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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Here are 10 effective tips to become a better artist.

As we start 2022 most of us have new things we want to do. We start off on the right track with resolutions, but as time passes what we resolve to do diminishes. For artists it’s especially important to make resolutions that will keep you on the track to creating more art which will increase your skills as an artist.

First, let’s dispel any myths that there are quick and easy ways to become a good artist. Developing art skills is an investment in time, observation and resolve.

1. Improve Time Management Skills
If you don’t have time to work on your craft, how can you get better? How efficiently you spend your working hours directly affects how much time you have to spend doing the activities you enjoy. Write to-do lists every day, tune into your most productive and energetic times of the day. Work to stay focused by avoiding the distractions that you’re prone to. Turn your phone off!

2. Appreciate More
Obviously, creating art comes from a place within. Taking time to tune into the good (and the bad) in your life is important. Observe the small things. Practice mindfulness in the moment. When you slow your critical thinking down you can tune into the fleeting moments.  Moments that you can capture what you see, feel and express on a deeper level. Everyday demands can make it a challenge to see in ‘slow motion’, however as you practice doing this you will notice the things around you in a new way.

3. Get Organized

Organization can be a challenge for a visual person. As a visual person, I like to see all the stuff on my desk that I have to work with. Reducing clutter helps with clarity. Each day I resolve to organize small sections of my workstations. We’ll see how it goes!

4. Put Time for Art on the Calendar
We only get better with practice and sometimes making the time to practice art is a challenge. Make it a priority to create new art and work on current art in 2022. Even if it’s just a few hours a week you will make progress. And don’t forget about the therapeutic benefits of lowering anxiety and stress!

5. Draw, Sketch… Draw, Sketch… Repeat!
Drawing is the foundation to all art and a skill that is based on practice and observation. As you learn how to draw, work on increasing your skills with sketching and exploration. Basic shapes, line, values, expressive lines and capturing ‘feeling’ of what you are expressing. Even the best of artists continue to draw and sketch. Take your sketchbook to work, in between meetings or wherever; get out your sketchbook and express your thoughts.

6. Take Time to Share & Encourage
As art can be a solitary activity it may be time to reach out and social media is a perfect avenue.  Visit other artists fan pages to show support and encouragement. Plan social media into your calendar and share the progress of your work.

7. Be prepared – always be ready to capture your ideas!
While out and about and inspiration strikes, be sure and capture it! Keep the sketchbook with you. Or at the very least, snap pictures of what catches your eye. Keeping an ongoing source of inspiring images that you can refer back to when needed. As your image files increase consider Dropbox or Google Drive which are great tools for storage and can be accessed at any time.

8. Practice, Practice… Practice!
As we mentioned earlier, there is not a quick and easy fix to becoming a better artist. Besides, if there was, would that be fun? The reward of being a good artist is that you have achieved a level of skill that you have worked for.

Even if it comes ‘easy’ to you, the gift of being an artist is one that never gets old or tiring. You can keep working on it and enjoying the personal satisfaction that comes from your creativity, skill and experience.

9. Teach Others
Stepping out of your comfort zone as you become a better artist to teach others can be unnerving. After all, perhaps you are your own worse critic. Does this fear of teaching hold you back? If you’ve attained any level of art skill it might be time for you to show others how you got good at your craft! YouTube videos and even in person workshops can be very rewarding. As you get better, consider teaching and encouraging other artists! Share the art love!

10. Your Mindset – Don’t Compare
As artists we are sometimes critical of our work. Comparison as it is said, “…is the thief of joy.” As you develop your own style and trust your vision your work becomes more meaningful.

In 2022, may you enjoy more time and inspiration as you create art!
– Christina Rosepapa

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It’s one of the most exciting and anticipated times in life when an artist finally goes pro. Having your work displayed in a gallery (or galleries) is the ultimate dream of most artists! However, it’s important that you write an artists’ statement if you really want to reach your ultimate level of success. When people look at and admire your work, they’re curious about the “real” person who’s behind it. Those who love art know that those who create these works are talented and creative – but they want to know more.

So, what is an artist’s statement? In a nutshell, it is a brief, relevant, compelling statement that offers answers to the questions those who admire your art likely have, such as your philosophy, what materials you use when creating your artistic works, how you learned to oil paint, craft charcoal drawings, or whether your talent comes naturally, etc.

