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During January the spotlight is directed towards International Creativity Month. Created by Randall Munson, the purpose of International Creativity Month is to find time to explore creative ways to re-energize yourself and your colleagues, family and friends.

So what is creativity? Creativity is defined as a process for bringing something new into being. The creative person makes connections between one situation, object or thought and another, and this involves thinking, analyzing and then producing.

Created Creative?
Munson promotes that we were ‘created’ creative, giving the example of how creative young children are: “A center for creative learning studied the creativity of children and found that during the first five years 90% of children are highly creative. The next two years, ages six and seven, the percentage of highly creative children dropped to 10%. By age eight or nine, the percentage of highly creative children fell to only 2% and stayed about that level from that time on,” said Randall.

Creativity is not complicated. Kids do this all the time. And adults can too. You need to start from a place of imagination and free association.

Whether you’re a creative novice or expert, here are a few tips to help power up your creative juices during creativity month (and all the time!)

Creativity and Exploration
As adults take the time to play and explore. Go on a hike and collect random objects for the sake of this creative exercise.Base your collections on what feels interesting to you or spontaneous. With your collection of items, make various associations and categorize:

• color-add elements with similar color
• shape-find common shapes
• texture-look for consistent textures

So what’s the point? Observation! Observation is one of the key strengths in becoming more creative. It’s noticing, comparing, finding similarities and new combinations.

Curiosity
Curiosity is one of the drivers of creativity. When you stop asking ‘why’ or ‘what if’ or ‘how’, then you definitely need a creative boost. Creativity is all about discovery! Discovery is all about questions, curiosity and passion for knowing, understanding and expressing. Take the time to notice the details in nature, listen closely to the things around you, be alive to the world.

Observation

The action or process of observing something or someone carefully or in order to gain information.

Careful observation from a non-judgmental neutral position leads to stronger creative skills. Through observation you can understand and observe subtleties, patterns, and discover solutions to problems through trial and error (which starts with observation). Through awareness of your surroundings you gather information that is valuable for creative combinations. Go back to the exploration phase of finding and categorizing. Observing is paying attention, understanding and again categorizing what you learn so that you can make new and creative combinations. After all creativity is bringing something new into being. Before you can do this you have to have thoughts, objects, inspiration, ideas and more which result from exploration, curiosity and observation.

Of course there are many more factors to creativity.  It’s not black and white and you can find your own ‘formulas’ to enhance your creative growth. Make it a point each day to either explore, ask questions, observe with curiosity and express your thoughts and ideas and be sure to keep a visual journal of your ideas.

The best way to jump start your creativity is to get started.  Stop thinking, forget about processes and procedures and unleash your stream of thoughts.

The post January: International Creativity Month appeared first on Art and Design Inspiration.

What do the visual artist in your life really want? Besides the time to create art, most artists will appreciate inspiring creative gifts and quality art supplies. Special occasions, the holidays and birthdays are the perfect time to show some lovin’ to your art friends and family with gifts that show you care.

From funky Bob Ross goodies to the best quality in art supplies, these suggestions will help artists take their skills to the next level.

Bob Ross: Collectible Figure

Who doesn’t love Bob Ross and his cool vibe! Get the cool Bob Ross vibe with this fun Bob Ross collectible figure.
Purchase here

Caran d’Ache Luminance Colored Pencils

Considered the top of the line, these professional colored pencils combine the smoothness of a permanent lead with excellent lightfastness. Every shade has been formulated using finely ground pigments chosen for their purity, intensity, and resistance to UV rays. Beautiful, buttery and smooth. Available on Walmart.com.

Faber-Castell Polychromos Pencils and Sets

These German pencils are also top of the line. The buttery smooth color laydown offered by Polychromos pencils can be easily blended for layered effects, highlights, and transitions. Their break-resistant, water-resistant, smudgeproof 3.8 mm leads are encased in premium California cedar with Secureall bonding to resist breakage while providing sharp, fine lines and permanent, rich color. Oil based and firmer textures achieved. Purchase information here

Prismacolors – Smooth blending makes for unique expressions.

