesting painting. Precision is great and sometimes essential but not so in abstract art, at least not mine.

7. Don’t Discard Disasters

Lily Pond by Roy P. Awbery

Mistakes will happen. It’s just a fact of life and most certainly a fact of creating art. I learnt the hard way that if something goes wrong, at least with abstract work, it can pay to just carry out and go with it. Early on I created a piece that was one of my first attempts at complex blending. The colours were contrasting and really quite offensive on the eye. Worse yet, the centre of the painting drew one in like the centre of a dark and forbidding black hole. I actually felt uneasy looking at it. In trying to salvage something out of the wreckage that was now my artwork I decided to etch the surface with radial lines - it looked like a spider web and only served to make the painting even more creepy.

So what did I do? I ran my largest brush over the lot and wiped it out and etched a large tree into it! The tree sold within a couple of weeks. Great result, right? Not quite. Just because I hated it didn’t mean others would. And others didn’t hate it. In fact, they loved it and wanted to buy it. Awkward, as it no longer existed. Luckily I take high resolution images of everything I do so can at least sell prints and canvases of it but it’s not quite the same.

So, the moral of this story is don’t throw away something in your abstract works just because you think it’s gone wrong. It is highly likely that someone out there will think it’s great. I now keep everything! Thankfully, my stock of “also rans” is very small!

I hope my 7 tips help you to understand what lies under the bonnet (hood) of an abstract painting but if you’d like to know more about my process follow me on Instagram (@awberyart) where I often post my works in progress or visit my YouTube channel to see some of my works in action.

If you enjoyed this blog let me know with a comment and sign up for my free two-monthly newsletter.

How to choose art for your home

Every home will benefit from having some form of artwork displayed and paintings are especially good at adding character and personality. I find it frustrating when I see cheap posters or canvases, that one can buy in DIY stores, hung in people’s homes. These products do not really give a hint to the owner’s personality and are more often than not simply bought to fill a space. But, it doesn’t have to be that way. It is entirely possible to buy original artwork without breaking the bank and create a bespoke look in any or every room of your house. And the best bit, artworks are decor that you can move around, take with you when you move and they may even increase in value over time. So how do you choose the right artwork for your home? Here I offer my suggestions on what to think about for various rooms in your home. If I convince you that you need art in your life then consider visiting my website and taking a look at my very affordable paintings (and they are growing in value all the time!).

The Kitchen

The kitchen is often forgotten as a place to display artwork.

I’m going to start with the kitchen. Why? Because it seems to be the least favoured room in the house when it comes to artwork. At most, one might see a large vase and some flowers but these do not last long and I can imagine that there are many days when there are no flowers at all. But artwork, well that remains and can brighten up any kitchen, even the smallest.

There seems to be a trend these days with building developers to design houses that are not designed for cooking in. The kitchens seem to be an afterthought and are often very small. I’m beginning to believe that the developers have shares with Deliveroo or Just Eat and are encouraging home buyers to simply order takeaway dinners. The trend also seems to be towards very clean-looking kitchens with bare bright walls and similarly muted cabinets. Where has the colour and character gone? Well, all is not lost and abstract art can save the day.

Admittedly, abstract art might not be everyone’s cup of tea - it certainly wasn’t mine originally. In fact, once upon a time, my wife took me to the Tate Modern in London to look at abstract art and I lasted five minutes before walking straight out and headed for the natural history museum. Well, you know where you are with rock! But I digress. The point is that abstract are comes in many forms and there is almost certainly going to be something that would work for you and brighten up even the smallest space in your kitchen. And your choice of painting will tell a lot about you as an individual so your kitchen becomes more interesting. Back in the days when we could visit each other’s homes and have parties, wasn’t the epicentre always the kitchen? Now you’ll have a talking point if the conversation runs dry!

If you have limited space look for abstract paintings on stretched or box canvas (also known as gallery canvas). These do not need frames and can be hung just as they are so they are no-fuss solutions and look great.

The Bedroom

Bedrooms look great with calming landscapes or muted abstracts.

Bedrooms are supposed to be where you go to relax before eventually drifting off to sleep, so it makes sense to choose paintings that have a calming or soothing appearance. This is not the room for those loud and dynamic abstracts! If you have space, a large landscape-format painting hung above the headboard looks great as does placing artwork on the wall directly opposite the bed. Of course, with anything hung at the end of the bed you need to choose wisely - you are going to be seeing it every morning!

Seascape paintings can look great in bedrooms - the sea seems to have a very calming effect on the eye although I’d suggest you avoid the depictions of ships crashing onto rocks in a storm unless you find that relaxing. Cityscapes work well and especially those depicting nighttime with the soft glow of city lights. Abstract paintings also work well here but you really want to aim for more muted or desaturated colours. Abstract art is especially versatile here because you can pick out particular colours from your room or soft furnishings and help the painting fit with the overall theme.

Whereas small kitchens do not lend themselves to framed paintings, the bedroom is a great place for framed art. There are so many different types of frames available to suit every taste and budget and again, you can introduce something of your character in your choices with frames and mounts. There are some online companies that allow you to upload your painting as an image so you can see what it will look like in a particular frame. I use EasyFrame but there are probably many others you could use (I’m not paid to say that - they are just really good!).

