Pine Shore Studio

ACEO: Woven Moments

2011-08-14T16:17:00.006-05:00

ACEO: Woven Moments is now for sale through my Etsy shop.

This format continues to be a way for me to enjoy stolen moments of time to continue my work despite my busy schedule. Now, besides my bakery/cafe,I am about to build & open an independent cinema . Time to paint has become precious and that was what inspired this textural piece.

On A Clear Day

2011-02-06T11:36:00.005-05:00

There are days when my palette just sings clear & loudly with pure color. How often an artist adds just one last brush stroke and it muddies the piece. Not here! " On a Clear Day" presents bright blues, clear purples,rich orange and reds and a touch of green to create a rainbow that carries you into this miniature landscape. An original watercolor ACEO ( Artist Collection and Edition Original), this painting is signed and dated on the back and mounted on a coordinating colored mat board format of 2.5"H x 3.5" W, enclosed in acetate envelope it is available for purchase from my Etsy Shop

Etsy Shop Reopened!

2011-01-23T09:40:00.003-05:00

After one year away from my Etsy Shop,I have reopened it with a listing of 4 ACEOs.

In the past I have sold a number of small format pieces from this site. Since opening my bakery/cafe my painting time has been limited and the ACEO format has allowed me to quickly paint with my watercolors in small moments stolen away on weekends or evenings. I still prefer to sell my larger work from my web site and my prints from FineArtAmerica. I invite you to visit these sites, comment or make a purchase. It simply feels good to be painting again.

Holiday Gift Ideas

2010-12-04T17:08:00.010-05:00

T'is the season.........

If you click on over to my web site , you'll view many of the original watercolor/collage paintings that are available as gifts for this holiday season.

Experience a random act of culture: buy a painting!

Remember many of these works can be purchased as prints on paper, canvas or as a greeting card by visiting my FineArtAmerica site and customizing your selection.

Pocket Art

2010-11-28T08:09:00.008-05:00

I like to refer to the ACEO format ( 2.5" x 3.5" ) as "pocket art". As a grandmother I proudly carry around the grandbabies photos...but how many of my fellow artists "pocket" their paintings? It certainly makes more of an impression than flipping out the ol' business card! My watercolor/ collage techniques are right there to see & feel with my potential customer.

"Buds" my newest ACEO featured at left is currently available for purchase through my web site

2010-11-26T14:02:00.005-05:00

I find myself with a day off from bakery/cafe. I'm treating myself to some painting time today + I hope to revisit some of my art marketing information that I've neglected too long during this past year because of the bakery. These past few years while working daily at my painting I'd developed quite an extensive marketing plan that encompassed a number of sites where my work was available. Now I find after working 12 hour + days at the bakery my available time to market on the internet or @ shows is limited. How to best use this limited time and effort is now the question I face for the coming year. Do I simply keep what I had ? Do I scale it down & concentrate on 1 or 2 sites ? Which is most cost effective? How do I reestablish my presence after being out of sight this past year? hmmmmmm... back to the drawing board.

The painting "Sugar Pines" at left is currently available as a print/greeting card . This makes a wonderful holiday card & currently is available at a 15% discount for a limited time only.

ACEO : Blue Notes

2010-11-20T08:47:00.006-05:00

Moments stolen in this past week,sneaking in a few brush strokes created this new ACEO.

If you are new to this format, let me explain.

Artist trading cards (ATC) are miniature pieces of art that are traded around the world. When these pieces of art are offered for sale, it is referred to as an ACEO: Art Card Editions & Originals. The only criteria is that the dimensions of the card be 2.5" x 3.5".

A trade mark of my work is that the image is adhered to a complimentary colored mat board presenting the image as a finished piece measuring 2.5" x 3.5". This work is currently available for purchase from my web site.

Update

2010-11-14T07:53:00.003-05:00

On October 31st, my new business venture The Cookie Cab celebrated its one year anniversary. Happily I can say it has been a success. In fact, it expanded from a bakery to a bakery /cafe, adding sandwiches & soups ! Celebrating the anniversary, we expanded to a second shop The Cookie Cab Retro Candy & Nuts that has been well received by the town.

As I have stated in my blogs this venture has detoured my painting career..lol..I guess that's an understatement. Through it all I have hung on to the fact that the day would come that I would paint again ......and I am! Not as prolific as once before but the paintings are beginning to surface & I have participated in two shows.

At The Cookie Cab, I created The Cookie Cab Gallery, where I feature the works of local artist. Part of our business plan is to "pay it forward". The Gallery wall is free of charge to these artist & all sales go to the artist 100% ..no commission is taken. A few sales have been made, but more importantly, many of the business people in town take the time during their lunch break to browse and talk about the paintings. The holiday season is approaching and some are looking for that special gift & a painting or two will be purchased. This Gallery has also served a purpose for me. It has kept my goal of returning to the studio alive.

Surrounding myself with my work has been an incentive to strive towards that goal. I was blessed with two years of working daily as a painter when life's detour made it necessary to jump back into the fray of "business". I struggled mightily against this path, feeling that if I kicked & screamed enough I could go back to my real life as an artist. I only created a tougher road. Thanks to the calming conversations with my beloved brother, I finally was able to flow with the process and arrive where I am today . The Cookie Cab is successful. ....and I am painting again!

2010-09-12T11:03:00.003-05:00

This was the final version of ColorBurst that was recently framed.

It will be exhibited at The Cookie Cab until October 1st , then at my opening /meet the artist, October 2nd, 1-4pm at Idiosyncrazies in Pt . Pleasant,NJ.

Hellooooo ...anyone out there?

2010-08-08T07:45:00.003-05:00

Feeling like I'm getting back into my painting again. This past week I was able to finish a painting, photograph it and send it off to my framer . I have always worked with more discipline when I know I have a deadline, even if it it is a self imposed one. I am scheduled for a solo show, in October. I inventoried my current work and know I have enough to mount a strong show but simply feel I need to add newer work at this point.

What is lacking right now is my marketing.

I have not been out on the summer tent show circuit this season because of the need to be at my bakery/cafe, The Cookie Cab. I am curious to hear from other artists who did go out and brave this unrelenting heatwave and get feedback as to crowds,sales etc. I'm feeling a bit out of the loop and missing the give & take I always enjoyed during the art shows....anyone willing to share their experience from outdoor shows this season?

When the music stopped...

2010-07-31T12:49:00.004-05:00

It wasn't until I began painting again this past week that I realized that my music had stopped along with my painting. As my brushes swished in the water,splashed into the paints ..I started up my cds ..and like old friends reunited, the conversation of heart and soul picked up without missing a beat. If I ever doubted it,this time away from my art, taught me that it is not just what I do it is an important part of who I am. Let the music play.....again!

Step by step

2010-07-25T07:40:00.006-05:00

Slowly I am returning to my painting. Memory muscles flex and my heart is lifted by the the sheer joy of splashed color . Purchased new brushes, cleaned the studio ...uh -oh ...paints are as hard as rocks! Was I really away from my daily work that long? Yes! and it shows. Just like a musician ..I must return to some basics to get back up to the level I was last October when my painting came to a screeching halt. Brush strokes, like scales, color combinations, like chords....the music will return ..my rhythm is just off. Practice, practice, practice....but it is a labor of love.

I'm reevaluating "Colorburst "before framing . This piece will be exhibited in October at Idiosyncrazies .

Summer Camp

2010-07-18T07:34:00.003-05:00

Week 2 of The Cookie Cab Summer Camp is over. This time I was teaching baking skills to 6-8 year olds! What was I thinking..lol?! Developing a taste for foods starts young. It's always fun to see the expressions on a child"s face when they smell something and then experience the taste as something unexpected..such as vanilla extract or baking cocoa. Blahhhh! Here are a few photos from this class. I'm taking this week off from teaching but will have another group the following week...back to baking !

A quick update!

2010-07-11T12:55:00.004-05:00

The ever changing needs of the bakery/cafe continue. As we enter the hot summer months I've changed our hours a bit to allow me some time to go home and begin painting again . It's working! The studio got cleaned up, brushes washed out fresh and new ones ordered but most of all I've begun to put brush to paper again. woooohooo! I've scheduled a solo show in October at Idiosyncrazies in Pt. Pleasant, NJ....more to come about that later.

In the meantime I'd like to share a few photos from our kids Summer Camp Baking program that I've begun. Our first class of 9-12 year

olds baked up a storm of cookies ,cinnamon buns, and cupcakes from scratch! Our enthusiastic customers cheered them on and tasted their baked goods offering words of praise. Challenging games and prizes rounded out their mornings ending with a lunch. Next week ....6-8 year olds will tackle some hands on projects.......wish me luck!

A new beginning

2010-06-20T07:33:00.006-05:00

Finding ways to remain a working artist while building my bakery/cafe business,The Cookie Cab

has been a challenge. As the bakery moves into a more routine schedule and its ups & downs become easier to handle, my art plans have begun to come into focus. Small steps have been taken here & there but not consistently enough to gain any momentum.

The first step was simply to create a space within the bakery for the art work to be displayed. The Cookie Cab Gallery became a space that I offer free to local artist, by my invitation,to exhibit work. All work is for sale and any sales go directly to the artist, no commissions are taken. This may seem crazy to some but it is in keeping with the "pay it forward" concept upon which the bakery was originally funded.
The second step was to hold an opening for the artist, 4 Woman Art Show, that had been featured throughout the winter. On May 2nd, the opening was held with a very respectable turn out of visitors.The Cookie Cab was transformed into a gallery like setting that surprised the public & pleased the featuring artists.
The third step was just taken. This one was a personal boost for my bakery venture as well as my painting . The new web site for The Cookie Cab includes a page "about us" that links to my art website. I am watching my visitor count to see if this brings more traffic to my site & attention to my artwork.

It became obvious ,very quickly, "that out of sight out of mind" is the fickle fate of the Internet.

