Let's get some dialog going here. I'll start. When searching for juried shows and other artistic opportunities, there are two major sources I always check - Art Calendar Magazine and artshow.com.
Art Calendar Magazine
web: http://www.artcalendar.com/home.asp
I started subscribing to this magazine about three years ago, and find it remarkably resourceful for all kinds of art related information from copyright laws for your artwork to articles on how to correctly package your work for shipping (http://www.artcalendar.com/article.asp?ID=123). However, I typically instantly flip to the back of the magazine to scour the extensive "call for art" listings. Not only do they provide a great resource to artists, but they also allow shows/calls for art that don't require an entry fee to advertise for free on both their web site and in the magazine. It is very artist friendly.
Artshow.com
GREAT resource! From artists, their work, art classes and tips to competitions and art shows - this site is here to help you succeed!
Ok - your turn - let us know where you look for listings and other artsy info!
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Cohesive Submissions
Many artists work in several different mediums. I, for instance, work in encaustics, acrylics, pen and ink and so on. I find that it broadens my understanding of specific techniques and allows me to explore my creative talents in new ways. I would recommend expanding your artistic repertoire to anyone - without question. However, selecting a broad range of work that spans several mediums for submission purposes can (will) hurt your chances of being selected for a show/publication.
I understand that it is important for artists to show their versatility. Perhaps you're hoping that if the juror isn't fond of your oil paintings they will still find your watercolor or photography of particular interest. So you submit a few of each in hopes that one of your artistic endeavors catches their eye. There in lies your biggest mistake.
A juror is looking for a cohesive idea and style behind your submission. They are not interested in a overall review of your artistic talents. They want to feel a connection among the pieces you submitted. They want your work to speak to them as a unique collection - not as a jumbled collage.
As you grow as an artist and continue to develop your skills in new mediums, be cognisant that techniques acquired while exploring one medium can be applied to all others. Light, dark, shadows, composition, color - all of these elements are important across the board. Use all of your artistic explorations to develop a focussed series of work in one medium. That doesn't mean you have to stop exploring the other mediums you are interested in. It does mean that you should choose one particular medium (for the time being) to concentrate on, develop, and explore. When or if that gets boring, begin again with different ideas/mediums. Utilize and focus your skills to help you create a cohesive collection of work.
I understand that it is important for artists to show their versatility. Perhaps you're hoping that if the juror isn't fond of your oil paintings they will still find your watercolor or photography of particular interest. So you submit a few of each in hopes that one of your artistic endeavors catches their eye. There in lies your biggest mistake.
A juror is looking for a cohesive idea and style behind your submission. They are not interested in a overall review of your artistic talents. They want to feel a connection among the pieces you submitted. They want your work to speak to them as a unique collection - not as a jumbled collage.
As you grow as an artist and continue to develop your skills in new mediums, be cognisant that techniques acquired while exploring one medium can be applied to all others. Light, dark, shadows, composition, color - all of these elements are important across the board. Use all of your artistic explorations to develop a focussed series of work in one medium. That doesn't mean you have to stop exploring the other mediums you are interested in. It does mean that you should choose one particular medium (for the time being) to concentrate on, develop, and explore. When or if that gets boring, begin again with different ideas/mediums. Utilize and focus your skills to help you create a cohesive collection of work.
Friday, March 27, 2009
emerge
If you've found yourself reading this post, there is a good chance you know what it means to be passionate about creating art. It is more than a desire; it is who you are. You see things differently - deeply, if you will. I know. I do too.
I started emerge to get my finger on the pulse of today's emerging art scene - to understand what other artists are doing with their work - to help other creatives reach their goals. It has been AMAZING and I have none other to thank but you - America's emerging artists.
While I am a firm believer that hard work and dedication will make you a better artist, the other key ingredient is to surround yourself with people who help you grow as an overall creative person. My goal with this blog is not only to provide you with helpful information for your art career, but to motivate you to share your insights, struggles, work and ideas with one another. Learn from one another. Inspire one another. As the old saying goes - you only get out what you put in.
I started emerge to get my finger on the pulse of today's emerging art scene - to understand what other artists are doing with their work - to help other creatives reach their goals. It has been AMAZING and I have none other to thank but you - America's emerging artists.
While I am a firm believer that hard work and dedication will make you a better artist, the other key ingredient is to surround yourself with people who help you grow as an overall creative person. My goal with this blog is not only to provide you with helpful information for your art career, but to motivate you to share your insights, struggles, work and ideas with one another. Learn from one another. Inspire one another. As the old saying goes - you only get out what you put in.
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