It’s time for our bi-montly Open Wire, where you can pose your woodworking questions in the comments section below and we’ll do our best to answer them. Comments will close at around 5 p.m.
Note that there may be a lag between your asking and our answering. Chris is probably working on a chair, and I’m working on…healing. And editing the revised edition of “The Anarchist’s Tool Chest” (photos for which are happening above).
– Fitz
Tom Leighton (previously) is known for highlighting plants’ photosynthesis process by swapping their characteristic greens for otherworldly fluorescent colors. Often focused on the nightlife of specimens found around his Cornwall home, Leighton photographs in a manner that turns common species into extraordinary subjects.
His newest series, Spines, expands on this trajectory. The macro images concentrate on the fine fibers cloaking stems and flowers. Water droplets cling to the surfaces as if the plants had just emerged from a heavy downpour. The glistening botanicals capture the surrounding light, while the thick dew drops add a glimmering, skewed view of the lifeforms that reside underneath.
Prints of Leighton’s images are available on his website. Keep up with his latest projects on Behance and Instagram.
The art industry has significantly evolved in recent years, particularly with the growth of remote employment options. Artists are free to expand beyond physical venues or traditional studio facilities. Instead, many people are using remote work to launch successful art careers. Whether you work as an illustrator, traditional or digital artist, you may now make a full-time remote living off of your creativity. Here is how.
First, you need to know what you’re good at and what you need to learn or accomplish to reach your artistic goals. Don’t take a random job that sucks your soul out. Your future job must help you build your skills and resume. So search for jobs that excite you! You want to be a great contributor to their business with your expertise and passion. Make a list of jobs you’d enjoy doing, tailor your resume to each specific job offer, and start your search. Fortunately, there are many sites where artists can post their resumes and apply for jobs.
There are websites made especially for artists who want to work remotely. These networks put you in touch with potential clients and present you with projects that fit your expertise. For instance, many remote artist jobs advertisements are available on Jooble.com, including opportunities for graphic designers, digital illustrators, and more. Furthermore, websites like Freelancer, Fiverr, and Upwork are great for finding freelance jobs. You want to build your skills and interests and these “small” jobs could grow into a nice creative career rather quickly.
A beautiful but functional online portfolio is crucial for attracting prospective customers and employers. Your online portfolio should demonstrate your proficiency in working in a digital setting besides the traditional one.
People judge us quickly, therefore, it’s essential to make a great impression instantly. Consider using websites such as Behance, Dribble, or your personal website with a portfolio to display your best and coherent work. Ensure it’s visually beautiful, simple to use, and thoroughly explains your job procedure. If you have different volumes of work, categorize them for easy access and presentation. Look at other sites and artists for possible ideas. Understand what makes their portfolio look great to inspire yourself to put your best foot forward with your artwork.
It’s crucial to socialize and network with others in your field! Even if you plan working remotely, online communities help you build social standing and friendships. Participate in online forums, social media groups, and virtual exhibitions besides going to in-town gallery openings or art fairs. People work with people and this skill is a must to master in today’s busy world.
Start with sites like the Reddit art community, Instagram, LinkedIn, DeviantArt and other platforms. On these platforms, you may interact with other artists, present your work, and make connections with possible customers. Instagram benefits visual artists, LinkedIn facilitates business relationships, and Reddit offers insightful user comments. Don’t be annoying, rather make thoughtful comments or messages that can build a future relationship with a key figure of your choice. So engage in dialogue, comment on other people’s work, and offer your perspectives. You may want to publish your art portfolio in free magazines to build authority. You can also take part in online competitions and challenges but refrain from the paid ones as it could be a money-sucking pit. If you just start out, use free calls for art on Submittable platform. Some of them even pay a little bit of money for covers, writing, etc. These are some of art marketing methods for gaining recognition and connecting with other artists or possible customers. Overall, be proactive in your creative career and don’t wait to be discovered. This is one of major mistakes artists make.
Finding the right balance between creativity and time management is one of the main issues artists face. Working from home or studio can make you inefficient and sidetracked. Remote artists must create their own methods for maintaining productivity and fostering creative energy. Know yourself and stick to a work schedule you can manage and enjoy. It’s more about building efficiency as opposed to working long hours.
Artists working from home have various earning options besides working for clients. You can sell prints, license your art, or open a Patreon page to finance your initiatives. It takes time to see the results with these ideas because you’ve got to build a community around your vision and art first.
Beyond client work, artists can make money in other ways. Popular choices include:
A successful remote art job demands imagination, self-control, and astute financial acumen. Those who are proactive and are prepared to adapt have many opportunities. Because of the digital world, artists can now expand their professions, connect with people worldwide, and monetize their work in new ways.