As the need to devote 80 hour weeks to the bakery this first year and very little to my painting and promotion of new work, my audience has drifted. It's time to get it back on track.

Day Off ?!

2010-03-27T15:25:00.002-05:00

Ha! I'm looking forward to the rest of this day & tomorrow. Time to myself these days has been elusive. Remembering to take time for myself is not as easy as you may think. It took an intervention by one of my 3 daughters ( I believe the other 2 thought she could get through to me best)to say ENOUGH!

As a full-time painter my 12 hour days of work were tiring but not as physically exhaustive as my 12 hour work days as the owner of my own bakery & cafe. Equal attention to both has proved to be frustrating and I need to accept that one will get more attention than the other ....for now.

Hopefully this way of thinking will help me not be so hard on myself and begin to enjoy each day again.

The days of longer sunlight are not far off with the beginning of Spring...my gardening,as well as my painting will be renewed....balancing the work days of baking.......hmmmmm...these are my plans........

Is that the sound of God laughing?

Art Show & Sale

2010-03-23T18:05:00.004-05:00

I am ever hopeful of returning to my studio to paint on a regular basis.

Towards that goal, I am hosting an Art Show & Sale @ The Cookie Cab which will include my work as well as 3 other talented local women artists. I invite you to join us.

Art Show & Sale Planned

2010-01-10T08:36:00.002-05:00

In my last post I asked "What next?" The answer today is....The Cookie Cab Gallery, which is the showcase for my work as well as 4 other local artists, will hold an Art Show & Sale this Spring . The tentative date is Sunday, May 2nd. Preparations are already underway and I am pleased with the invited artists quick responses & the enthusiasm from the public.

The last show I organized was years ago for The Ocean County Artists Guild. It was a state juried show & it took months of preparation . This is a little different but I hope all the years of being a participating artist in shows will give me an advantage to prepare well. A well organized show can make a big difference in the experience for both artists & public.

I'll reveal the artists & some of their work in the next few posts.

What Next?

2010-01-01T10:33:00.004-05:00

January 1st...has that new feeling..the anything could happen feeling.

The past few months has been a whirlwind of changes for me. Closing out my season of art shows early, a new grandchild ...and the opening of my shop The Cookie Cab. Each event has been a new marker in the path of my life and each very special.

January 1st.....expectations are always high followed by a nagging sense of the past year's missteps. I'm not one to make resolutions...lol ! I know myself too well.....

January 1st...... What will happen next? This past year has been such a surprise, unpredictable and exciting. It was a good year ...now I look forward to 2010.

Painting with Chocolate!

2009-12-13T08:09:00.003-05:00

I am determined to paint! Whether it be on cookies with Belgian Chocolate or on paper & watercolor..I will paint! Lol! For those who have been following my saga of opening The Cookie Cab, a bakery/coffee shop...these are the latest cookie design I've worked out for our Holiday selection.

Check out more photos & information about The Cookie Cab on FaceBook!

ColorBurst

2009-12-06T21:54:00.004-05:00

My first chance to paint since opening my new business The Cookie Cab.

This original,vertical floral is a mixed media/collage using my signature textures.

Unframed, it can be purchased directly from my web site.

The Cookie Cab Gallery

2009-11-22T07:42:00.005-05:00

As hoped...The Cookie Cab Gallery has come into existence. I have filled the walls with art work from a local art group, provided them with a meeting place and initiated a commission for one of the artist...all while baking & selling cookies! The group is currently having an ATC (Artist Trading Card) activity.

The reality of painting again is not an easy one to attempt each day ,especially as work increases with holiday orders. I have splashed in some paint but more importantly I have returned to my drawing. On Wednesday evenings, The Cooke Cab stays open until 8pm to accommodate a large group of high school students that enjoy a teen night at the local library. We bake/ chaperon & interact with this group in our shop . I have enjoyed the activity of observing & sketching the scene and will post some drawings soon.

As the days pass The Cookie Cab is evolving into something more than just a bake shop...and being a part of it is an unexpected joy. Lol ...Sharon, the other half of the baking team ( also an artist/photographer) has declared "cookie dough is our canvas and royal icing is our medium!"

Remember ,you can become a fan of The Cookie Cab on Facebook too! I'll be featuring work of the invited artists on the Facebook page.

The Cookie Cab

2009-11-01T08:32:00.005-05:00

This past week was the successful preview opening of my new business, The Cookie Cab. Originally it was to be a only a home/business delivery service of warm cookies to your door but....opportunity after opportunity arose & by the good grace of friends and their willingness to lend a hand it is now a full shop/ art gallery! I'm on the run right now to buy more baking ingredients & deliver paintings for a solo show this week but will write again soon....

Thank you to all my blogger friends for their understanding & support during this hectic time!

Work in progress

2009-10-13T06:28:00.003-05:00

My granddaughter, Leah Erin ,was born this past weekend. She is beautiful and strong but 5 weeks early. Her mother, my daughter, struggles with the emotions of joy and fear as she

watches Leah,attached to many monitors and tubes, strive to gain her strength and be placed in her arms rather than in neo- natal intensive care .

There is such fragile beauty in a new born. I've always felt that my greatest work of art was the birth of my three children. Now grown, they are beginning to experience that joy and wonder as the cycle goes round and they take their place at a crib. Gently touching, softly praying ...a work of art in progress. Thank you to all my blogging friends for their good wishes and prayers.

Caught between two worlds....

2009-10-04T09:02:00.003-05:00

I thought the last time I became a full time artist it was finally my time. I'd found all that I needed and wanted. I worked very hard at my marketing, show schedules won awards and sold my work on a regular basis. Circumstances beyond my control have once again placed me in the forked path of my art and " other " work. My palette went untouched this past week for the first in a long time. I am feeling the strain of needing to be in two places at once.

My partner & I are about to open "The Cookie Cab" (if you are reading my post, it is a cookie delivery service/ bakery). Scrubbing floors and ovens has been my work week of late.

I did honor the artist in me by setting up "the artist's corner". An old drawing table from my college days, along with some sketch pads and pencils sits in the corner of the well scrubbed area by the front windows, awaiting a moment for me to begin work in my new "studio". I've ordered a hanging system to install in the shop for my own paintings to hang and that of other local artists. I'm sure the place will take on a character of its own..but right now it seems ...well ..clean. I'm hoping that the soon to be baking aroma ,the bustle of customers and the interaction that will happen, will relieve this feeling of being once again out of step. Not artist, not baker,....not me.

Sidetracked?

2009-09-27T09:48:00.006-05:00

I'm not totally sidetracked by the ongoing business of creating my new business "The Cookie Cab". Baking ,creating ...still painting.

My last outdoor show of the season was this weekend..great Saturday ,rainy Sunday. In fact for the first time ever I sat out the rainy day. I think I've finally had my fill of rain soaked tents and soggy shoes,all in the attempt to protect my work from the elements. Now, I'm turning my attention to The Cookie Cab.

I'm creating an Artist Corner within the bake shop. It is my compromise of life's curve balls ( see my last post) and my need to continue painting. The Artists Corner,complete with drawing table, will enable me to continue to do my painting in slower times and demo, as I am prone to do, interacting with the public. I am providing exhibiting space on the walls for local artists groups, and a welcoming space for their meetings. I've been receiving very positive feedback and feel the "warm to your door" cookie delivery service, the retail shop as well as The Artist Corner will be a creative, new and exciting space in my local community. More to come as the opening of The Cookie Cab becomes a reality!

Play Ball!

2009-09-09T08:42:00.004-05:00

So what do you do when life throws you a curve ball?

( Please read...everything was going just fine and then there was an unexpected career changing event!)

How do you hit the ball out of the park?

( in other words... how do you keep your goals,survive the upset and turn it around successfully?)

Ignore the twitches and antics of the pitcher! The shoulder feints ,the high leg kick,the side arm delivery that distract & confuse you.

( stay focused on your goal,ignore the angst, fears, and negative thoughts, of others as well as yourself of the events that you can't control caused by someone else's actions.)

The ball will always go from point A to point B. It simply changes its path but the destination is the same. ( your goals are the same,but your path to them has altered . Make adjustments. Redirect your energies.)

Step into the batter's box.

(show up...every day. )

Keep your eye on the ball. ( You know what you want..,you know your goal)

Swing ! (you'll never know till you try)

Miss !(it happens...)

Hit! (yessssssss.!)

(btw ... I'm a Yankee fan!)

Seasons Change

2009-09-04T06:59:00.005-05:00

There is a coolness in the still summer's air this morning. I hear the school buses once again in the neighborhood. Yes, my three daughters are now grown and successfully off living their own dreams but I still feel that shift of habits & rhythms of a season about to change.

A need to reorganize and examine where I am, how I am doing ..and what to do now,has kicked in. Now throw in life's little twists and turns, always unexpected and at the wrong time and you have the makings of a panic attack. But wait......I have developed a hard won coping plan.

Do you remember?

Ask... is it true?
Ask... is it working for you?

Ahhhh ..a plan of attack is already formulating. I've already taken the first steps by adding and subtracting social groups, shops, scheduling new shows and investing in new ideas.

Which venues are producing ,which are not? Am I tied to an idea or vision that is old and unproductive or can I make space for something unexpected and fresh?

Risky..yes! Exciting ...yes! Needed ...yes! Seasons change, as do we, you can either fight it and stay where you are or go with it and make your vision happen.

Prints & Cards!

2009-09-01T10:57:00.001-05:00

I have finally entered the print market!

Yes! Many of my supporters and customers have requested this possibility as an option to owning my work .

Select pieces that I own from this date 9/1/09 will have the option of being purchased through http://fineartamerica.com/profiles/helen-harris.html.

FineArtAmerica offers a wide range of canvas and paper print options,framing & matting too.

Please use this link to view the work offered as prints & cards and to purchase securely. Check back frequently as newer paintings become available. Of course the original painting will be available for purchase also.

