Moores Art Gallery Blog

Updates, Valentine Giveaway and Resource of the Week

2012-01-29T21:17:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!
I hope everyone is having a great weekend. Lots to share with you all.

First of all, my artwork, "Bring Me To Life", has been featured in February's issue of Ann Kullberg's CP Color Pencil Magazine http://www.annkullberg.com/, along with some very talented color pencil artists. Thank you Ann so much!


Bring Me To Life

Second, I am presently working on a all new tutorial for Sally Ford's Color Pencil Magazine http://www.coloredpencilmag.com/ I won't be able to share any work in progresses on this one, but will let you know what issue it will be out in.

Third, I would like to share the finished piece of "I'm Broken" A dedication to my mom who was just diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Done in color pencil. First work of 2012.

I'm Broken

And last of all, I just posted up some new items for sale up at my Etsy store - be sure and check them out here http://mooresart.etsy.com/

FREE VALENTINE GIVE-A-WAY

(¯`•.•´¯) (¯`•.•´¯) "Happy Valentines Day
*`•.¸(¯`•.•´¯)¸.•´ ♥
☆ º ♥ `•.¸.•´ ♥ º ☆.¸¸.•´¯`♥

Starting today, I am going to be having a free Valentine Give-a-way. Refer someone to my facebook page and/or newsletter on my website http://www.mooresartgallery.com/ and you will be entered to win a free print.
Just leave a comment here if you do, or on my facebook page http://www.facebook.com/MooresArtsGallery and who you referred. Drawing will be held February 13th.

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK

Like to introduce everyone to Carol Rosinski's site. It is a vast resource for artists, with lessons, tips and techniques, books, kits, videos and more.
http://www.toadhollowstudio.com/index.html
I love her depiction on what a miniature art is, "The Secret of Small"
http://www.toadhollowstudio.com/Miniature_Art/What_is_Miniature_Art.html
Be sure and check out her miniature works of art.

New Work In Progress and Resource of the Week

2012-01-08T19:34:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone!
I hope everyone's New Year has started off well. Unfortunately, mine hasn't started off to well, I just found out last Friday, that my mom has breast cancer. It just seems not to long ago, in December 2007, I just lost my dad to lung cancer. Memories flooding back.
Anyways my newest work in progress is a dedication to my mom. I doubt if I will ever show her this piece, as she has never really cared for my type of artwork. She has always wanted me to be rich famous with works just like Thomas Kinkade. Well there is only one Thomas Kinkade and I feel I am rich enough just having the opportunity to draw/paint what inspires me and time allows me.
This piece is all done in color pencil. Originally, inspired by a sketch prompt at Ellen Million's Sketchfest http://www.ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/

GREAT ART BOOK
I have been reading the book "How to Survive & Prosper as an Artist" by Caroll Michels
I highly recommend all artists get this book and read it. I have just only started to read it, but I have been learning so much about art marketing and pricing one's artwork. A must have for your library. Deeply inspiring me and motivating me.

ART BY LYNN

I just had to share artist, Lynn Bonnette's blog. I just lover her style. She calls it the "Lynneristic Style". She creates small works of art of animals, in particular of mice and cats, in watercolor, color pencil and acrylics. I love her latest piece "Blue Mouse Hat". I encourage you to check out her blog and works and see her enchanting and very inspiring works http://artbylynnbonnette.blogspot.com/

I hope you all have a great week!

God Bless!

Carol Moore

www.mooresartgallery.com

Happy New Year, Updates and Resource of the Week

2011-12-31T13:24:00.000-08:00

Happy New Years to all my followers!
★⋰⋱★⋰⋱★⋰⋱★⋰⋱★
★ Happy New Year ★
★⋱⋰★⋱⋰★⋱⋰★⋱⋰★
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._|_..._|_..._|_.._|_
May all your dreams come true this new year, may it be inspiring and bring great opportunities for you all.

UPDATES

"The Gift" is finished.
Size: 5 x 7
Medium: Color Pencil and Watercolor Pencil


The Gift

Also finished up a sketchfest piece.
"Once Upon A December"
Done in color pencil, graphite, iridescent acrylic and white charcoal
Hope to have a better image soon. It didn't scan very well, so had to take a digital image of it, with not the best of lighting.

Once Upon A December

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK

Saw this link in the January issue of Colored Pencil Magazine, which is a must subscription by the way, http://www.coloredpencilmag.com
Anyways, a great site on color pencil tips, techniques and pointers.
http://www.coloredpencilpoints.com

Hope you all have a great New Years!

Happy Creating!

Take Care!

