EBSQ Friday Five – Spring Edition
Tag: fantasy art
EBSQ Facebook Artist of the Week: Nico Niemi
Who and where are you?
My name is Nicole Marie Winkelman, but I still use the nickname Nico and my maiden name Niemi for my artwork. I have loved creating artwork for as long as I can remember. My mother is an artist as well and was a source of inspiration for me from a young age. I’ve traveled the country but always reside in Wisconsin, and currently live in Waukesha.
How were you introduced to Facebook?
I joined Facebook to keep in touch with distant friends and relatives who already used it. After exploring other art pages I realized how easy it is to create one, I made one for myself.
Any tips for other artists starting a Facebook Page?
Invite your friends to your page when you first start out, let anyone else who is interested in your artwork know you have the page, and post artwork as often as you can. People love pictures! Have information about where to find your artwork if they’d like to own some, and how to contact you. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t always get the ‘likes’ you’re looking for-getting going can take a little time.
What’s your favorite Facebook Page feature?
My favorite feature would have to be sharing. When people share your artwork it broadens your reach and brings so many more people in-some who might never have looked for your artwork in the first place. Facebook makes your art so easy to find for anyone who has it, and makes interaction with anyone who is interested easy as well. I really like just about all the features it has.
What’s coming next from your studio?
All sorts of things! There will be fantasy creatures, and brilliant colors, some holiday items, but definitely more cat-themed artwork. I have a new kitten in my home and he is a source of inspiration I literally can’t ignore.
See more of Nico’s art and follow her here:
Vicky Knowles: Holding onto a Vision
Your paintings have revolved around Wibbley World for more than a decade, tell us, what is a Wibble and where did you get the idea?
The Wibbles are just the creatures who live in Wibbley World! I never set out to come up with a brand or a name for my universe of characters, it just evolved on its own. At first the name was “Wiggly World” which came to me repeatedly when I was painting (back in 1999 when I first started selling on ebay) – it was literally as if my characters were telling me who they were, but I heard it wrong – “Wiggly World” wasn’t quite right. A few years later I was redesigning my website and for some reason I wrote “Wibbley World” as the title, and that was it!
Are there any artists you feel are/were instrumental to your style of painting and the subject matter?
I would say there are many artists I admire and I’m sure that they do influence my work, although probably mostly in technique rather than subject matter, since my characters are so completely personal to me. I study the work of other artists with the goal of better representing my own vision. For example, if I see an artist whose technique I admire I want to know how it was done – what materials were used, etc. Even if I’m not successful, I still believe the information is still being processed on a subconscious level and eventually I hope to incorporate it into my work.
Have you ever found it difficult to stay inspired and true to your vision?
Yes, periodically I get bored and feel uninspired – at times I feel like my work is too predictable, particularly when I’m creating “for” something (like a show, or for the Nibblefest contest, etc.), or when I’m trying to interpret someone else’s idea instead of my own. At times like that I feel frustrated and am tempted to quit (although invariably that’s when some sort of external validation will come along.) What helps me through this is looking back through my older paintings and sketchbooks, and creating for myself rather than with the intention of selling. I have no problem staying “true to my vision,” in fact I wish I could branch out more (be more serious, more commercial, etc.) but somehow I always end up “Wibblifying” whatever I’m working on, even if that was never my intention.
Do you have a favorite character from your World of Wibble?
I don’t like to have favorites, but if I did it would have to be Lunchbox, the lunch-pail toting, diaper-wearing chipmunk. Lunchbox is a true innocent who frequently finds himself in predicaments. But everything always turns out ok in the end, because when you have your lunch-pail and your diaper, what more do you really need?
EBSQ Facebook Artist of the Week: Jo Hards
Who and where are you?
I’m Jo Hards. I would describe myself as a Gothic fantasy artist. I also make ‘Strange Little Girls’ Gothic art dolls. I live in a small town in Cheshire, Northern England, a very green and beautiful part of the world.
How were you introduced to Facebook?
