I Can Sketch U Blog

Congratulations to our new Featured Artists!

2011-04-26T18:37:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to this month's featured artists! Their item is now featured at http://www.icansketchu.com. Their appealing designs took the top slots!

Want your item featured? Submit a link to your product to: kerra@icansketchu.com for review. Winners are chosen each month! Deadline for submission two weeks before major holidays.

Feel free to tell your friends!

Cheers!
-Kerra

1st Birthday by totallypainted
Browse more 1st birthday Postage

Thinking of you... BIMBO card by elisaemme
See more Hand drawn Cards

Laura Butterfly by trennea
Shop for a card with zazzle.com

Orange you glad? Card by DesignerGal
Become a part of Zazzle's greeting card affiliate program

Wise Stuff by joekohl
Create a notecard template at zazzle

April's Featured Artists

2011-04-01T14:34:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to this months selected featured artists at http://www.icansketchu.com! These artists will be featured for the month of April 2011. Please feel free to drop by their sites and leave them feedback on their designs. It's not easy running and online shop, and they have gone above and beyond to make their businesses stand out. Congratulations!

Interested in having one of your designs or products featured? Please visit http://www.facebook.com/icansketchu, 'like' the page, and post a link to your site and/or product!

Cheers!

Easter Snowmen Snow Bunnies 'HOPPY EASTER' by I_Love_Xmas
See more Snow bunnies T-Shirts

Easter Bunny t-shirt by holiday_tshirts
View other Easter T-Shirts

Colors of Spring • Easter Stamp by SabineStGreetings
View other Tulips Postage

HAPPY EASTER! to You Cards Yellow Daffodils by Basleeartprintgifts
See more Easter Cards

Easter Bunny and Butterfly by Spice
Browse other Easter Postage

Easter T-shirts by easter_tshirts
View more Easter T-Shirts

Who Won The Cat Contest?

2011-03-04T19:12:00.000-08:00

The Cat Contest has closed-Thank you for playing!
Holy cow--we have a winner!

Seeing your feline friends was so fun! Congratulations to Micha! http://facebook.com/micha.snodderly
Who just won our Cat Contest at Icansketchu! Her 'Zombie' cat scared up the numbers needed to dominate and win the featured spot in a watercolor painting! And, yes, you'll get to see the finished painting! Congratulations to Micha!
http://on.fb.me/hS3RD2

Thank you to everyone who had a chance to submit their friends and vote on the winner. I'm still going to see Alicia Nicole Breeding's cat's image in my head for a long time, too. http://www.facebook.com/Icansketchu#!/profile.php?id=1208517208

I will send out an earlier note of the contest open date
as requested so you don't miss out on the chance to play, too. The next contest is going to be for cainines. To play, all you have to do is:

*visit: http://www.facebook.com/icansketchu
*click 'like' on the top of the page
*upload your photo for submission in the contest
*click 'like' on your own photo or others to submit a vote

The image with the most 'likes' by contest closing wins. Easy, fun and a unique painting of your pet on top it!

Have a suggestion or request? Feel free to post it here. I will gladly take all the feedback I can get.

Cheers!
-Kerra

Kerra Lindsey | Artwork Portfolio | ArtWanted.com

2011-03-01T09:03:00.000-08:00

Kerra Lindsey | Artwork Portfolio | ArtWanted.com

What a fantastic portfolio hosting site! I've been with Artwanted since 2007 and have found nothing but a quality webhosing site for my online portfolio, friends around the world with similar interests and inspiration from amazing paintings and drawings. Ever stopped by for a peak? It benefits me not to promote their website, but it can benefit you to have your work featured there. Stop by for a look and see what they offer!

Cheers!

-Kerra

How to Paint Portraits Effectively - Kerra Lindsey |Judy Adamson's Art and Design blog#links#links#links#links

2011-02-25T08:43:00.000-08:00

How to Paint Portraits Effectively - Kerra Lindsey Judy Adamson's Art and Design blog#links#links#links#links

Thank you, Judy, for featuring my 'how to' write up. I'm so honored. :)

Cheers!

Congratulations To Our New Winners!

2011-02-15T04:56:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to our FIRST Art Card Winner, Maria Paray LaMalfa, who made an impressive steal for first place shortly before midnight. Wow--congratulations! Look for more upcoming contests to get your very own free art card!

Now that Valentine's Day is over, our newly featured artists have been posted. Feel free to send them a 'high five' (or five stars!), on their featured products. Congratulations to our new winners! They will be featured until February 28th so check them out while they're here:

Peace, Love and Shamrocks by PeaceLoveAnd
See more Peace T-Shirts

American By Birth, Irish By Alcohol by ShamelessThreads
Make cheap custom t-shirts at zazzle.com

Boss Day Greeting Card by mannybell
Browse other Boss Cards

Dog and Cat Birthday Invitation by tiffjamaica
Design personalized picture cards on Zazzle

Edvard Munch The Scream 1893 Fine Art iPad Case by myCASE
View more iphone cases

Top 8 Common Mistakes When Entering Art Competitions.

2011-02-07T15:56:00.000-08:00

This is such important information, I think every one can help from this checklist of what 'not' to do. There are lots of upcoming contests that I've just discovered here:

http://www.facebook.com/LightSpaceTime?v=app_4949752878#!/LightSpaceTime?v=wall

This is an exurb from their site below. Cheers!

-Kerra

Top 8 Mistakes When Entering Art Competitions & Contests

For more information, Please visit the source of this article:

www.lightspacetime.com

by admin on December 1, 2010

In the last 5 months we have processed, administered and judged more than 1,000 entries for Light Space & Time’s monthly themed art competitions. I would estimate that at least 50% of the entries are not being submitted properly or are showing the artist’s work in its best light. Make sure you are not making some of these common mistakes when entering art calls and competitions:

1. Read the Rules Thoroughly Prior to Submitting Your Work

The organization that is conducting the art call has developed their competition rules in order to administer, process and judge the art in a thorough and systematic manner. They have very good reasons why they want the submitted artwork to be labeled, sized and named in a certain way. Try to understand exactly what they want and conform to their process.

2. Be Aware of the Competition’s Deadline

The group who is managing the competition has created a deadline for a purpose. Their advertising, collateral materials and judge/juror schedules revolves around this timetable/deadline. It is absolutely unfair for an artist to expect the organization to change their schedule in order to help the artist with their scheduling issues. In addition, it is not fair to all of the other artists who got their submissions to the organization properly and on time.

3. Thoroughly Understand the Competition’s Theme & Media

Understand what the group wants from the artist. If it says 2 dimensional art, do not submit your jewelry, sculpture or crafts. If it says no photography, do not expect the organization to provide to you an exception. There are lots of other venues and organizations who are conducting calls for your type of art.

If you have any questions or concerns about the theme or what is acceptable media, contact and discuss this with the organization’s event staff. You can save yourself and the staff a lot of trouble, wasted time and effort by asking or having the theme and media questions clarified.

4. Label the Entries in Their Format, Not Yours

The group who is conducting the call for art wants the entries in a certain form for identifying, administering and for judging purposes. By not labeling your entries properly, your art may not be judged if it is lost or mishandled due to this issue.

5. Provide and Enter the Maximum Amount of Entries Allowed.

If a competition is asking for 3 images, give them the 3 images. Many times we receive only 1 or 2 images when we are asking for 5 images. A judge would like to see that the artist has a consistent style and technique. Additional images will help the juror to evaluate your art more closely.

6. Provide a Biography If They Ask For It.

Many times we do not receive a biography with the artist’s submissions. Either the artist is too busy, is lazy or embarrassed to provide a biography. This brief amount of information could possibly help the artist in getting accepted into that show. There have been times when a certain artist’s work has been accepted into the show, only to find out that they have not provided a biography. This will usually lead to the artwork being withdrawn from the exhibition. Have several sized bios ready made and available that will help in this purpose.

7. Follow the Organization’s Sizing Requirements

If the group is asking for certain size submissions in terms of pixels or inches follow it. There is no excuse to not have the art sized properly as there are many free art editing programs that can be downloaded online. Follow the size, resolution and quality settings that they are asking for. The main reason for this is that they are trying to standardize the judging process and if all of the entries are the same size (longest side of the image) and same resolution it will help the juror to make a better judgment and decision about your art.

8. Provide Good Quality Images Without Frames.

There are many times that I have had to choose someone else’s art over another where the quality of the image/entry was poorly presented. I see entries where the paintings have been reproduced (photographed or scanned) for presentation purposes and as submitted they are poorly cropped (where you see part of the mat or frame), the image is too dark or is too light and overall the colors and contrast are out of balance. The artist’s presentation to the gallery and the jurors should be as if they were trying to sell your art to them in person. You only get one chance to impress the juror and this is not the time to get sloppy with your art submission.

There is a reason why they call it a “competition” as you are competing with other artists for a limited amount of places in that organization’s exhibition. Make sure your art is being prepared and submitted according to way in which that organization wants your art presented. Do not give them a reason to reject your art by either not following the rules or by not providing them with art that is not gallery worthy.

Is Your Online Shop Really Ready For Marketing?

2011-02-02T03:07:00.000-08:00

Did your last PR campaign fall flat? Are the ads you’re running today failing to snag you customers? Did the contest you just ran get almost no entries? When these disappointments come our way, it’s easy to blame mean reporters or fickle customers or the blog we just paid to advertise on. Oftentimes, the problem is a little closer to home. If your website’s not ready for prime time, all the marketing in the world won’t help. Below is a handy checklist of things you MUST do before you launch into any marketing efforts including advertising, contests, pitching the media, etc.

Product Photos:

•Are they clear, sharp, crisp, professional and attractive?

•Do the colors look murky or muddy?

•Do the colors closely match the colors of the item in real life?

•Can the customer see it from all angles they’d want to see it from (back, side, etc.)?

•Is there an action shot? (i.e. If it’s clothing, is an attractive model wearing it? If it’s home decor, is it shot in an attractive home setting? If it’s jewelry, is it being worn on an attractive model?) Action shots help your customer identify with the product and imagine owning it.

•Can the customer zoom in and see an enlarged version of the product photo?

Example Website Design:

•Is your web design professional and attractive? (Attractive websites engender trust and that encourages sales. Amateurish websites make customers worry you may not ship the products, or the products make be as amateurish as the web design. You don’t want customers thinking either of these things.)

•Does it use consistent fonts and branding?