**** All original work purchased before this date,will not ever be reproduced in print format to maintain and honor the purchase agreement as a one of a kind, original painting.****

I am getting ready for a busy Fall season :

Next Art Shows: Sept. 13th : 2009 Bayonet Farm Art & Muusic Festival

12 noon - 5 pm

41 Middletown Rd. Holmdel,NJ

Sept. 26-27th : Cape May County Art League

10 am -6 pm

Washington St. Mall, Cape May, NJ

Doubt...Zapped!

2009-08-21T10:32:00.007-05:00

Doubt can unfocus you in a second. It is insidious. A quick stumble of the psyche and you're done for the day. I speak from experience! Mastering a coping,defensive move against this enemy is an every day challenge, especially while working alone in your studio.

Each of us has our own special moments that trigger this feeling, but we share a common goal of beating this time robber.

When it happens to me, I realize that I skipped an important part of my work day... planning ahead! Not doing this allows the doubt to creep in ...very unbusiness like days then ensue. My focus is lost and instead of painting or doing the things that propel my work forward..the distraction of housework, yard work or errands take over beyond their importance. It is not that these thing don't need attention ..but they are not my business. Remember my mantra from my post of 8/19? This is my business!

Now, I'm not highly organized but I do have a pattern of habits that has seen me through the worst of these moments. :

before ending my day, I leave the start of a new piece of work on my desk...even if it is simply a quick sketch or wash of color. This gives me a quick start for a creative day .
an article to read as I have my coffee. My learning curve has a slow but steady base.
I choose a deadline for ...something, anything art related. I can end my day feeling that I've accomplished a goal.
listen to a podcast,view a demonstration video,read a blog by an artist or about art marketing. We encourage each other this way.

I work S.M.A.R.T. ...specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely.

Lol! When all this fails ..and it does...I connect with a friend, have a laugh, twitter or FB for (a few minutes..thank you!) and know, not doubt, that tomorrow I will paint again. This is my business! What's yours?

What's in your closet?

2009-08-20T14:18:00.007-05:00

I had just listened (again) to an audio download by Christine Kane speaking of the 5 secret power sources of your business. One point about leverage stuck in my head. It was a thought provoking point. How could I make use of what I already have and extend its use?

I needed to identify just what I could leverage. Materials!
What was immediately doable? New work in old frames!

I opened my closet doors and started unstuffing stuff. Long forgotten frames, mats, and glass that had past lives were just waiting in the dark to find new life. Work that could be cropped or reworked to fit the old frames completed the effort. In little time I had three newly framed works and an ACEO too!

What's in your closet, sketchbook, journal,hard drive? You already have it. Leverage it!

Hazy,crazy days of August

2009-08-19T08:19:00.020-05:00

Those hazy, hot,humid days of August that will lull you into the "I don't care " attitude have arrived . Blog?...nah! Add to your shops? ...nah! Paint?..naaaaaahhhhh uh - oh another show this weekend!

Here are a few of my motivators.

This quote is from Alyson Stanfield's blog

"Nobody is responsible for your success–or lack thereof–except you"

I've added to this my mantra of the day ...this is my business!

If you need to get moving post this on every surface...and your forehead!

I strongly suggest you click on my sidebar offer of Alyson's book "I'd Rather be in the Studio"

for more guidance.

Another helpful possibility, check out Christine Kane and download her daily schedule template.
Another favorite is "Marketing Mondays" .Bill Weaver's writing just rings true in his newsletters from "The Artists Center "

I hope you'll click on some of these links. There is so much unhelpful content out there that when I do find solid, workable, informative sites I feel it should be shared.

If you have found other sites that have been helpful to you, please leave a comment ..thanks!

Patterns

2009-07-22T08:25:00.004-05:00

I've been a working artist long enough to have a grasp of the patterns that occur in my day in the studio. A particular vexing one is that on the heels of a successful show, my work plummets ... then soars! Excitement from succeeding gives way to unexpected doubts of failure. This used to throw me into a deep depression for weeks. The crippling critic that would take over my brush at times like this has been banished from my studio.

It has taken the every day working habits of putting brush to paper to work through this brain freeze. A tremendous help has been the positive coaching through reading of articles and blogs of many artists sharing generously of their experiences. The studio can become a very lonely place when it is not fueled by positive, creative energy.

You know exactly what I"m taking about! Like it or not we all have these patterns of creativity. Have you faced yours? Examining and understanding how you work is as much a part of your business plan as is your method of marketing .In fact, understanding your patterns will help put that business plan on track. If it is in tune with the rhythms of your patterns it is more likely to succeed.

The painting featured here is FireStorm. A complete break away from my normal patterns, in subject,palette and size. I painted from morning until night. The energy was spent arriving at at new destination on my path . I silenced the critic that told me that this was not my norm...I played. I learned. I succeeded... I can keep on going!

It Starts with... Hello!

2009-07-14T11:25:00.004-05:00

Hello...or Hi ! What is so hard about saying that? If you can't even acknowledge the person standing tentatively in front of your tent at an art show, why are you there?

I've just returned from a successful but tiring 3 day Art Show in Cape May, NJ. It was successful because of my sales and being awarded 1st place in the professional watercolor category. Tiring, for many reasons, but most of all because I worked for 3 days with my potential customers! Not everyone that passes by my tent is interested... at first. I have learned to quietly engage people in my work, by demonstrating it and being friendly and open about how I go about creating it. Painting does have a beginning, middle and end.It is the story, your story,that will bring the work to life and draw meaning and reaction from someone viewing it. You may not get the sale but you have expressed yourself to some one new,perhaps to be remembered or spoken of later.

This is your store front for the day. The value of word of mouth travels fast. How sad when some one enters your tent speaking badly of another artist because they were too busy reading a book to simply look up and answer a question or even say ...Hello!

Not Just Paint

2009-07-09T08:18:00.006-05:00

Another tent show this weekend and the weather has been looking good...until now! As the clouds roll in, while I'm packing the car up with my equipment, I'm readjusting my marketing plan for the show. Do you always do the same set up , or exhibit the same work? Use the same approach to customers? How's that working for you?

This past year, in light of the economy, I've expressed how it was important to exhibit work that included a wide range of price points. How do you get that lower dollar end to work?

I've added Aceo's ,bookmarks, cards.... all still originals!
smaller matted /unframed work...originals
Now, I've introduced a collage activity kit (©2009 PineShoreStudio), that demonstrates my techniques with you creating your own designs!

This is my newest interactive approach. Young & old alike are tempted to pick up an offered brush, a pile of papers and join in the activity... then buy & take one home for friends & family .

So as these rain clouds sweep in, again, this season... I will not despair! I now can offer a "rainy day activity " solution for all the brave vacationers that come out to support us at our shows.

Social Networking..enough already!

2009-06-29T11:38:00.006-05:00

Well if you ever wondered at the importance of keeping up on new posts on your blog or checking on your advertising .. just go away for a few days! Today, I feel as if I'm scrambling just to get back half way to where I was a week ago.

I must admit shutting down the computer and the cell phone felt odd ,but was worth the down time to regroup. Of course my mailbox had a zillion letters when I returned. Surprisingly I was able to swiftly delete most of them....hmmmm.

I recently asked the question" Too Many Shops?"Now I'm thinking" Too Many Social Networks?

As I deleted email after email I found out exactly what sites held my attention and true interest.

How many times recently had I clicked & joined sites that I have begun deleting material unread?

Click on your browser history. Are you surprised? You may have gotten through your spring cleaning in the house...but maybe its time for a spring cleaning on your computer?

Joined too many .ning groups that really don't contribute much to your job? Did you discover that social networking can be a job in itself while your "real work" is getting less attention?

It's one thing if the internet is your job...another if it is only a means to aiding you to do your job.

Walking away from my studio,let me reenter it with a clearer picture of where I'm going.

......see ya later...it's painting time.

Art Shows: Alive & Well

2009-06-14T08:32:00.007-05:00

Outdoor art shows are alive and well in this economy! WHAT????
Am I looking through rose colored glasses?
No...I've been out there working them. In this rainy, humid spring I have not had the quick financial success as in past years but it is a steady selling market if you have adjusted to the reality of the economy. Ahhhh.. there's the rub. So ,what do I mean when I say adjusted?

go prepared with a wide price range of work. I have found that everyone is simply tired of denying themselves to save every penny with no reward. A little treat for themselves at a show may be just a card or bookmark or unframed work ....It's a sale people! it will cover you entry fee!
talk about your work ,demonstrate your painting....people are looking for things to do this summer that won't break the bank....my workshop/demo list is growing with every show

Stop talking about the bad economy to the artist in the next tent! Your customer feels that negativity and hears it!They are out,having a wonderful day viewing your work for free,wanting to support you with their presence.They may not have the means right now to buy..but may later. Have a fun & interesting conversation with them...most of all thank them for coming out to see your work.

Do more shows,teach workshops,develop more product, speak positively & act accordingly. The economy will always have its cycle of up& downs but you need to move in only one direction ...forward.

Balancing Act!

2009-06-05T11:10:00.004-05:00

. My last post "Too Many Shows?!" drew the most comments that I've ever received on a post . Thank you to all that took the time to reply.
Balancing the time to market in all these shops v. producing the work to have full venues goes to the heart of the matter. It wouldn't matter if you had 1,2 or more venues ...if you can keep up quality & quantity.
In the last week I've booked 2 exhibits and was accepted into 2 more outdoor shows...and I have 2 more applications out there. Is it possible that my ability to market is out pacing my painting?Painting originals has its draw backs at moments like this.As I see it, as long as it 's the sale of paintings that presents an inventory problem ,that's a good sign. If it is simply not painting enough to meet each commitment ...now that's just a problem that needs to be solved. Time management....just moved to the top of my marketing list but how does it correspond to my creativity? I'll never forget a line from Edna Wagner Piersol in her book "Living by your Brush Alone".." any artist who waits to be inspired is likely to be a starving artist.I'm inspired to eat three times a day,so my brush has to be inspired to move at least three times a day." lol.....its lunch time...see ya!