A few years ago, while I was studying for a degree, most of my fellow students used Facebook to keep in touch, so I opened a personal profile, just to keep up to date with everything at university. More recently, in 2011 my sister-in-law over in Australia, started a Facebook page for her handmade dolls. I saw what a fantastic opportunity it was for artists to share their work with a global audience, so I took the plunge and launched a page for my own art dolls. I’ve enjoyed running that page so much in the last year, that I recently decided to open a second page for my paintings and drawings.
Any tips for other artists starting a Facebook Page?
Make use of the many networking pages on Facebook for artists, crafters, and small businesses. Not only are they a great way to reach a wider audience, they are a wonderful source of support and advice. You will find lots of like-minded people in the same situation. It’s good to help each other out.
What’s your favorite Facebook Page feature?
There are so many great apps that you can add on to your page. My personal favourite is Ecwid, a free shopping cart, which allows you to open your own store right there on your Facebook page.
What’s coming next from your studio?
I’m loving working in acrylics at the moment, so there are plenty more paintings to come. I’m also enjoying creating smaller pieces, so there will be some more ACEO’s very soon.
EBSQ Friday Faces of May
The internet is full of various challenges for creative types. Several of our EBSQ artists are participating in the 29 Faces challenge. I’ve been highlighting a face every Friday this month during the challenge. Today I’m highlighting two faces from each artist. Click on the images to see more!
This month’s participating artists are: Patience, Sherry Key, Vicky Knowles, Christine E. Striemer, and Windi Rosson.
EBSQ Friday Five
1. Babette – This week’s Face comes to us from EBSQ artist, Patience. Something about this portrait pulls me in and I can’t help but wonder what she is thinking, what she might be looking at with those thoughtful eyes.
2. The Tangerine Process – Oh! You must see the WIP images from Sara Burrier’s latest painting. Wow!!
3. Ten Reasons to Commission a Portrait – An insightful look at portrait art by Miriam Schulman, and why you should commission a portrait today.
4. Painting with Don Cincone – Melanie Douthit had the opportunity to paint with internationally recognized artist, Don Cicone! She has a wonderful post on her blog about the workshop.
5. I’m always on the look out for great blog articles from EBSQ artists. If you have something you’d like to share in the Friday Five drop me a line at amanda[at]ebsqart[dot]com.
Have a wonderful weekend!
EBSQ Friday Five
1. Lifesong – Sara Burrier’s latest painting, Lifesong, illustrates her personal journey. Check out the post for the full version of the painting and the symbolism she has worked into this beautiful work of art.
2. April MOTM: Hell0 – April’s mandala from artist Maureen Frank is about opening ourselves to new ideas and perspectives. I love her description; which includes a bit about Sherlock Holmes! Maureen’s Mandala’s are free to download and color.
3. Robert Lange Studios Group Show – Pastel artist Kari Tirrell shares her two paintings for this upcoming exhibition in Charleston.
4. A Return to PFATT Marketplace – Lisa Nelson will be returning to the PFATT marketplace to sell her wonderful paintings, dolls and more. Check her blog for details.
5. Day 96 – Took Gallagher is still pushing forward in 2012 with her 365 Project. Don’t miss her latest plaster creation, a work-in-progress.
I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!
EBSQ Friday Five
1. Day Off Art – Kathleen Ralph is a busy mother, artist, and student these days, but even on her day off she’s creating! I love this dragon done in Copic markers.
2. Analog to Digital – Artist Alma Lee is a wizard when it comes to taking one of her artworks, plugging it into her computer and transforming it into something amazing and new. Check it out!
3. March MOTM: Relax – Maureen Frank must be reading my mind, because relax is all I want to do in March. Check out this month’s free to download Mandala of the Month!
4. Two Art House Projects – From my own blog I share two new projects I’m going to be working on this Spring.
5. Your Blog Post Could go Here!! – Blogging isn’t always fun, but it can be a great way to connect with your buyers. Are you blogging at least once a month?
Have a wonderful weekend!
EBSQ Facebook Artist of the Week: Natalia Pierandrei
Who and where are you?
My name is Natalia Pierandrei and I am a self-taught art and comic book illustrator living in Rome, Italy. For the past few years I have worked as freelance and I have had the privilege of having my illustrations featured in several publications worldwide.