•Does it have a consistent navigation bar that easily allows the customer to visit different product categories?

•Is your copy clear and readable and easy to follow? Are blocks of text broken out into headlines and bullets where appropriate? Can I skim any page of your site and within a few seconds understand what the page is trying to tell me?

•Is it easy for me to find information I need, such as return policies and shipping information?

•Are products merchandised in a variety of ways? (i.e. can I shop by product type, gift giving occasion, product color, price, etc.)

Information Presentation

Example: Click here to email for more information.

•Is company contact information easy to find? Can a customer easily call or email if there is a problem.

•Is there a detailed sizing chart on your product pages? The more details the better. How long is it, how wide is it, how deep is it. If you’re selling clothing give us the size of the garment and the size wearer it’s best suited for. For example, this sizing chart tells you how long and wide the garment is, what bust size the garment fits best AND what clothing size the garment fits best. It describes how to find the right fit and how the garment should fit.

•Are shipping policies easy to find? Customers want to know where you ship (US, Canada, International, etc.), how you ship (Priority Mail, Fedex, etc.) and how much it costs. They also want to know how long it takes you to ship the item. Does order processing happen the same business day or do you require some lead time?

•What is your return policy? Is it easy to find? Are returns easy? How long do I have to make a return? Do you refund shipping? How do you deal with exchanges? How do you deal with defective products or shipping damage?

•Who owns this company? What are the company’s values? Is there an about page?

•What is your privacy policy? How is customer information secured?

•What payments do you accept?

Branding:

A distinct look to your designs brings repeat customers.

•Do you have a professional distinctive logo?

•Do you have a domain name that customers can remember?

•Have you created a unique brand/products that give customers reason to buy YOUR clothing/accessories/bags/etc. instead of the competition’s?

Press Readiness:

Example: How about a 'fan' page? http://www.facebook.com/icansketchu

•Do you have a press page?

•Can we see what other media outlets have written about the company?

•Are there high resolution photos there that I can download?

•Do you have a press kit I can download?

•Are your product photos press-friendly? (This means free of watermarks and right click is not disabled. Worried about image theft? Fine, but is it worth losing out on those media placements?)

Checkout/Purchasing:

Example: Easy checkout with Paypal!

•Does checking out take too many steps?

•Is checkout difficult or slow? Can I even find the checkout button?

•Do you ask for unnecessary information?

•If I leave a necessary field blank during checkout, are the error messages easy to see and understand?

•Do I have to create an account?

•Could your mother figure out how to successfully place an order on your website without any guidance from you?

•Do I have to leave your site to make a payment?

•Are there a variety of payment options? (i.e. credit card, Paypal, Google Checkout, etc.)

Secondary Conversions:

•Can I easily find your Facebook page? Do you have a “like” button on every page

•of your site?

•Can I easily find you on Twitter?

•Can I easily find your other social media accounts such as Youtube, Flickr, your blog, etc.?

•Can I easily sign up for your newsletter?

•Have you given me a reason to become a Facebook fan, join your newsletter, etc.

Remember that the end goal when you market is to convert customers. You either want them to buy stuff or you want them on your mailing list, Facebook, etc. If your online store is not 100% ready for visitors, you are wasting your time money and energy by trying to attract visitors you can’t accommodate. It’s exciting to see your site traffic go up, but it serves no benefit if your site isn’t optimized to convert visitors. While you might be able to slide on a few items in the checklist above, generally this list is what you need to consider before you do anything else.

Reference: http://smallerbox.net/blog/ecommerce/is-your-online-shop-actually-ready-for-marketing/

New! Five Slots For Featured Artists on http://www.icansketchu.com

2011-01-31T20:55:00.000-08:00

Announcing a new feature on http://www.icansketchu.com!

Five slots are available for featured artists! To submit your art or product to be featured, send an email containing the product link, your name and website address for review. You will be notified via email if your product is chosen. Chose your best design to showcase your work, and receive added exposure and bragging rights.

Good luck!

This month's lucky winners:

Wopsle Sepia Customizable iPad Case by LiquidEyes
Browse more iphone cases

Pink Heart Necklace by runninragged
Create a custom necklace online

Food Chain Poster by Hishterical
Large format printing by Zazzle

My Dad Is My Hero by magarmor
See other Dads Mugs

Zombie Valentines Day by Piratesvsninjas
Create customized tee shirts using zazzle

Illustration Friday

2011-01-27T11:41:00.000-08:00

This is my children's art entered for 'Dusty'.
Created by Kerra Lindsey

How to Paint Portraits Effectively: Put The Pencil Down!

2011-01-25T18:09:00.000-08:00

How To Paint Portraits Effectively:

Put the Pencil Down!

You don't want me to say it but I'm going to anyway: draw, draw, draw! I feel you, you're sick of 'just drawing'. But hey, you want to be an impressive painter? Learn to draw first--then practice until, well, your hands stop working. Portrait painting can be unlike painting anything else--you may be going for a 'figurative' look and be satisfied with that--but if you want the piece to be recognizable, you're going to have move past the 'blocking' stage and get to the details. Here's a great way to get geared up to do just that!

Sick of your pencil? Not to worry--there is a way to draw with your paintbrush, too! Not as easy to carry, and yes, you've got to have some water and a few other tools nearby, but the experience can help you move forward and avoid the 'boring' factor of repetitive lines.

Here's an exercise I've used with some of my students as a warm up in our 'drawing class'. It brought about smiles and enthusiasm for the piece we were working on and forewent the 'sigh' of pulling out the pencils.

We used watercolor to sketch and draw with. The results were more than impressive!

A. Initial Sketch

We start with a blank piece of paper--no pencil guidelines to follow. Then begins our blocking phase and instead of small, graphite lines, we use a round watercolor brush (sz. 6 for our 11" x14" area, almost dry), to create large shape areas. There is no need to worry about hue at this point so I'm not going to cover that. This exercise is for your brain to accurately interpret what it's seeing and portray that 3-D shape onto a 2-D object.--with a different medium than you've been using.

I have found that negative drawing works wonders for getting your brain in the correct 'art mode', and I encourage such with my students to find the negative spaces and concentrate on them. I try to follow a path of continuously smaller shapes and values paying close attention to how they interact with each other. We draw all over he paper 'blocking in' the shapes that are found. Remember, this is an exercise for getting your brain ready to paint accurately and you shouldn't give up if your 'exercise' doesn't give you immediate results. It takes time and practice.

Here's a tip: If you find you are getting 'stuck' on a certain area stop yourself. Focus your brain on the activity at hand--the negative shapes, and the feel of the brush in your hand as you trace your shapes onto the paper.

Final Sketch In Watercolor

2011-01-25T17:07:00.001-08:00

Judy Adamson's Art and Design blog: Valentine's Day Cards from GCU Artists who use Tra...

2011-01-24T15:27:00.000-08:00

Judy Adamson's Art and Design blog: Valentine's Day Cards from GCU Artists who use Tra...: "When I think of Valentine's Day cards, the first things that come to mind are hearts and roses and the shops are beginning to fill up with v..."

Professional Artist Call to Artists

2011-01-18T13:40:00.000-08:00

15 New Calls to Artists Posted at ProfessionalArtistMag.com

We've just posted 15 new calls to artists at ProfessionalArtistMag.com, listings that didn't make it into the last issue of the magazine before our press deadline. You'll find grants, public art calls, juried shows, galleries reviewing portfolios, festivals and more. Be sure to check the site weekly for new opportunities. Good luck!

Opportunities with Entry Fees

DEADLINE: Fri, January 21, 2011

46th Annual Central South Art Exhibition National

Location: TN

The Tennessee Art League invites all artists, 18 years or older and living in the continental U.S., to enter its prestigious annual, juried art competition. Cash awards: $10,000 with a $2,00. . . »More

DEADLINE: Sat, January 22, 2011

the NOW WOW project

Location: OH

Hudson Gallery invites all artists, students, teachers, amateurs and professionals to participate in the Now Wow project. National juried competition with Cash Awards + Solo Exhibition. This. . . »More

DEADLINE: Mon, January 24, 2011

Small Works, 34th Harper College National Art Exhibition of Small Works

Location: IL

National juried show of artwork no more than 22” in largest dimension (including frame for 2-D work). All media except jewelry, film, video/digital video. Submit digital images only. Purchas. . . »More

DEADLINE: Fri, January 28, 2011

14th National Juried & Invited Contemporary Exhibit

Location: CO

Exhibition held at The Art Center in Grand Junction, Colorado. Juror, Michael Chavez May 13 - June 25, 2011 Focusing on two dimensional contemporary work. Deadline to submit is Postmarke. . . »More

DEADLINE: Fri, January 28, 2011

NRCA ANNUAL JURIED EXHIBITION 2011

Location: NY

US artists are encouraged to submit work completed in 2005 to 2010 to New Rochelle Council on the Arts’ annual juried exhibition. Work will be exhibited at Lumen Winter Gallery. Final select. . . »More

DEADLINE: Mon, January 31, 2011

Lubeznik Center for the Arts Lakefront Art Festival

Location: IN

Call for Artists Now in its 30th year, this juried art and fine craft exhibition on the shores of Lake Michigan draws thousands of visitors from Indiana, Chicago and nearby "Harbor Country". . . »More

DEADLINE: Tue, February 01, 2011

Inaugural Naples, FL International Contemporary Crafts Exhibition

Location: FL

March 4- June 15, 2011. Juror: Mark Richard Leach, Executive Director, Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and former Cheif Curator and Founding Director. . . »More

DEADLINE: Fri, February 04, 2011

ADSO's 19th Southeast Regional Juried Fine Arts Exhibition

Location: FL

Open to artists 18 and older, living in the SE regional of USA. All media accepted, work must have been created after Jan 1, 2009. Juror/Judge is P. Hope Brannon. Show dates: May 1 to June 2. . . »More

DEADLINE: Sat, February 05, 2011

Fine Art Photography Competition

Location: VA

Photographers from DC, MD, VA, & WV are invited to participate in the 2011 ArtSpace Herndon Fine Art Photography Competition. The competition is open to fine art photographers aged 18 or old. . . »More

DEADLINE: Fri, February 11, 2011

2nd Annual, Of Memory, Bone & Myth Photography Exhibition

Location: ND

A national juried photography exhibition open to national artists of all levels (18 years and over). All artwork MUST be for sale! All photographic medium, including but not limited to histo. . . »More