The Living Room

The living room can be the most daunting room to place art - everyone will see it!

The living room is arguably one of the most difficult or intimidating rooms to decorate at the best of times and then I’m going to suggest that you add artwork to the challenge too. The living room is possibly the most exciting room to decorate with artwork too. I suggested at the start that introducing artwork into your home gives you a chance to show your character and personality and doing this in the living room puts it right out there, front and centre for everyone to see. What’s to be afraid of?

To be fair, other than the time you spend in the bedroom (and most of that is with your eyes closed in the dark) the living room, by definition is where you are likely to spend most of your time at home. As a starter for ten, I would suggest thinking of any artwork as a conversation piece. If the artwork is interesting or unusual it is bound to catch the eye and invoke a conversation, so please don’t pick up the first canvas poster you find in your local DIY store! Think about the setting or vibe you are trying to achieve with the room and choose something that fits in rather than stands out as if it shouldn’t be there (granted, that would be a talking point!).

If you are the outdoors type you might find a large and imposing landscape painting fits in and speaks to your wider interests. Equally, if you travel a great deal, for work or pleasure, old maps set in characterful frames and look great. I have an old map of Europe and Russia and the talking point arises when visitors see it because the countries are not all correct (by today’s geopolitics at least) and the seas have unusual names. In essence, anything really goes in a living room but try to think how a painting reflects something about you or your family.

The study or home office

The home office or study is where you can have some fun with your artwork. Go on, be bold!

With the pandemic forcing many people to work from home and many businesses now looking at new ways of working that may well include a mix of flexible working from home, the home office or study has taken on a new importance for many. To begin with, the home office or study was probably just a spare room or space at one end of the living room but more and more people are designing their spaces specifically for working in (I know I have) and it is important to get the look and feel of it right. But, there is also an opportunity here. In the traditional office setting, one couldn’t simply rock up with a painting and hang on the wall but at home well, it’s your house - your rules, and now is the opportunity to get creative.

As I have said before, your choice of artwork should reflect you as an individual and give an insight into who you are but we all have to limit ourselves to some extent. However, this is not necessarily the case with the home office or study. Largely, it is a dedicated space just for you so why not let go a little and get bold. Have you always loved those bold and aggressive abstracts? Do you find pictures of cute cats relaxing? Maybe you really like those bold semi-nude abstracts that seem to be so popular on Instagram right now (if you haven’t seen them check out Sophie Tea Art who now has a shop in London. I’ve often wondered where that sort of art would be placed and I think the study would be perfect). Whatever you choose is up to you,

If you are limited for space, or don’t wish to put nails in your walls or perhaps you can’t decide what paintings to hang you could try the floating art concept. Put simply, you just prop up your paintings on a mantle, shelf, or desk (whatever you have) and assemble your paintings along the length of your area and allow the paintings to overlap and sometimes stack in front of each other. This then becomes a very dynamic art gallery and you can simply move and swap paintings around whenever you want, so no getting bored of the same old scene. I actually do this in my home office (I have a lot of paintings!) and I find it relaxing to have something new to look at each day. Okay, I should be working and not worrying about what I’m looking at but once an artist…you get the idea!

So there you have it. I hope you’ve found this useful and do leave a comment and let me know, especially if there is another topic you’d like to see covered in a future post. Coming soon will be my argument as to why every home should have abstract art it, not that I’m biased of course!

Finally, if you’ve read this far then thanks - I really do appreciate it. Now go, there’s nothing more to be seen here!

Art and Science Converge - Painting the Periodic Table

Painting the Periodic Table! It seems that there are thousands of artistic representations of the Periodic Table as a whole but very few artistic impressions of the elements themselves. Being a science geek and an artist, I think it’s high time we rectified that.

The Periodic Table. Almost everyone knows what it is and it’s instantly recognisable. It has become something of a cultural icon, according to chemical philosopher Eric Scerri of the University of California, Los Angeles in the US. Created in 1869 by Dmitri Mendeleev it has been the subject of many artistic endeavours from creating colourful tables to representing each of the, currently, 118 elements in cupcakes. Yes really! However, if you try to find artwork depicting the individual elements they are few and far between. So, I’ve decided to expand my series of abstract paintings, called The Elements, with the aim of representing, abstractly, all 188 elements.

Last year, 2019, was the International Year of the Periodic Table but unless you’re a chemist (like me) I would imagine that this may have passed you by. Still, it’s never too late to do something to celebrate this ingenious system for classifying the elements that make up the natural world.

Earlier this year I started a series of abstract paintings that I titled, rather conveniently, The Elements. Initially, these started out as fairly randomly chosen names but I soon settled on using the names of some of the elements from the Periodic Table. This seems to have been a popular move and, after a suggestion from a friend in the US, I’ve decided to repurpose my series and try to represent all 118 elements in abstract form.

Of course, the beauty of doing this in abstract is that I can’t get it wrong! Everyone will see something in abstract art and it’s likely everyone will see something different. That’s why I love abstract painting so much - there’s always something for everyone!

Here you can see my first three abstract paintings in the series. All are 8 x 8 inch on nearly 2 inch thick box canvas. They can be hung as they are but would also look great in a black floating frame. They will all be available from my shop as I create them. You can explore the shop here.