To explore art marketing tips further, visit:
Welcome to today’s art episode, and today we’re going to talk about our art year in review and our art goals for next year. We also explain why we missed an episode. This will be out last episode of 2023 so we wish you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays or whatever you celebrate. We look forward to your company again in March after a break.
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This podcast is sponsored by Evolve. Evolve can teach anyone how to paint in a realism style to a professional level in a year. They offer online lessons, support and also provide the materials you need. To find out more sign up for a free masterclass at https://kickinthecreatives.com/evolvewebinar
If you have any suggestions for the podcast or our challenges please feel free to get in touch.
VERY PRIVATE GALLERY
My personal journey through 14 Art Galleries in Valencia
I visited 14 Art galleries in Valencia, capturing them at their best. Below is an alphabetical list of the galleries I explored, with new additions to follow.
My personal journey through 14 Art Galleries in Valencia
Mo Li
Metz is a beautiful city nestled in the Lorraine region of France. Situated near the border between France and Germany, Metz has been a contested territory for centuries. Its strategic location has made it a target for invasion and a prize for conquest. Today, you can have an easy, 90-minute train ride from Paris to Metz.
Its location near the German border has made it a melting pot for various influences- Roman, Germanic, and French cultures, creating a stunning cityscape that blends several architectural styles, from Romanesque and Gothic to Renaissance and Baroque. This diversity is evident in its churches, public buildings, and residential architecture. The city is renowned for its vivid stained glass windows, particularly those found in the Saint-Étienne Cathedral. These windows depict religious scenes, historical events, and local legends, and even include some modern stained glass windows made by Chagall. Metz is home to several free museums, including the Centre Pompidou-Metz, which showcases contemporary art. Despite being an urban center, Metz is surrounded by beautiful nature, including the Moselle River and its vineyards. This combination of city and nature makes it a unique destination worth your visit. You won’t see large Paris crowds, rather experience the beauty of architecture at your own pace.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsy3fdHeIiM
Celts were the first known inhabitants of the region, and they likely established a settlement on the site of Metz. Later, the Romans conquered the area and founded a city called Divodurum Mediomatricorum. So, Metz became a Roman city in the 1st century CE, adopting Latin culture and architecture. The city flourished under Roman rule, with significant infrastructure development and the construction of public buildings. In the art museum, you can view some Roman mosaics, sculpture and sarcophagus of this period.
In the early Middle Ages, Metz was an important religious center, with several bishops and archbishops hailing from the city. During the Middle Ages, Metz prospered as it became a free imperial city, independent of both the French and German kingdoms. This autonomy allowed the city to develop its own culture and economy. The most famous examples of the middle ages are Saint-Étienne Cathedral, Eglise Saint-Eucaire and Temple Neuf. Saint-Étienne Cathedral (12th-14th centuries) is truly inspiring both inside and outside. Dark and somber, it’s a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It features soaring arches, absolutely beautiful gigantic rose window “Tree of Jesse,” depicting the genealogy of Jesus Christ. and many other vivid stained glass windows that cast colorful light onto chairs and floor of the cathedral. Temple Neuf (12th century) is a Romanesque church with a modest exterior but richly decorated interior. Inside this church, you may find a crypt, which dates back to the 10th century.
This church founded in the 5th century was originally located outside the city walls, on the Roman road to Mainz. It is dedicated to Saint Eucaire, the first bishop of Trier in the 3rd century. Rebuilt between the 12th and 15th centuries, it encompasses a range of architectural styles from Romanesque art to Flamboyant Gothic. A sturdily built square bell tower, the oldest in Metz, stands at its center. It dates from the second half of the 12th century.
The cathedral’s foundation was laid in the early 12th century, likely around 1138. The initial structure was built in the Romanesque style, characterized by its rounded arches, thick walls, and heavy ornamentation. In the late 13th century, construction on the cathedral resumed in the Gothic style. This architectural style emerged in northern France and was characterized by its pointed arches, flying buttresses, and large stained glass windows.
The Choir (1270-1310): The first major phase of Gothic construction was the choir, completed between 1270 and 1310.
The Transept (1310-1330): The transept is the arms of the cathedral that extend from the nave. Its large stained glass windows, including the famous “Tree of Jesse,” depict biblical scenes and religious symbolism.
The Nave (1330-1430): The nave is the main body of the cathedral. Construction took place over a century. The nave’s imposing height and light-filled interior create a sense of awe.
The West Front (14th century): The cathedral’s west front features three large portals decorated with sculptures and carvings.
The Towers (15th century): The two towers that flank the west front were added in the 15th century. They were originally designed to be much taller but were never completed.
The Renaissance and Baroque periods brought new artistic styles and influences to Metz. The city’s wealthy merchants commissioned grand residences and public buildings decorated with lavish architectural elements. One of such places is Place Saint-Louis (18th century). It’s a beautiful square surrounded by elegant Baroque buildings, featuring a fountain and a statue of Louis XV.
