| Art is inextricably tied to man’s survival – not to his physical survival, but to that on which his physical survival depends: to the preservation and survival of his consciousness. ~ Ayn Rand |
It seems that every culture decorates its tools. Bowls have intricate patterns inscribed or painted on them. Hand tools have decorative, yet functional, grips. Reed sleeping mats have motifs woven into them. We choose covers and stickers to adorn our digital devices. There appears to be a human need for beauty – whether steeped in religion or another ritual, our world is a better place when enriched with art.
- This week’s artist is – Robin Brandstetter – who has the unenviable job of keeping all of us hooligans in the frameshop in line, which she manages with great poise and a fabulous sense of humor. If you haven’t worked with her, you’ve been missing out – bring in something to frame just for that opportunity! Other than framing she is also an accomplished photographer, gardener, and encaustic painter. Beyond those creative pursuits and a career in framing she’s also done things like run a sailing charter company, traveled internationally, and helped run a dude ranch! We’re lucky to have her join us at the Art Supply House.
- It’s a spooky class schedule at the Scrapbook Nook! Join the girls on Thursday at 1 to go ” A Haunting” while making a spooktacular Halloween photo album. New papers, dies, and so much more! In honor of Labor Day they’ll be closed on Saturday. Did you know they have Copic color of the Month kits? This month it’s Warm Gray No. 8. They also offer Copic refills at a great price!
- I often hear that one color is the hardest to mix for landscape painting. Here’s a video to help mixing greens.
- A couple of weeks ago I repeatedly ran across this art installation – candy pink seesaws spanning the US/Mexico border. You can see them and learn more here and here.
- In a change of pace, here’s a video interviewing the portrait artist. Plus, some gorgeous portrait paintings!
- Need to get out for a bit? The Animas City Night Bazaar is tonight. Head to the parking lot behind Smile By Design (3057 Main Avenue) from 5-8 for Creative Night! Featuring local food, beer & cocktails, artisans, music and games.
- Some thoughts on using black and white paint as a learning tool.
- Here are 18 ways to invest in your art career. (We are happy to help with number 10.)
- You Knew Me When will be tucked away in the Rochester’s Secret Garden for their summer concert series. Swing by this evening from 5-7 for some live music. There’s a $10 cover charge that benefits a variety of non-profits.
- I don’t know who originally said it, but I completely agree that “Your Inner Critic Is A Big Jerk“. Keep that quote in mind as you create!
- The 4th art contest of the year just wrapped up. The theme was to get out there and create a piece that features a local landmark or landscape. We had some awesome entries and it was hard to select a winner. One of entries I’m most excited about was from someone who hasn’t created any art in 34 years – that’s the whole point of the contest, to inspire more of us to actively make art! We’ll be announcing the new contest next week. Until then, here are the most recent winners:
1st – Kindell
2nd – Josh
3rd – Chris
- This week’s featured product is clay! I just couldn’t decide on a single type to feature today (and certainly couldn’t leave Steven‘s “Bob” out) so here’s a sample of the different clays that we carry. Just in case you want to work in more than two dimensions…
As artists, we can send a message more poignantly than a wall of words (as seen in the seesaws above) and thus influence the world around us. Less overtly, we also make the world a better place when we adorn it with art. Maybe we share the world seen around ourselves – perhaps we create entirely new worlds. Either way, the world needs art, your art!
Cheers!
Matthew & the Art Supply House crew
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