DEADLINE: Tue, February 15, 2011

2011 NATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY FELLOWSHIP COMPETITION -

Location: KS

Midwest Center for Photography announces a $500 Fellowship Award. Juror: Laura Valenti, Newspace Center for Photography. Fellowship recipient receives one year gallery representation. Compet. . . »More

DEADLINE: Fri, February 18, 2011

Pastels USA 2011-Pastel Society of the West Coast

Location: CA

25th Annual International Open Exhibition at the Haggin Museum in Stockton, CA. April 24-June 19, 2011. Jury of Selection: Bill James, Lorenzo Chavez, and Sally Strand. Awards Judge: Bob Ger. . . »More

DEADLINE: Mon, February 28, 2011

2011 Kellicutt International

Location: CA

Call for Entries, Open to all photographers 2011 Kellicutt International Juried Photo Show Through a Lens: Inspiration or Desperation. Over $3,500 in Cash Prizes Jurors: Scott Atkinson - Lan. . . »More

DEADLINE: Tue, March 01, 2011

13th Annual International Juried Portrait Competition/Show

Location: GA

The Portrait Society of America is hosting the 13th Annual International Competition & Exhibition showcasing today's finest portraiture and figurative works. The top 15 finalists exhibit the. . . »More

DEADLINE: Tue, March 01, 2011

American Artisan Festival 2011

Location: TN

Dates: Friday - Sunday, June 17, 18 & 19, 2011 in Nashville, Tennessee. Continuing its tradition of the best in contemporary handcrafts, the show is expanding to include fine art mediums suc. . . »More

DEADLINE: Tue, March 01, 2011

Mountain Maryland Plein Air--CALL FOR ENTRIES

Location: MD

3rd Annual MOUNTAIN MARYLAND PLEIN AIR: May 31-June 4. $5,000 in awards, including $1,500 Best of Show. Juried by Stewart White, member of Mid-Atlantic Plein Air Painters Association Deadli. . . »More

DEADLINE: Fri, March 04, 2011

7th Annual Plein Air-Easton! Competition & Arts Festival

Location: MD

Enter the country's premier plein air festival, with more than $12,000 in prizes. Event takes place July 18-24, 2011 in Easton/Talbot County, Maryland. Capture unique landscapes and scenes a. . . »More

DEADLINE: Fri, March 04, 2011

Art League of Hilton Head 2011 National Juried Exhibition

Location: SC

Exhibition dates: May 6 - 29, 2011 Juror: Linda Baker, AWS, NWS All media - 7 categories - Cash awards Entry by digital image/CD Deadline: March 4, 2011 Prospectus: Download @ www.artle. . . »More

DEADLINE: Mon, March 07, 2011

Sequim Arts 35th Annual Juried Art Show

Location: WA

Location: Museum & Arts Center in Sequim, WA Exhibition Dates: May 3rd through May 28th Work in both 2D and 3D in all media created in the past 2 years will be accepted. Must be 18yrs or. . . »More

DEADLINE: Mon, March 07, 2011

Works on PAPER and of CLAY - 21st Annual Mid-Atlantic Art Exhibition

Location: VA

Call to Artists - The d'ART Center, Visual Art Center in Norfolk, VA, is holding the 21st Annual Mid-Atlantic Art Exhibition: Works on PAPER and of CLAY. This national art exhibition awards . . . »More

DEADLINE: Mon, March 07, 2011

2011 Gateway to Imagination: A National Juried Art Competition

Location: NM

Call for entries: Gateway to Imagination: A National Juried Art Competition. All media accepted, open to artists 18 or older, artwork must have been completed after Jan 1, 2010. Up to 2750.0. . . »More

DEADLINE: Thu, March 24, 2011

Call to Artists

Location: VA

VMRC's Eighth Annual Juried Multimedia Art Exhibition, May 29 - June 30, 2011, at the Park Gables Gallery, Harrisonburg, VA. Jurors: John Hancock, Janly Jaggard, Cole Welter. $4,000 in award. . . »More

DEADLINE: Thu, March 31, 2011

First Street Gallery 2011 National Juried Competition, NYC

Location: NY

June 22 - July 16, 2011. Award: Solo Show-Value $3000. Online entry submission only. Begin Accepting: Dec 1, 2010. Deadline: Midnight, March 31, 2011. Juror: Paul Resika - a highly respected. . . »More

DEADLINE: Sat, April 02, 2011

Lancaster County Art Association National Juried Exhibition 2011

Location: PA

Juror: Anita Shapolsky Postmark deadline: April 2. Eligible Works: All original work in all media created in the past 3 years by artists 18+. Work previously shown at LCAA not accepted. C. . . »More

DEADLINE: Mon, April 11, 2011

Newport Arts Festival

Location: RI

The 5th annual Newport Arts Festival is a juried show in the heart of scenic Newport, RI. Categories: Pottery, Fiber, Glasswork, Jewelry, Metal, Photography, Sculpture, Painting, Wood, Works. . . »More

DEADLINE: Sun, May 15, 2011

Rising Sun Festival of Fine Arts and Crafts

Location: IN

September 17 and 18 2011 Award winning artists and artisan’s from all over the United States gather in Rising Sun to display their fine art, fine crafts, jewelry, furniture, and handcrafted. . . »More

DEADLINE: Sat, June 18, 2011

2011 Aqueous Open

Location: PA

Pittsburgh Watercolor Society's (PWS) 65th Annual International Exhibition, 2011 Aqueous Open, will be held at the Gallery Sim in Pittsburgh, PA from September 25 - October 30, 2011. Work mu. . . »More

DEADLINE: Thu, June 30, 2011

Call for Entries for Sugarloaf Craft Festivals

Location: NL

Sugarloaf Craft Festivals, one of the most popular and recognized juried shows of contemporary crafts and fine art, now accepting Fall 2011 applications Apply to one or all shows: Tim. . . »More

Opportunities with No Fees

DEADLINE: Fri, January 21, 2011

Art Blizzard

Location: NY

Art Blizzard is a non-juried show inviting participants nationally and internationally to donate five 5 x 5 inch works on paper in support of the Galleries. The title of the exhibit envision. . . »More

DEADLINE: Mon, February 28, 2011

Call for Proposals, I-Park Environmental Art Program

Location: CT

I-Park (East Haddam, CT/USA) is pleased to announce its third international, multi-disciplinary Environmental Art Biennale: September 10, 2011. Pre-event residency will begin on August 23, 2. . . »More

Ongoing Opportunities with Entry Fees

Ongoing Opportunities with No Entry Fees

Open Call to Artists Missouri Southern State Gallery

Location: MO

Artists can send a packet of information by U.S. mail or electronically. Applications sent by mail should provide the Advisory Board with a proposal for exhibition, including: (1)A cover. . . »More

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Artist Magazine Call to Artists!

2011-01-15T08:30:00.000-08:00

The Artist's Magazine's

28th Annual Art competition

5 First Place Awards: $2,500 each

5 Second Place Awards: $1,250 each

5 Third Place Awards: $750 each

15 Honorable Mentions: $100 each

Nine finalists will be featured in “Competition Spotlight” in The Artist’s Magazine; twelve finalists will be featured in “Artist of the Month” on our website; the works of twelve finalists will be offered on our website as desktop wallpaper. All winners and finalists will receive a certificate suitable for framing.

Winners will be featured and finalists’ names published in the December 2011 issue of The Artist’s Magazine.

For more information about

THE STUDENT/BEGINNER DIVISION

please visit www.artistsmagazine.com.

PLUS—all award winners and honorable mentions receive a 1-year membership to NorthLight VIP Program.

Compete and Win in 5 Categories!

All entries must be postmarked no later than April 15, 2011.

Visit www.artistsmagazine.com for complete guidelines and to enter online.
4700 East Galbraith Road, Cincinnati, OH, 45236 U.S.A.

100 Things to Do For Artists and Illustrators

2011-01-14T03:39:00.000-08:00

Don’t know what to do with your extra time? There are plenty of odd jobs and tasks that an illustrator can do in between assignments. If you’re looking for some inspiration, here’s a long list of projects, ideas, and necessary chores to help make your free time more productive.

Tell a Story

Many images are used to help a narrative, and as an illustrator it is important to keep developing this skill in your off-time.

1.Make a book cover for your favorite classic novel.

2.Create a series of illustrations that show the passage of time.

3.Illustrate a song.

4.Make a narrative advertisement for a soft drink.

5.Illustrate your favorite childhood memory.

6.Make a children’s book spread for a fairy tale.

7.Illustrate the four seasons.

8.Why did the chicken cross the road?

9.Make a series of black and white “chapter” drawings for a novel.

10.Retell a short story in graphic form.

11.Create a theater poster for a Shakespearean play.

12.Create a series of illustrations that shows a person aging.

13.Make an instructional poster for a favorite recipe.

14.Illustrate a day in the life of a cat, dog, fish, or monkey.

15.Make a picture book dummy.

16.Illustrate the seven days of the Creation.

17.Interesting stories to consider: The Odyssey, the Bible, Aesop’s Fables, Edgar Allan Poe, Shakespeare, nursery rhymes

18.Make a magazine cover for a current news story.

19.Illustrate a famous historical event from: 20 years ago, 100 years ago, 1000 years ago, Prehistoric times

20.Illustrate family life in the future, at least 100 years from now.

Academic Exercises

Time to get back into the classroom! Refresh your skills every now and then so you don’t lose sight of the basics.

21.Make an illustration influenced by your favorite illustrator.

22.Paint a landscape with only three colors.

23.Create a painting in a medium you’ve never used before.

24.Study and draw figures from each source: Bridgman, Vanderpoel, Hogarth, and the masters

25.Make an abstract painting.

26.Paint a self-portrait.

27.Create a full painting in 30 minutes.

28.Draw a figure in: 1 hour, half hour, 10 minutes, 5 minutes, 1 minute, 30 seconds.

29.Fill a page of your sketchbook.

30.Create two versions of the same painting — one with warm colors, one with cool colors.

31.Sketch in a public place.

32.Paint a traditional still life.

33.Paint the same still life in your illustrative style.

34.Read a book.

35.Watch a movie.

36.Read other artists’ thoughts.

37.Watch how other artists work.

38.Take a class, if there are any available in your area.

39.Research a particular era, artist, or style and create a few paintings influenced by it.

40.Take a trip to a zoo or aquarium to sketch animals from life.