The 19th century saw Metz become part of the German Empire. Despite the change in sovereignty, the city continued to thrive, and its architecture and culture absorbed the German art styles. The Belle Époque era brought about significant urban development, including the construction of the Porte des Allemands, a grand triumphal arch (1871). A triumphal arch built in a neoclassical style, commemorating the annexation of Metz by Germany. The arch features sculptures of German military figures and allegorical representations of the city. In the 20th century, Metz was heavily damaged during World War II but has since been carefully restored. Contemporary architecture includes building of the Centre Pompidou-Metz (2010). This is a contemporary art museum that features a large, undulating roof that resembles a boat.
Metz’s possesses truly inspiring architectural blend of churches and buildings set against beautiful, clean streets, fountains and summer flowers. If you’re seeking to explore the history and diversity of France, this town is one of such charming places in France.
Known for their elaborate performances almost as much as their albums, the American band OK Go just released a new music video that is very literally a hall of mirrors. Filmed in a Budapest train station, “Love” incorporates 29 robots and 60 mirrors that move in perfect synchronicity. The result is an endlessly evolving kaleidoscope that distorts reality and illusion, connecting the band and their surroundings through a trippy, impeccably timed production.
To get a closer look at the making of this iconic video, check out the behind-the-scenes video shot from the perspective of each band member.
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Michael Corney | Episode 1087
Michael Corney was raised in the greater Los Angeles Metropolitan area where he was influenced by the bright colors of nature and the vibrant cultures that surrounded him. Michael received his BA from Cal State University Fullerton and his MFA from Cranbrook Academy of Art. While primarily a studio potter, Michael has taught workshops at Anderson Ranch, Penland School of Crafts and Santa Fe Clay. He has participated in shows at Santa Fe Clay (NM), Northern Clay Center (MN), The Schaller Gallery (MI) and Akar Design Gallery (IA) Michael is currently a working artist in San Miguel De Allende, Mexico!
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You have a BA and an MFA. Is education critical for an artist?
That kind of education? It all depends. For me it was because I did want to teach and we all know if you did want to teach at the college, whether it’s university or community college or even high school, you do need the MFA. So that was important for me. It was also important for me because if I had not gotten it any accolades along that way that I did not get I would say, Oh that’s because I didn’t go to college. Once I went to school and I didn’t get those accolades it’s like, No, dude, you just didn’t do very well.
How did teaching impact you as an artist? To give away your ideas to those behind you?
Well, it kind of solidified what was important to me. It kind of reminds me of when you are a young student and they make you do a description of your work, a summary of your work, an artist’s statement. It doesn’t matter to anyone else in my opinion, but it makes me, or you as the artist kind of define what you are trying to talk about, what you are trying to say.
You used to make your work inside of the States and now you are in Mexico. Has changing cultures influenced your expression as an artist?
You know, not really. And I say that only because I was really kind of engaged in this culture prior to moving down here. The artwork that I look at, whether it’s contemporary art or folk art or art of the people, it’s sort of what I was looking at before. And now that I am here I just feel comfortable being here.
How do you put work out about your story with vulnerability but also with a sense I don’t want you to be too close? And keep privacy?
You kind of can’t get away from that, you know, everything as an artist is…I would say, everything is a self-portrait.
Have you found a favorite place to have down time or restaurant where you are now as a couple?
Actually we have. For us, a part of me liking Mexico is I love the food. We call it food here, not Mexican food because we are in Mexico. My big complaint has been, I live in a very touristy town, it’s sort of like the Sante Fe, New Mexico is what San Miguel is. So there’s lots of fancy restaurants but we found this garage, it’s a family every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, sets up their grill and their deep fryer and they make tacos and stuff like that, and that’s what I like. The street food, the taco stand on the corner, that’s what I like, that’s what she likes, and that’s our special thing here.
Contact
Instagram: @michaelcorneyware
Welcome to today’s art episode, and today we’re going to talk about striking while the idea is hot. What we mean by this is not sitting on the idea too long before you execute on it.
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This podcast is sponsored by Evolve. Evolve can teach anyone how to paint in a realism style to a professional level in a year. They offer online lessons, support and also provide the materials you need. To find out more sign up for a free masterclass at https://kickinthecreatives.com/evolvewebinar
inspiration can be fleeting, and the initial excitement around an idea might diminish over time.
There is a balance. Sometimes when you have an idea you want to let it percolate in your mind a bit to become more formed. But when you do this for too long you are just procrastinating.
Sometimes it’s better to just start and go with the flow. If you don’t work quickly maybe do a little sketch or find some reference just so you make the idea more real.
If you do just start you will learn through action rather than pondering a million possible outcomes in your head. If the first piece doesn’t work, try again. If you decide after a few attempts that you still don’t like it at least you know you tried it. You can just chalk it up to experience and who knows something you did or learned might work it’s way into future art.