The popularity of Prismacolors has risen over the years with adult coloring books. The wax based pencil is great for blending and an accomplished artist can do wonders with layering effects. The leads break easily at times, so you will want to make sure that you don’t drop them. Purchase information here.

Fineliner Pens – Microm Pens and Sets

Micron pens are acid-free and archival, making them ideal for paper crafts, journals, illustration, crafts, or any application requiring precision and permanence. Purchase information here

Papers Artists Will Love

Artist drawing paper, illustration boards, pastel paper, watercolor paper, vellums and more! Artistic expression starts with a piece of paper and depending on your medium of choice you will want the best papers as your foundations.

Here are a few versatile papers that I have used and recommend.

Canson Mi-Teintes Touch Sanded Paper And Boards

Canson’s Mi-Teintes has long been one of the world’s leading colored pastel paper brands. Teintes Touch surface features an innovative, sanded-type coating with a smoother, finer tooth than other sanded papers, and is ideal for all work in soft pastels as it holds multiple layers of color on its highly receptive surface. Papers can be found on Blick here

Arches Watercolor Paper Blocks

Made from 100% cotton linters and both internally and externally gelatin sized, acid free Arches Aquarelle watercolor paper is one of the finest art papers in the world and has been around for over 500 years! Choose a watercolor block for easy care. The blocks are glued on all sides which helps to keep the paper flat when working with wet media. Once dry you can cut it off the block. Dick Blick has a good deal on Cold Press 9×12 blocks. Cold Press will give a texture to the surface. Purchase details here

Strathmore 400 Series Drawing & Sketch Pads

400 Heavyweight Drawing Pads – 100 lb., cream-colored paper is ideal for finished artworks and heavier sketch media, allowing for repeated erasing and reworking. Use with charcoal, pencil, colored pencil, sketch sticks, and more! Can be found on Blick most fine art stores.

Moleskine Art Collection Sketchbooks

Always at the ready, Moleskine Art Collection Sketchbooks are the perfect portable canvas for those who sketch and draw — and what artists and professionals turn to for capturing their thoughts, notes, appointments, and contacts. Every book has a rigid, durable oil cloth-bound “Moleskine” cover, sturdy thread-bound binding, 111 lb (165 gsm) acid-free paper pages, a built-in elastic closure, a ribbon placeholder, and an expandable accordion pocket.  Purchase info here

Rembrandt Soft Pastels

The history of Royal Talens goes back to 1899. In that year, Marten Talens founded the “Dutch Factory for Paints, Lacquers, and Inks” based in Apeldoorn, Netherlands. Rembrandt Soft Pastels have since become one of the most popular artist pastels in the world. We offer you the full range of Rembrandt colors in open stock. Rembrandt pastels are made from the purest pigments and mixed with the finest quality kaolin clay binder. Review choices here

Derwent Inktense Pencils and Sets

Derwent Inktense Pencils are as versatile as watercolor pencils, but with a firmer texture that allows them to perform with the brilliant intensity of traditional pen-and-ink. These pencils are available in strong, vibrant colors which work beautifully on their own or can be mixed together to create rich, subtle tones. See assorted colors and sets

Windsor and Newton Drawing Inks

Winsor & Newton’s famous drawing inks are formulated from a series of soluble dyes in a superior shellac solution. Apply them with brush, pen, or airbrush. They are widely used by illustrators, designers, calligraphers, and artists. See selections here

 Windsor and Newton – Who are they?

Winsor & Newton was founded in 1832. Based on a partnership between a chemist and artist, we have stayed true to their heritage by continually pursuing modern advancements in chemistry whilst collaborating with artists and designers.

“In 1832, both men were in their late twenties and shared an interest in painting. Newton was the more artistically gifted of the two whereas Winsor, who also painted, contributed the scientific knowledge that was to be so important”.

Windsor & Newton has enabled generations of artists to express their creativity including the following famous artist. According to their history, The Scream, Edvard Munch, 1893, used more than 250 tubes of his Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour!

Still not sure what to get the artist on your holiday list?