Too Many Shops?

2009-05-27T15:36:00.006-05:00

I have questions I'd like to address to the many "working artists", that follow this blog.
Many of you have Etsy ,Artfire, 1000Market, Indie .Zazzle shops etc. Do you feel too spread out
with your work ? Are the shops redundant? Do you place the same product in each or do you select certain products for one shop and different items for another? Are you finding different shoppers?
If you have a web site that has shopping capabilities, do you still need another shop? I'd really like to get some feedback . I've been reviewing my sales.Based on the information,I'm thinking of reorganizing my shops, such as exclusively selling my best seller in one shop or only having higher priced work in another. What is your opinion?

.......While we are on the subject of posting product .
Ok...so this floral cycle of paintings continues. Don't know why but I'll just go with the flow. In case you missed my tweets or FB announcements I've just posted new floral ACEOs & bookmark in my Etsy shop. Drop by !

Up & Running

2009-05-19T16:47:00.003-05:00

Although I am still adding artwork to my new web site, it is up & running. I had reached a point that my needs did not match up with my previous site. I've been searching for an alternative ,and I must say there are plenty of good systems these days, I chose FolioTwist. It is fairly new but was developed by Dan & Zac from Empty Easel. Do click through these links. I think you will find valuable information. The best part is that they take the time to explain and guide you in a very non - geek way. That in itself was a selling point for me.
My learning curve has definitely gained speed but there are still some bumps along the way. I'd rather spend my time painting than dealing with computers. I asked questions and quickly received responses...nice.
Anyhow I'll be adding to the site and experimenting since it is so easy to navigate.....come visit!

Things Change...

2009-05-17T11:47:00.003-05:00

Another show come & gone..this one was sunny and I received an Honorable Mention Award! I even sold a painting that I was working on during the show! All good ..but...
I do feel I've reached a plateau at the moment. Hmmmm...change is in the air. If I hesitate ..I'll be in this same spot mentally, creatively, and financially this time next year.

Time to make some changes.
Learning how to market my artwork on line as well as in my daily public contact is an on going process. Taking the time to listen to a number of artists that I've come to know both on the internet as well as through art associations has resulted in a need to adapt some of my methods. Soooo.. I'm going to be busy,going over basics, readjusting ,reevaluating. It's back to the drawing board and hopefully more success!

A quick note here to my followers ...I'm in the process of changing over my web site host and my site will be down for a few days.

A Floral?!

2009-05-08T17:17:00.005-05:00

Sometimes a floral just happens!
Landscapes are my subject of choice. I splash color on a paper and I see trees,mountains, rivers
and skies. Rarely ,despite the many laborious and enjoyable hours I spend in my own garden ,do I paint flowers. So when they appear,and that is the only way I can describe how they show up...I let them happen... lol... and my galleria owner gets happy.
Maybe it was all the rainy weather on the East coast, or I just needed a splash of fun to chase away the blues...any way...
Enjoy!

Entrecard ..My Decision

2009-05-05T11:28:00.006-05:00

Ok..having left a number of comments on other blogs in response to their blog posts on the changes in Entrecard, I feel it is time to briefly state my thoughts.
I will continue to use Entrecard as I originally did, accepting and purchasing ads for credits in subject matter that interest me and my following . This would be art/craft, artists /crafter, some blogging & or computer related help, recycling/green /environmental information ...hmmmm home and garden...too.
I will accept paid ads ..ONLY if they are relevant to my site.
Please do not apply if you do not fit the categories. I will reject them as not relevant.
I am not interested in the new Entrecard format of purchasing/ payout cash system.
I appreciate bloggers who actually take the time to read others posts, thoughtfully leave occasional comments and find new friends.
Please don't just click through....you may actually learn something new!
"Nuff said...back to the drawing board!"

ps..... please click & drop your card in the left hand column...I'll visit you asap.

Earth Day 2009

2009-04-23T11:43:00.003-05:00

Yesterday as the rain came down & the winds blew cold I treated myself to a visual appetizer by painting this little scene.
I view Spring as my appetizer, Summer my entree and the Autumn is my dessert....hmmm Winter ..I just snack!

I've posted this in my Etsy shop, matted but unframed .
I'll be giving a mixed media demo this Sunday @ the EarthDay 2009 Festival @ Bayonet Farms, 41 Middletown Rd.,Holmdel NJ..My demo will concentrate on the recycling of materials in art.

Sasha's Creek (revisited)

2009-04-11T14:56:00.005-05:00

I decided to pull this painting out of its matting and framing and revise some areas. I added more foreground textures, brightened the skies , added more color to the dark waters and punched up the tones in the trees. I know some artists feel that once a painting is finished ...it is finished , never to be touched again.

I guess I'm a little more pragmatic . I find it perfectly alright ,provided the painting is still in my ownership, to freshen it up. My skills continue to grow and the paintings that have stayed too long , unsold ,need to be critiqued once again. In many cases, I have subsequently sold the revised work.

Windswept

2009-04-07T15:20:00.005-05:00

Standing on the shore, rocky,splashed,grasses whipped by the salty breeze,.....clarity and thoughts of summer not far away.

Mixed media on paper: image size 4.25"H x 12"W

acrylic inks, gouache, watercolor

raffia, watercolor paper, unryu ,papyrus

blended fiber gel, matte medium

Soaring

2009-04-01T12:34:00.002-05:00

My father passed away one year ago today on April 1st. It is said that a parent can give two important things in life to a child ...roots and the wings to fly. For my father............SOARING

Work in progress

2009-03-24T14:15:00.006-05:00

Another painting in progress, continuing to learning from what came before. I'll be discussing this piece, how it started, changes as I developed it and the final work on my PaintersBrew blog.
I reached a point where I ran off to my framer to set it inside a frame and see where I needed to adjust colors,shapes etc. Always is a good idea to step back and evaluate a work by isolating it in a mat or frame before finishing. Back to the drawing board.....

Canyon River

2009-03-17T13:14:00.003-05:00

This is the newest mixed media work that I have completed. It is also the one that I am currently featuring in " how to" discussions on my instructional site PaintersBrew.
Canyon River is 18"H x 24" W and is on watercolor canvas. It features my signature texturing
of papyrus, unryu papers and textured gels. It is currently available by clicking on the Fine Art America link in my left hand column. A nice feature on this site is the ability to zoom in on segments of an image for closer views. Please take a moment and click on over...and welcome!

Steppin' Out

2009-03-11T11:57:00.003-05:00

Through out our careers as working artist,we strive to be known by our body of work. Be it subject matter, medium, or techniques,an effort is made to create a body of work that is cohesive and identifiable as "my work".Style, if it grows out of considerable experience and not just copying other artists discoveries, can boost as well as hamper our recognition amongst peers and collectors.
I say this while struggling myself with a new direction that my work is showing. Much like a singer, adjusting, after a key has changed with a maturing voice, so too there has been change as my painting skills have matured causing adjustments of technique, materials and style. The hesitation in presenting changes in your work ,particularly when you have already succeeded with what came before, is daunting. One must bring an established clientele to accept a newer vision . Change,if slow,steady and logically brought about over time as an outgrowth of painting,instructing and exhibiting, seems to have the greatest success.
Coming from a mixed media style, changing a surface, does not seem radical ,even though the enormity of understanding may have taken a major leap in skill on my part.
I may lose some customers, wanting me to remain recognizable as I was ,but I may also gain a new collector who never glanced at my work before.
I've stayed too long where I was ..I'm steppin' out.

New Directions..

2009-03-03T10:16:00.006-05:00

This original,mixed media painting featured on the right is my newest painting. Sirocco is a departure from my usual painting in that it is a work on canvas. Highly textured,this 12"H x 12"W watermedia work is currently available through ArtFire and Fine Art America.

This piece was conceived as an example for my participants in my last mixed media workshop. I wanted to show the multiple techniques that can be applied in mixed media.

I am currently beginning a new painting by resurrecting an old painting.

My new blog, PaintersBrew is establishing itself as an instructional ,exploratory site in mixed media.

Please join me, as we explore this painting style.

sold

You Can't Do It All

2009-02-27T09:18:00.006-05:00

Multi-tasking...revisited! There was a day when all nighters were possible.

I managed home,family, 9-5 job and still painted throughout the early morning hours.

Yes, that was then ...this is now.

The now is a result of putting into practice my blog of January 9, "Is It Working for You?"

Since then, I have kept the phrase "working artist" in front of me ..literally. I have it written on my bulletin board. Reminding me that my painting is my business, not a hobby or something to do between jobs.With this in mind, streamlining my day has been at the top of my list.

You can't do it all! As much as I may wish it, I have to admit the first thing to go is multi-tasking.

Be it age, energy, or just getting better at working smarter , focusing on the task at hand has reaped far greater benefits and results recently than all the years of juggling a multitude of tasks at one time. It will be a different set of skills and tasks for each of us.

Today, look at your list. Find what needs your greatest attention and do just that! Thoroughly ,completely, excellently.....mission accomplished.

Now...be kind to yourself, relax, play ...knowing it was a good day of work.

It's Just Paper!

2009-02-25T14:04:00.013-05:00

Take 1 artist + canvas/paper

wet ingredients: watercolor, gouache,acrylic and inks +

dry ingredients: torn paper,papyrus, unryu papers, bark papers,mango & banana papers,

ogura lace

spatter with 23k gold, glass beaded gel, blended fiber gel

Mix well, spread with brush ,knife & fingers

let dry

have great expectations & a sense of humor......... PaintersBrew ...target date March 1st!

Paint!