Briefly reveal your passion for art, what inspires you, what your artistic works mean to you.

How to make your Artist Statement effective?

As an artist, you may adhere to the belief that you don’t need an artist’s statement, that those who look at your art will develop their own ideas about who you are, will take away their own experiences. While this is true, people want facts.

Think of it this way: If you were at the gallery 24/7, every time someone admired your work or considered buying it, they would be excited and filled with questions to ask you.

An effective artist statement provides answers to questions those browsing your paintings, pictures, or other works would otherwise ask you if you were present. If your work is part of a series you will want to identify this. If your work expresses ideas, culture, relevant topics, you will want to briefly introduce these. Avoid being too wordy and try to use adjectives.

Always keep in mind to use simple language that is easy to understand for a reader on any level. Use everyday, ordinary language, not fancy art terms that no one but you and other artists would understand. You don’t have to be a prolific writer. Three – Four paragraphs with three to five sentences each will usually suffice; and when it comes to the information, don’t spell out every detail – shorter entices the reader to want to learn more. Oh – and always write your artist’s statement in first person, infusing it with your own individual perspective.

For instance:
Paragraph one: 2 sentences about who you are;
Paragraph two: Overview of your artistic style, vision or dream;
Paragraph three: Specifics about the type of work that you are showing. You may also want a sentence or so about your process
Summary: Engage your audience with a personalized message or a thank you for viewing your work.

Other than an artist’s statement being required to showcase your creative works in most galleries, think of it as a bridge between yourself and potential customers.

When people have a clear understanding of what inspires you, your passion for your work, and how you became interested in learning or expanding your talent, it simply gives them that many more reasons to crave those beautiful, distinctive, or even odd works of art that are uniquely yours!

The post How to Write an Artist Statement, and Why It’s Essential to Write One That’s Effective appeared first on Art and Design Inspiration.

Make sure you’ve chosen the right niche. You’re pretty sure you want to become a artist, and you’ve already taken steps toward that end. Ask yourself a few questions to make sure this what you’re passionate about. Is it something you’ll be happy to continue learning about, and will you enjoy your work as much five years from now as you do today? Those who experience the most success are truly passionate about what they do.

Decide where your art workspace will be. Should you have a home studio, or one located away from home? Depending on your lifestyle and your budget, there are advantages of both. For instance, if you have two or three small children at home, it won’t be an atmosphere that’s conducive to getting much accomplished! However, if you’re on a tight budget there is much to be said for working at home – no overhead, gas for the car, or expense for a fast-food lunch. Know your personal preferences, and how well you can ignore distractions at home.

Set goals. It’s essential that stay motivated and focused. Keep in mind that not only do you have to meet your own expectations and needs, but those of your family. Schedule your time so that it works out best for your own unique situation – and set small goals, so that you will enjoy the experience of accomplishing something.

Organization is key. Because you are your own boss, you have the luxury of sleeping late every now and then or going to your daughter’s dance recital at 3 in the afternoon. Therefore because you are not on a strict schedule, you must stay organized. Keep a planner and organize the next day’s work the night before. Set regular break times for yourself so that you don’t “burn out” and will stay energized. For many budding artists (and even seasoned ones) it’s best to start your day with the most difficult task, so that you can look forward to the rest of your workday without dread.

There are lots of other things new artists should do to begin their careers on the right foot; build a website, fill it with your work, engage in social media, stay current in your skills – and on and on. But this is enough to keep you busy for a while! Essentially, make sure you have all of your ideas lined out and a stable foundation before you jump out there and start advertising your services.

The post Essential Tips for New & Self Taught Artists appeared first on Art and Design Inspiration.

First, who is showing and how do you decide?
In the beginning stages of deciding to have an art show it usually starts with a group of artists that you meet or know and have expressed an interest. The artists typically have been working on art projects for some time and are skilled in their medium.

Second, a commitment from the artists to participate in an art show and a willingness to collaborate with other artists.

Third, a commitment to the group, the time and expense that it takes to put on a professional art show.

While this is general, I’ve broken this down into smaller steps.

You have an interested group of visual artists that are confident and ready to show their work in a gallery setting to the public. The artist has a collection of work that will be framed, presented and if desired sold (though many of us did not want to sell our work). This is a big first step.