Carol Moore

www.mooresartgallery.com

New Work in Progresses, Updates & Resource of the Week

2011-12-10T10:59:00.001-08:00

Hello Everyone!
So sorry I haven't posted in a while. I have been so busy re-painting my kitchen, getting ready for Christmas and taking my daughter to appointments. I haven't had a lot of time lately to do any artwork. And I was so disappointed that I wasn't able to participate in the "Think Pink" contest this year, I just have not had any time to work on anything. Still no word on winner's list, but I did donate prizes to the stock image winners. So I will post here on the blog once the winners are announced. Here is a link to prizes and list of entries http://junkbyjen.deviantart.com/journal/THINK-PINK-VI-Contest-262439048

I have Christmas cards and ornaments available at my Zazzle Store !5% off items right now USE CODE: HOLIDAYSSALE

http://www.zazzle.com/mary_did_you_know_ornament-175513990344173062?gl=mooresart

WORK IN PROGRESSES
I have two new work in progresses to share.
The first is my Christmas card for this year. I promise to have this one done before Christmas. :) I am presently still working on the background.
The title is: "The Gift"
Medium is: Color Pencil

"The Gift"

The second work in progress is inspired by a prompt at Ellen Million's Sketchfest and from the movie "Santa Claus" starring Tim Allen. Which is one of my all time favorite Christmas movies.

Title: still working on it.
Medium: Graphite and Color Pencil.

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK
Is a step by step tutorial "Dynamic Definition With Watercolor and Colored Pencil" by color pencil artist Karen Ann Klein http://www.artistsnetwork.com/articles/art-demos-techniques/dynamic-definition-with-watercolor-and-colored-pencil?r=tamchnl120611&lid=tamchnl120611&et_mid=528823&rid=2784353

and I had to share some good news Prismacolor is bringing back deco yellow, deco pink and deco peach, along with 15 other new colors read all about here http://blog.prismacolor.com/2011/10/introducing-18-new-colors-revived-and-refreshed-for-2011/?utm_source=November2011Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_content=NewColors&utm_campaign=November2011Newsletter

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and wishing you all a blessed week!

Carol Moore

The Show, Updates and Resource of the Week

2011-11-06T21:58:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone :)

I hope everyone had a good weekend. It's been a busy past week for me, with the Miniature Art Show opening on Tuesday. I got to see some fantastic miniature artwork and meet some wonderfully talented artists. And I got to meet Pat Averill http://pataverill.com/. I have to say I have been a fan of her color pencil artwork for such a long time and seeing her work in person, just blew me away and inspired me and challenged me to work even harder on my miniature works. And that little lady standing next to me is Katherine Friday. I have to say, I am now her newest and biggest fan. Her award winning works are absolutely stunning. And she uses a jeweler's magnifying visor to do the small details. Found one on Amazon and I am buying one. The Traveling Miniature Art Show will continue on til the end of the month. If you get a chance stop on by and check out all the amazing works at the Walters Cultural Art Center in Hilsborro Oregon.

Jim Smith, Jeanette Mullane, Katherine Friday, Carol Moore

UPDATES

My eye tutorial is now up on, well known canine British artist's, Melanie Phillips, site http://www.iart-learning.com/2011/11/a-step-by-step-color-pencil-tutorial-by-carol-moore

I encourage all artists to check out her and her husband's site. Full of invaluable tips and resources.http://www.iart-learning.com

I was hoping to finish up my seasonal piece yesterday, but didn't get a chance too, but will be finishing it up this week and moving onto the "Think Pink" entry piece and a couple of Christmas pieces.

Added a couple new products at my Zazzle store and will be adding more tomorrow. http://www.zazzle.com/mooresart

Cards are presently 50% off Use Code: 4EVERYMOMENT.

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK

Just had to share Joan Beriger's latest blog post "Creative Process of Extremely Successful Licensed Artists" http://joanbeiriger.blogspot.com/2011/11/creative-process-of-extremely.html

Highly recommend reading it And if you get a chance read the November 2011 issue of the Artist's magazine Color Pencil Artists Gary Greene and Linda Lucas Hardy share the tools they use when creating works with color pencil.

Hope you all have a great week!

Love and Blessings!

Carol Moore

Invitation to Show, Work In Progress and Resource of the Week

2011-10-24T15:11:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I just wanted to let all my folowers know you are invited to my upcoming show, where I will be a part of the "Miniature Artists Touring Exhibit Show". This is going to be an amazing show, with so much talent, with works from some of the best miniature artists out there. Also local featured artists will include: My self, Pat Averill, Jim Smith, Airi Foote, Katherine Friday, Jack McNally, and Jeanette Mullane.

The show is from November 1st to November 30th, at the Walters Cultural Art Center, in Hilsborro, Oregon. The opening reception is November 1st, from 6pm to 8 pm with in house concert and free catering. Directions on how to get there is located at their website http://www.ci.hillsboro.or.us/wcac or on their facebook site https://www.facebook.com/WCACHillsboro?sk=info

I know not all of you can't make the opening reception, but hope to see some of you there and meet you in person. I am so excited, my very first show and I can't wait to see all the fabulous awe-inspiring works. If you want to email me and let me know you plan on making it, please feel free to do so, then I can be on the look out for you.

WORK IN PROGRESS
Here is the latest update on my current work in progress. Excuse the dark line down the middle had to scan in two sections. Still working on the hair, background and dress.
Title: "Autumn Breeze"
Medium: color pencil and watercolor pencil.
Size: 9 x13

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK

ACEO FAQs - The BEST ANSWERS on eBay!!! PART 1

http://reviews.ebay.com/ACEO-FAQs-The-BEST-ANSWERS-on-eBay-PART-1_W0QQugidZ10000000003957743

I hope everyone has a great week!!