Zenon

Mercury

Neon

What is the Periodic Table of the Elements?

Okay, so I’ve assumed right from the start that just about everyone has at least heard of the Periodic Table but it might be a stretch to assume that everyone actually knows or understands what it is. As a Chartered Chemist I feel it’s my job to educate you on this!

The Periodic Table is a systematic way of displaying the chemical elements, which are grouped according to atomic number, electron configuration and similar chemical properties. The elements are arranged in 7 rows (periods) and 18 columns (groups). Metals (e.g. sodium) are generally on the left and non-metals (e.g. oxygen) are on the right. The columns tend to represent similar chemical behaviour but also reflect differences in reactivity - just recall your school days of reaction sodium and potassium. This also means that chemical behaviour can be predicted for elements yet to be discovered or isolated.

Currently, there are 118 elements on the table but this wasn’t always so. Although the basis of the modern version was built on Mendeleev’s table from 1869 the work to classify the elements actually dates back as far as 1789 when Antoine Lavoisier built his table of just 33 known elements.

Of course, regarding my planned art project I would probably have been happier with Lavoisier’s version as I’d have a lot less to do! As it is, I have another 115 paintings to create so that should keep me out of trouble for a while.

How will I represent the individual elements?

My initial abstract paintings were clearly very popular and the three that are shown above will be the style I intend to use. But, I feel that I need to be able to show some indication of a difference between each painting as they represent a different element. So, my plan is to paint the radial lines that emanate from the centre but include a special larger radial line or lines to represent the atomic number of the element being represented. It’s probably not easy to imagine so just trust me and follow me to see what I mean. Wish me luck!

How to Price your Paintings so your artwork will sell - in 7 easy steps

So, you’ve finished painting and your artwork is ready to be sold, but how do you value your work and set a fair price? I’m not selling a secret formula nor am I going to tell you some complex method. Here, I ask and answer the questions you need to know to be able to price your art to sell. Simple!

In a hurry? Here’s a summary for you:

1. Price up material costs (point 2)

2. Price up your promotion, advertising and website fees (point 3)

3. Price up your sellers transaction fees (point 4)

4. Price up your postage and packaging costs (point 5)

5. Price up the size of your painting (point 6)

6. Check your pricing (point 7)

1.Why do you want to sell your painting?

This may seem like an odd question but if you are just creating art as a hobby and hoping to sell the fruits of your labour your motivation will be very different to someone wanting to make a living from their sales. For the latter, you will want to be paid an hourly rate whereas a hobbyist is less concerned with the value of their time, after all, they are creating during their free time!

Personally, although I now sell my artwork on a regular basis I don’t charge by the hour. I find this unfair because I might find that I’m a very slow artist compared to others and I would therefore be charging unfairly high rates for my slowness - hardly fair on the customer! On the other hand, I might be very fast and then underselling my work! I’ll come back to how I charge later on. (if you can’t wait go straight to point 6!)

2.How much do your materials cost?

A really good habit to get into from the start is to keep records of everything you buy when you create artwork. I didn’t at first and it created all sorts of problems later on. I keep a folder for all of my receipts (which I number sequentially) and a log book (just a spreadsheet in Excel) to make a note of the following information:

1. Receipt Number

2. Date on receipt

3. Merchant or shop name

4. Details of the materials purchased

5. Net cost

6. Tax

7. Total cost

Trust me, later on you will be glad you did this!

Now, the first value you need to know is the total cost of the materials used to create your artwork. Obviously, you won’t use all the paint in a tube so you need to estimate how much you’ve used and divide the cost up accordingly. Don’t forget to include the following:

• Paints

• Varnish

• Canvas

• Primer

• Mounts and frames (including fixings)

3. How much do your website, online shop and advertising/promotion cost?

This often gets overlooked but can be a considerable hidden cost that can eat into your profits. It’s all well and good creating art that people will buy but if you have to pay to let people know it exists then that cost also needs to be recovered.

Simply add up the total costs of all of the platforms and services you pay for that directly promote, advertise or support your artwork sales. Make a note of the total cost.

I don’t mind telling you that my total costs amount to around £120 per year and I started off aiming at selling, on average, two paintings a month. So, I simply divided the cost by 12 and again by 2 meaning I add £5 to all of my paintings to cover these costs.

4. How much do you get charged for sellers’ transaction fees?

This is another one that often gets forgotten but can be quite significant. Etsy, Ebay, Square and PayPal are all great but they all charge you for completing a transaction. Don’t forget that with Etsy you are paying both to list your item as well as completing a transaction. The sellers fees are clear to see so look up your costs for the value of the artwork you’re selling and add this to your running total of costs.

5.How much does it cost to package and post your artwork?

It’s a fact that everyone loves getting something for free. It’s also a fact that nothing is ever really free!

From my personal experience, I have found that advertising my artwork with free postage and packaging makes the artwork a lot more desirable and I have gained more sales since removing this as a separate charge. It also seems that Etsy will favour listings that offer free delivery.

I learned the hard way on this when I sold a painting last year and, after buying the packaging materials and paying for postage, I made a profit of just £3! Hardly worth the effort! I so wish someone had written this blog and sent it to me beforehand!