Practical Projects

Don’t let the promotion and organization of your business get pushed aside.

41.Create a series of spots to use on your website.

42.Make an illustration for a postcard.

43.Design a new logo for yourself.

44.If it’s near the holidays, create a Christmas card to send out.

45.Create a Thank You card to send to clients.

46.Draw a self-portrait in your illustrative style to use on your promotional materials.

47.Create a business card.

48.Make a small sampler, such as a booklet, that contains your artwork that you can use to give to prospective clients.

49.Create a piece of artwork to enter into a competition.

50.Take a moment to archive your traditional paintings through scanning, digital photography, or slides.

51.Backup your digital files to a disk, hard drive, or server.

52.Create sample sheets of your artwork that art directors can file easily.

53.Update your website with new artwork.

54.Work on creating samples for styles, markets, and subject matter that you are lacking in.

55.Create stationery for your business.

56.Make computer desktops or e-cards to distribute on your website.

57.If you are a children’s illustrator, create some coloring pages for your younger fans.

58.Create a fresh, new illustration to be used in a sourcebook or other advertisement.

59.Clean your work area.

60.Catch up with your paperwork.

Creative Exercises

One of the hardest tasks that illustrators have is to stay fresh and original. Use your free time to keep the creative juices flowing.

61.Design a character for a book/movie/tv show.

62.Draw a caricature of your favorite movie star.

63.Illustrate a fortune from a fortune cookie.

64.Create an illustration that integrates your name.

65.Make an album cover for your favorite band.

66.Create a modern movie poster for your favorite classic movie.

67.Create a classic movie poster for your favorite modern movie.

68.Design a creature that is a combination of at least two different animals.

69.Design a car from 100 years in the future.

70.Paint a landscape painting of an imagined land.

71.Draw a treehouse. Include as much detail as you can.

72.Draw 50 thumbnail sketches of the same object.

73.Make an illustration for each month of the year.

74.Design a deck of cards.

75.Make up your own fairy tale land and characters.

76.Research and draw characters/objects/settings from: the Mob, the Middle Ages, the Samurai, a Pirate ship.

77.Draw a monster a day for a month.

78.Illustrate a song from the Sixties.

79.Create illustrations of current events and topics such as global warming, airport security, new technology, or education.

80.Illustrate a stereotype.

Online Communities

These are resources I have found across the internet that will help you grow as an illustrator.

81.Participate in Illustration Friday.

82.Create a Moji.

83.Start a blog.

84.Help other artists who ask for critiques of their work.

85.Join an artists’ forum and participate in discussions.

86.Find and study online tutorials.

87.Look at other artists’ work through portfolio sites and blogs.

88.Subscribe to Drawn!

89.Subscribe to Lines and Colors.

90.Listen to what other artists have to say through podcasts.

91.See what other artists’ like on de.li.cio.us and StumbleUpon.

92.Contribute to the ThreeThumbsUp Gallery.

93.Read EmptyEasel.com.

94.Check out AmateurIllustrator.com.

95.Join a community like the Little Chimp Society or Illustration Mundo.

96.See the point of view of an art director.

97.Stay up to date with your industry: SI, SCBWI, GAG, IPA

98.Find illustration competitions.

99.Online portfolio sites: Portfolios.com, iSpot, Illoz.com, childrensillustrators.com, icansketchu.com

100.Read book reviews: the Sandbox, Fuse #8

And Last But Not Least…

Share with your friends online your adventures in art and inspire others!

Have any ideas for illustration projects? What tasks do you get done first when you have spare time? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment! :)

Cheers!

Cape Fear Wildlife Expo--Call to Artists

2011-01-06T04:54:00.000-08:00

New Call to Artists

Cape Fear Wildlife Expo, Wilmington
The Cape Fear Wildlife Expo, in conjunction with the North Carolina Wildlife Artist Society, is seeking designs for the Expo’s 2011 commemorative poster. The Cape Fear Wildlife Expo’s goal is to heighten public awareness of natural resources and to encourage conservation of these valuable resources. This call to artists is open to professional and amateur artists ages 18 and older.
Deadline: January 31
For more information: http://www.capefearwildlifeexpo.com/PosterContest.htm

Dutch commandos in Afghanistan pt.6/6 (9:11 ZULU)

2011-01-03T10:19:00.000-08:00

Military Portrait Promotion for January 2011

2011-01-03T09:22:00.000-08:00

Portrait Promotional Link on AdsInUSA.com

I am proud to offer a military special for the month of January, 2011. The ad link is featured above. Simply mention this ad for the promotional portrait for your military member.

Ebay Shop Opening Soon!

2010-08-16T10:39:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to announce that

my Ebay shop will be opening again, soon!

14" x 16" Print 'Waiting'; Hand signed with No. of set and Certificate of Authenticity

Starting August 29th at 7 pm, Limited Edition Prints, hand signed, (not reproduced), and with a certificate of authenticity will be available. Military Tributes are the first of the 12 piece Limited Edition set to become available. There are only 12 of these available so now is a great chance to get one AND support a worth while cause. Ebay has new connections with specific charities--all of my prints' proceeds will be donated to Military Families.

I'll send out an update near their debut date!

Cheers!

-Kerra

The Original Watercolor Paintings Featured on Card Line Available!

2010-08-13T05:49:00.000-07:00

Original Watercolor 'Thanks' Frog; license date 2005; 5" x 7"

I am thrilled to announce that the original watercolor paintings that were first licensed in 2005 are now available! These first three paintings were the basis to the 'Frog Line' that has been sold over 1600 times--with each print being sold over 300 times each. Feel free to do an internet search for these guys--you'll find them just about everywhere! (hint: kerra lindsey frog or icansketchu frog).

Each painting comes signed with a certificate of authenticity and first licensed date. They are whimsical in nature and made with the finest artist grade paints and Arches cold-pressed watercolor paper. These would make a great gift and a collectable! You can't find these any where else!

More will be available soon as I know the Pink Flamingo Line, (my most popular line that has been sold in 15 countries!), has been requested often. Have an original in mind that you'd like? Just let me know via email and I'll see if it's still available.

Cheers!
-Kerra

Art With An Infant

2010-07-31T05:23:00.000-07:00

After chasing the little guy away from the dog dish for the 20th time, dinner, clean up, bath and, of course, going out for an adventure with the older two boys, I headed back to the 'cheese' covered painting from yesterday morning. Seems the smear wasn't too bad and was able to salvage what is to be the 'I'm So Sorry' kitty-cat. Which, I have to tell you, I find ironic now. :)

I received an email yesterday from Zazzle letting me know I was picked for their 'Best Awards' page--woo hoo! Big grins from that an a great motivator to get my hands back in those paints. It was a design from the Pink Flamingo Line--two pink flamingos who recently got married. A big thank-you for picking that design!

I'm off to sneak in a few watercolor layers while the little guy is still sleeping--here's hoping I don't add a layer of coffee to go along with it.

Cheers!
-Kerra

Art With An Infant

2010-07-30T06:23:00.000-07:00

Ah--another day in the life of Art With An Infant! What will the day bring? Who knows! I found myself juggling my artwork around--this time it's landed on the kitchen table. While I balanced the little guy's breakfast on his tray, I thought I'd steal a few moments to work on this little kitty-cat series I recently started. Ha! Nice thought--bad application.

After retrieving his 'accidentally' dropped sippy cup four times, I realized my time was not being well managed. So, time for some toast-art! After gathering up his munched on toast we found this golfing man below.

Toast Golfing

He's not a masterpiece by any means, but, of course, it was silly fun to make something out of his remnants.

While the baby takes a morning nap I think I'll try my hand again at those cats. Perhaps I should make sure my hands are free of food bits first, (made the mistake of picking up a painting and oops! Cheese now on the edge--geesh!).

You know what a plus is to Art With An Infant? My own mess gets overlooked as he's trumped me every time with his own!

Poor kitty-cat on the right now with cheese

Have your own art with your little one? Share it here!

Off I go--back to the table!

Cheers!

-Kerra

Art With An Infant

2010-07-29T05:16:00.000-07:00

My little Picasso and art partner. :)

Love art? Does the thought of a paint brush in your hand bring a grin and inspiration to create? Hmm--ever tried your hand at art? That is, with an infant? The results may surprise you--and they're not what you're thinking. Art seems to take on a whole new dimension when you're adding in a little one--a little one that decides what and where art is going to be created. For example, over breakfast this morning, (a nice surprise at 5:30 am), I caught myself creating a masterpiece. I know, right? Who would have thought I could have painted a little one's face with cereal and yogurt in such a fashion as to resemble a movie-zombie make-up-artist-style? Better yet, after eating, as I set my freshly cleaned baby down, I looked down and wha-la! Instant artwork on my white t-shirt! It was gorgeous--very 'picasso' like in it's entirety. Looking at it in the mirror, I could make out different shapes and colors--perhaps it was a jungle scene? Or maybe a person running down an alley? I'm wondering if I should just photograph these 'designs' and start posting them as 'new art for the milenium'? Seems to be the only real art I've been creating as of late, (credit given to the infant, too, of course).

Creativity come in all forms!

What's your style of art with an infant? Do you have painted walls of sweet potatoes? Or maybe a circle of rice and peas in an eye catching pattern on the floor? I'm going to start a collection just for giggles sake. Ah--only a few hours left until 'we' can create another masterpiece. I can hardly wait!

-Cheers!
-Kerra

Artists Network - Jen''s Picks: Realistic Drawing Tips

2010-07-28T13:28:00.000-07:00

Artists Network - Jen''s Picks: Realistic Drawing Tips

Keys to accurate drawings:

If you can't put a name to the object you are drawing, it's not likely that your mind will predetermine how that object should look in a drawing. Below are two exercises that will help you banish pre-conceived ideas while you observe and draw.

Begin by drawing two squares with the sides of at least 3 inches, (7.6 cm) long. Squares that are much smaller than this will cramp your work space. Keep in mind that teeny tiny drawings allow the creation of teeny tiny errors, which are much harder to see and correct.

Working within a square will provide vertical and horizontal boundary lines for making comparisons. As you observe the shapes within the square's perimeter, ask yourself these questions:

How close to the perimeter is each shape?

How do the angles formed by the shapes compare to vertical and horizontal?

Do the shapes cross through the center of the swaure and if so, by how much?

How does each shape compare in size to ther others around it?