Set a date to discuss the details. Ongoing meetings revolving the show and details will help keep everyone motivated and moving forward.
Planning is important – plan in advance, it’s best to have at least 3 months to plan for the show.

Based on the participants, assign each show participant with a task towards the show. Putting on a professional art show takes time, details and expense. To start we had a entry fee that would cover the cost of putting on the show. We had 2 fee structures; one for those that just wanted to show and another lesser cost for those that wanted to show and would take on one of the tasks towards the cost of the show.

Tasks include:

• Food Planning
• Decorating
• Working with vendors
• General planning
• Planning the space and all that goes along with it
• Marketing: Website, social media, printing of announcements
• And much more

Estimating costs. The costs of show will involve the rental of the gallery space, marketing and printing costs, food at the show, insurance (we needed insurance for the day), tables, tablecloth’s, decorations such as flowers, serving platters, etc…. don’t forget to plan for the smaller things like how hardware to hang the work, lighting, signage at the show and outside of the show.

Promotion – web, social media. For our group we have a website, social media presence and printed postcards for the event.

Theme – We had a group theme. For this show it was “Generations.” Each artist did a piece of work relating to the theme and their interpretations. From the artwork, we printed greeting card packets that we sold at the show. We had 10 different cards that were printed, packaged and sold. The sales of the cards went to our group charity that we selected in advance.

One of our goals was to have an art show that would also raise awareness not only for us as artists, but also a charity that we wanted to support.

Our goal – artists empowering each other and the community.

The space – finding the right gallery space isn’t easy. We wanted a professional gallery space that would rent for 2 days. The day before the show we really needed the time to set up the art displays and get everything in order. For securing the right gallery space and getting it on the calendar plan for at least a couple month or more depending on the popularity of the location. Once you have your preferred space you will have to go through an application process.

The display – we’re artists. Expect that all the displays will be professional, creative and perfect… of course!

Food – Hors d’oeuvres. For any gallery showing you need hors d’oeuvres to go with it. Plan for foods that aren’t messy and easy to serve.

Style: dress and name tags – in our show we had a ‘dress’ policy. Why not?! Wear black and white, have a name tag so that visitors can identify the artists (we all had small name tag canvases that we customized). Be distinguishable as the artists at the event.

Promote! Our promotions were set up through our website, social media, postcards, email marketing and direct invite.

Taking it to the next level – Beyond an art show
We decide to make our art show a fundraiser. We selected a charity to raise awareness for and to raise funds for. As a group we created art card packets that were sold at the show. All proceeds went to our charity.

We also had a raffle and had a variety of sponsors who donated towards the raffle. For their donation, they were listed on all of our signage and marketing. Raffle tickets were sold at the art show and all proceeds went to charity.

After the show
At the shows, we have a sign in sheet for our visitors. Using this sheet we invite the same people back via email marketing.

For our sponsors we make sure to recognize them with handwritten thank-you notes.

During the show, we have many artists who are interested in showing with us next year, we be sure to add them to the list to notify them on the upcoming show and the first meeting.

The post Ready to show? Tips to Put on a Successful Art Gallery Show appeared first on Art and Design Inspiration.

The Written Description of your Artwork is Critical

If you’re a self-taught artist who wants to sell your art online, coming up with 200 or 300 words may seem like a daunting task; after all, you’re an artist, not a writer! That said, when you want to promote your creative works on the Internet, using words – the RIGHT words – is essential. In fact, the written description of your art can be just as critical as the visual in the virtual world. You have to “sell” the virtues and features of your work, offering vivid descriptions for potential buyers.

How to See Your Artwork From Your Buyer’s Point of View

You’re not a writer, and maybe your marketing skills aren’t so great, either. Online, you have to look at your paintings, sketches, and drawings from the potential buyer’s point of view, describing the benefits and features in a way that engages the potential buyer. Art work can be challenging to sell (for a good price), however by connecting the emotional and story value to the work you will increase the value. Details in your descriptions and artist statement will elevate your work. Learn how to write an artist statement here.

Achieve success selling your art online with these tips.

Paint a vivid picture with words.
Describe your creation as if the interested party could not see the painting or drawing. Think of it this way: Pretend the words you use to describe your work is the only experience the reader will ever have of it.