Love and Blessings,

Carol Moore

Moores Art Gallery

Website - http://www.mooresartgallery.com

Blog - http://mooresartgallery.blogspot.com

DA Gallery - http://www.mooresart.deviantart.com

Facebook- http://www.facebook.com/MooresArtsGallery

Zazzle Store - http://www.zazzle.com/mooresart

Etsy Store - http://mooresart.etsy.com/

Work In Progress & Resource of the Week

2011-10-15T12:12:00.000-07:00

Perhaps the biggest moment in an artist's life, is when they first take up a pencil or paintbrush and begin creating a work of art, and realize in that instant, that this is what they were born to do. This is the gift that they were given, from up above. To me, there is no greater feeling, than watching something you are creating, come to life before your very eyes, and to watch someone stir with emotion by the site of your art work. Knowing that people appreciate the artistic beauty that surrounds them, whether it be through art, photography or some other visual art, can be satisfying and rewarding in itself, but most of all knowing that this gift and talent wouldn't even be possible if it weren't for God. It is because of that gift, I feel the need to share with other artists, all that I know. So being as I forgot to share my latest tutorial on my last blog update, it's now available in jpg or pdf format - "Creating Dramatic Eyes with Color Pencil" http://www.mooresartgallery.com/tutorials.html
If you need help or have any questions, please feel free to email me at info@mooresartgallery.com

WORK IN PROGRESS

Latest work in progress.
Medium: Color Pencil and Watercolor Pencil
Size: 9 x 13

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK

http://colorpencilmag.com/A hard print from Ann Kullberg's online ezine "From My Perspective" A magazine devoted to color pencil. step by step lessons, tips, critiques etc. Well worth the cost!

I hope you all have a great and blessed week!

Take Care!

Carol Moore

Updates, New Work In Progress and Resource of the Week

2011-10-09T15:36:00.000-07:00

Hey Everybody,

I hope everyone is having a great day. It's one of my favorite seasons of the year. Love how the leaves change color, the fall type plants are blooming, the colorful pumpkins and gourds, of course the big ol' Thanksgiving dinner, but most of all it is time of giving thanks for all that we have and all the blessings we have received.

UPDATES

I finally got all my matting and framing materials for my miniatures this past week, so I will be cutting out mats this week. I am hoping the frames get here soon. I told her I needed them by the 27th, as that is when the artwork is due at the Walters Cultural Center. So, I am praying they will come soon, as I can't submit the work, without frames. The site I found to order my frames, is a great site to buy miniature frames, if you need them custom sized, it's $22 a frame and you get 10% off orders over a $100 http://www.miniartsupply.biz/

NEW WORK IN PROGRESS

My latest work in progress. Part of my seasonal series. Medium is watercolor pencil and color pencil. Size is 9.0" x 13.0" Presently working on the hair, ribbons, dress and background. Not sure on the title yet. Still thinking on it.

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK

http://shadowness.com/

I have to share this fairly new art community called Shadowness. If you are with Deviantart you are going to recognize a lot of the artists here. I think this community does a far better job of supporting each other and showcasing "all" artists works. Perhaps, it's because it's not as big as DA, as of yet. At DA, I think a lot of outstanding artwork gets unnoticed and lost amongst the thousands of submissions, that should get recognized and showcased but don't.

I hope you all have a great week!

God Bless,

Carol

Miniatures Complete, Eye Tutorial and Resource of Week

2011-09-17T11:10:00.000-07:00

Hi Everybody,

Hope everyone is having a great day.

I just love this time of year, as the leaves begin to change. Plan on doing a fall piece soon, after I get done with my eye tutorial and a commission.

I finally finished all my miniatures for the upcoming show in November. Now I just have to get them all framed.

I will be posting update soon, when the show will be, and directions on how to get to the Walters Center soon.

COLOR PENCIL TUTORIAL

Now a sneak peek at what my eye tutorial will be about. Using strictly Prismacolor pencils and a few Derwent Coloursofts. Here is my reference photo of my daughter's eye.

The demo is "How to Achieve Dramatic Eyes Using Color Pencil" So a plain eye with no makeup to a dramatic looking eye with makeup. I will post when completed and more info on it.

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK

Artist Barbara Newton shares techniques of grisaille and juxtapositioning of colors as she paints with colored pencils

http://www.artshow.com/interviews/newton/index.html

LOOKING FOR A HOME

We are trying to find a home for this little guy, if you are interested please email me at carol@mooresartgallery.com

grey tabby kitten

Take Care Everyone!

Carol

In Memory, New Work and Resource of the Week

2011-09-11T21:03:00.000-07:00

As all of us look back 10 years ago today, we remember a day of tragedy, as two planes crashed into the World Trade Center, and the news spread around that America was under attack. Watching this morning as they read off the names of those who perished (many who were risking their lives to save others), my eyes welled up with tears. My heart goes out to all of the families, as well as my thoughts and prayers.