What do the empty spaces surrounding the shapes look like and how large are they?

Making these comparisons will help you see the subject in a anew, more comprehensive way. now, try to draw the shapes in the boxes with as much accuracy as you can.

Whimsical Feel Better Soon Pink Flamingo Humor Greeting Cards from Zazzle.com

2010-07-26T13:48:00.000-07:00

Whimsical Feel Better Soon Pink Flamingo Humor Greeting Cards from Zazzle.com

You know what's worse than 'feeling blue'? Feeling that way for even one more day! Whether it's a break-up, a job-loss, even just everyday things taking over, don't let it go on any longer. Send your friend a quick pick-me-up in the mail with this personalizable card! Created in watercolor in a whimsical style. This 'once pink' flamingo bird is part of the official Pink Flamingo Line!

Master a Technique Every Painter Needs

2010-07-23T05:05:00.000-07:00

Master a Technique Every Painter Needs
The process of underpainting has such a buttoned-up reputation. If it were cast in a movie, it would be the uptight, by-the-book stickler that no one wants to hangout with. But there’s another side to underpainting—one that’s freewheeling with an “anything goes” attitude. It allows artists to take a dry run at the canvas, working out compositional questions and value issues or mapping out a complex color scheme while keeping a lot of options open so that painting can evolve organically.


The multi-hued underpainting of The Bouquet by John Taye.				The Bouquet by John Taye, 2008, oil, 16 x 12.

Most artists tend to work gesturally when underpainting. They block in large elements or passages of color and save the fine details for the final stages of the piece. But beyond that, there are no hard and fast rules about the process. Although underpaintings historically tend to be monochromatic, with pigments used for an almost watercolorlike effect, artists can also incorporate multiple colors into underpaintings or play off adjacent complements, much like Seurat and Signac did, as well as contemporary artist John Taye.


Columbia Clouds by Scott Gellatly

An underpainting can also invigorate areas of a composition that are fairly uniform but also have many facets to them, such as large expanses of air or water. Laying down blue over orange or green over red and allowing parts of an underpainting to push through can help capture light and atmospheric effects on canvas and adds vibrancy and visual interest to the final painting.
So in a twist fit for daytime soap operas, a dull and tedious underpainting can actually become a free-spirited process that allows us to work according to our artistic needs and style. You can create a dress rehearsal for your work and also start to understand how painting masters created complex color layers and luminous light effects. How do you approach underpainting in your work? Leave a comment and let us know. And for a better understanding of the material aspects of your chosen medium, The Encyclopedia of Oil Painting Techniques, The Encyclopedia of Acrylic Techniques, and The Encyclopedia of Pastel Techniques are available and may give you insight on how underpainting—and more—contributes to the versatile visual effects of each medium.

Open Call to Artists! Big Awards!

2010-07-22T01:59:00.000-07:00

http://www.3rdwardopencall.com/?from=asingularcreation2

What would you create for $5,000, three months in NYC, and your very own art show? You have the vision and now 3rd Ward is offering you a place in the international art world. You are invited to submit a portfolio of your best completed artwork, work-in-progress or conceptual proposal for our Summer Solo Show. A 3rd Ward Membership not required.

Call to artists! :)

2010-07-22T01:13:00.001-07:00

http://www.studiovisitmagazine.com/

Imagekind Link Found! Where are the rest?

2010-07-21T13:47:00.000-07:00

Have you been in Imagekind? Wow! What fun looking through all different types of art! Fine art, whimsical designs--even graphical creations! Something for eveyone for sure!

I've recently been trying to consolidate my portfolio--you know, leave out the 'er, what the?' images and leave only 'the good stuff'. This has found me searching through all the sites I've participated with over the years, (since 1994), and what a challenge! Emails lost in the mass of sites--how to link these all together in one spot? Hmm--still pondering here as I go through them one by one making lists. At this point it's pretty overwhelming for sure.

The reason I mention imagekind is because of their layout format--it seems to be one of the best out there. They have quality products, easy ordering and pretty thorough customer service if you do need help. Nice!

Stop by if you get a chance--it's candy for the art oriented eyes!
Cheers!

-Kerra

Car Auto Wreck Accident Paper Greeting Card from Zazzle.com

2010-07-20T14:20:00.000-07:00

Car Auto Wreck Accident Paper Greeting Card from Zazzle.com

Another successful 'I draw for YOU!' card! A special request from our new form on the website www.icansketchu.com.

Just send me an email of what you'd like-be as specific as possible about your desired theme.

I will confirm via email for you, send you the link to YOUR new card for purchase, and it's shipped off to you or your desired recipient--easy!

I'm just an email away for YOUR card--you can email me at:

Kerra@icansketchu.com

Cheers!

-Kerra

Unique I'm Sorry Apology Mouse Flowers Card from Zazzle.com

2010-07-16T03:06:00.000-07:00

Unique I'm Sorry Apology Mouse Flowers Card from Zazzle.com

Networked Blogs on Facebook

2010-07-08T11:37:00.001-07:00

Trying out a new application on facebook where you can implement blog updates automatically. Hopefully this works! :)

Space Is Full Through July

2010-06-22T13:41:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone for your support in the fund-raiser for the Wound Warrior Project!

Due to the high demand of commission paintings, space is full until the end of July 2010, though I am still accepting reservations for future paintings.

You can still support this fundraiser by purchasing cards, or posters and more by referencing your purchase to my email: Kerra@icansketchu.com.

Thanks again! It's such a worthwhile and rewarding program for all involved.

Cheers!

-Kerra

Follow this blog

Come and Join Us On Facebook!

2010-05-25T07:14:00.000-07:00

Fine and Whimsical Art

I personally invite you to join our chat on facebok about art and free speech, (drawing, too!), in America.

Look forward to seeing you there!

-Kerra

Official Image Now Available from Everybody Draw Muhammed Day on Facebook

2010-05-22T19:36:00.000-07:00

This is an issue of free speech--not about hate.

http://www.zazzle.com/official_image_from_everybody_draw_muhammed_poster-228229109647874911

Well, here is the link to the offical image from Everybody Draw Muhammed Day on 4/20/2010. If you missed the debate, don't worry--you can still go and visit the site with over 108,500 members and climbing EVERY minute!

This is the ONLY place to grab a piece of digital history in hard copy form!

Here's an excerp from the group:
"NOTE TO THOSE WHO ARE OFFENDED: We are not hating on Muslims or the religion of Islam. We are simply strongly dissatisfied with the actions that certain groups (which happen to be Islamic) have taken. But if the same situation were happening with another religious group, or for that matter with a group that weren't religious at all, we would be equally indignant."

Want to go straight to the group? Here's the link:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Everybody-Draw-Mohammed-Day/121369914543425?v=photos&so=60#!/group.php?gid=121507624529752&v=wall

Unbelievable "Tape Art" !

2010-05-03T14:09:00.000-07:00

I saw this artist today from a link from Cheap Joe's Art Supply store and wanted to share it--impressive!

http://flavorwire.com/84659/pic-of-the-day-tape-noir

Mixed media artist Mark Khaisman layers translucent packing tape on Plexiglas panels to create images that have the shadow and depth of large scale paintings. “My Tape Art is a conversation with light,” he explains. “I started it like a traditional stained glass artist, but with tape I found I could continue my conversation with light, but in a more expedient manner.” Each piece takes Khaisman about a week to complete; he draws from his training as an architect to create a plan, but then allows the tape to guide his course. Click through for more pieces from his “There’s a Frame Missing” series.

Kerra Lindsey www.icansketchu.com Paintings: Wounded Warrior Project Fundraiser

2010-04-11T08:06:00.000-07:00

Kerra Lindsey www.icansketchu.com Paintings: Wounded Warrior Project Fundraiser

Wounded Warrior Project Fundraiser

2010-04-11T08:01:00.000-07:00

This is a non-profit venture geared towards our military men and woman who have been injured and wounded in combat. This fundraiser is geared specifically to Project Odyssey for the Wounded Warrior Project(source: https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/content/view/942/1110/):

Wounded Warrior Project believes in the power of nature and recreation to help warriors dealing with combat stress. Project Odyssey, an outdoor rehabilitative retreat that combines adventure challenges with opportunities for peer support and group processing, was created to support warriors in their recovery from combat stress.

Recreational experiences ranging from rock climbing in the Black Hills of South Dakota to herding cattle on Wildcatter Ranch, encourage personal growth among participants and team building within the warrior community.

In conjunction with the National Park Service, Project Odyssey takes place on a variety of geographical locations over the course of five days. Past event sites include Wildcatter Resort & Ranch in Graham, Texas; Marriott Cocoa Beach in Miami, Florida; National Ability Center, Park City, Utah; Acadia National Park in Maine. Each location offers a unique experience that is different from the last and varies based on geographical resources.

Partnering with the Vet Centers across the country, Wounded Warrior Project recruits combat warriors from across the country who are currently enrolled in counseling services. Odyssey allows participants to continue their therapeutic journey in a novel, dynamic setting with peers and support from Wounded Warrior Project and Vet Center professionals.

This fund-raiser will send ALL proceeds to Project Odyssey.

There are several ways to donate to this fundraiser:

* Purchase any 'Support Our Troops' item from http://www.icansketchu.com/ and send an email of the purchase to kerra@icansketchu.com with subject "Wounded Warrior Fund"
* Commission any painting/portrait and reference this fundraiser
* Purchase any greeting card and email the purchase with reference to "Wounded Warrior Fund" to kerra@icansketchu.com

I have served in the United States military myself and have been married to a special operations soldier for almost twenty years. Our close ties to our military men and woman have created a live-long pursuit in their long term well being and appreciation for their service.

Together we can give peace of mind and reasurance to our military men and woman that their sacrifices have not been in vain.

Artist Daily Avoid Pitfalls of Working from Photographs

2010-03-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

March 26, 2010
I just love this excerb from American Artist and though I would share it with you. Great reminder to not let photos dictate YOUR art! The source reference is below.

How to Avoid the Pitfalls of Working from Photographs

El Mercado by Mark Haworth,

2006, oil, 16 x 20. Private collection.

Winter Stream by Denise LaRue Mahlke,

2008, pastel, 14 x 18. Private collection.