So, make a note of the cost of postage and packaging for each painting.

TOP TIP: Make friends with your local post office and ask them to assess your paintings for size and weight to provide an estimate for postage costs AND NEVER POST 1ST CLASS - seriously, it makes no difference at all to the speed of delivery (an insider tip from the Royal Mail!).

ANOTHER TIP: Buy bubble wrap, parcel paper and card wrap in bulk - it is much cheaper that way and will keep your costs down. I also re-use all of my outer cardboard packaging.

6. How to value your artwork - pricing your painting

Okay, this is really what you wanted to know, isn’t it? As promised at the start, I’m not about to direct you to some random website with a secret formula that you’ll have to pay for. Nor will I insist that you have to sign up to my exciting newsletter to learn my secrets - although I’d love it if you did sign up below and become a subscriber!

I have two charging rates that I use; one for artwork that I produce myself and another for commissioned work where I am working to someone else’s specification.

1. Pricing my own paintings:

   1. Total cost of all materials and services included postage and packaging

   2. Double this figure and note it. This may seem odd but this will easily cover you for other additional costs such as your tax (see note below) and other incidental costs that you will not have foreseen or realised. This is also a common practice amongst gift retailers, so I’ve been told.

   3. Measure your painting in inches and multiply the height by the length.

   4. Multiply your painting size by a factor.

      Okay, this is the nebulous bit. If you had a factor of 1 you would be charging £1 per square inch. For a modest canvas of 16x20 inches, this would cost £320 before even adding your material costs. This might be a lot for a new artist to hope for.

      I started off using a factor of 0.15 when I first started to sell and this seemed reasonable and I made sales. My factor has steadily increased as my sales have increased, which is inevitable and expected. Indeed, this is actually a good thing for those that bought my art when it was cheaper - their paintings have effectively increased in value!

   5. Finally, simply add your painting value to your material costs and you have the total cost for your painting.

2. Pricing my commissions

I use the same calculus as above but I use a higher multiplication factor for charging commissions. The reason for this is that I put a lot more time and effort into these works and they often involve more time interacting with the client to develop the specification and I also produce prototypes before embarking on the final painting. I use the same factor for all commissions regardless of painting style or genre so every client is being treated equally and fairly.

Most of my commission clients are very private about the amount they have paid for their artwork so I will not be divulging my charging rate. I will say however, that I always agree the price up-front with the client and, on the basis that I’ve never had a painting declined, I guess I’m pricing them about right.

NOTE: Currently in the UK a hobbyist or “self-starters” can earn up to £1000 per annum (gross) before needed to register for, and pay, tax.

7. Are your prices reasonable and realistic?

The final thing I do with my painting prices is check them with similar works online. This is relatively easy to do with Etsy because you can search for paintings in your similar style, size and media. Then look at the sellers. It is relatively easy to work out who are new artists (or at least new to selling) and those who are professional or have been selling for a long time.

Rather helpfully, Etsy will tell you how long someone has been on the platform as a seller, will tell you how many products they have sold and also how many positive reviews they have had. You can then read their bio to see if they are in the same place as you, in terms of artistic journey.

Armed with this knowledge you can down-select those sellers that are most similar to you and look at how much they are charging for similar artwork. I review my pricing periodically and have found that this works well and my prices, even though they have been steadily increasing, are still in line with the prices of other artists’ work of similar quality, style and size.

Of course, the final litmus test for any pricing strategy is sales. If people are prepared to pay what you are asking for you’re probably doing it right (or maybe even undershooting a little). If you aren’t making any sales then your pricing may be off. In this case, the best thing to do is ask people - most will tell you if they think you are over-charging.

I hope this is of some help to you and do leave a comment and let me know if this has helped or just confused you even more! Good luck!

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Hundertwasser - Bringing Colour to the Tate Burghfield (Copy)

I love my local art group! Not to be thwarted by corona virus they have been coming up with novel ideas to challenge us and to keep the group active, albeit by distance. This week's challenge was to learn about the Austrian artist and environmental campaigner, Friedensreich Hundertwasser and create our own Hundertwasser-themed mural design for a fictitious building, the Tate Burghfield. This could get colourful!

Www.Hundertwasser.com

The Challenge

The challenge was to create artwork for a mural for our fictitious new art gallery to showcase all our lockdown art. Here’s the brief:

The new Tate Burghfield building will be based on the architecture and philosophy of artist and environmental campaigner Friedensreich Hundertwasser (1928-2000). Plans for the overall building design are at a late stage and it will be similar to the Museum Hundertwasser in Vienna, with trees and plants built into the buildings facade. However three areas of the building have yet to be designed. Burghfield Art group have been asked to come up with a Hundertwasser themed mural to adorn either a courtyard, a bathroom or the cafe wall, your choice. His artworks are wonderfully colourful, playful and have a mosaic quality to them. Comparisons are often drawn between him and Klimt. Hundertwasser used a variety of media including coloured pencils and recycled materials so really anything goes.

The Hundertwasser Museum in Vienna

Who was Hundertwasser?

Born in Vienna on 15 December 1928 as Friedrich Stowasser, he was better known by his pseudonym Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Hundertwasser was known for his artworks, architecture and his writings. His artwork had a clear style of its own and he was opposed to straight lines or standardisation, which resulted in his unusual and easily recognisable style. He was said to have described straight lines as godless and immoral! This is perhaps why so much of his work uses spirals and other fluid forms and shapes.