Include details of the colors, being very descriptive about their effect. For instance, dark blue may be included with the word “dusky.” Other descriptive words describing the intensity of color can include diffused, radiant, luminous.

Consider the feeling you can evoke through words.
If a potential client is looking for a painting to use as the focal point over a sofa in the living room, he/she isn’t looking for a sunset with lots of purple and orange. The client is thinking more in terms of a distinctive, eye-catching piece that will evoke a relaxed, soothing feeling. Your words should make potential buyers FEEL the mood or tone of the painting.

Owning Art as a Status Symbol
I’ve found it strange that people who can spend thousands of dollars on furniture in an upscale home will resort to off the shelf cheap art prints mass produced in China. My thoughts are… they don’t think about the wall. Or they don’t know there is a better option. Market your work as a status symbol. An investment. Buying original art can have a financial basis and the potential future value of the painting or sculpture may have been the deciding factor.

Owning original art can lend an air of success to the recipient of the art. It can also be a status symbol of culture, value and meaning.

Scarcity
Don’t be in a rush to sell your work. Human nature is that we all want what we can’t have. Take the approach of scarcity marketing and limit the availability of your work. When producing prints sign and number each one. Be sure and use terms such as limited editions. Words such as; one-of-a-kind collectable, a legacy for future generations, an heirloom piece, timeless. These words convey weight and value.

Social Proof
Use other peoples words about your work. What others say increases visibility. As challenging as it might be, ask for the endorsements of your work. More than just “we like the artwork”.

This is an extraordinary painting of a magnificent horse! I have him framed and up on the wall and is one of the first things you see when you come into my home. Everybody comments on how beautiful this horse and this painting is.

The colors are so vibrant and the expression of the brushstrokes makes it come alive. I bought this for my daughter and she is thrilled.

Sell the experience.
Sure, art is charcoal, pencil, or paint on canvas or other medium – but it isn’t passive!
You aren’t just selling a physical object, you’re selling an experience, a feeling, a moment in time. Explain in your content what your art accomplishes, whether it nurtures and soothes, charms, motivates, or creates an atmosphere.

Even after reading these tips, coming up with the right words may still be tough – but with practice and a little assistance from family and friends who can describe your artwork from their own unique perspectives, you’ll find it becomes much easier!

The post Crafting Words That Sell Your Art – Online Selling Tips for Self-Taught Artists appeared first on Art and Design Inspiration.

There are countless cartoons and videos on the plight of the undervalued artist and designer in the eyes of the client.

Tattoo artists face the same challenges. How about the client of the new tattoo artists and being told “this is a honor for you to create your art on my arm, think about all the people who will see it… and who knows maybe you will get work from this.” For professionals this doesn’t fly.

The first step in getting paid for your art, is your mindset. How do you value your work?

Giving your work away and services trade – Don’t get in the habit of it!
As beginners most professional artists have faced the client wanting the work for free or in exchange for another service. This is ok a few times. We all need a place to start and the experience. However, before you give your work away, think twice. I had an interesting experience several years back with a services trade for counseling services. When the therapist I was meeting with found out I was a artist, he wanted to trade his counseling services for mine of illustrating images for a book we was writing. At the time I was flattered. But also stressed and anxious about it. Sorta defeated the purpose of working on anxiety issues when this ‘trade’ was causing more anxiety.

It’s flattering for artists to be noticed and for others to praise their work. I think many artists thrive on this flattery, it’s like the child in us saying “look at me.”

However for artists to make a living at art they have to take a business mindset or hire a person with a business mind set to represent them so they don’t get ripped off.

Taking on the business mindset and getting paid for your work – Starts with having a process!
The words business and artist are usually seen as diametrically opposed. Aren’t artists free and not confined by rules? Isn’t business all about rules? For an artist or designer your business needs to have a process. Your process. How does working with you… work? It needs to be defined. We know how subjective art and design is. However you can and NEED TO wrap a process around it.

Here are a few suggestions:

1. Project milestones: Say your doing an illustration for an author. Would your first milestone be sketched concepts or final art? Have it all clear so that when you reach the milestone you can bill your client based on this milestone. I have learned from experience to never make the end of the project the time you get paid. YOU might have all your ducks in a row and meeting the deliverable, but what if your client is the hold up?