I’ve spent way too much time in murky classrooms looking at slides, slides, and more slides. I’m convinced that the entire academic field of art history would grind to a halt without projectors, carousels, and slides. But what is weird about looking at so many images is that I find myself thinking that I know exactly what a sculpture or a painting really looks like because I’ve seen a photograph of it. Photographs can never tell you the full story of an object, landscape, or person’s face, but they are convenient references for artists. The reality is that most artists use source photos in some capacity when they work, whether to jog their memory of a particular place and time or to record specific visual details to incorporate in later pieces.

But to produce a successful piece of art, an artist has to be wary and attentive to what he or she is seeing—and not seeing—in a photograph. That starts with understanding the limitations of reference photos. Artist Mark Haworth, whose landscapes were featured in American Artist’s March 2009 issue, puts it this way: “The camera cannot see like the eye can when it comes to color accuracy, depth of field, and the warms and cools of highlights and shadows. There’s a lot of distortion that comes along with photographs.”

Pastel artist and instructor Denise LaRue Mahlke, a finalist in the American Artist 2009 cover competition, agrees. “Following a photo to a ‘T’ is a big mistake, because the camera lies,” she says. “Photos can be indispensible as a jumping off point, but even if the photo is an excellent one, you want to reinvent the scene for a painting to work.”

Haworth, for one, puts decidedly less emphasis on reference photos than on preliminary sketches made on-site or notes written in the field. “When I’m traveling through an area, I write what I am seeing,” he says. “My notes often give me what I can’t get in a picture. Photos don’t give the subtleties I look for to capture the look and feel of a place.”

When Mahlke is on-site and doesn’t have time to paint, she’ll often do the same—sketch and take notes. But she acknowledges that sometimes she takes as many photos as she can. “Having that multitude of photos can give you a lot to work with,” she says. “When I’m ready to start a piece, I’ll pull from many different photos for inspiration and do thumbnail sketches to familiarize myself with the subject and composition I’m working toward.”

I asked Haworth and Mahlke if constantly referring back to photos can lead to overworking or to a painting filled with a bunch of little details instead of a cohesive composition. Both artists knew just what I meant. “It can go from painting to documenting,” says Haworth. “You can take in all the details and go crazy.”

Another point both artists stressed is the importance of working from photos they’ve taken themselves. “When using someone else’s photos, you aren’t painting your own concepts, just copying,” says Mahlke. “I tell my students, ‘Work from your own photos—your ideas are there.’”

What’s more, a reference photo, no matter who clicked the shutter, shouldn’t lead to a sense of obligation to show exactly what is depicted in the shot. Instead, an artist should feel free and inspired to manipulate or leave behind a reference any way he or she chooses. That assures there’s vitality in a piece of art and means you won’t miss seeing—and hopefully recapturing—the moments that will make a painting great.

In every issue of American Artist, practicing artists share their experiences and insights so that every reader comes away with creative and technical food for thought, and many offer advice about the advantages and potential pitfalls of working with photographs. The May 2010 issue is available now.

Courtney Jordan is Editor of Artist Daily.

Shop Art Resources at

InterweaveStore.com:

American Artist May 2010 issue

cover art by Patricia Watwood

Interweave, 201 E. 4th St., Loveland, CO 80537

©2010 Interweave Press, LLC. All rights reserved

Living Paintings Found!

2010-03-16T12:46:00.000-07:00

Wow! Check out these original painting ideas--and see with what flare they've been created! They really make you look and look again!

http://www.buzzfeed.com/mathieus/living-paintings-8q4

Coupons and Discounts

2010-03-08T18:19:00.000-08:00

Icansketchu is now offering printable coupons! Just click on the link to get 10% off any commissioned painting or portrait. A wonderful way to celebrate an anniversary, promotion or retirement! Get even more savings, (an extra 5%!) when you refer a friend!

Military affiliated? That is truly a specialty here--ask about a tribute painting of your soldier!

Artist Alley: Jean Skipper Owner Opening First Friday Night

2010-03-07T15:28:00.000-08:00

Oh my--what a delight on a Friday night!

Artist Alley gallery in downtown Southern Pines, NC, is a treat for the eyes as well for the soul. They were open late this past friday night, March 5th, for 'First Friday' of the month. I had an opportunity to meet the owner, Jean Skipper, who is featured to the left, and have a chance to chat with her. Her personality was purely inviting and her comedic sense was in overdrive. Not only does she run the shop downtown, but she also caters to an online audience on Etsy.

When I first walked in I was greeted with smiles and chatter of both patrons and artists, (not to mention an offer of a little wine and snacks galore that were spread out throughout her shop), the paintings were more than impressive. These were no fly-the-wind pieces, either--you could really see the attention to detail and thoughtfulness behind the pieces in their composition, hues, and values. Jean has some wonderful artists featured throughout her eclectic gallery--there is everything from highly detailed large paintings, to pottery, walking canes and metal sculptures and even hand-made silver dollar rings. There's something for everyone! She has everything displayed so you have access to look up close and around each piece available.

In the front of the shop I first noticed these beautiful brass and copper pendants that feature all kind of sweet and funny sayings that are stamped right into the metal. Come to find out, these were some of Jean's pieces that she creates herself. They are truly unique and can be found on Etsy as well.

I also had a chance to meet some other artist who were there visiting: Kathy Miller, (pictured left), and Diane Kraudelt. Kathy has a fine eye and highly tuned hand to create her beautiful paintings. She is featured here with some of her boxes that she has painted in acrylic and then lacquered to keep their beauty. If you click on her name above you can browse through some examples of her work and see the amazing details found in her style.

Diane (pictured right), has a style that is truly her own with beautiful landscapes and a harmonizing eye for color balance that stands out. She also creates whimsical animals that make you grin with just a glance. The animals have strong conture lines and whimsical edge with truly an artistic flare. Care for a close-up? You can click on Diane's name above for a visit to her website.

With the inviting atmosphere, pleasant gallery layout and personable hosts one couldn't go wrong with this gem of a shop. Looking for an artistic treat for your home or business--or perhaps a truly unique gift for a loved one at a reasonable price? Take a stroll through Southern Pines and stop in on E. New Hampshire Street--where Artist Alley is a pleasant treat!

Excellent Upcoming Artist Opportunities: Performing, General, Visual

2010-03-03T14:12:00.000-08:00

Informatino originating from: North Carolina Arts Council | Department of Cultural Resources | Raleigh, NC 27699 | US
919.807.6500 | ncarts.org | ncarts@ncdcr.gov

Wednesday 3rd March 2010

Artist Opportunities
The N.C. Arts Council is pleased to share the following opportunities for artists that have recently been submitted to us. Please contact the organization listed if you have any questions.
The Arts Council does not endorse or recommend any specific opportunities, but provides this list for information only. We encourage artists to research each opportunity thoroughly before applying. Artist opportunities may be submitted to jennifer.huggins@ncdcr.gov.

General Artist Opportunities
MetLife Foundation
The MetLife Foundation Innovative Space Awards (ISA) program recognizes, rewards, and promotes successful artist space development projects that exhibit innovation, affordability for artists, sustainability and community impact. The national awards program emphasizes the role affordable artist space projects play in community revitalization and socially progressive community development, and will increase awareness of replicable, sustainable approaches and models. In December 2009, the MetLife Foundation Innovative Space Awards awarded from $10,000 to $50,000 to support six winning projects. This is the second and final awards cycle.

Deadline: April 25
For more information: www.lincnet.net/artist-space/innovative-space-awards

Performing Arts
Arts Council of Lincoln County, Lincolnton
Poets and acoustic musicians are invited to sign up now for a poetry/music open mic during the Lincolnton Arts Crawl on Friday, March 19. The Court Street Grille in downtown Lincolnton will open its new LOFT venue from 5:30 until 9 p.m. for the occasion, which will also feature exhibits by local artists.

Deadline: March 19
For more information: Visit www.spaceplace.us or contact Katie Henderson Selph at catharine@charter.net or (704) 240-8295 to sign up.

Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, Baltimore, Md.
The National Endowment for the Arts and Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation announce the availability of guidelines for the 2009–2010 cycle of USArtists International (USAI), a program designed to support American performing artists at international festivals. USAI provides support for American dance, music and theater artists who have been invited to participate in international festivals anywhere in the world outside of the United States.

Deadline: May 3
For more information: www.midatlanticarts.org/funding/pat_presentation/us_artists

Visual Arts
Art With a View, Raleigh
Steven Silverleaf of Art with a View is seeking artists for shows of 12 to 20 works to be exhibited on the corporate campus of Red Hat Inc. in Raleigh.

Deadline: Ongoing
For more information: Contact Steven Silverleaf at ssilverleaf@mindspring.com or (919) 929-2725.

Street Gallery, New York, N.Y.
Artists at any stage in their careers are invited to submit their work for consideration for a temporary public art project for New York streetscapes — The Street Gallery: Gatescapes Public Art. "Gatescapes" are large-format, billboard-sized vinyl placed on roll-down security gates — initially in New York, and in Los Angeles by mid-year. Woven into this advertising program is an opportunity for artists to utilize these sites in four-week timeframes between ad displays for the installation of temporary public artworks.

Deadline: Ongoing
For more information: Visit thestreetgallery.wordpress.com/submit-your-work, e-mail gatescapes@gmail.com or call (917) 523-6228.

Dare County Arts Council, Manteo
OB Can is a community arts project that addresses the problem of littering on the beaches of Nags Head. The goal is to promote recycling and the cleanup of our beaches to maintain the natural beauty of our community. Artists are invited to apply to paint a brand new trash can that will grace the beaches throughout Nags Head. These finished works of art will be located at each beach and sound access. Artists living in Dare County or who are members of the Dare County Arts Council may apply for the jury process.

Deadline: March 11
For more information: Visit www.darearts.org or call (252) 473-5558.

City of San José, N.M.
The City of San José Public Art Program is seeking an experienced public artist or team to collaborate with the planning team for the San José/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant. The selected artist/team will work collaboratively with the consultants to provide an artist's perspective on the overall design of the plant, as well as identify opportunities to include public art of their design (or by others) into the development of the plant.

Deadline: March 11
For more information: Visit www.sanjoseculture.org/?pid=4500 or contact Patricia Walsh at patricia.walsh@sanjoseca.gov or (408) 277-5144, ext. 18.

The Rockville Art & Craft Festival, Rockville, Md.
The Rockville Art & Craft Festival is a two-day outdoor event Saturday, May 29, and Sunday, May 30. The festival jury will select artists to fill approximately 70 available artist booths. All original art and craft is eligible, including but not limited to wood, glass, fiber, photography, metal, printmaking, sculpture, painting, pottery, jewelry, drawing and mixed media.