I think about the terrorists who hate America so much, and can't help but feel pity for them for they do not know the truth, nor love, only hate. In church this morning, our pastor couldn't have said it better, "I am proud to be an American" and we are so blessed to live in a free nation, where we have the right to choose what we believe in.

God Bless you all and God Bless America.

WHATS UP NEXT

I will be finishing up my last miniature tomorrow and then begin a color pencil eye tutorial for an online site. After that I will begin a commission of a unicorn.

NEW WORK

The 4th of my miniatures. "Fall Time Kittens" The scan didn't quite pick up all the light colors in the background.

"Winged Wolf" Final piece from Ellen Mlllions Sketchfest. SOLD.

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK

Here's a little step by step demo of Ann Kullberg's technique on creating skin tones with color pencil

http://www.creativespotlite.com/colored-pencil/skintone-demo.htm

Hope you all have a great week!

Take Care!

Carol

Updates, New Work, and Resource of the Week

2011-08-20T13:06:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone!

It's been a very busy week, registering my daughter for school and her birthday. It's her senior year, so it's going to be a very busy year for us all.

I got some new works to share and some great news.......

Updates

Some great and exciting news! I was just ask to submit "Broken Hearted" http://www.mooresartgallery.com/brokenhearted.html as a part of a collection of artwork in the upcoming book, “Amazing Pencil Portraits 3”. Very excited and honored. Check out Sally Ford's Platte's production of the book here http://www.facebook.com/AmazingPencilPortraits

Broken Hearted

New Work

This is one of the landscapes for upcoming show. The scanner didn't pick up the details at all, nor the correct colors, so I photographed it with my daughter's digital camera. Note to myself: Really need to buy a new digital camera to take photos of artwork. Anyways this is done in color pencil. It's 3.0 x 4.0.

Tujunga Sunrise

New Sketches

Ellen Million's Sketch Fest #17 August 19-20. The first sketch is from prompt snow white and rose red - calling this one "Who's the Fairest?" Will be finishing this one up in color pencil. The second was prompt for winged wolf. This ACEO is up for sale at sketchfest. http://www.ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/sketchfestartist.php?id=527

Note: The scanner didn't pick up all the details and colors of this small piece either. Really need to get that new camera or a new scanner.

Sketchfest #17

Resource of the Week

A site on color pencil basics for mainly beginners, but a resource for all level of artists.

http://drawsketch.about.com/library/weekly/aa051303a.htm

Updates, New Work and Resource of the Week

2011-08-06T15:09:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!
I have been having a lot of breathing problems as of late, due to my asthma, so haven't had a lot of energy as of late. I can't wait til fall, when the farmers are done plowing and tilling. I havent' been able to get outside much do anything or do any walks. However, I have been working on my miniature pieces for upcoming show in the fall at the Walters Cultural Arts Center in Hilsborro, Oregon http://www.ci.hillsboro.or.us/wcac . Hope to be sharing a couple of new miniatures with everyone by the end of next week.

I will be doing a upcoming color pencil eye tutorial for well known UK artist Melanie Phillips for her new site. I will let everyone know more about the details on next blog update

New Work

Title: "Red"
Medium: Color Pencil
Size: 8 x 10

References

Model - http://jasminebelle.deviantart.com/

Wolf - http://seductive-stock.deviantart.com/

Resource of the Week

I just discovered this site about a week ago. Very talented and inspiring artist Darrel Tank provides drawing lessons using his 5 step technique.

http://www.fivepencilmethod.com/

Take Care Everyone and Have Fun Creating!

Carol Moore

Road Trip, New Work In Progress & Art Resource of the Week

2011-07-24T16:40:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!
Well, we finally got back from our 2 week road trip on the 18th. I have a few photos to share of the wedding, reunion and the view back home. We had a lot of fun and it was great to meet some new faces.

ROAD TRIP

The wedding was held at the Butterfly Pavilion in Elkton, Oregon


Jordan and Thomas Lee

The first time I have been to a wedding where they included communion.

It was awesome to see them include God firsthand.

The reunion was down at K-Falls and the girls had fun.


Melissa and Mariah


Jennifer and Melissa


Melissa on the Climbing Wall


Along the Willamette River on the way back home


Willamette River, just outside of Pleasant Hill, Oregon


Just outside of Pleasant Hill, Oregon.

WORK IN PROGRESS
My current work in progress. Presently working on the wolf and shirt. Inspired by sketchfest prompt - modern day red riding hood.
Title: Red
Medium: Color Pencil

Red

"Red" Work in Progress

ART RESOURCE OF THE WEEK
Here is a site on "How to Get Started in Colored Pencil" by Tiffanie Grey
http://immortalmoments.tntcreationz.com/Tutorials/CPTuts/HowtoCP2.htm
Great info on different types of pencils and papers.