Have at least 2 milestones that result in payment.

2. What does the end of the project look like – the deliverable? Is it based on hours, concepts, final art? How many revisions does your client get? Do they get full out ownership of the art for any reproductions? Be sure and write all the details and always ask questions. Keep all your communications clear and upfront so if need be you can remind your client what you agreed on.

3. How much is your work worth? As your portfolio grows, your endorsements grow, the demand of your work grows… you will charge more. I’ve found specific online groups on Facebook, LinkedIn and Blogs that have helped me with pricing. I also research the norm on pricing. I still struggle with pricing my design work. Crowd sourcing for art and design has made it even more challenging in this industry.

Working in visual arts for a career can be rewarding. It’s an ongoing learning process. The entry point is your talent and skill. Some think this is all it takes. Your ability to communicate, work well with clients, market yourself and price your services is crucial and as a professional you need to always be professional.

The post Professional Artists – How to Get Paid for Your Artwork appeared first on Art and Design Inspiration.

Brand yourself.
Yes, that’s right! Most people equate “brands” with large corporations, but the fact is artists should have a brand. What makes you unique? What do you stand for? Your style? While your at it write an artist statement – we show you how here.

Jump in Online.
Join industry-related forums; create a Facebook business page, join X and/or LinkedIn, video you art process on TikTok, Google+ and other social media sites where you can engage with fellow artists. If you’ll get out there and get involved, you’ll see that there are nearly limitless opportunities to put your talent in front of those who need it.

Create a press release for distribution.
Have a gallery showing? Press releases help put you in the “news,” and search engines (as well as people) love news. Optimize your press release for your keywords and geographical location if applicable. Submit your press release to highly trafficked PR sites like PRWeb and Business Wire.

Write articles for your own website, and submit to directories.
Write articles about art, art tips, even reviews of artists and galleries and put them on your own website (for SEO benefits), then submit them to article directories for further syndication.

You may have thought marketing your talents as a artist would cost a fortune (or at least more than you can afford). The fact is, you can promote yourself effectively for very little cost! Sure, there will be some areas where you will want to spend a little money, but even on a shoestring budget you can enjoy substantial exposure.

The post Creative (and Inexpensive) Tips for Marketing Your Talent As a Artist appeared first on Art and Design Inspiration.

First you need to determine your goals:

Are you moving out of the ‘hobby’ category and looking to go Pro?
If so, it isn’t really a good idea to take the cheapest route possible when you’re looking to increase brand recognition and grow your client base. Your website IS the foundation for your business. You need a website that is distinctive and unique to your business, one that is designed specifically for your goals and brand and effectively optimized for search engines with the keywords your targeting.

It’s important to keep in mind that online, your website is the hub of all your marketing and branding. Your first impression. You don’t want a cookie-cutter website that looks like so many that your visitors have seen before – you want a website that stands out, that’s memorable.

If your going Pro you need a fully functional website you own (along with your domain name), control (you can access the server that the website resides on), can update easily, can add on features as you need too and that you flat out own all copyrights to the design of the website.

When looking at the free or low cost options (pricing so good you can hardly believe it), read the fine details. Who owns what? Do you own the website? Do you own the domain name? Do you own the design? And, do you own your images and content, or does the company own it? And God forbid if the company should fold at some point after you’ve gotten your website up and going, then suddenly “POOF!” it’s gone. Be sure you understand all the options up front.

You want a great website design that is uniquely yours, and that perfectly reflects your message, style, brand, and trust. What you also want is a service provider who can carry on after your website is built in regards to content, branding, social media, technical issues and all of the aspects of successful web marketing.

Your in it for a hobby. We all start somewhere and there are a variety of resources online for websites that are leased such as Wix and more. Utilizing build in templates and drag and drop you can upload your work and publish your pages. Different levels of service and options come with these packages and you will need to explore which one’s work best for you. These options can be great starting places for a new business or one that does not require ongoing marketing work.

With all the web options it really comes down to what you need, your goals, budget, requirements and how much you will rely on your website for online marketing, selling, client attraction, social media and more. If you work with a professional website designer all of your business strategy, brand, design, messaging, online marketing, web development and support will be provided. In addition you’ll have a professional team that is invested in your success.

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