There is a really good summary of his life and works on the Hundertwasser official website so I won’t go into detail here but it is well worth a read.

Suffice to say that Hundertwasser’s work has featured widely all over the world and influenced many other artists who followed him. You may have seen evidence of this without even realising it. Hundertwasser died in 2000 whilst on board the QEII and is buried beneath a tulip tree in New Zealand.

Why I’m painting more mini abstract paintings

The Elements mini-series returns!

Another chance for you to buy these hugely popular abstract paintings before they sell out again.

My hugely successful series titled The Elements included these framed square mini abstracts and they were so popular that all sold. In fact, the last three sold before I’d even finished! So, back by popular demand the mini series is returning.

I really enjoyed painting these and each one is entirely unique but still easily recognisable as part of a defined series. The paintings can be bought individually but also look great as a set, as shown in the picture above when all three of these went to the same home. All of the paintings can come framed in black or white floating frames and come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Since starting to sell my artwork last year my prices have inevitably increased in line with both demand and the complexity of the pieces I produce. So, although my paintings may not be as cheap as they once were you can be sure that each painting will be a great investment as the value continues to climb. Go on, why not treat yourself?

The new series of paintings are not yet available on my online shop and the last ones sold out before I’d finished painting them. So, if you’d like to buy one just let me know and I will happily reserve one for you.

5 Ways to Promote your Paintings

Being an artist isn't just about painting, well it isn't if one wishes to sell successfully. I've been learning that one must embrace social media and the learning curve is steep. I can now see why people get degrees in this stuff! Here I provide my insights into five platforms I've been using.

Small acorns? Building my Pinterest following.

In my current lockdown world I've managed to prepare badly and have just about run out of art supplies. So, not to be idle with my artwork I decided to research how to improve my presence on the internet. Here are my five insights with my two favourites at the bottom.

1. Pinterest

   I'm slowly learning to love this platform but, to be fair, it isn't really social media as it's more of a visual search engine for ideas and inspiration. I was interested to read articles that claim many people choose their purchases based on Pinterest research. Ive been using Pinterest for a few years but mostly to collect recipe and holiday ideas. It's only in the last 6 months that I've changed to a business account and started to really understand it. Don't get me wrong, my account still needs a lot of work but it's better than it was!

   What I have discovered is that if one pins regularly, like at least twice a day, then followers grow more quickly and the number of views dramatically increases. Now, I'm less concerned about the number of impressions or page views because this is really just s vanity metric. Just because my pin has appeared on someone's screen doesn't mean that they were actually engaging with my pin. But, the more exposure one has the greater the chance of positive engagement. I may only have less than 300 followers but I value them greatly and some have turned into buyers.

   However, I think from my research, that Pinterest is the key platform for driving traffic to my website and products and for that reason I've gone all in with developing it further. I'll write a separate post on this later but suffice to say, I now know that I need to be pinning several times a day! Thankfully, the scheduler, Tailwind, is perfect for this, or at least it seems to be. I've only just started using the trial version for free (first 200 pins free) and it's about £10 per month thereafter. I'm emracing it and, if it grows my following as I hope it will, then this may well turn out to be my favourite.

2. Instagram

   I love Instagram! I've only been using this platform for about a year in terms of promoting my artwork and it has already rewarded me with sales. I wanted to grow my following organically so I haven't used any methods that grow followed fast. Instead, I've worked hard to properly look and read others posts and comment on them - getting a dialogue and a connection is essential. I've found that if engagement is done well then those following those you engage with are more likely to follow you too. I don't follow others just because they follow me - I want to be seen as someone who follows great content. It's a slow process but I appear to have genuinely interested followers and good engagent some of which have converted to sales. I've not yet hit the 1k followers milestone but I'm getting closer. For me it's really about quality of engagement and not the total number of followers.

   One final insight is that I have learnt that posting everyday on Instagram is a must and twice, for me, seems ideal: in the morning and late evening. My mid-afternoon posts never seem so successful. I've got a lot more to learn with Instagram and I'll keep with it, especially now I've learnt how to do 60 second micro video blogs! There's just no stopping me!

3. Facebook Marketplace and Groups

Facebook has been great for initially telling people about my artwork but I've discovered that it doesn't take long before your friends and contacts lose interest or the Facebook algorithm limits your exposure. To improve matters I joined a number of marketplace groups. This did result in some new sales but I found it time-consuming and clumsy to keep posting my products into individual groups. I still maintain a presence and occasionally post to the group's but it's not my priority right now.

4. Twitter

I have to be honest and say that I've not really had a lot of success with Twitter. In over a year my following hasn't reached 200 despite posting regularly and trying to engage and use the right hastags. I'm sure it works for others but so far I've found it of almost no value. Perhaps I'll have to review my strategy.