I hope everyone is having a great summer!
Take Care!
Carol

Happy 4th of July! ~ New Work, Work in Progress, & Resource of the Week

2011-07-02T15:24:00.000-07:00

Animations provided by MySpaceAnimations.com

For all who celebrate it, I just wanted to wish everyone a safe and happy 4th of July!

It's hard to believe it's already July. Time just flies.

So sorry I haven't been posting as of late. I have been having some breathing problems, and just found out, about a week or so ago, that I have asthma. Not much fun, the doctor has me on an inhaler now, but will be going into a specialist at the end of the month.

NEW WORK

I finished up a new piece the other day. Inspired by a prompt at Ellen Million's Sketchfest http://www.ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/

and the Christian fantasy book "Taliesin" by Stephen Lawhead. There is something about the skies and heavens that really get my muse going. Love watching the clouds form and the stars at night.

Medium: Color Pencil and gouache

Size: 5.0" x 7.5"

Original for sale at sketchfest

http://www.ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/sketchfestart.php?id=2877

Reference: Model pose http://faestock.deviantart.com/


The Prophecy

WORK IN PROGRESS

I have a new work in progress. Also inspired by a prompt at Ellen Millions Sketchfest http://www.ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/ - a modern day Red Riding Hood.

Title: Red

Medium: Color Pencil

Red

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK

Online Colored Pencil Painting School

http://www.brushandpencil.com/coloredpencilpaintingschool.aspx

Teaches using a online personal schooling and specializes in the latest techniques developed specifically for colored pencil painting.

New Sketches, New Work and Art Resource of the Week

2011-06-18T14:06:00.000-07:00

A Happy Father's Day Weekend!

This time of year is always hard for me, as I lost my dad 3 years ago to lung cancer.

I like to wish all the dad's out there many blessings, love and a joyous weekend.

And had to share this quote - "The greatest gift I ever had
Came from God; I call him Dad!"

God Bless all of our Dads!

NEW SKETCHES

Well, I have some new sketches to share with everyone from last weekend's Sketchfest http://www.ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/

This first sketch was inspired by the prompt "What I Saw In the Clouds" I am currently working on this piece and should have it completed within the next few days. It will be up for sale at the sketchfest site, when completed.

I have to admit, I was really inspired to do this prompt due to a book I had just read "Taliesin" by Stephen Lawhead

and I was really inspired by natural signs from the heavens we see in the clouds.

Initial Sketch

Work In Progress 1

The second sketch prompt was "Shall I Keep It?" I am nearly done with this sketch and it will be up for sale at the sketchfest.

Reference Stock use : deathbycanon_stock over at DA

The last sketch was inspired by prompt "Modern Little Red Riding Hood"

I titled this one "Red" I am nearly done with this sketch and will have it up for sale at the sketchfest and will be doing a color version of this piece as well.

Reference Stock: jasminebelle_stock over at DA

NEW WORK

I have another new miniature work completed for an upcoming show in the fall at the Walters Cultural Arts Center in Hillsborro,Oregon.

Title: "Early Morning"

Medium: color pencil

Size: 2.5" x 4.0"

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK

Nita LeLand's Exploring Color

http://www.nitaleland.com/

A wonderful site containing art articles, art projects, art-book reviews, art workshops and art interviews.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!
Take Care!
Carol

New Work, Work in Progress and Resource of the Week!

2011-05-28T14:17:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone! I just wanted to wish everyone a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend. We don't have really any big plans, but plan on spending the day with family and visiting my dad's gravesite.

NEW WORK

I have some new work to share. First is my Easter angel piece. Completed it a couple weeks or so ago.
Done in color pencil on Canson Mi Tientes.

The Promise

Next, I have a new miniature landscape piece to share. A series of miniatures I am working on for an upcoming show in the fall at the Walters Cultural Arts Center in Hillsborro Oregon.
Done in color pencil on Stonehenge. Size is 2.5" x 4.0" The scanner didn't quite pick up the colors and values correctly.

Oregon Coast

WORK IN PROGRESS

Another miniature I am working on for upcoming show. Nearly done with it. Color pencil on Stonehenge.

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK

Artcyclopedia

A vast resource for artists, teachers or students looking for information on art museums, art movements, art articles, and art history.
http://www.artcyclopedia.com/

Hope you all have a great holiday weekend, take care and God Bless!

Work In Progress and New Tip

2011-05-08T09:09:00.000-07:00

Good Morning everyone!
Sharing my latest work in progress. I am nearly done. I should have it done within the next day or two and then I will begin on the second sketch idea, for a ceiling mural for our church. I will be sharing those sketches and photos of the area, later this week. I will not be starting this huge painting project until August. After I am done with the sketch, I will begin working on my miniature pieces for an upcoming show and I might just throw in a pirate piece, being as Pirates of the Caribbean 4 is coming out in a couple of weeks.

The Promise

NEW COLOR PENCIL TIP
Yesterday, I worked on a whole new section for my Color Pencil Tips and Techniques page located here http://www.mooresartgallery.com/colorpenciltips_techniques.html I now have a whole new section on Types of Color Pencils located here http://www.mooresartgallery.com/pencils.html I also updated several of the sections. So stop on by and check it out, and if you have any tips or techniques you would like to share, I would be happy to add them and give credit. You can just email me at info@mooresartgallery.com and put in subject line Color Pencil Tip.