2009-02-23T13:54:00.005-05:00

The cold wind is whipping by my studio windows, the sun light is crisp & clear. This is the time of my discontent. My brush splays and I rip up another work. I've learned to just keep painting ,ignoring the critic that howls louder than the wind from within. Color, splash,bold strokes ...no judgement just movement...I think I can ..I think I can.....paint!

Gull's Play ( Aceo ) new posting on Etsy

Oh Dear...An Interview !

2009-02-18T11:50:00.007-05:00

sold

I spent this morning filling out my answers to an interview form for a blog site. I had originally received it on Monday but quickly found myself procrastinating in filling it out. You'd think I'd

jump at the opportunity to be interviewed and promote myself and my painting. After all , that is the name of the game here on the Internet . It seemed like a good idea when I answered the request, voluntarily,from an offer by the blogger! Lol ...

I often stand before a crowded room of artists to do a demonstration or teach a workshop. I've been told , I give quite a comic stand up routine as I teach! A written Q&A on myself, now ,that's another story ...

So, today was my deadline. I did it! Now, I know why I read all those self help coaching books and skip over the written lists and exercises! The intention is always good, but I really don't like to pin down my thought process,and verbalize answers to what is a creative, visual, response .... ( ahem.... or recognize my faults.)

I must say,it really did help to do it. The interview clarified my way of working, its influences,charting my process and even showing me my long road to success ! Give it a try . Interview yourself. You may be surprised by what you learn!

Hmmm ...I think I'll give those books a second look, maybe even do an exercise now.

Meditations

2009-02-16T20:59:00.004-05:00

This morning as I was dropping my Entrecards on my favorite art blogs and searching for new Project Wonderful ads,the subject of ACEOs kept cropping up. I've enjoyed this format and thought I'd feature one of my favorites that I created for my Etsy shop.This is "pocket" artwork. Affordable, collectible "Art Cards, Editions and Originals" (ACEO), are 2.5"H x 3.5"W - for horizontal: 2.5"W x 3.5"H for vertical,the size of a trading card.

This is an original,hand painted mixed media ACEO. It is mounted on black archival mat board with a red solid core and is signed on the back and dated.This piece is multi layered in various rice papers, papyrus,and 23k gold leaf with chinese coin.Place it in a space on a table easel,or frame it. Best of all .. . use it as a focal point for your meditations .sold

Meditations & it's companion piece Meditations 2 are available for purchase @ PineShoreStudio

Risky Business

2009-02-10T10:10:00.006-05:00

My natural palette is blue/brown . My usual expression relies on applied textures. Vermilion Skies was painted to challenge these habits. Surprised by the outcome,encouraged by its quick sale,I continue to grow and learn as an artist when willing to set aside that which I already know and take a risk.
I've been teaching more and more lately. I find my biggest challenge is not in teaching art principles but confidence...specifically brush confidence. I first heard reference to such a concept from Barry John Raybould. Struck by the phrase,I wondered if it applied to watercolors . It was obvious in oils and acrylics by nature of their textured and weighted stroke ,but watercolor?
Yes ! Brush confidence goes beyond mere application of paint .
Large brushes used with energy, stroke broadly across a surface giving a flow of direction. Flat edged and razor- like swoops of color skitter, dry against dry and meet strokes melting wet into wet.Working large to small, building on broad shapes rather than line contour, most importantly keeping the forms simple I challenged myself to ... brush it on ..and walk away! sold

You Never Know..

2009-02-04T08:57:00.003-05:00

For those who question my sanity in painting original work for little return with Artomat
(see my past archives) Here is a letter that I received that makes it worth it!
Dear Helen,
What a serendipitous magical world this is.!!I purchased one of your art-o-mat pieces at the Doylestown Public Library in Pennsylvania.
This is a long story, but I have to tell it.
It begins at Christmas, or rather after Christmas, sometime in January.I went to visit my parents post holiday because my dad was in the hospital over Christmas.So I went down to see them and spend some time with them. My mom gave me a pair of slippers with butterflies on them, because I raise Monarch butterflies. Unfortunately they were a size small, so I had to return them. The shipping was $5.00. My mom sent me two five dollar bills in the mail, to reimburse me for the postage. Since it only cost$5.00 to ship the slippers back, I had an extra $5.00. I was on my way out to the library when her letter came. I stuck the bills in my pocket and off I went.I returned a few DVD's, got a couple more. As I was waiting in line to check out, I spied the art-o-mat. I am a fan and long familiar with it. The thought popped into my head, with that extra $5. I will buy a token and choose a piece and send it to a friend of mine who is in Iraq. He is an artist also, as I, and has been blue about not being able to make art. We talked about collaborating on a piece and sending it back and forth between us, but alas, the idea never left the ground.So what a better way to bouy his spirits than to send him an Art-O-Mat piece !! Small, portable and lightweight.I got my token and stood like a little kid in front on the machine. I used to buy smokes from these machines back in the day. Loved that ka-thunk sound !Looking over the selections, I let my intuition guide me. I looked left and right, saw a few things, then spied a lovely tree. My friend in Iraq loves trees and I gave him a small silver charm that was a tree that I had gotten at an artist swap. He wears it around his neck on a necklace of protection that I made for him. The tree was to remind him that he has roots and that he is strong and he will safely return to his own beloved trees and his family. It was your tree that I was looking at. Though I knew that I may not get that tree, I decided to pull the level. Out came this beautiful piece that reminded me of the shore with gulls flying over a beach. It evoked a few memories. I put it in my bag and headed for home.Later that evening I looked at the back of your piece and decided to look up your web site. I almost fell over when I saw that you paint the Jersey Shore. Then when I saw that your studio is in Toms River, I knew I had to tell you this story.I am a Jersey girl, now living in Pennsylvania. I used to go "down the shore" all the time.My friend in Iraq lives in Howell and my parents live in Toms River and I have family strewn like flotsam and jetsam up and down the Jersey coast. Isn't it magical how a $5.00 bill from Toms River has translated itself into a painting from Toms River that is going across the world to a guy who loves the Jersey shore and has spent time with this Jersey girl on the dunes in Island Beach State Park, which is the memory your piece evokes for me.Wow.... this world is an amazing place and all kind of magical things happen. Another just did !Thanks for your work. Jim is going to love it and this story !
Best Regards,Loretta Shigo

Art Show ... 2009

2009-02-02T19:48:00.004-05:00

It is NOT business as usual, but...if you go prepared with an understanding of the reality of the economic situation ...you will sell your work. I found small to sparse attendance through out the three day show. Thanks to the chatter on Twitter,Facebook,many art blogs & forums I was able to make the necessary adjustments that gave me the selling edge I needed.Appreciative and encouraging of my efforts,browsers and shoppers alike enjoyed a day out to view art , and readily engage in conversation while watching me demonstrate my techniques in front of my display. I brought my framed work ,but included a wide price point range for framed as well as
simply matted pieces. Since I work in originals only,not having the luxury of reproductions, I displayed original cards and bookmarks as well.
This approach was successful. People want to buy. They do not want to continue to feel deprived nor depressed by the current economic fear.
They are cautious and frugal but willing to spend a little. Many small sales added up by the end of the show . By demonstrating my work I made connections with a number of customers requesting workshops,and classes that I will be following up. I had sale of a larger framed work today from a customer that browsed the show and decided to buy afterall.
Though I overheard many a "doomsday" conversation from one artist to another,particularly that they are cutting back on their show schedules ..I have decided to go forward with an aggressive schedule. I feel now is the time to step forward not backward! I feel the customer I connect with now,will , in better times, return more readily in the future.

Kick Off!

2009-01-27T09:28:00.003-05:00

I am preparing for the first (3 day)show of my 2009 season. I have an eye on the weather reports ,watching the approaching snowstorm ,willing it not to hit this weekend. Guiltily, I am relieved that the local teams didn't make the Super Bowl and keep party crowds away.Beyond that ...will people simply browse,thankful for inexpensive days of entertainment?Will they purchase?This particular show has always been an indicator as to how well the season will go for the rest of the year.
I feel I must approach this show as I always have, expecting and being prepared for the best
results in sales and meeting new enthusiastic customers.I've increased my effort to adapt to the changing buying trends by:

providing interest by doing demonstrations of my mixed media techniques in front of my display, opening up conversation rather than a more passive presence.
creating price points ,with in depth inventory in a more moderate price range by the availability of unframed work,cards and even bookmarks. (still all originals!)
I'm providing as many possibilities to extend my sales beyond this show by promoting my on line shops.

I'm a little anxious, but hopeful,despite the economic news.I'll report my observations , failures & successes next week.

Preaching to the Choir?

2009-01-24T11:07:00.008-05:00

You have updated your web site, increased your blogging, added Project Wonderful ads, Entrecard, Adsense, and an affiliate, increased your traffic........have you had a sale?
I ask this quite openly. I hope you will respond in kind.
Yesterday I was reading : Do You Want Traffic or Do You Want to Sell Art? by Clint Watson from Fine Art Views Daily Newsletter ISSUE #304 - (Sponsored by FineArtStudioOnline).
It stopped my clicking from site to site. I paused and thought about this question. I checked my newly available google analytics provided by my Artfire and Etsy shops.
Hmmm... 1 sale on Etsy, 0 from Artfire.
Are we simply talking to each other?Are we reaching outside of our "art circles" and talking to any buyers? Are we just preaching to the choir?
Your thoughts ,please.....(lol...and please click away on my sponsers ! )

Forward & Backward

2009-01-22T11:19:00.005-05:00

This morning a prospectus for an art show venue arrived in the mail. I was pulled up short when I realised that I may be overlooking the efforts from the past that I have already established and had success. Over the years there have been countless shows, some worked some didn't. In times of economic security it is easy to dismiss those sites that weren't quite lucretive,but can we now?Looking over my notes that I keep on each show,I reviewed why I may have chosen not to do it again in following years .Was it weather, other commitments ,lack of crowds, bad publicity,too new? Have circumstances changed? It does pay to be choosey, to know your sites but some deserve a second look. Go back, rethink, and perhaps retry these venues. Crowds, weather, economy all are subject to change.I've been focused on marketing in new venues of late when perhaps a look backwards will bring me forward too.