Deadline: March 12
For more information: Contact Holly Haliniewski at hhaliniewski@rockvillemd.gov or call (240) 314-8640 to request an application.

Denver Office of Cultural Affairs, Colo.
The Denver Office of Cultural Affairs seeks to commission an artist or team of artists to create site-specific artwork for the Stapleton Branch Library, a new facility being built at Roslyn Drive and 29th Avenue. The project is open to all artists in the U.S. working in all media and materials.

Deadline: March 12
For more information: www.denvergov.org/2009PublicArtOpportunities/tabid/392949/Default.aspx

Bradenton Downtown Development Authority, Bradenton, Fl.
The Bradenton DDA Public Art Advisory Board seeks to commission original art or a series of artwork that will signify the entrance or access points to the neighborhood known as the Village of the Arts.

Deadline: March 15
For more information: Visit www.ddabradenton.com for a complete call to artists or contact Ann Wykell at awykell@ddabradenton.com.

Visual Art Exchange, Raleigh
Visual Art Exchange will be jurying in March 2010 for VAE members to feature in the Exchange Gallery from July 2010–June 2011. VAE coordinates professional monthly exhibitions of four or five featured artists in its smaller front retail gallery. The call is open to all VAE members working in any medium. Sculpture and jewelry artists will be considered separately from two-dimensional artists and are encouraged to apply.

Deadline: March 17
For more information: www.visualartexchange.org/egalleryapply.php

Rhode Island Public Transit Authority, Providence, R.I.
RIPTA will accept proposals for a custom bus shelter on Charles Street. The goal of this project is to enhance the experience of those traveling through Charles Street business district by providing seating and shelter from the weather while introducing unique design elements to the streetscape environment.

Deadline: March 18
For more information: Visit www.arts.ri.gov/blogs/index.php/?p=5969 or e-mail balmonte@ripta.com.

The Arts Center at the Imperial Centre, Rocky Mount
The Arts Center at the Imperial Centre in Rocky Mount announces a call to artists for the 53rd National Juried Exhibition Friday, June 4, through Sunday, Sept. 19.

Deadline: March 22
For more information: Visit arts.imperialcentre.org/artist.html to download a prospectus or contact Catherine Coulter at catherine.coulter@rockymountnc.gov or (252) 972-1175.

Denver Office of Cultural Affairs, Colo.
The Denver Office of Cultural Affairs seeks to commission one or more artists or teams of artists to create site-specific artwork for a new state-of-the-art police crime lab. The new facility will occupy a prominent corner in the Golden Triangle/Civic Center neighborhood at 14th Avenue and Cherokee Street.

Deadline: March 26
For more information: www.denvergov.org/2009PublicArtOpportunities/tabid/392949/Default.aspx

Weatherspoon Art Museum at UNC Greensboro
The Weatherspoon Art Museum is currently accepting submissions for its biennial exhibition Art on Paper 2010 which will be held Sunday, Nov. 7, through Sunday, Feb. 6, 2011. This exhibition presents a broad range of contemporary art in which the use of paper, either as a surface or material, is a primary consideration.

Deadline: March 31
For information: Visit weatherspoon.uncg.edu to download a prospectus or contact weatherspoon@uncg.edu or (336) 334-5770.

Orange County Artists Guild, Carrboro
The Orange County Artists Guild and Market Street at Southern Village have joined to create an exciting outdoor spring art show for 2010 — Arts on The Green at Southern Village, Saturday, May 1, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. With live entertainment throughout the day, along with fabulous art, attendance is expected in the thousands.

Deadline: March 31
For more information: Visit www.orangecountyartistsguild.com or contact Deborah Harris at dharris118@nc.rr.com.

City of Chattanooga, Tenn.
The City of Chattanooga is seeking proposals for Jefferson Heights Park which will be exhibited June 2010–December 2011. Works can be in any media, functional or non-functional, and must be suitable for outdoors. Two works will be selected for installation in the newly constructed neighborhood park and will be on loan for a period of 18 months. Each artist or artist team may submit existing works or proposed works for consideration.

Deadline: March 31
For more information: Download a pdf or contact Peggy Townsend at peggywoodtown@gmail.com or (423) 643-6096.

The Arts Council of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County
The Arts Council of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County is seeking proposals from artists to transform a series of five inoperable, corrugated metal doors to be hung on the side walls of the new HanesBrands Theatre in the new Downtown Center for the Arts in Winston-Salem. The arts council will consider proposals from professional artists in Forsyth County and surrounding counties (Yadkin, Stokes, Davidson, Davie and Surry) and from artists who have ties to Winston-Salem.

Deadline: March 31
For more information: Visit www.intothearts.org/news_detail.asp?article-id=802196224 or contact Rebecca Parker at rparker@intothearts.org or (336) 722-2585, ext. 121.

Local Color Gallery, Raleigh
Local Color will host a Plein Air Paint Out on Saturday, April 17, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Prize-winning paintings and other selected paintings will be displayed in Crema on Fayetteville Street for the month of June.

Deadline: April 14
For more information: E-mail localcolor@gmail.com or call (919) 754-3887 for an application.

Randolph Arts Guild, Asheboro
The City of Asheboro, in conjunction with the Asheboro/Randolph Chamber of Commerce and the Randolph Arts Guild, invites you to submit work for the fifth annual downtown sculpture exhibition. The sculptures will be sited in the Asheboro downtown area and are to remain on exhibit from June 2010 through November 2011.

Deadline: April 15
For more information: Visit randolphartsguild.com/programs/downtown-sculpture.html or contact Derrick Sides at (336) 629-0399.

International Association for the Study of Dreams, Berkeley, Calif.
A juried exhibition of dream-inspired art will be on display during three days of the annual IASD conference. The exhibition will be held Monday, June 28, through Wednesday, June 30, at the Crowne Plaza Resort in Asheville. All artists and media are welcome to apply. Cash prizes will be awarded.

Deadline: April 23
For more information: asdreams.org/2010

Jackson County Green Energy Park, Dillsboro
Jackson County Green Energy Park is now accepting submissions for the third annual sculpture competition. The jury will select one piece by Thursday, May 20, for an anticipated installation date in June 2010. This competition is open to all artists and each artist may submit up to three works.

Deadline: April 30
For more information: Visit www.jcgep.org/art.html#sculpture or contact Carrie Blaskowski at carrieblaskowski@jacksonnc.org or (828) 631-0271.

Gallery Up, Rock Hill, S.C.
Gallery Up presents 30 Small Works 2010. Artists must be at least 18 years of age. All work must be original and made within the last two years. Restrictions apply to two- and three-dimensional works.

Deadline: April 30
For more information: Download the pdf, e-mail info@galleryup.com or call (803) 980-5355.

The Arts Council of Henderson County, Hendersonville
The annual Henderson County Open Studio Tour will take place Saturday, Sept. 25, and Sunday, Sept. 26. Artists who reside in and/or have a studio in Henderson County are eligible to apply.

Deadline: April 30
For more information: Visit www.acofhc.org/studio.htm or e-mail acofhc@bellsouth.net.

Carolina Gallery, Spartanburg, S.C.
Carolina Gallery in Spartanburg, S.C. is calling for entries in a competition resulting in a photography invitational exhibition in June in downtown Spartanburg. The competition is open to all professional and amateur photographers age 18 or over, currently residing in North Carolina, South Carolina or Georgia. Selected photographers will be invited to participate in a juried show later this year and compete for awards.

Deadline: May 6
For more information: Visit www.carolinagalleryart.com/default2.asp, e-mail edward@carolinagalleryart.com or call (864) 585-3335.

Filmmakers
SilverDocs Documentary Film Festival, Silver Spring, Md.
SilverDocs annual film festival is accepting submissions for the 2010 festival Tuesday, June 22, through Sunday, June 27, at the AFI Silver Theatre & Cultural Center.

Deadline: March 12 (regular), March 19 (late)
For more information: Visit silverdocs.com/news-links/2009/12/11/call-submissions-now-open or e-mail info@silverdocs.com.

Female Shorts: Film and Video Showcase, Alexandria, Va.
The Target Gallery at the Torpedo Factory Arts Center announces a call for cinematic works of women in the arts for Female Shorts: Film and Video Showcase Thursday, June 3, through Sunday, June 6. This festival is dedicated and focused to seeking out and promoting cinema created by and for women and is part of the Virginia Commission for the Arts 2010 statewide celebration, Minds Wide Open, which celebrates women in the arts.

Deadline: March 26
For more information: www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/target_femaleshorts.htm

Margaret Mead Film & Video Festival, New York, N.Y.
The American Museum of Natural History's Margaret Mead Film & Video Festival is the longest-running showcase for international documentaries in the United States. The festival screens documentaries that increase our understanding of the complexity and diversity of the peoples and cultures that populate our planet. Submissions are now being accepted for the 34th annual festival to be held Thursday, Nov. 11, through Sunday, Nov. 14.

Deadline: March 31 (early), May 3 (final)
For more information: www.amnh.org/programs/mead/submit

The American Dance Festival, Durham
The American Dance Festival is pleased to announce a call for entries for the 15th annual Dancing for the Camera: International Festival of Film and Video Dance. The festival showcases work that makes innovative statements about the integration of movement and media. Works chosen for the 2010 festival will have the opportunity to be screened alongside classics of the genre in a special program celebrating the festival's 15th anniversary. The 2010 festival will take place Friday, June 25, through Sunday, June 27, at Duke University's White Lecture Hall and the Nasher Museum of Art.

Deadline: April 7 (early), May 7 (final)
For more information: Visit www.americandancefestival.org/projects/dfc.html, e-mail adf@americandancefestival.org or call (919) 684-6402.

Previous Listings
Listed below are previous postings that are still active with links to our Artist Opportunities archives page. You may check the archives page at any time to review all Artist Opportunities that have been posted to date.