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK
ARTtalk.com is a monthly art newsletter, covering topics from watercolor to framing. An awesome huge resource for all artists. http://www.arttalk.com/index.htm

Newest Work in Progress and Sucked Into Facebook

2011-04-30T20:25:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!
It's been a very busy week for me with family and haven't had a lot of time to work on present work in progress, but I posted an update. I tried to get this one done before Easter, but I just didn't have enough time.

Color pencil and watercolor pencil on Canson Mi Tientes

"The Promise"

Sucked Into Facebook
Facebook has become such a gigantic global social media site - over 600 million active users. Millions of people are addicted to the social media frenzy of logging in each day, to play games, to seek and chat with friends, to check out groups or fan pages.
If an artist could use Facebook as a tool, to reach out to the global community and share his or her art works, without getting sucked into it's applications, it can become a vital tool in helping artist(s) clients base grow.
1. Use it to communicate with your present client base
2. Use it to increase your client base by creating a fan page
3. Use it for advertising your website/artwork/fanpage with a banner ad.
4. Use it to promote your upcoming workshops, exhibitions, shows and events.
5. Use it to show your fans your current works in progress, latest products and sales

Check out these other awesome links on Social Media Tips for Artists on Facebook
http://creativesandbusiness.com/1617-social-media-for-artists-and-creatives-%E2%80%93-facebook
http://creativewebbiz.com/2009/03/12/25-facebook-tips-for-creative-entrepreneurs/

Hope you all have a great weekend!
Much Love!
Carol Moore

New Artwork, WIP and Updates!

2011-04-23T15:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!
I hope everyone is doing well. It's hard to believe it is going to be Easter tomorrow. Time is just flying. I just wanted to wish you all a wonderful Easter weekend and much love and happiness.

NEW ARTWORK AND MORE
"Set Me Free" This piece has a lot of symbolism and my tribute to the meaning behind Easter. You can read the story behind it and the original is up for sale, for anybody interested in purchasing it here http://www.mooresartgallery.com/SetMeFree.html

Just had to share this Easter ATC I did for my dear friend Joanna Bromley

*New*
I have some new products now available in my zazzle store http://www.zazzle.com/mooresart.

*New*
I am now with Greeting Card Universe http://www.greetingcarduniverse.com/mooresartgallerycardstore and I will be designing more works for cards this year.

*New*
Fabric Blocks of my artwork are now available http://www.fantasyfabricblocks.com/catalog.php?category=169 I will be adding more angels, animals and Christmas type of works.

New ACEO Limited Edition Prints - now available at my Artcardswanted.com Store http://artcardswanted.com/mooresart

I have the scrabble tile jewelry kit sitting on my table, begging me to work on it. I just haven't had time. I am hoping to get to it this week. Once I start making these, I will be selling these on my etsy store. I will send an update, when I have those available, in my etsy store.

WORK IN PROGRESS

I was hoping to get this done in time for Easter tomorrow, but so much going on and trying to update site and everything. I don't think I will. The medium is color pencil and watercolor pencil

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CURRENT WORKS IN PROGRESS

You can follow along my current work in progress at my blog http://mooresartgallery.blogspot.com/ or facebook fan page http://www.facebook.com/MooresArtsGallery

Finishing up another Easter piece - "The Promise"
Mother Day piece for my mom
Birthday piece for my daughter of Merlin
Miniature/ACEO pieces for gallery show in fall
Eye Piece Commission
Pirate piece Commission
Ellen Million Sketchfest pieces
Seasonal pieces
Landscape piece
Color pencil kit
Tribute to my dog Remi
Tribute to my cat Arden
Emotional piece
Remake of Loriena
Remake of From the Past into the Future and other pieces for my King Arthur story

ARTIST RESOURCE OF THE WEEK

Art Apprentice Online

Learn to paint and learn to draw with our affordable and flexible online art courses.

Take interactive art lessons and receive personalized critiques from experienced instructors.

Finished Artwork, Sketchfest and Updates!

2011-04-02T11:11:00.000-07:00

FINISHED ARTWORK
"Bring Me To Life is finally finished. Original and prints and more are up for sale on my site and you can read the testimonial behind this work here http://www.mooresartgallery.com/BringMeToLife.html

SKETCHFEST
Here is all the sketches I was able to complete at last weeks Sketchfest http://www.ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/ Fastest I have ever done an ACEO in color. Not 100% happy with it, had a paper issue, but I think my speed is definitely improving. Tangled Rapunzel sketch sold right away and the sale was donated to the Sketchfest. I will probably do that one in color.

WEBSITE
Last fall, I began slowly making some changes to my site, and I have been deleting some artwork from my site and adding new galleries. I just feel the Lord is calling me in a new direction with my art and I want my works to please Him. So I am sorry if anyone is unhappy with the change, but I am excited about these new areas I am directing my art towards. It will be focused more on Inspirational, Emotional, Angels, Christmas, Animals, Florals and Landscapes. I will be phasing out the fantasy section more and more. However, I still have in my mind to finish up the King Arthur series I started years ago. It's just on my backlist of things to do.