Sticky?

2009-01-15T09:35:00.003-05:00

I was painting late last night. My painterly brain loop was on automatic . Those 7 elements of design : line,value, color,texture,shape ,size and direction were all in play. But wait! What was that whisper? That vague formation of another word or two? Gasp! It was coming from that other world ...internet! Yes, I actually stood in front of my work and asked myself if it was "sticky"and what kind of "bounce rate " it would have! LOL! But how true. How often do you witness your viewer at a show, gallery or museum , barely gazing at your painting? Was there not enough content to hold attention? Did it get a superficial glance before your viewer was off to the next piece or other artist's work, eyes bouncing off one to another? Think about it today as you work.The answer will be different for each of us. How do you hold your viewers attention?

Have at it!

2009-01-13T14:23:00.008-05:00

Much like stretching before exercising, pull out an old "failed" painting and just "have at it". I stated this in my last blog. Robin Maria Pedrero commented "...PS recently learned a "failed" piece can be labeled a study, where we learned something."

I can't tell you how many times I've told my workshop students or demonstrated that these amazingly poor paintings can emerge as accomplished work. How often have you given up on a piece too soon?After that question ,please ask yourself ,"Why?"

Now switch that thinking to "Why not?"and simply pick up a new color, tear some rice paper,dip into acrylics,slash a broad pastel stroke across that muddled tone. Rebuild, reshape that composition and have at it!

" The amateur is afraid of boldness,the professional is afraid of timidity."-Ed Whitney

Cranky!

2009-01-12T16:54:00.005-05:00

I have devoted the first week and a half of this New Year 2009 to many computer related activities. Marketing my work on the web has taken about 75% of my time. I've read many articles that stress ( hmm ..good choice of word) that it is time well spent these days, in fact necessary....but ...I'm getting cranky. I'm not in the business of marketing ,or a computer geek.I am an artist. I need to paint. The lack of daily painting has left me feeling out of sorts and uneasy facing a blank paper. My brushes feel like 2 x 4's and my paints have dried out on my palette. Panic ? No! I've learned to be kind to myself and simply work my way through the uncomfortable beginnings of work. Much like stretching before exercising, pull out an old "failed" painting and just "have at it". Really, I have nothing to lose. If it gets worse, ok, ..but there is always a chance it could succeed. What an opportunity to take unexpected risks,a new color combination,new format,textures, composition. You get the idea. I'm not looking for a finished piece just refocusing on the activity of my painting. Ahh.......relief!

Are you click happy?

2009-01-11T09:06:00.008-05:00

After doing my paperwork for this month, I started clearing out my 2008 files and setting up the 2009. I then shifted from my "paper work " to my computer files. Oh dear! What a mess! Admittedly, there was a time I could walk into a room with computers and they would simply shut down. It was scary. Finally I became adept and at least being capable of some basic skills. As they say ..."a little knowledge....". Oh! I have all the makings of a computer disaster just waiting to happen. Back ups ...uh...files scattered ..hmmmm.... now where is that photo and what group was that?
I hadn't realized how many bookmarks, rss feeds, groups and sites that I've clicked while learning how to navigate the Internet. Guess what I'll be doing this week?
My last post is nudging me to take my own advice again! Is it working for you?
Time spent cleaning up and organizing will definitely speed up my desk time and let me have more painting time..and isn't that the point! Don't know where to start?
I'd Rather be in the Studio by Alyson Stanfield is a great blue print to help you get going in 2009. As in anything you only learn by doing it!
PS ...think before you delete!!!!!

Is It Working for You?

2009-01-09T09:35:00.006-05:00

This past week I asked the question "Is it True?" How did you do with that one? Did it make
a difference? Were you surprised at your answers? Well , here is the follow up question
"Is it working for you?"Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.
Believing in what is not true about yourself will impact how you act throughout a day.
Now that you've thought about it and asked yourself this question...is it working for you?
What is your answer?
It is said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again expecting a different outcome.

January is a month of lists.All kinds of lists get written with the hopes of a different,better outcome. Be it health, wealth or love,write that list! No cheating, don't just think about it,
write it down. My suggestion:

Make a list of activities concerning your day as a "working artist" (I say working artist,because there is a difference to ones approach if it is how you pay the bills as opposed to an occasional art show inwhich you participate now & then.

Are you painting each day? Duh....you'd be surprised how many of us don't get past this 1st question!

Are you prepared to grab an opportunity to show your work if it suddenly comes along?Do you have business cards,photos of your work etc.

Is your work professionally presentable?

Are you letting people know that you have work to sell?

I could go on and on,but you get the idea. Start writing!

Shows & Demos

2009-01-08T17:32:00.000-05:00

Shows & Demos
Workshop: Stress Free Painting
Ocean County Artists Guild, Island Heights,NJ
February 12,2009, Thursday
9:30 - 3:00
Members: $30.00
Non -members: $40.00

Upcoming Show!
Christian Brothers Academy
34TH Annual Professional Art Show & Sale
January 30th - February 1st,2009
Lincroft, NJ 07738

Winter's Brook

2009-01-08T09:57:00.003-05:00

Just completed this painting:It is listed on ArtFire .
Winter's Brook. Original, mixed media. Image size: 7.87"H x 11.75"W
unframed with surrounding 1.5" white border
$175.00

"Don't Do That"

2009-01-07T11:19:00.006-05:00

I'm struggling this morning with a new painting. It's cold, and rainy outside my studio window. Many of my friends are getting hit with snowstorms ...and my painting is reflecting the snowy, cold day. The problem? I was rereading " Learn Watercolor the Edgar Whitney Way"by Ron Ranson, and I came across a quote by Whitney "You make me look where nothing happens...Don't do that!"

Hmmm...How often does a painting fail because the focal point ( if we even ever had one) was simply..blah. After all the the focal point is the center of interest ,the expression, the reason you painted the scene. Right?

How often do you find yourself lost while painting? What do you do?Do you toss it, get discouraged? Don't do that!

I go back to my basics. Over the years I've collected a library of books and reference materials.

Now the internet can provide access to articles. Haven't read or reread your books lately?

I paint every day. I struggle to stretch beyond what I've done previously.

I take advantage of those who have gone before me...and learn . I wish you an ah-ha moment today.

Is It True?

2009-01-06T10:45:00.006-05:00

As artist working in a studio, alone, each day, we tend to talk to ourselves. Self-talk, critic, brain- loop, it has many names, and it can work for you or against you. I recently started asking a test question .IS IT TRUE? Amazingly,I discovered that I tell myself an awful lot of stories about myself and my work that simply don't stand up to that question!

I told myself, that sales would be difficult this month...the galleria sold a painting of mine yesterday.
I told myself that my "to do list" was overwhelming...I actually wrote down my accomplishment list of yesterday & it was longer than my original to do list.
I told myself that I didn't know how to network...I've connected with 2 new artist by attending an art show this week.

I told myself I could skip a day of walking and I'd feel ok...lol ..we know that answer!

How often do you find yourself wasting time and energy on thoughts that simply aren't true?As you make your goal list, resolutions, choose your word of the year etc. put it to the test.
IS IT TRUE?
Do you need to get up earlier to accomplish your list or do you need to focus more effectively on a particular job?
Do you label yourself "disorganized "or do you simply need to buy some folders?
Are you really a beginner or are you afraid to take the next step and enter a juried show?
Did the painting not sell because of the economy or do you really need more skills?

You''ll be surprised how this question can be applied to everything that runs through your head as you paint and amazed when you discover the answers! Be prepared ...to meet yourself!

Announcing New Classes

2009-01-04T17:58:00.001-05:00

Winter 2009 Art Class Schedule

Main Avenue GalleriaArt Class Schedule and Prices Mixed Media with Helen Harris Classes are one and a half hours each. A total of five classes is offered. Cost is $75 per student for all five classes and is payable in advance. Registration is required. Telephone 732-988-1002 or email mainavegalleria@optonline.net. Space is strictly limited to six students per class so reserve your seat right away. Thursdays - Jan. 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th and Feb. 5th10:30am - 12pm A second class is available. Wednesdays - Jan. 21st, 28th, and February 4th, 11th, and 18th3:00pm - 4:30pm This is a beginner level class, but experienced artists are welcome to participate as well. The course will be held at our gallery in Ocean Grove and will cover: - Basics of materials and use of sketchbook- Watercolor painting and application of mixed media- Evaluation and adjustments using mixed media- Understanding matting, and framing of watercolor painting

Do not disturb..I'm painting!

2009-01-02T14:59:00.005-05:00

There was a time when I would take a break from my painting and go on line to relax and explore the internet. LOL! Lately I've had to literally shut the computer down so I can take a break and PAINT. My goal this year is to be my best art rep,which translates to a ramping up of marketing skills . If you've been following my last few blogs, you'll see the result of much clicking and learning . To all who have had a hand in my education..thank you.
Quite honestly, I could shut down a whole communication center simply by walking into it! I feared computers and their mysterious ways for a long time. Now..I have the joy of working from my studio and marketing internationally . Wow! I'm still astounded by that and I'm grateful.
B..u..t.. right now I'm going to grab some coffee, shut this down and paint. Simply put...
"You can't sell ,what you don't make!"

Interested in Driving more Traffic to your Site?

2009-01-01T20:42:00.004-05:00

I've just gone live with the box ad space that you see in the upper right corner of my blog page.
This could be your space seen by all of my readers. The following is an excerpt from the
Project Wonderful site.
"Project Wonderful reinvents online advertising. We've made click fraud impossible. We give advertisers the power to choose what sites their ads appear on - and publishers the freedom to choose what ads show up on their sites. We don't have absurdly high minimum-payout levels. We've made the entire online advertising experience transparent, trustworthy, and fair - as well as more profitable, for everyone involved! It's why our slogan is "Everybody wins."
At a time when it really matters where you spend your money, make it work for you. Place a bid. Check off that first item of the New Year.....make more sales on line!