Check out the most loved art supplies on Blick. From paints to canvas to pen sets, you are sure to find just the right creative gift. Most-Loved Art Supplies

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The post Best Gifts for Artists Who Draw 2023 – What to buy your artist friends (or yourself)! appeared first on Art and Design Inspiration.

Favorite Bob Ross Quotes

That’s a crooked tree. We’ll send him to Washington.

Find freedom on this canvas.

I think there’s an artist hidden at the bottom of every single one of us.

Make love to the canvas.

We tell people sometimes: We’re like drug dealers, come into town and get everybody absolutely addicted to painting. It doesn’t take much to get you addicted.

We want happy paintings. Happy paintings. If you want sad things, watch the news.

Bob Ross Quotes on Creativity and Inspiration

Ross’s quotes are filled with wisdom and inspiration for artists of all backgrounds. He believed that creativity was not limited to the realm of art but could be applied to all aspects of life.

One of his most famous quotes is, “We don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents.” This quote reminds us that mistakes are an essential part of the creative process and should be embraced rather than feared.

Another quote that showcases Ross’s belief in the power of creativity is, “Talent is a pursued interest. Anything that you’re willing to practice, you can do.” This quote is a reminder that creativity is not solely reserved for those with natural talent, but rather, it is a skill that can be cultivated through practice and dedication.

Bob Ross Quotes on Nature and the Environment

Ross was known for his love of nature and often incorporated landscapes and natural elements into his paintings. He believed that nature was a source of inspiration and that spending time in the great outdoors could help ignite our creative spirit. One of his quotes that perfectly captures this sentiment is, “Look around. Look at what we have. Beauty is everywhere – you only have to look to see it.”

Ross also had a deep respect for the environment and advocated for its preservation. He often spoke about the importance of taking care of our planet and leaving it in a better condition for future generations. In one of his quotes, he said, “We don’t want to set our world on fire. We just want to paint a happy little tree.”

Bob Ross Quotes on Happiness and Positivity

One of the most remarkable aspects of Bob Ross was his unwavering positivity. He believed in finding joy in the simplest things and encouraged his viewers to do the same. One of his famous quotes that exemplifies this mindset is, “We don’t make mistakes here, we just have happy accidents.” This quote reminds us to embrace the unexpected and find beauty in every situation.

Ross also believed that art had the power to bring happiness to people’s lives. In one of his quotes, he said, “Let your imagination be your guide. Find what makes you happy and go for it.” This quote encourages us to follow our passions and pursue what brings us joy, both in art and in life.

How to Apply Bob Ross Quotes in your Own Life

The wisdom of Bob Ross extends far beyond the art world. His quotes can be applied to various aspects of our lives, helping us navigate challenges and find joy in the everyday. One way to incorporate Ross’s philosophy into your life is by embracing the concept of happy accidents.

Instead of viewing mistakes as failures, see them as opportunities for growth and creativity.

Another way to apply Ross’s quotes is by finding inspiration in nature. Take the time to observe the beauty around you and let it inspire your creative endeavors. Whether it’s a walk in the park or simply gazing at the clouds, connecting with nature can ignite your imagination and spark new ideas.

Bob Ross’s legacy and continued influence

Even though Bob Ross passed away in 1995, his legacy continues to inspire artists and art enthusiasts worldwide. His television show, “The Joy of Painting”, is still broadcasted today, introducing new generations to his calming presence and artistic expertise.

The post Inspiring Bob Ross Quotes to Brighten Your Day appeared first on Art and Design Inspiration.

Are you an artist struggling to find the right words to convey the deeper meaning behind your art? Look no further. In this comprehensive guide, we will empower you with the tools you need to master the art of self-expression through writing an effective artist statement.

Crafting an artist statement is an essential skill for any artist looking to exhibit their work, apply for grants, or simply engage with their audience on a deeper level. But it’s not just about putting words on paper; it’s about creating a powerful narrative that complements and enhances your artistic vision.

Throughout this guide, we will dive into the key elements of a compelling artist statement, including how to articulate your inspiration, convey your artistic process, and communicate your unique perspective.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out on your artistic journey, this guide will empower you to confidently express your artistic vision and captivate your audience with an artist statement that truly reflects who you are as an artist.