My work is influenced by Japanese manga, Renaissance painting, Art Nouveau and European graphic novels. My working technique includes mainly markers, pencils and watercolours on paper with a painting style that often mix all these techniques together.
How were you introduced to Facebook?
I discovered Facebook through a friend in 2008 and started using a personal account only. In those days I preferred using different communication channels and finally I disabled this personal profile. In 2010 another friend kept suggesting me I should re-join Facebook, and though I wasn’t convinced it was a good idea, I signed on again. I have been using Facebook for personal communications more than for business for over a year but to promote my art the more I can, I finally created my page few months ago.
Any tips for other artists starting a Facebook Page?
Use previously existing communications channels like Twitter, your blog, your Etsy shop or your Facebook profile (put a link to the fan page in one of your status updates) to promote your new page. Post photos of your work in progress – your fans will appreciate it for sure – hold contests over on your page to involve all your followers in your art projects. Your Facebook page might be a great opportunity to market your business, but it’s earned media, so keep in mind that it’s a community too. Give your Fans a reason to want to come back 🙂
What’s your favorite Facebook Page feature?
I created my Facebook page just few months ago and I have not used any Facebook features for promoting my page yet. We’ll see… any suggestions?
What’s coming next from your studio?
I am working on a graphic novel and some illustrated book projects plus illustrations for magazines and collective art-books. 2012 will be a busy year! 🙂
EBSQ Friday Five
1. Fairy Laundry Day – Sherry Key’s latest whimsical delight is sure to bring a smile to your day!
2. Sketchbook Project 2012: Time Traveller – Mark Satchwill’s sketchbook project rocks! Take a trip back in time for a peak into Mark’s past.
3. The Parrish Award – Congratulations to Fawn McNeil for her recent win at The Lake Placid Art League show!
4. ACEO Art Auctions – KiniArt Studios (the art of Kim Niles) is holding silent auctions for nine original ACEOs.
5. Valentines 2012 Coloring Page – Melia Newman has a FREE treat on her blog for dragon lovers.
Have a great weekend!
Art Seen: Year of the Dragon
Today starts the fortnight celebrating the Year of the Dragon. According to the Chinese Zodiac, the Dragon embodies boldness, passion, and fiery independence.
Kung Hei Fat Choy!
EBSQ Blogger of the Week: Charlene Murray Zatloukal
Who and where are you?
I am Charlene Murray Zatloukal…mother of six and grandmother of ten. Widowed five years now, my husband was truly the source of my inspiration and continues to be. He made me believe in my gifts and talents and encouraged me to try to make a living doing what I love to do..my art.
In thirty five years together, my husband, myself and our children lived in a number of different states; including Washington, Wyoming, Tennessee, Iowa and Nebraska. We came back to Nebraska, my home state, in 1997.
How did you get started art blogging?
Shortly after taking early retirement from corporate America, I decided to try selling my art on eBay. I was ecstatic at how quickly my art began to sell. I encouraged my husband, my youngest daughter and one of my sons to give art a go and we were soon selling as a family group. It was then that I wrote my first blog post…I didn’t even know what a blog was until then.
I blogged about what we were doing with our art..and then I began to include updates of my husband’s health and how he was doing. I ended up starting a couple other blogs for my art but, still maintain…somewhat all three blogs.
Any tips for other EBSQ art bloggers?
Try to stick to just one blog, if you can. Three blogs are a bit much…but since my first blog was a group blog and contained so much personal “history,” I couldn’t bear to let it go. I do have my “main” blog and it has the most followers. I try to balance information about my art with information about myself, so my readers can get to know the ‘artist behind the art if you will.
What’s your musical inspiration of choice when you’reworking in your studio?
Since I’ve moved to a much smaller house I find that I’d much rather listen to audio books while I work. My books of choice…Harry Potter. I listen to those over and over. I’m ‘hooked’.
What’s coming next from your easel?
I just finished my first two panel fairy tale painting. Alice in Wonderland – Encore and I loved painting it and how it turned out. This week I will be working on a Snow White painting and a Red Riding Hood painting, both much smaller paintings so I’m hoping I can get both done by the week’s end.
http://anotherpaintingblog.blogspot.com/
Thank you Charlene for being an EBSQ Blogger of the Week!