5. LinkedIn

LinkedIn was my wild card option and it turned out to be surprisingly effective, albeit on a small scale. My account is mostly associated with my full-time job as a scientist so my connections are mostly in the science or managent fields. However, I decided to post some of my work and have actually sold quite a few of my paintings through these connections. To be fair, I should probably set up an account specifically for the art business but for now, if it's not broke…

10 Tips for the Self-Taught Artist

One doesn’t need to go to a prestigious art school or have a master artist as a mentor to become a good artist. I’m completely self-taught and have regular sales and commissions. Here are my top ten tips for becoming a successful self-taught artist.

1. Pick up your paintbrush and paint!

It’s stating the obvious but if you want to become a successful self-taught artist you need to paint and paint lots! I started out by painting every day for 30 days and haven’t stopped since. Self-teaching means learning as you go and you need to paint as much as you possibly can with different techniques, different brushes and different subjects. By doing this you will learn what you’re good at and, more importantly, what you’re not so good at and need to work on to improve.

You are likely to find that there are some things you just can’t get to grips with or don’t understand how to get the effect you’re after (or trying to emulate if you’re trying to create something you’ve seen before). When this moment comes, and it will, it’s time to get outside help to develop further and tip 2 kicks in…

2. Read and watch lots

When I first picked up a paint brush I had no idea what I was doing. My first effort (which you can see on my 30 Day Challenge Story) was awful and I decided that I need to find out how to paint. The wonder of Google presented me a myriad of articles on painting techniques and information on what brushes did what and how to use them effectively. I also watched videos - a lot of videos - on YouTube. Be warned, some are good and some are bad, so be selective! Finally, I bought a lot of books too.

The scientist in me has a tendency towards research so it was quite natural for me to research painting to help me understand it and determine which direction I was going to go in. It was through this that I knew I wanted to start with water colours and progress to acrylics.

3. Practice on a small scale

This is perhaps my favourite tip because it facilitates keeping you painting. If you are looking to develop as a self-taught artist don’t be drawn into trying to paint large complex paintings that you might find on YouTube tutorials. You could spend weeks working on a complex painting only to be disappointed with the results. And on that note, don’t think you are going to become Bob Ross overnight because you followed his video!

My tip is to keep a good stock of small canvases and papers to practice on. I often try out new ideas and techniques on 8x8 inch stretched canvas or A4 sized water colour and acrylic paper. By doing this it means you have time to finish whatever you are trying to create and the smaller space is more forgiving. Also, if you make a terrible mistake you can simply gesso over the canvas (with acrylics anyway) and start again. My practice pieces are never intended to be sold (no matter how good I think they might be) and are there just to let me try things out.

4. Be your own worst critic

It’s very easy to sit back and think you’ve created a masterpiece but in order to learn and improve one needs to learn how to review one’s artwork without bias, which is not always easy. Of course, you may be inclined to think your work is the best it can be and this can prevent you from seeing any obvious flaws or identify weaknesses in your ability or technique.

I know that I am overly critical of my own work and genuinely believe that I haven’t yet created a painting that I am truly happy with. To get around this I have stopped relying on myself and get a second opinion - well several actually.

5. Canvas the opinion of others

It’s one thing to be overly critical of your own work, or worse, too praising of your own work. It’s quite another to solicit the opinions of others and it can be brutal. I found that many of my friends were very complimentary about my work even when I knew there were major flaws evident. Some friends, however, can be very direct and were genuinely kind enough to be blunt and tell me when things were not quite right. I also started to show some of my apparently finished paintings across my social media platforms - strangers can be incredibly honest when you make it clear that that is what you are looking for. I’ve had some equally blunt feedback which has helped me enormously. I will be honest though and say that one has to develop a thick skin at times!

6. Be open-minded

When I first started painting I was fairly sure that I really did not like abstract art. In fact, some years ago my wife took me to the Tate Modern in London to see an abstract art exhibition and I hated it! Afterwards, we had to visit the Natural History Museum so that I could see some rocks just so I could feel better! You know where you are with a rock!

About 6 months into my journey as an artist I was asked if I would be interested in painting something abstract for a friend and they were prepared to pay. My initial response was honest and I said that I didn’t like or paint abstract art! My wife kicked me and politely pointed out that I would love to give it a try. The result was my first abstract painting and my first successful sale of one of my paintings!

Since then, I’ve spent a lot of time researching art and reading up on contemporary and historical artists and I now have a much wider appreciation of art in all its forms. I no longer shy away from any genre and remain open-minded when it comes to deciding what to paint.

7. Aim high but be realistic

I firmly believe that one should always aim high in everything one does. However, it is also necessary to be realistic and stay grounded. The art world can be fickle and there are a great many artists out there who may never sell a single painting despite their work being of very high quality. When setting out on your journey as a self-taught artist it’s a good idea to think about where you want to go with your artwork. Do you want to sell or are you just doing it for fun as a hobby? It may be that you start off without the intention of selling (just as I did) but then discover there is a demand for your work. It is then up to you whether or not you choose to embrace that and develop it further.

It’s worth bearing in mind that in some circles self-taught artists are not considered nearly as highly as those who attended schools or colleges so one needs to be realistic in expectation. That said, the 21st century world is powered through the internet and there are many hugely successful self-taught artists selling their work through their own websites or, in some cases, exclusively through Instagram.