What is an artist statement?

An artist statement is a written description that provides insight into an artist’s work and creative process. It serves as a bridge between the artist and the audience, offering a glimpse into the inspiration, ideas, and concepts behind the artwork. Think of it as a personal introduction to your art that allows viewers to connect with your work on a deeper level.

An effective artist statement should be concise, clear, and authentic. It should capture the essence of your artistic vision and provide context for your work. Whether you’re a painter, sculptor, photographer, or any other type of artist, mastering the art of writing an artist statement is crucial for establishing your identity as an artist and connecting with your audience.

Why is an artist statement important?

An artist statement plays a vital role in the art world for several reasons.

Firstly, it provides a deeper understanding of your work, allowing viewers to engage with your art on a more meaningful level. It gives them a glimpse into your thought process, the emotions you aim to evoke, and the themes you explore in your artwork.

Secondly, an artist statement is often required when submitting your work for exhibitions, grants, or residencies. It helps curators, jurors, and potential buyers understand your artistic intentions and evaluate the relevance and quality of your work.

Lastly, an artist statement serves as a marketing tool. It can be used on your website, social media profiles, and promotional materials to communicate your unique artistic voice and attract potential buyers, collectors, and collaborators.

Components of an effective artist statement

Crafting an effective artist statement involves several key components that work together to create a compelling narrative. Let’s explore each of these components in more detail:

Understanding your artistic vision
Before you begin writing your artist statement, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your artistic vision. What themes, ideas, or emotions do you explore in your work? What drives your creativity? Take some time to reflect on your art and identify the core elements that define your artistic voice.

Your artist statement should reflect this vision and provide insight into the motivations and inspirations behind your work. Whether you draw inspiration from nature, personal experiences, or social issues, your statement should convey your unique perspective and capture the essence of your artistic journey.

Identifying your target audience
Knowing your target audience is essential when crafting an artist statement. Who are you trying to reach with your art? Are you targeting art enthusiasts, collectors, or a specific demographic? Understanding your audience will help you tailor your statement to resonate with them and create a connection.

Consider the language, tone, and level of detail that will resonate with your target audience. If your art is more conceptual, you may need to explain your ideas in a more abstract and philosophical manner. On the other hand, if your art is more accessible, you can use a more straightforward and relatable language.

Crafting a compelling narrative
An artist statement is not just a collection of facts about your work; it’s a storytelling tool that engages and captivates your audience. Start by introducing yourself and your art in a concise and intriguing manner. Grab the reader’s attention and make them curious to learn more about your artistic journey.

Next, dive into the core concepts and themes of your work. Explain how your art explores these ideas and why they are important to you. Share personal anecdotes, experiences, or influences that have shaped your artistic vision. Use vivid language and imagery to paint a picture in the reader’s mind.

Incorporating keywords and SEO techniques in your artist statement
In today’s digital age, it’s essential to optimize your artist statement for search engines to ensure it reaches a wider audience. Identify relevant keywords and phrases that are commonly used in your art field and incorporate them naturally into your statement. This will improve your chances of appearing in search results when people are looking for artists or artwork similar to yours.

Showcasing your uniqueness and artistic voice

One of the primary goals of an artist statement is to showcase your uniqueness and artistic voice. What sets you apart from other artists? How do you approach your craft differently? Highlight the aspects of your work that make it distinct and memorable.

Share your artistic process, techniques, or materials that contribute to the creation of your artwork. Explain how you experiment, take risks, or challenge traditional norms in your artistic practice. This will help your audience understand your creative choices and appreciate the thought and effort that goes into your work.

Once you have drafted your artist statement, it’s important to edit and refine it to ensure clarity and coherence. Read through your statement several times, checking for grammar and spelling errors. Ensure that each sentence contributes to the overall flow and narrative of the statement.

Consider seeking feedback from trusted peers, mentors, or professionals in the art industry. They can provide valuable insights and suggestions for improvement. Remember, the goal is to create a concise and impactful statement that effectively communicates your artistic vision.