If you are an EBSQ Artist and would like to be considered for Blogger of the Week just add us to your blogroll. I’m searching EBSQ profiles weekly for links to artist’s blogs. If you aren’t an EBSQ Artist, what are you waiting for?
EBSQ Friday Five: Honoring Earth
Happy Earth Day!
EBSQ Blogger of the Week: Michele Bruce Carter
Who and where are you?
I’m Michele Bruce Carter, a forty-something artist a with myriad of interests ranging from preserving peaches to punk rock. I’m originally from So. Illinois. I traveled around quite a bit during my young adulthood and now reside in Kansas. I think the traveling around gave me the opportunity to gather a lot of resource material for my mind to use for art. I enjoy painting a wide variety of subjects.. and if I had to paint the same thing twice…I’m sure it might cause me to burst into flames. So naturally, I try to avoid that. I also play electric and acoustic guitar, ride and train horses, enjoy reading fantasy novels, and I’m seriously hung up on Old Hollywood: film, actors, actresses, couture and hairstyles.
How did you get started art blogging?
I jumped right onto Blogger and started showcasing my work. I think I mainly did it for selfish reasons. I was fascinated by the means which led me to creating art..the inspiration I guess you would call it. It amazed me how music and/or life experiences could cause such interesting things to happen. Sometimes the art was good and sometimes not so good. My work generally reflected my feelings towards something related to my senses or emotions. It would be like..Mmmm loving this Peanut Buster Parfait..Oh my God I have to paint one. Or..Yes it’s raining, I must paint something BLUE. Blue for the rainy day blues I guess? I don’t know – sometimes I have trouble making the connections myself. I normally just try and go with the feelings. For me, if there are no feelings, there is no art.
Any tips for other EBSQ art bloggers?
Don’t be afraid to show your soft side in your blog- your non business, quirky side. It makes me feel like I’m getting to know you…as I’m sure most readers would like to also feel…art should be a soulful process – don’t be afraid to show it – art is more than just images and technique. In my opinion, the ‘in between” paintings or intermission on a blog is just as important to the creating process. It’s what rejuvenates us for the next crop of paintings. I think it’s important that readers also understand this and thereby appreciate the final product a bit more. But I’m no expert, these are just things I feel comfortable with on my weblog and ones I visit. I also firmly believe in showing support to your fellow artisans. Get to know them, comment often. It seems there is soo much competition between artists.. as if some are worried about other artists stealing readers or collectors. (double thumbs down on this). Were all in this together, experiences are what keep us feeling alive, growing and giving us inspiration for new work. The more non-(overly)competitive people you encounter, the better it is for brainstorming, sharing life and the experience of art. And finally..I love to see 5 min sketches posted..The pure, raw talent you can get out of five minutes is astonishing. I’m always looking for sketches when I visit an art blog.
What’s your musical inspiration of choice when you’re working in your studio?
Music-Well last week it was 1940’s wartime favorites…as in Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington,Dorsey, Cab Calloway ( this CD set helped produce a lot of art for me ) This week is Iggy Pop. Next week…who knows
Movies-I usually play the same movies over and over. I collect VHS tapes. My favs are Marilyn Monroe’s films, The Thing, Outbreak, Alien, Waterworld, The Others. I kinda just have them on for background music..I love the scores on these films.
I also have to have fresh coffee made in my french press and comfortable clothing..I’m usually painting in an old vintage slip (I collect those too). Yes =P I am strange.
What’s coming next from your easel?
I’m in the mood for anything soft..I have just got over a streak of super high contrast color paintings..paintings with a punch, they almost hurt your eyes to look at them. Time for something different. Everything in moderation , right? =D
http://michelebruce-carter.blogspot.com/
Thank you Michele for being an EBSQ Blogger of the Week!
If you are an EBSQ Artist and would like to be considered for Blogger of the Week just add us to your blogroll. I’m searching EBSQ profiles weekly for links to artist’s blogs. If you aren’t an EBSQ Artist, what are you waiting for?