8. Copy other artists to learn techniques

Now, for this tip I need to make it clear that I am not suggesting you copy another artist’s work and try to sell it! Instead, what I’m suggesting is that there is a lot you can learn by trying to replicate another painting. You will learn how brush techniques, layering and blending, for example. If you’re lucky you might be able to accurately recreate a piece but that really isn’t the aim. The idea is to simply try to repeat some of the elements so that you learn what needs to be done to get a particular effect.

I used this method to learn how to paint skies with clouds so that they had depth and didn’t look flat and one-dimensional. I have literally hundreds of pieces of paper with prototype skies!

9. Challenge yourself

Stepping out of your comfort zone is possibly one of the best ways to develop as an artist. If you were to attend an art class or a school you might find that you end up painting what you are told to paint. As a self-taught artist you can paint literally anything. However, deciding what to paint can be difficult if you have a tendency to keep doing what you know you’re good at. I found that asking others to suggest topics worked well. I was very comfortable painting landscapes and trees and was terrified when challenged by a friend to paint something else. However, if I hadn’t taken on the challenge I would never have discovered that I enjoy painting snow-scapes and scenes with the northern lights or that I have a flair for abstract art. I sometimes also look at other artists’ work and see if I could do something similar.

10. Put the time in and record everything

There really is only one way to become proficient at something and that is to put the time and effort in. I set myself the challenge from the beginning to paint every day for 30 days. This not only developed painting as a habit (which I now find impossible to break) but it also allows you to develop. Long pauses between painting will inevitably mean that you won’t benefit from the mistakes and the learning that you gain along the way. The mistakes are the most important. As frustrating as it is to make mistakes they tend to be the things we remember and learn from the most and even now I still experiment with different ideas and techniques - sometimes with disastrous results!

Finally, keep good records of what you do. I find photographing my steps helps a great deal, especially if I’ve created something I’m pleased with and want to remember what I did or how I did it. I also keep a notebook to record details about the materials I used. Basically, the better a record you keep the more invaluable it will become in the future as you continue to develop as a successful self-taught artist.

10 things to do after finishing your artwork

Deciding when a painting is truly finished is challenging and I often return to make changes many times before finally declaring it finished. But that's not the end of the work as an artist. There is still work to be done! Here is my top 10 list of things to do after you’ve finished painting.

1. Check you really have finished

I really struggle with this. I get to what I think is the end only to see some detail that needs attention or something that's not quite right. If I'm honest, I'm not sure any of my paintings are truly finished but one has to stop somewhere!

So, the first task is to hang the painting up somewhere and let it rest for a while. Give yourself a week or two to keep going back and look at it. Are you really happy with it? No, then go back in and fix it. If you can get to a point where you are as happy as you're going to be then you can declare your painting finished. I must confess I find this harder to do with detailed paintings such as landscapes and much easier with abstracts, which I think are more forgiving.

2. Finish the edges

This task has caught me out so many times. I'd finished my painting and left it on my studio wall waiting to be sold when the sale comes and I realise that the painting looks untidy and unfinished. Panic! I now have to ask the customer if they want to frame it or wish to hang it as it is. If the latter then it's going to need some work.

Generally, if painting on stretched canvas with narrow edges I simply finish off by painting the edges in black or white or, sometimes, the dominant colour in the painting. I certainly don't try to wrap the picture around the edges of the canvas.

If I've painted on a deep-edged box canvas I tend to be thinking ahead and decide early on whether to wrap the image around and therefore paint the edges as I go or decide to just use a solid colour as with the stretched canvas. Either way, a box canvas is far less forgiving because these tend not to be framed.

Unfinished edges on stretched canvas - fine if you’re framing.

3. Sign your painting

Signing your painting should be the last time you touch it with a paintbrush. I try to be absolutely certain that I'm finished because, for me, signing is a symbolic moment of closure.

Signing might seem simple but painting a signature is not as fluid and natural as it is when you sign with a pen on paper. It is usual to sign using the same medium you painted with but you may need to dilute the paint to help it flow. The colour matters too. If you have a very dark painting you won't want to sign in titanium white! I try to use the dominant colour in the painting but dial down the saturation so the signature doesn't distract from the painting.

If you have a common name you may want to consider how to make yours look unique. Simply adding an initial could work or, if you have a long name, perhaps just initials. I spent a lot of time deciding on my personal form.

I also sign in the same place (bottom left) but famous artists like Vincent van Gogh signed in unusual places depending on the image. Sometimes, especially with my abstract art, I won't sign on the front at all and some commissions the clients have asked for the signature to be on the back, known as en verso.

For completeness, I also print my name and sign again on the back of the painting and also include the title of the work and the date it was finished.

4. Give it a title

I don't know if one needs to name every painting but I find it invaluable in helping me keep track of what I've produced. Sometimes the title can be obvious like “woodland stream” but with abstract art you can have some fun with naming and get quite imaginative. In fact, I often ask my followers and subscribers to suggest names which also helps build engagement.

Trust me, you really do want to name your paintings. After my first year of being highly prolific in creating artwork I found it very difficult to keep track of which paintings I had in stock or sold!

5. Photograph your painting

This task goes hand in hand with naming. You will need good quality photos of your paintings for a variety of reasons: updating your website, advertising your work to keeping track of what you've created. You'll also want an image for your Certificate of Authenticity.