A well-crafted artist statement demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism, so take the time to polish your statement before sharing it with the world.

The post Mastering the Art of Self-Expression: A Guide to Crafting an Effective Artist Statement appeared first on Art and Design Inspiration.

Pablo Picasso is considered one of the most iconic artists of all time. The Old Guitarist is perhaps one of his most famous paintings from the Blue Period (1901 – 1904). The painting is expressive of the monochromatic style in which Picasso painted mainly in shades of blue and blue-green.

At the time of this painting in 1903, Picasso was very poor. His poverty gave him unique and emotional insights. It was also during this time that one of Picasso’s good friends had committed suicide and his feelings of sadness, melancholy and emptiness are expressed in his artwork.

Somber in color and subject matter, the painting we are about to look closer at is reminiscent of Francisco de Goya’s theatrical style.

The Old Guitarist – Composition Analysis

The Old Guitarist depicts an older haggard man on the streets of Barcelona, Spain. The composition expertly frames the mood and isolation in the painting.

In his early years, Picasso received formal artistic training from his father in figure drawing and oil painting, and expertly applies the composition rules of thirds. The rules of thirds dictates that if you divide any composition into thirds vertically and horizontally and then place the key elements of your image along these lines or at the junction the arrangement will be more dynamic.

Thorough composition, paint, subject matter and intuition, an uncomfortable disconnect is presented to the viewer of the painting.

In the middle of the composition, The Guitarists right arm and hand seem to suspend in mid air. Elongated fingers curve towards his right leg which wraps him in a cocoon like state. At the top right of the composition the fingers are elegantly positioned in action and elevated a bit higher then the shoulders as if reaching beyond the confinement of the space.

The angular composition behind him (which is later prevalent in Picasso’s Cubism phase) seem to close in on the Guitarist compressing him into a tiny space that feels airless. Dramatic dark’s and lights further accent the composition as the final touch of melancholy.

The Guitar – The Most Valued Possession

The guitar in The Old Guitarist is a curiosity in the painting. Centered in the composition, the empty eyes of the Guitarist (expressing his blindness) align vertically at the junction of the third with his nose and mouth downward and then sweeping upward from the elbow to the delicate hands which bring your eyes to the guitar. The monochromatic style takes a slight turn as the guitar is painted a warmer color.

The guitar is the bright spot in the painting which may symbolize the most important possession the man has.

Homeless street musicians in Barcelona relied on a small income that could be earned from their music. The guitar being the most valued possession of the Old Guitarist and the music being his escape.

Was the guitar painted by Picasso in The Old Guitarist from a long line of famous guitar markers in Barcelona – starting with Juan Estruch Rosell in the late 19th century?

We will never know the whole story behind the life of The Old Guitarist, however Picasso in all his genius presents a scene that evokes emotions and impacts generations.

Interested in more Picasso articles? You might like to see these pictures of  Picasso in his studio in the 1960’s.

The post The Old Guitarist – Pablo Picasso appeared first on Art and Design Inspiration.

Take a look below and be inspired with several of his art pieces.

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Our Featured Artist to start 2023 is Joseph A. Miller. His work is intriguing and invites the viewer to explore the narratives behind his work.

Joseph A. Miller is an Associate Professor of Art at S.U.N.Y. Buffalo State University, where he has taught drawing and painting since 1997. He earned a B.F.A. degree from Kutztown University, Pennsylvania in 1990 and an M.F.A. degree in painting and drawing from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale in 1993. Before being offered the teaching position at Buffalo State College Joseph worked at The Philadelphia Museum of Art in both the security and art conservation departments.