Easter

After I finish up my ATC for a friend, I will begin my two Easter pieces. I was planning on having an Easter giveaway, but there have been no entries or replies so far. Still might get one before the April 17th deadline. If anyone is interested, in one to two paragraphs, tell me why Easter means so much to you or you can submit a photo or a drawing/painting for your entry.
Email the entry to info@mooresartgallery.com with the subject line Easter Entry.
I will be picking the winning entry on April 18th. The prize is a print of Faith

ARTIST RESOURCE OF THE WEEK
A very valuable site for artists to check out is the ArtBusiness.com http://www.artbusiness.com/
Information from art gallery advice to how to write an artist statement.

JAPAN, WIP UPDATE, EXHBITIONS & MY NEW ART TABLE

2011-03-13T18:30:00.000-07:00

JAPAN
My eyes have been glued to the TV since Friday, watching the devastation the tsunami and earthquake has done to this country is heart-wrenching and mind-blowing. My heart goes out to all the people who have lost loved ones, their homes and everything they held dear. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.
Wishing you all hope and comfort in the midst of this terrible disaster.
"If tears could build a stairway and memories were a lane,
We would walk all the way to Heaven, to bring you home again
No farewell words were spoken, no time to say good-bye
You were gone before we knew it, and only God knows why
Our hearts ache in sadness, and secret tears will flow
What is meant to lose you, no one will ever know"
UPDATE ON WIP
I didn't get a lot of time to work on this piece this past week. Still working on the skin. Scanned in two sections. Hope to finish this one up this week, to begin working on a miniature donation for Japan.

REFERENCES AND EXHIBITIONS
Many have wondered why I do not submit any works to any exhibitions. To be honest, it's simply because most exhibitions require you to use your own reference photos, which sometimes I do, but also I use a lot of stock images (with permission) from DA. There are many stock models on DA whom I think are fantastic and since I do not have access to a good camera (mine is need of dire service), studio or professional photography equipment at this moment, I use DA has a resource. I sometimes will use Dreamstime, Renderosity or SXC too, with permission or paid stock. Most of my own stock is flowers, landscapes and domestic animals. And I have tons of rolls of film to get a developed. Once I get my new digital camera though. I will be taking photos non-stop and hopefully won't need to rely on other resources as much.

As a semi-realist artist, I tried to get the image to look like a photo, but I also try to add my own style. When doing portrait commissions, a lot of clients want it to look exactly like the photo. So the copying of the image can be a two-edge sword, as you want to please the client. Most exhibitions don't want your piece to look at all like the reference photo, it must be totally your own unique creation.
Anyways, it's hot topic and I am in the middle. I see both viewpoints. Ann Kullberg's yearly contest is now requiring artists to use their own reference material and many other places. I won't be submitting, unless, I use maybe one of my own floral or landscape shots for a reference. It is a must for artists to attain permission to use any reference material, when creating works of art. Or if you can, work from life.

NEW ART TABLE

I just had to share my new art table. I have been working off of a mini portable art table for years now, can't tell you what a blessing it is, to be able to work on a real art table. It is so awesome. Still having problems with the kittens getting into my pencils though ^.^ I still need to get in some better lighting. I have my Ott lamp and the east window for lighting for right now, but not quite enough.

Work In Progress, Easter Giveaway and Artist Tip

2011-03-07T15:28:00.000-08:00

WORK IN PROGRESS

Presently, working on face, neck and arms. I am not sticking with my traditional skin

tone palette, on this piece, I am adding more grays and blues into the skin tone.

After I am done with the skin, I will go back and darken up areas, work on little details

and then I will be done.

GIVEAWAY

Starting March 1st til April 17th, I am having a Easter Contest.

In  one to two paragraphs, tell me why Easter means so much to you.

You can include a photo or a drawing/painting with your entry.

I will be picking the winning entry on April 18th.

The prize will be a free print of Faith and a special journal/ blog/website post

dedicated to the winning entry.

Faith

ARTIST TIP

I just had to share this link on "120 Ways for Artists to Build an Online Presence"

Be sure and check it out. A great resource!

Update on Work in Progress and Free Easter Giveaway

2011-02-25T21:50:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!

WORK IN PROGRESS
I thought I would share an update on my current work in progess
Presently working on the headphones, eyes and mouth. I hope to finish up the eyes tomorrow, if time permits.
I have to take my daughter to the doctor's tomorrow, do some shopping and got some baking to do, so will see if I get time to work on it or not. Also, reorganizing and fixing up my art space, getting a new art table - very excited about that. :D

Color pencil and watercolor pencil

FREE EASTER GIVEAWAY

On March 1st, I will be announcing all about my free Easter Giveaway. I am really excited about this and March is going to be such a fantastic month. I plan on creating an Easter ATC for my friend Joanna http://jbrommers.deviantart.com/ and as soon as I finish up my current work in progress, I plan on beginning a new Christian piece "Set Me Free" inspired by Casting Crowns song "Set Me Free"

I will be announcing it on my Facebook page, my newsletter and DA Journal, as well as here. I have also been asked to do a mural at our church. So I am excited about that. I am not sure when I will start that project, as I am working on some other works first, but I am thinking maybe May or June.

