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Artspiration

Taking it Easy

It is the limitation of means that determines style, gives rise to new forms, and makes creativity possible.
~ Georges Braque

It looks like we, as a community, will be easing back open over the next few weeks! As best I can tell, Monday the Art Supply House will be allowed to offer curb-side pickup once again. I’ll give more details in Friday’s email, so be sure to look out for that missive! However it works out, we can’t wait to see you again!

  • This week’s artist is – Tim Rees – He picked up a paintbrush in 2009 and hasn’t looked back since! His books and his atelier in Mesa, Arizona has stellar reviews. Check out his website for more information and to see more of his work.

  • The Fine Art Collective has moved online and has some live demos scheduled. I love my travel watercolor kits so I’m looking forward to tomorrows demo!
  • Here’s a world-wide art project you can participate in – from the comfort of your home (or in your office).
  • I thought this was an interesting read, from one of our suppliers. Makers personalities and how they’re reacting to the current situation. I’m probably the outdoorsy type.
  • This animated gif intro is great – so though I haven’t watched the full video yet, I can’t wait to see it! Virtual interactions in a time of social distancing.
  • Even Banksy is working from home.
  • Struggle with color mixing? James Gurney just released Color In Practice. I’ve learned loads from James – you can’t go wrong with his materials.
  • Places like Yosemite are being enjoyed by the animals who live there (with the correct link this time).
  • Until April 26, 10pm, you can order some art supplies, stickers, and other goodies through the local online marketplace that was coordinated by Local First, BID, and the Chamber of Commerce.

  • What are you going to do when you can pick up some more supplies? More of the same or something new? Here’s a tutorial on using oil pastels.
  • I seem to switch back and forth between acrylics and oils (and watercolor and graphite drawing and…) or use them on the same painting – an acrylic underpainting with oil on top. But many people choose one and stick with it. If you’re not sure, here are some thoughts on whether acrylic or oil might be right for you.
  • Maybe you’ve been curious about the trendy gouache (which isn’t new). Here’s more info about gouache paints what it is and how to use it.
  • This is a guide on blending colored pencils with rubbing alcohol (or a paint thinner).
  • Have a Chinese/sumi brush? This tutorial shows how to paint sunflowers with it. Or you can paint Chrysanthemums, if you prefer them.
  • If you like your acrylic paintings to have a lot of texture, this guide shows a way to add it.
  • The book of the week is – Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards. While you can get a kindle version I think this is a great book to have a paper copy of for reference. After getting an art degree and spending most of my time focusing on drawing I still learned more when working my way through this book – and I didn’t even have the workbook!

Summer weather might be on its way next week, we seem to be slowly getting ready to loosen up society, and we live in a beautiful area! Life could certainly be easier or free-er, but it could also be much worse than it is. I hope you’re doing well and making time for a creative practice for yourself – you need your art!

Cheers!

Matthew & the Art Supply House crew

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