"AFT" 08

2008-12-31T11:20:00.005-05:00

I posted "AFT" 08 on Twitter this morning. What does that mean? Though I'd love to give credit to whomever taught me this method of organization, I simply can't remember. Basically,AFT,stands for Act, File or Toss. My art desk may get piled up with papers because I use them as textures in my paintings, but you will not find my office desk piled up. What a relief at this time of year when we all rush to finalize business papers.
The key to this organizational habit:
Everytime you pick up a paper, mail, file etc. (paper work clutter) place a mark in the upper left corner. If you get 3 marks you MUST STOP and Act,File
or Toss. No excuses, no exceptions! Try it! Your work area will stay ...workable. Now I'm going to go figure out a way to apply this to my computer!

Project Wonderful

2008-12-30T16:21:00.005-05:00

I have entered into the internet advertising waters cautiously via Project Wonderful. With little investment,plenty of hope and curious excitement, I'm watching for results. I've placed my ad on a site that receives plenty of views but it has not had any clickable results yet. Too early to tell if this will be a future way to go for me. I've also applied to be a publisher, which means that I could sell ad space on my own sites for income. But I'd like to thank Timothy Adams, for the information and instruction video that helped me launch my efforts.

Crayon Shadows

2008-12-23T16:59:00.004-05:00

Just posted this piece to http://PineShoreStudio.artfire.com

"Crayon Shadows"

matted 10"H x 8" W

image: 7"H x 5"W

Needed to have a little fun with color after working all day

on my computer.

I update my web site http://helenharrispaintings.com

by adding a new page featuring ACEOs .

Please visit and when you do take a moment to

fill out my guest book form and be entered into a monthly drawing for an ACEO!

A passing thought...passed on

2008-12-22T14:55:00.003-05:00

I found the following quote in the pile of papers I had the urge to sort. I must've saved it once and just rediscovered it. As we approach the end of this year and are about to begin another, I thought it was worth sharing as it was shared with me.
It was written awhile ago from a person that goes by the name of sasto65 on the painting forum from About. com in answer to another's question :
"Should you start painting in your 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's, 90's, 100?"
"I feel a person should start today. Each person has 24 hours, regardless of their age, to make choices about what to do with those hours. I try to think of a lifetime existing in a day. Considering each morning a birth and each night a death gives me an immediacy to my painting and everything else that truly matters to me. it rearranges priorities for me, because I cannot know if I will have another day. this may be it. How precious the moments become. I ask myself, if I were gone tomorrow, will I have done all I am capable of doing? When the answer is yes, I sleep well. It is neither too late nor too early to start. It is today, and today is for painting

Aceo ..continued

2008-12-19T09:48:00.005-05:00

I'm truly enjoying this ACEO format ( 2.5" x 3.5"). I've found it valuable to work out ideas in small scale or simply working on a quick daily idea. My shop http://pineshorestudio.etsy.com/

is getting a following of collectors of my work. Nice...maybe these are a good lead into collecting larger work. Here are 2 that just sold.

Please visit my shop to see new work.

ACEO

2008-12-05T09:39:00.001-05:00

Just sold this one: Morning has Broken

"ACEO is "pocket" artwork. Affordable,collectible"Art Cards, Editions and Originals" (ACEO), are 2.5"H x 3.5"W - for horizontal: 2.5"W x 3.5"H for vertical ,the size of a trading card.

This,original,hand painted mixed media ACEO is is signed on the back and dated.

Place it in a space on a table easel,or frame it. Best of all .. . discover this moment for yourself..in your pocket."

This has become a very popular format...and my collectors are growing in number each day! I'm hardly getting a chance to put them up and they are gone. What a great and AFFORDABLE way to introduce your work to a customer and hopefully have them return to see larger work.

Visit my Etsy shop. I am adding ACEOs each day. http://pineshorestudio.etsy.com/

Woohoo...Alyson's Book Sale!

2008-12-01T11:51:00.000-05:00

To all my Artist friends:
Order a copy of Alyson Stanfield's book I'd Rather Be in the Studio! The Artist's No-Excuse Guide to Self-Promotion, by December 21 and you'll get 13 bonus e-books, special reports, and audio programs. All for the price of a single book. If you're one of the lucky ones that has had the book on your shelf for awhile now, buy a copy for a friend and keep the bonuses for yourself!But you have to order from ArtBizCoach.com by midnight ET,December 21.
Please click on this link and give yourself a gift this year!
http://www.1automationwiz.com/app/?af=799727&u=www.artbizcoach.com/bigbooksale

thanks!

Whew!

2008-11-30T09:12:00.000-05:00

I have a web site: http://helenharrispaintings.com
I have this blog: http://pineshorestudio.blogspot.com
I have 2 on line shops: http://PineShoreStudio.artfire.com
http://PineShoreStudio.etsy.com
I have Facebook, Twitter& Squidoo.......
uh.....but do I have my painting?
The balance of painting and then marketing on all these sites is a challenge
and it can get very out of wack, especially at this time of year .
Black Friday, Cyber Monday,this promotion and that sale...hmmmm
push and do everything or be overwhelmed and do nothing?
Balance .
A word to be considered today.
Choice.
The action to be taken.

Breathe.............paint! Smile!

Art Fire..launched

2008-11-25T19:16:00.001-05:00

It's been a full month since my last blog. I've been very busy!

I've launched a new on line site: http://pineshorestudio.artfire.com/

Come visit!

Don't forget to drop by : http://pineshorestudio.etsy.com/ too.

Both of these sites are great for your holiday shopping.

Here are 2 of my newest pieces on Art Fire.

The Falls

Flurries

Crossroads

2008-10-25T12:02:00.001-05:00

I went home this past week. No, not to where I currently live...home, my roots. I returned to the landscape that first inspired, thrilled and I have always painted. Gone for over 24 years, I was amazed to see how vividly imprinted I am with my earliest impressions of mountain, lake and streams. I rode down the mountain, breathed the crisp air, touched the clouds and remembered the frost..and reunited with childhood friends.
Crossroads...I have reached an intersection of my life...my painting life. I don't need to start over,or let go of all that has gone before but I do need to turn.Continuing in the straight path is safe ,but the wrong way. Looking back on the titles of my last two posts have proved prophetic. That inner compass that has been swinging wildly has found its true North.
I went home. I saw my past and knew I'd found my future.
Today I approach my blank paper with a renewed excitement, a remembered dream and a reconnection to who I am.

Which Way? That Way!

2008-09-26T09:04:00.001-05:00

As I promised I am posting the finish of my last painting . "Hanna's Storm", the image is 12"H x19"W . I am about to mat and frame it.

I was able to develop the light and feel of the storm that had just passed. This piece was actually inspired by Hurricane Hanna that I watched as the daughter of a close friend was exchanging wedding vows !

It is unusual for my work to have structures or objects,such as the boats . I find that the more I paint experimently in acrylics, the more my watercolor paintings develop a layering of texture and color and detail. I have enjoyed the beginning splashes of color across the paper, painted with great energy and abandon to be followed by the control and shaping of the details. There are just some piece that simply feel right and this one did.

The greatest joy is that I get to start another one....!

Which Way?

2008-09-16T09:33:00.000-05:00

I have one of those paintings in front of me.You know them. It's the kind that you stumble on because you know that there is something new afoot. It's not going to follow the tried and true path. It is going to make you get lost,not following in the rut you know, leading you astray. Arghhh...just when you thought you knew how to handle that brush, paint ....idea. Oh! It is so tempting to just walk away but I'm drawn back seductively as that wash every so softly glazes over the base color. Images are popping through the granulated surface and I can feel the fog gliding over the water surface....where do I go? LOL ! This should be interesting ... Come back soon and I'll post my final painting.

Answers & Appreciation

2008-09-12T15:34:00.000-05:00

I just completed answering questions for an upcoming interview with Ralph Serpe of CreativeSpotlite http://www.artinstructionblog.com.
Situations like this always give me an opportunity to really think about just how and why I got to where I am. Sometimes I am surprised when I read back my answers. I have found mentors, read books and articles,attended and given demonstrations never realizing just how much I've absorbed over the years and now pass along to other painters.
It was in this frame of mind today that I tackled the difficulties in a painting that I feel has great potential but isn't quite there yet. There was a time when I wouldn't have even seen the problems let alone try to solve them!So I went back to basics. I remembered all the sage advice, the examples and and experiments that others have discovered and shared along their journey. I found my path again. I hope sharing my ideas and questions ,in my blogs, interviews and demonstration will one day find a way to the margin notes of another painter and give them the same "ah-ha!" feeling that I have known through the kindness of others. I thank you all for blazing that trail before me and know that when I go off the beaten path I can always find my way back because of the markers you left behind.

Listen to yourself

2008-09-09T08:35:00.000-05:00

Struggling lately with my work, yesterday's post seemed appropriate...just do it!I listened.
I dug out an old acrylic canvas and simply played. Acrylic is not my usual media, watercolor is. I struggle with paint that stays put. I am an intuitive painter.Rarely drawing in any elements, attacking swiftly with brush and going where the color flows. Yet that is exactly what was NOT taking place lately. Switching to the acrylic made me labor, think, placing each stroke, pushing the image into the canvas. I've done this before, knowing that the result I was striving for was not a finished painting but an opportunity to go outside of my comfort zone. It worked.....
This morning I pulled out a freshly prepared sheet of paper and let the watercolor flow.
I'll return to the acrylic ....but not now, I'll just go with the flow.

A quick note..