Performing Artists

NEA Arts Journalism Institute in Theater and Musical Theater, Los Angeles, Calif.
Deadline: March 11

Lee Street Theatre, Salisbury
Deadline: March 15

American Dance Festival, Durham
Deadline: March 19

Literary Artists

Carteret Writers, Morehead City
Deadline: March 9

Burlington Writers' Club
Deadline: March 13

Wildacres, Little Switzerland
Deadline: March 25

Sourcebooks Inc./Jabberwocky Imprint, New York, N.Y.
Deadline: March 31

McCormick Foundation, Washington, D.C.
Deadline: April 12

Writers' Group of the Triad, Greensboro
Deadline: April 30

Visual Artists

Utah Department of Community and Culture
Deadline: March 4

City of Dubuque, Iowa
Deadline:March 5

City of Palm Desert, Calif.
Deadline: March 5

Tennessee Art League, Nashville
Deadline: March 5

City of Farmington, N.M.
Deadline: March 8

Wake Forest Area Artists' Studio Tour, Wake Forest
Deadline: March 9

Cape Fear Studios, Fayetteville
Deadline: March 10

City of Seattle, WA
Deadline: March 11

Roanoke Arts Commission, Va.
Deadline: March 12

Cary Gallery of Artists
Deadline: March 12

Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods (CHUN), Denver, Colo.
Deadline: March 12

N.C. Seafood Festival, Morehead City
Deadline: March 12

Alpan Gallery, Huntington, N.Y.
Deadline: March 15

Digital Graffiti, Alys Beach, Fla.
Deadline: March 15

Echotrope, Omaha, Nebr.
Deadline: March 15

Wilmington Art Association
Deadline: March 15

Taller Portobelo Norte, Atlanta, Ga.
Deadline:March 19

The Arts & Culture Alliance of Greater Knoxville, Tenn.
Deadline: March 19

Cary Visual Art
Deadline: March 26

Edmonton Arts Council, Alberta, Canada
Deadline: March 29

Press 53, Winston-Salem
Deadline: March 31

First Street Gallery, New York, N.Y.
Deadline:March 31

Utah State University
Deadline: April 1

Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce
Deadline: April 1

Fine Arts League of Cary
Deadline: April 2

Lancaster County Art Association, Pa.
Deadline: April 4

Newport Arts Festival, Newport, R.I.
Deadline: April 12

Bowery Gallery, New York, N.Y.
Deadline: April 15

Katharine Butler Gallery, Sarasota, Fla.
Deadline: April 17

Manhattan Arts International, New York, N.Y.
Deadline: April 20

New Visions Gallery, Marshfield, Wisc.
Deadline: April 23

Filmmakers

Aesthetica Magazine, York, U.K.
Deadline: April 30

Art Links Now Available

2010-03-03T05:01:00.000-08:00

I have recently been accepted to promote and list poster art at discounted prices! Simply visit my website at www.icansketchu.com and click on the Art link for a discount on famous artists' paintings in poster format! How fun! Now you can have Matisse in your bedroom, and perhas a Van Gogh in your living room at a fraction of the price you will find at other sites.

Klimt's painting 'The Kiss' is one of my all-time favorites--we have a very large replica of this painting on our wall and what a statement it makes. The details are crisp and clear and such a large size as to be a centerpiece in our entranceway. Being able to get your hands on a piece of art at a discount makes it an even easier way to bring smiles into your home.

Have fun in the search--there's something for everyone!
Cheers!

New Gamer-Gear Available!

2010-03-02T07:18:00.001-08:00

The new Gamer-Gear is now available! Funny gamer-themed t-shirts are now available! Do you live with a houseful of computer gamers--or are you one yourself? Why sport someone else's idea of 'cool' with a company logo across your chest when you can make it known to all what your version of humor is? Come and check them out today and feel free to share your response.

I'm proud to announce that "Got ganked?" is featured this week on zazzle!

ग्रीटिंग कार्ड Painting

2009-09-25T05:12:00.000-07:00

Hi, guys! Here is a painting of the 'friendship' plant that I am giving the previous owners of our home. They are an amazing couple who we cannot believe we have had the privlege of meeting--let alone the opportunity to live in the home that they built.

In her yard she had planted a beautiful and stunning array of family plants and bushes--all flowering and so lush that it's just amazing. We wanted her to have such a living treasure with them at their new place, so we made a 'friendship plant' for them and this painting of it as a thank you and show of appreciation for them making us living here possible. I've made of their rooms into a studio, found some paper amongst the boxes, and put their new plant on the steps that they built outside leading to the lake. I painted it in watercolors.

Cheers!
-Kerra

The Results Are In!

2009-02-05T09:17:00.000-08:00

Thanks for all who stopped by and placed a vote in Artwanted.com's recent Traditional Self-Portrait Painting Contest. The results are in and I couldn't believe the outcome! There were wonderful entries and unique views of all the participants. Stop by and check out the talent!

Artwanted.com's Contest Page

Holy Cow! What a whirlwind!

2009-01-28T03:24:00.000-08:00

What a great start to the new year! We now have a new president and lots of 'changes' in the midst! Icansketchu.com has undergone some changes, too! I've been working with our FRG and pulling together ideas for our boys overseas. There is an upcoming 'Support Our Troops' campaign for Valentine's Day--check back for more details!

Hope your day goes great!
Cheers!
-Kerra

Happy New Year 2009

2009-01-04T05:20:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year 2009! Wow--what a year it's been! 2008 brought about many surprises and challenges for all. New friends, new locations, new opportunities--and, unfortunately, the loss of some treasured loved ones. Experiencing life to the fullest is a daily endeavor not to be missed. You never know what's just around the corner--it could be a wonderful new friend, or a funny situation you'll remember for years. We treasure them all.

We relocated in 2008--(a surprise to us!), and found ourselves meeting all sorts of new people. We love our new home and the friends surrounding it. The boys have, of course, gotten older and more adventurous in their pursuits. Our oldest joined the military and is now a full-time soldier for America, (wow!). Our middle boy is wrestling his heart out for his new school. Our littlest son is a computer gamer and is amazingly good at cracking codes and creating creatures we could have never imagined.

Still in the fight in protecting America, we find ourselves still juggling time around home-turf schedules and deployments. We are so proud of our boys, (and girls!), keeping us safe--the amount of work that they do is more than impressive.

Icansketchu is going wonderfully well. Numerous new venues and exposure have helped boost traffic to a previously unimagined level! Thank you to all who have purchased, commissioned and advertised my art--your interest is most inspiring! I am now working on some magazine layouts and new portrait paintings. New paper greeting cards are posted weekly and the response has been impressively positive.

I hope this new year steps off on a positive note for you as well--keep your eyes and options open--you never know what treasure a new experience can be!

Cheers!
-Kerra

Thank You Card

2008-09-25T07:06:00.000-07:00

Picasso Home Art School

2008-06-10T11:53:00.001-07:00

I am thrilled to announce my association with Picasso Home Art School!

No longer do you have to pay for the travel to a college or university campus, stand in line for registration or wait for your professor to begin class on their schedule. Take advantage of personalized, professional training in the convenience of your own home at your leisure. I am currently offering home art lessons in drawing or watercolor for the Fayetteville, NC and surrounding areas.

Lessons run for one-half hour sessions to hour long sessions ranging from $25 per 30 minutes to $40 per hour. No long term commitments--easy payments through paypal, check or cash.

Techniques are based on the award winning approach of Drawing on the Right Hand Side of the Brain.

Feel free to contact me for more information to schedule your first class today!

Cheers!
-Kerra
icansketchu@yahoo.com

Picasso Home Art School

2008-06-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

Progression of a Charcoal Painting

2008-05-28T20:17:00.001-07:00

I've found a new demo tool to put together a slide show of a charcoal painting. You can see several progression shots of the piece from beginning to end. What fun to work on these adorable little boys!

http://docs.google.com/Presentation?id=dcmt6cs4_0g7vdqvxk

Progression of a Charcoal Painting

2008-05-28T20:17:00.000-07:00

Oil Painting : Monkey!

2008-04-16T11:42:00.000-07:00

Oh, my! What fun! A silly monkey for an addition to a 'jungle theme' room! He's been a riot to draw and paint. He's done in oil on canvas. He's almost done! A few touch-ups left.

My website is getting updated with pages and testimonials--even a feedback form to answer any questions that you may have. Feel free to stop by anytime to see updates and sales!

Cheers!

-Kerra

Kerra Lindsey

2008-04-01T04:58:00.000-07:00

I was recently asked to take part in a Women's History Month celebration by showcasing some of my art at the Officer's Club at Fort Bragg. The show is entitled: Women's Vision: A Glimpse Through Her Eyes, March 25th, 2008 from 10:00am -3:00 pm.

As a former enlisted member of our Armed Services, as a woman and an artist, I considered it an honor to be a part of this exciting day!

The event on Ft. Bragg was a huge success! Thank you to all who came and participated in the events--it wouldn't have been the same without you.

It was truly an honor to be a part of the very first event in honor of Women's History Month on Ft. Bragg.

The exhibit was organized in accordance with George. W. Bush's proclamation that March 2008 would be known as Women's History Month. He called upon all our citizens to "observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that honor the history, accomplishments and contributions of American women".
After all, without the huge impact of the role women play in our society, our country would not be the free and independent nation that it is today.

Still smiling with pride-
Kerra

Woman's History Celebration Fort Bragg NC

2008-03-21T08:14:00.001-07:00

What an honor! I was recently asked to take part in a Women's History celebration on Fort Bragg, NC, by showcasing some of my art at the Officer's Club at Fort Bragg.

At the showing I brough tribute paintings of our American Heroes and some examples of my professional card line to share with others.

As a former enlisted member of our Armed Services, a woman and an artist, I consider it a great honor to be a part of this exciting day! My early years of drawing with my father have made creating art a life-long passion and one I am thrilled to share with others. Thank you so much for this opportunity!

Please feel free to stop by for a viewing, soak up some wonderful facts about our women in history who've made a difference--and of course meet the artist and have some refreshments!

Other artists such as Leslie Pearson, Laura Goddard, Donna Neary, Sallie Bingham, Catherine Horton, and Ruth Hatcher as well as representing groups like the North Carolina Museum of Art and the Fayetteville Museum of Art will be displayed.

I hope to see you there!

Cheers!

-Kerra

Women's Vision: A Glimpse Through Her Eyes

2008-03-21T08:14:00.000-07:00

What an honor! I was recently asked to take part in a Women's History Month celebration by showcasing some of my art at the Officer's Club at Fort Bragg. The event opens March 25th, 2008 at 10:00 am-3:00 pm.

Please feel free to stop by for a viewing, soak up some wonderful facts about our women in history who've made a difference--and of course meet the artist and have some refreshments!

I hope to see you there!

Cheers!

-Kerra