Photographing paintings is an entire post of its own so, for now, I'll just say that your images need to be well focussed and framed, of high enough quality to be enlarged but not so large that your website grinds to a halt.

6. Create your Certificate of Authenticity

If you're going to sell your artwork you need a CoA. Why? Because it looks professional and enables the buyer to have a record that shows that it was you as the artist that produced the artwork and can help with maintaing its value in the future. I've posted before on this and you just need the basic details of what it is, dimensions, genre, media, a picture and any other details you think useful, such as how to care for the piece. Having spent hours producing these when orders came in I'm now glad that I create them as part of my finishing up process.

7. Apply varnish

Acrylic paint will, in all probability, last for years but if you're selling your paintings you'll want to be sure that they can stand the test of time. Varnishing will protect the paint from fading caused by UV damage from sunlight and prevent dust penetrating into the paint resulting in a dulling of the colours. Varnish can be applied as permanent or non-permanent. With the latter, a specialist could remove the varnish and bring the painting back to its former glory. With the former, once the varnish is applied, that's it!

Personally, I varnish with a non-permanent matt varnish because I like the finish. It goes on milky white and drys clear but without the glare you get from gloss finishes. It is, though, a matter of personal choice.

Just a word of warning: be sure your painting is totally dry before varnishing. Acrylic paintings can take up to two weeks to dry whilst oils can take anything up to a year. Varnish too soon and you risk smearing your painting.

8. Frame it

Not all of your paintings will need to be framed. Box canvases for example can be painted on the edges and hung as they are. Paintings on paper will need mounting between card, at the very least.

In some cases, particularly if the edge finish isn't great I will frame the painting myself. However, there is a risk that a potential customer could be put off if the frame isn't to their taste. Most of the time I leave framing until a customer requests it.

9. Update website

If you have your own art website now is the time to add your painting. Include at least one good quality photo but, if you can, I'd also suggest an image showing the painting hung in a room so that a customer can imagine what it would look like in their home.

Be sure to include as much detail about your painting as possible including your inspiration or reason for creating the piece.

10. Advertise and promote

Finally, all you have to do is let the world know you've created something. It's all very well getting it onto your website but, unless you have a huge following, very few will know your painting exists unless you tell them.

Update your blog to announce the new piece, post on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. I'd also recommend posting to Facebook and eBay market groups and also to at least one on-line shopping platform. I use Etsy (this is not sponsored!) but I'm sure there are many others you could use. The beauty of these is that they do a lot of the hard work for you.

One final bit of advice: make sure your website prices match prices anywhere else you sell or advertise. Customers don't like to find out that they could have paid less somewhere else for the same thing!

Ten steps to complete so you can truly say your painting is finished! Good luck!

Inside my art studio

Ever wondered where my paintings get created? Did you think I had some swanky huge and spacious art studio or that I worked in a cosy loft space? Not quite! Today, I thought I'd show you where I work which, with lockdown restrictions and working from home, is now also my office. My point? One doesn't need a huge dedicated space to create art that sells. And tidiness is not essential either!

Painting station 1: where I paint smaller works

Work stations

My art studio is really not very large and now doubles as my home office. In terms of size, my space is a bit larger than the average garage. So, although quite spacious when it's empty actually doesn't leave a lot of room once it starts to get used. My solution was to set up work stations so everything is where it needs to be.

The image above is my desk and A2 sized easel. Here I work on my smaller paintings and also my water colour stufues. I also do my sketching and prototype paintings in this space.

Behind this area is my workspace for my large easel. This can take a painting of up to 6ft wide and 4ft high. I have my larger brushes and big pots of primer and under coats around here for ease of access. You can't see it but I also have the floor covered when working on larger canvasses so that I don't end up with a technicoloured floor!

My large canvas work space.

Finally, because I also have to work in this space I've also set up my office area which is another completely different space. The aim being that I don't need to move things around or adjust my room to meet the task in hand. For me this works well but it has taken a few iterations to get right. You soon find out when it's not working when you trip over cables or splash paint where you really don't want it! Anyway, until my art sales get to the volume where I need a dedicated external studio this will do nicely, although I am getting very close to that point. Of course, when that time comes then I'll be able to let people visit my studio which is not quite so simple in a condensed space! There is one final issue and that's where you store your completed works but that's a blog for another time.

My office space in the art studio.

Keeping up with the Kardashians!

It wouldn't be the weekend without another blog or without me trying to learn yet another new trick. Today I've taken my Instagram account to a whole other level by getting into Instagram TV. Brace yourself, I fear this could be a bumpy ride!

Apparently, IGTV is a way of showing longer videos and in a pretty unvarnished state. It's also intended to be a way of showing more of one’s personality rather than polished products. So, never one to shy away from trying something new, I've already posted a video of me narrating a bedtime story. It's not quite Tom Hardy but it's close (😉).

Is this really the way forward? Well, it seems the top so-called influencers have all jumped on this and if it's good enough for the Kardashians then it's good enough for me. Okay, I don't really know who they are but with several million followers they must be quite popular!

I've already started to build a series for my art demos. Going forward I plan to show some of my works in progress which could be interesting because when things go wrong I tend to be quite vocal! I'm not sure how successful this will be but as Instagram is definitely the place to promote artwork I'm going to give it a go.