Miller’s work is in numerous public and private collections, and has been shown internationally in Finland, China, Poland and the Czech Republic, as well as across the United States, from Berkeley, California to Cambridge, Massachusetts. His work has been exhibited at the Arnot Art Museum, the Castellani Art Museum and the Burchfield-Penney Art Center in New York, the Allentown Art Museum, the Woodmere Art Museum, the Erie Art Museum in Pennsylvania, and the Springville Museum of Art in Utah. He has earned numerous awards, including a First Place Award in A.D. Gallery’s Art in Times of Anxiety National Exhibition, at Pembroke, NC, a Purchase Award and a People’s Choice Award at the Royal Nebeker Gallery, in Clatsop Community College’s, Au Naturel: The Nude in The 21st Century International Exhibition, in Astoria Oregon, a First Place Award in Manifest Creative Research Gallery’s International Drawing Annual V, in Cincinnati Ohio, a Best in Show Award in the National Drawing and Painting Exhibition at the Lore Degenstein Gallery at Susquehanna University, Pennsylvania, and two Purchase Awards from Wright State University Art Galleries in Dayton, Ohio. Joseph has given lectures about his work at the University of Colorado at Boulder, Daemen College, New York, Southern Utah University, The University of Utah, Utah State University and at the Burchfield-Penney Art Center in Buffalo, New York. His work is represented by the Art Dialogue Gallery in Buffalo, NY, Meibohm Fine Art in East Arora, NY and the West End Gallery in Corning, NY.

Artist Statement

I focus primarily on the human figure depicted in environments that create a context for psychologically charged open ended narratives. Many of these narratives explore ideas about power and vulnerability.

Quality of light is a common theme. In particular, the way in which atmospheric light and locale can suggest a sense of mystery and silence. These works are dark, humid and hopefully, at their best, memorable. For me, the most successful are those that evoke the feeling that an event is about to happen or has recently happened.

Images of figures or figures in landscapes, in groups or in isolation, share a common feeling of significance. Wholly absorbed within themselves or the dialogue shared between one another, they wait for the unfolding of their private story.

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If you are an artist, creative entrepreneur or Blogger, then you can appreciate creative imagery to spark your imagination!  Finding free imagery to use as a source of inspiration for your work or on your Blog posts can be a challenge. It can also be confusing to understand image use from public domain sources.

What is Public Domain?
The term “public domain” refers to creative materials that are not protected by intellectual property laws such as copyright, trademark, or patent laws. The public owns these works, not an individual author or artist. Anyone can use a public domain work without obtaining permission, but no one can ever own it. Sounds confusing? It can be. Read exactly what it means here

Before cruising the Internet for a source of inspiration for an image to use, be sure that the image is in fact, ‘free’. We’ve done some of the work here in finding sources of imagery that are ‘free’ to use. Though, the responsibility is still up to you, always be sure if you have any doubts, as to the usage rights, to contact the owner of the source.

Here Are a Few of the Best Sources for Imagery

New York Public Library

Public Domain Collections: Free to Share & Reuse
More than 180,000 of the items are in the public domain. Hours of inspiration can be found in this vast online resource.

Openverse

Explore more than 600 Million Creative Works
You can spend hours getting lost in this extensive library of free stock photos, images, and audio.

Unsplash

Subscribe and get 10 new photos every 10 days. You don’t know what it will be, but it’s sure worth the surprise.
Unsplash – “Free Do Whatever You Want.”

Death to the Stock Photo

Beautiful lifestyle photography free for the taking. One of the best online. Subscribe here for a pack sent to your inbox monthly along with a writing prompt.

Pexels

Daily 5 new high-quality photos – Pexels

Pikiwizard

Quickly browse free stock photos and view trending, favorites and latest. A good combination of lifestyle, food, nature and themes. Pikiwizard

Pixabay

High quality images you can use anywhere. Pixabay

Free Nature Shots

Free Nature Shots – Great finds in here if you are looking for landscapes, flowers, trees and sky.

Picjumbo

Picjumbo an impressive collection of lifestyle shots.

Cupcake

Cupcake Free Images – You will find some inspiration here! “Although, you’re more than welcome to let me know if you use images for a website, illustration or whatever, it’s inspiring to see the results.”

Stocksnap

Great for concepts and something different. Stocksnap.Explore here

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Interested in seeing more body art work? Check out artistic duo Chadwick Gray and Laura Spector.

The post The Art of Body Painting – Amber Wike appeared first on Art and Design Inspiration.