EBSQ Blogger of the Week: Emily White
For the month of October, Tuesday’s will focus on EBSQ Bloggers who create imaginative artworks of Fantasy, Whimsy and the Spooky! First up is a wonderful artist who may be most well known for her mermaids and dragons, but anything in the world of the fantastic can catch her imagination!
Who and where are you?
My name is Emily White. I am currently a resident of Amherst, Massachusetts. I have a full time cooking job at a local restaurant, and I also run my art business- www.darklingtreasures.com – out of my studio. I’m just a regular person living an irregular life. To sum it up, I am a reclusive, dorky workaholic.
How did you get started art blogging?
Through my research on “how to get my art out there”, I discovered that having a blog is a *really* good thing. So, I found some other artists, and people blogging about other things I am interested in, and I started by reading their blogs. I’ve also always been highly curious about the people behind the art; how they are feeling, their internal motivations, their dreams, their lives. After all, they are not simply art machines. So, I wanted to try to write about my creative journey, and myself, along with the art I create.
Any tips for any other EBSQ art bloggers?
Tips, tips…hmmm…I will say, for the technical point of getting your posts noticed, keywords and relevance are very important. Be sure you are *writing* about your piece- search engines like relevant text. Don’t just put up a few pictures with titles and links. Describe your art; explain how it came to be. Also, browsing other blogs, other artists, reviewers, things of interest, then reading said blogs and leaving comments and creating relationships with other bloggers is always nice, and can be mutually beneficial. And, though it has been said a thousand times, updating your blog regularly will keep readers in the habit of checking in.
On a more personal point, don’t be dry. Be yourself. Ramble a little. Let your personality and your feelings show through. It’s not just about the art- while the art in question may be moving, inspirational, controversial, etc- it is important to make a “personal” connection with your readers. Make them feel welcome, like you have invited them over to hang out for a bit. Blogging should not be a chore on your to do list, it should be something you take pleasure and excitement in doing.
Musical inspiration and/or rituals while you are working?
I will listen to almost any type of music, though country music often makes me cry and/or makes me sleepy. I love swing, lounge, hip hop, and metal best. Keeps my blood flowing. Sometimes, I have quiet days, where I just listen to the birds and the waterfall just outside my studio. As for rituals, I don’t really have any, but I have to have my morning cup of coffee with me while I paint, and then in the afternoon I have a cup of tea, or even juice. I always make sure to consciously greet my muse a good day each morning.
What’s next from your easel?
Well, I don’t actually use an easel, but that is beside the point. I am currently working on a Circus & Side Show portfolio/poetry/prose book, ongoing projects such as my jester pin up illustrations, the inevitable zombie art, and the never ending parade of fantasy ACEOs, among many other things. I keep myself really busy to stay out of trouble. Of course, you can always get the latest updates and art from my blog, heh heh…
http://darklingemily.blogspot.com
Thank you Emily for being an EBSQ Blogger of the Week!
If you are an EBSQ Artist and would like to be considered for Blogger of the Week just add us to your blogroll. I’m searching EBSQ profiles weekly for links to artist’s blogs. If you aren’t an EBSQ Artist, what are you waiting for?
EBSQ Friday Five
The EBSQ Friday Five offers a brief look at noteworthy news from around the EBSQ Artist Blogosphere.
1. “Fairy Nights” Start to Finish – Artist Sherry Key offers an excellent look at the step by step creation of Fairy Nights.
2. Full Color Saturation with Color Pencils – Ever wondered how Alma Lee does it? How she creates those intense, rich color pencil paintings? I say paintings because these don’t look like drawings to me!
3. My Somerset Studio Cover – Congratulations are in order for EBSQ artist Andrea T Sieler for her cover spot on the popular magazine Somerset Studio!
4. Group Show! Wreckard Havoc – Misty Benson is in a fabulously creepy show going on now through Sept. 15. See her blog for details.
5. Insert your Link Here – It’s no easy task scouring the EBSQ artist blogs for interesting news and art, especially during the summer months when everyone would rather be outside than blogging. Have you recently posted something you think would be perfect for the Friday Five? Stop by my EBSQ Portfolio to let me know!