2008-09-08T09:47:00.000-05:00

There are days when you simply over think everything. A feeling of being overwhelmed ensues and questioning of the very idea that you try to make a living as an artist. First and foremost ..STOP! Go for a walk, get a scrap of paper and just draw, paint ...play. Enjoy being swept along on the silliness of mixing colors at random ,scribbling doodles ...gazing at the clouds that then become the shapes that dreamers see. Remember ...just do it!

Split Personalities

2008-09-05T10:09:00.003-05:00

Go ahead ..for those who know me well,have a good laugh at this title! Already known by two names Helen/Kelly, this subject should come as no surprise. My struggle this morning is the on going tug -a- war I feel working between fields: fine art /commercial arts ..oh and I guess now that I'm showing work on Etsy ...crafts !

I left the craft world behind years ago, actually giving away all of my craft supplies,fabrics,books etc. The slower economy recently caused an adaption of my marketing and my higher priced work gave way to a spurt of paper goods such as blank cards, bookmarks etc. Lo and behold they sold too! I'm enjoying the added income but I'm not interested in repeating an idea, such as multiples of a card design. One of a kind , that's ok....maybe that's why I prefer paintings and I work only in originals not prints.
check out PineShoreStudio.etsy.com
I suddenly was offered an oppportunity to work with writer, Hal Alpiar, on a brochure,with many illustrations, too good to pass by ..again considering the state of economy, but I know that this is just a detour in my day of painting. Visit: halalpiar.com
Gallery sales needing to strenghten after a season of cautious buyers finds me changing locations on walls ,adding new work ,even (gasp!) revisiting my pricing structure.
Visit: http://mainavegalleria.com/, http://pictureperfectgallery.com/ , http://helenharrispaintings.com/
My dilemma? Who am I today?Where do I focus my energy? Crafter, illustrator, painter?How do you define yourself? Does it matter?
In the past I always thought that I needed to concentrate on just one area.
These days I find that my skills and opportunities are not so neatly packaged and seizing the opportunity is the difference between surviving as an artist or going back to 9-5.
If you find yourself juggling different aspects of your art work, please drop me a note .How do you cope and make the switch mentally or in the studio?

Pricing ..got an opinion?

2008-08-22T15:52:00.000-05:00

I've been invited by a local artist group to give a lecture on "pricing your artwork." It is a subject that brings heated discussion and varied answers. I do not want this to be a speech based solely on my opinions and methods. I have been compiling information from the web and by interviewing a number of artists. If you have a formula or experienced the angst of pricing and wish to share your point of view,write a short comment and submit it to this blog. I thank you for sharing and will give credit to you in my lecture should I quote your opinion or site your source.

The chicken or the egg?

2008-08-12T09:16:00.000-05:00

Ohhhh ...it's difficult to get back to blogging when you've been away ...mentally! How many times I thought today I'll blog and so many other things have come up.
Today I did have a quick comment: social networking vs studio time.
It's like the old joke of which comes first the chicken or the egg? This controversy of how much time to spend in a work day marketing and writing about your work to get it noticed as opposed to actually doing the work so you have something to write about is never ending. Ask a marketing coach and the answer is paint first then market. The reality is that in marketing you get entwined in all the sites that you've established. Neglecting them just makes it seems like you are spinning your wheels, regretting that you have already spent too much time and energy getting these connections started! Without these Internet connections you'd be running around in your car and still not be in the studio working! You know it's worth it but at what to what extent?
I am trying out suggestions from the Alyson Stanfield book "I'd Rather Be in the Studio"
Take a moment and click this site http://www.1automationwiz.com/app/?af=799727.
Maybe you'll find some tidbit that helps you too.
Let's open a discussion. How do you deal with this dilemma? I'd appreciate your feed back.

Outside of the Box?

2008-07-11T15:15:00.001-05:00

SeaShells: blank card /envelop available : http://PineShoreStudio.etsy.com

It is very difficult not to buy into the prevalent view that the economy is getting worse daily. It is especially hard when you are an artist, in the studio...alone. The "product" we create is not esssential to survival ( although that's a matter of opinion). It's not food,clothing, or transportation. Paintings fall into that luxury niche. The sales of higher priced,framed work is certainly suffering right now. Ask any artist that has survived a hot,humid outdoor show this summer. Browsing is a form of inexpensive entertainment with no need to spend that cash.
What to do? Be flexible. Think outside of the box. How can you market your work in an affordable way that will be approachable for your customer?
I've been on the internet non stop lately (though I've sorely neglected this blog). Social networking,marketing articles and sites and possible new ventures have opened up some avenues for me and perhaps they will be a lead for you too.
1. I've opened my own online shop : http://PineShoreStudio.etsy.com/
This shop is currently offering small original paintings and cards @ affordable prices. (see above)
2. I've become an affiliate for ArtBiz.com, a fine site for marketing info and help:
http://snipurl.com/2rtap

3. I'm active in forums and following up on other artists links. The old saying "who you know"
still applies.
4. ......and I'm painting ,daily. I have a little sign that came from ArtBiz:
Believe in your art.
Believe in yourself.
Believe in your goals. ...

a few sales would help too !

Burled Woods

2008-06-13T21:32:00.000-05:00

As temperatures soared into triple digits,my palette warmed to the hot side of reds,oranges and yellows. Slightly cooled by dashes of blues and violets,I believe the heat of the day is conveyed to the viewer in this work.
The image is approximately 19"Hx 12"W.
I made use of a technique,acquired from studying video by Don Getz, in which gesso is first applied to the watercolor paper. Watercolor then is splashed over the surface and images are "lifted" out of the color and tones are deepened within the negative shapes. Adding the strong textural elements of bark paper and papyrus completed this woodsey scene.

Currently unmatted or framed this work is available from the artist :$400.+ shipping
contact :kelhart1958@aol.com

Figures

2008-06-01T07:59:00.000-05:00

Life drawing was always a mainstay of my art education. Some of my best lessons and test of my abilities grew out of anatomy classes. After college there was little oppprtunity to draw a live model . I did eventually find my way to an art guild and once again had the oppportunity to get involved with a life drawing workshop. Rusty ,but patient I'm finding my way to a stronger and confident line again.
American Artist Magazine featured a small video clip of interest that shows an intergration of background with the model on the page. This is the link http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1243578295/bctid1564577319
I hope you enjoy it too.

What's Up?

2008-05-27T20:05:00.000-05:00

The Memorial weekend unofficially kicks off the summer season here "down the shore". The boardwalks, beaches, parks and waterways ...and roads fill with visitors. Art shows are opening every weekend in various locations. Does anyone have money to spend this year
that is NOT going into a gas tank? Is it going to be a season of browsers? Will those "incentive checks " actually be used to boost purchasing?
Events in my life curtailed my entry into the fairs this summer. I have mixed feelings about this. I'm turning to the internet to market my work. Maybe this is a good thing to explore...at least I don't need to worry about the gas tank.
In addition to this blog,I've revamped my web site http://helenharrispaintings.com/ ,published 2 lenses on squidoo http://www.squidoo.com/frame_it_right, and http://www.squidoo.com/rip_it_up_and_paint.
I'm establishing a social network on Twitter,http://twitter.com/HelenHarris. I'm even getting ready to open a shop on http://www.etsy.com/! So watch for up coming activities and return often to any of these sites. Whew...oh and I guess I'd better get back to the old drawing board so you have something to see and buy!

Twitter

2008-05-20T09:58:00.001-05:00

Ok...so I'm beginning to enjoy this form of communication. In the last day or so I've posted to a number of sights that I normally would not have found . Originally my intent was solely to drive more traffic to my blog and web site. Now ...it's also great fun. We all need that break in the day, especially if you work alone in a studio all day. So if you haven't tweeted on Twitter....give it a try, www.twitter.com or click on my update in the right hand column of my blog and then check out my new squidoo page http://squidoo.com/frame_it_right, and join the discussion.
Below is a work in progress..currently trying to warm up the tones . It's a panoramic: image size is 8"H x 27" W.

I'm Back

2008-05-04T07:45:00.001-05:00

I have returned to this blog after a month long, self imposed break . This time away was needed to grieve for my father and to recoup from his care. Playing with my paints, sketching and reading many artists blogs and articles was my therapy. I think it worked well. Refreshed, I was able to introduce some new techniques into my work. I think I was painting by rote for awhile with my energies directed more toward my care giving. I'm excited once again about my work and feel that I am finding an interesting direction to go.
This is a new piece will be available at http://www.mainavegalleria.com/

To My Father

2008-04-07T11:37:00.002-05:00

In the past few months I have written posts telling of my adventures with the "madhatter". My dear father who in his wacky ways was my constant companion as I painted. Not always understanding but always encouraging me to paint as he sat in the sunshine of my studio and we listened to 40's music....Dad passed away, April 1,2008.
I'm going to take some time away ..to remember him and to follow his advice ...paint ,Helen, just paint.....

Squidoo

2008-03-09T16:13:00.005-05:00

I just spent most of today setting up my Squidoo lens. A what? I invite you to check it out http://www.squidoo.com/squidoo . I am learning to navigate all its features and there is a learning curve. You might want to revisit my site to check out the changes I make to this mini web site. My direct link to the actual lens is http://www.squidoo.com/lensmasters/HelenHarris.

It's amazing how much is available for free on the internet. The need to learn how to market my paintings on line has sent me in search of many art marketing sites, such as www.ArtBizCoach.com

Alyson Stanfield's efforts to get out the word on the importance of blogging had enough impact to spur me on to launch my blog. I highly recommend her new book and site of the same name www.IdRatherBeintheStudio.com

A special thanks goes out to Marsha Robinett http://www.marsharobinett.com/. I was visiting her blog http://theextraordinarypencil.blogspot.com/ and was introduced to Squidoo. You just never know the impact your blogging has on those who take the time to connect with what you write. Thanks ! Those side bars with links to other artists,blogs,web sites and resources have proved over and over again to be helpful.