Ideas tend to develop as we work so you will probably find that your idea will develop as you work on it
Sometimes we don’t take action on an idea because we love it so much we don’t want to ruin what’s in our imagination with what comes out on paper. We have to accept that it’s never going to be perfect in our eyes
Q. How quickly do you lose motivation once you’ve had an idea, and how do you beat that?
The best answers will be read out on a future podcast.
You can Tweet us your answers @KickCreatives or let us know in the Facebook Group, which by the way if you haven’t already joined, I highly recommend that you do! We will put the question up there and also on the Facebook page… and of course, on our Instagram page @kickinthecreatives.
If you have any suggestions for the podcast or our challenges please feel free to get in touch.
I’ve been using Instagram for several years to see it change and evolve. I spent hundreds of dollars on Instagram courses claiming to help me build the audience. While I don’t have a crazy following like so many artists out there, I did learn a thing or two about it with lots of sweat and tears. In 2022, I decided to share some simple truths about the social platform that you can apply to your account today to see some growth and hopefully cut on the frustration Instagram can give us. I updated it in 2024.
Overall, I like Instagram for art. It’s my favorite social network mainly because it’s so visual and easy to present art and connect with others in the art community and beyond. Perfect for us – artists because it’s still free! I must say that there are plenty of couches who claim to grow your account if you “follow their steps and strategies”. While it could work for them, it doesn’t mean it will work for you because you’re a different person with different art, ideas, and presentation. I saw couches that simply lied promising growth, and selling their silly programs. This is not me being negative about others, rather be mindful of all of this as you work on your account’s growth. Observe, what other top art accounts are doing now to incorporate their strategies into yours. Also, the reach has declined on Instagram tremendously (remember, the Facebook pages? Same idea) so please don’t think that it’s just you doing something wrong.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69fwfG3tnAc
All artists need strong art, presentation, and following. Social media is yet another place to network with people. Artists need to be seen both online and off-line. So artists must have a business card in different formats to reach various groups of collectors, professionals, and alike.
This is one of the major problems I often have with Instagram and other apps like Spotify. At some point, my Instagram takes up all the space on my half-empty Android phone! The size of the app gets bigger and bigger despite my limited use of the app. So, I tried different things to share what works for me.
Your Instagram account won’t grow by posting pictures only these days. So posting reels is a must! Look at suggested art reels to understand what becomes viral. Oftentimes, it’s not the beauty of a painting, rather it’s about tape peeling or varnishing videos… Most videos are entertaining, not educational these days…
This is the only viral reel I had on Instagram, although there were a few others that were high in views as well.
A post shared by 💫Veronica Winters, M.F.A. (@veronicawintersart)
Tip: Click on three stripes button located at the top right corner and go to your settings and then click on' upload at the highest quality' to upload your reels with max quality. If you have the creator account, you can also see Insights to understand how your videos perform.
A post shared by 💫Veronica Winters, M.F.A. (@veronicawintersart)
Hashtags are still important. However, not all hashtags are good for your business. Pick the relevant ones to your artistic practice. Avoid using large hashtags that have over 500k posts with them. The reason is that if your account is small, your chance of being seen with a big hashtag is a fraction of a second. If you do your research and pick medium-size hashtags in your niche, you increase your chances to be noticed.
What about Facebook, you may ask? I think it can be a powerful platform that has a different, much older demographic. Due to some privacy changes, a lot of targeting is gone. Many people have Facebook accounts they haven’t used for months, if not years. There seems to be no algorithm showing your stuff.. However, you’ve got to understand where your customers are, and what platform they prefer to engage on, so you spend more time there. I think Facebook groups can be useful to build friendships, which is not possible on IG. I hope it’s helpful.
To wrap up, pick one platform to be active on, almost every day. Be professional by posting your art, inspiration, and story. Don’t obsess with the numbers, rather build real relationships with people who follow you and find inspiration and opportunities by being present and social there. Respond to your fans. Add location to posts and reels. Tag yourself in reels. If you make your audio, name it. I don’t do it because I don’t do well speaking, but it might work for you. Enable ‘Upload at highest quality.’ Enable close captions. Enable “recommend on Facebook.” Post the BEST video and post a call to action in every post!
As I’m honest, I think that competition is increasing tenfold in terms of content production. Ads take up most of the space, and if it’s going to continue like that, we will eventually get another Facebook called Instagram with lots of empty accounts… Ads will be more expensive and will take even more space, but all we can do is stay positive, mindful, and helpful. We can work on trying to make a viral reel or connecting to an art collector who loves our work despite all these factors. I know, it can be hard at times, but I think people go on Instagram and some other social platforms for inspiration and entertainment as a way to relax from daily stress and work. Therefore, try to post positive and fun content to stay afloat in this busy world of social media!
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