Have a great weekend folks!
EBSQ Friday Five
The EBSQ Friday Five offers a brief look at noteworthy news from around the EBSQ Artist Blogosphere.
1. Painting in Progress. . . – Abstract artist, Filomena de Andrade Booth, shares with her blog readers how she does it!
2. Happy Birthday to Me! – Jane Glenholmes is celebrating the one year anniversary of both her blog and her Etsy shop! Stop by her blog for the party and a chance to win in a fun giveaway.
3. ‘Buoy Dance’ gets into IAPS 16th Annual Show – Congratulations are also in order for pastel artist Brenda Boylan! The International Association of Pastel Societies will be showing her pastel painting at the Butler Museum, in Youngstown Ohio. Congrats!!
4. Painting by Personal Guidelines – Laura Barbosa explains her decision to not accept custom orders. It’s something every artist has to deal with–when clients want to be the artist.
5. New Dragons, Mermaids and more – Check out these wonderful new artworks from fantasy artist Emily White!
Do you have something you think is newsworthy? Send me a message @amandamakepeace on Twitter! As always, have a great weekend!
EBSQ Friday Five
The EBSQ Friday Five offers a brief look at noteworthy news from around the EBSQ Artist Blogosphere.
1. A Poppy of a Tutorial – Artist Sara Burrier has a wonderful tutorial on her blog, from sketch to finished artwork. Here’s part one to get you started.
2. A Gallery of Trompe L’oeil Paintings – Our very own Lauren Abrams is one of several EBSQ artist who will be teaching at Craft.edu. Check out her new gallery.
3. On Keeping an Artist’s Journal – The talented Cathy Johnson and her thoughts on journals for artists.
4. Wisdom Inc. – New miniature art from EBSQ artist, Theresa Bayer. I love the symbolism in her artworks.
5. Having a Dialogue About your Art – Artist Claudia Roulier shares a recent discussion about the in’s and out’s of talking about one’s art.
Have a wonderful weekend!
EBSQ Friday Five
The EBSQ Friday Five offers a brief look at noteworthy news from around the EBSQ Artist Blogosphere.
1. FOTM: Daffodil Progress II – Artist Kris Jean is sharing her latest Flower of the Month painting, as it develops. The image on the right is only a small glimpse. Check out her blog to see this stunning painting.
2. Paws for Charity Book – Abby Creek Studios, a.k.a. EBSQ artist Linda O’Neill will be featured in this charity book to support the Avon Foundation Breast Cancer Crusade.
3. Demonstrating Pastels from Start to Finish – The recently featured, Brenda Boylan, will be demonstrating a pastel painting at Amato’s Gallery in Beaverton, Oregon this Saturday.
4. Little Snowman Giveaway – Polymer Clay artist Ginny Baker is having a giveaway on her blog!
5. Fantasy Art Collection – Another wonderful, and magical giveaway from artist Sara Burrier. You can win the new Fantasy Art Collection book; which features some of her own art!!
Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
EBSQ Spotlight on Fantasy Art: Jasmine Ann Becket-Griffith
This month’s featured gallery is Fantasy Art and it is one of our most-populous and popular galleries at EBSQ. The artists that are drawn to this genre take the fanciful images and stories that live within them and share them with everyone. Throughout October, we are going to take a few moments to catch up with some of EBSQ’s fantasy artists.
Jasmine Ann Becket-Griffith
“I’ve always been drawn to fantasy, whimsy, escapism, nature, dreams, etc. Maybe it’s my overactive imagination, or perhaps it’s just my general dissatisfaction with a lot of the mundane world, but in my artwork I generally incorporate some sort of fantasy element into each piece. Sometimes it’s addicting – I just can’t paint a girl – I have to add wings. I can’t just paint a still life – I have to put a tiny mermaid in there. I can’t paint a landscape without sneaking in a dragon. Basically (even though I include a lot of realism in my work) I paint the world how I’d like it to look, rather than how it actually does look.” – Jasmine Ann Becket-Griffith
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Art & News from EBSQ 