Hope you all have a great weekend! Take Care and God Bless!

Happy Valentines, New Work and Updates

2011-02-12T12:52:00.000-08:00

HAPPY VALENTINES!
Hello Everyone!
Hope everyone is having a great weekend. This is a little early, but wishing you all on Valentine's day, a day full of love and happiness.

NEW WORK!
I have some new work to share. Done for my friend Kat's http://kartk.deviantart.com/
Valentine show http://www.facebook.com/pages/Katerina-Art/91520588028?v=photos
It's up for bid on ebay http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200575718504
Medium: Color pencil and Watercolor pencil
Size: 4 x 6 OSWOA (Original Small Works of Art)
References :
model - http://emjstock.deviantart.com/
dress - http://ecathe.deviantart.com/
heart - Kicek

UPDATE
Here is the latest update on my current work in progress "Bring Me to Life"
inspired by a prompt at Ellen Million's Sketchfest http://www.ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/

I hope you all have a great Valentines!

Update and New Works

2011-02-05T11:55:00.000-08:00

Garsh it's been a few weeks since I have posted anything on my blog. I have been so busy and have been giving updates more often on my facebook page than here. I do apologize for that.

FINISHED WORK
"Winter's Cross is now finished. Medium is: color pencil, watercolor pencil and acrylic. The scan did not pick up the iridescent acrylic in the dress nor the background. I have some new zazzle products with this image available now http://www.zazzle.com/mooresart

WORK IN PROGRESS
I am now working on a new work in progress. "Bring Me To Life" inspired by a prompt at Ellen Million's Sketchfest http://www.ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/
The scan did not quite pick up the blues very well. It's more of grayish-blues. Hope to have another update in the next day or two.

GREAT RESOURCES
I often get asked, by other artists "how to price artwork" I found this wonderful blog loaded with tons of information for artists, that dealt specifically with this topic in one of it's posts. A must read!
http://makingamark.blogspot.com/2009/04/how-much-are-you-paying-yourself.html

Happy New Year and New Work In Progress!

2010-12-30T17:50:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to wish you all a Happy New Year!

Thanks so much for following along my blog and for all the support and encouragement this past year.

NEW WORK IN PROGRESS
New piece I am working on. I started this a few months back and I just kind of set it off to the side. I was getting frustrated with it. The other day I felt compelled and inspired to finish it. Not sure on the title yet but it will be "Something Winter". Presently working on the eyes and eyebrows.
Medium: Color Pencil
Paper: Stonehenge

Have a safe and great weekend everybody!

Merry Christmas and New Work!

2010-12-24T00:15:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Animations provided by MUDTRAP.COM

I just wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Thanks so much for following a long on my blog, for subscribing to my newsletter and FB fan page. Appreciate everyone's support and encouragement so much over the past year.

NEW WORK

"Victorian Rose Maiden"

Medium: Color pencil, Watercolor pencil and Acrylic

Something a little different from me, the first of my new Victorian series. Inspired by artist Alphonse Mucha and one of Ellen Millions Sketchfest prompts http://www.ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/index.php
Original is for sale at my website http://www.mooresartgallery.com/rosemaiden.html

Jesus Reason for the Season graphic provided by MUDTRAP.COM

Update on Christmas Piece, Sketchfest and New ACEO up for bid

2010-12-06T10:29:00.000-08:00

Good morning Everyone!
It was a busy weekend for me, with the sketchfest and a houseful of people and getting ready for Christmas.
We will be taking off this year for the holidays, so I am trying to rush to get everything done this week and next.

WORK IN PROGRESS
I am almost done with my Christmas piece. I know I said that last time, but I haven't had a chance to work on it really, for the past couple of days. Here is a work in progress of it. The title is "The Star of Bethlehem" Done in watercolor, iridescent acrylics and color pencil. I just have the wings to complete and then just a tiny bit left on the background and looking at it now on the computer screen a bit on the hair as well. Hopefully, I get it done today. Reference stock from DA.

SKETCHFEST
I just had to share my sketches from Ellen Million's Sketchfest, from this past Friday and Saturday. http://www.ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/index.php I finished my very first sketch to. All in all, it was a blast and I highly recommend it for other artists. Really helps improve your skills as an artist and so many wonderful prompts, you can't help but get inspired.

Whispers of Winter

2.5" x 3.5" (ACEO)

Ebay Listing http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200552000382

$5 of the sale will be going to the sketchfest

Once Upon A December

Will probably either finish this in pencil or do it in watercolor/acrylics.

When I saw this prompt, I kept thinking of elves at Christmas time and a vision of a story began to pop in my head. Once upon a December day, a elf discovered a magical place, where the snowflakes glistened and were so beautiful to behold. The elf saw a castle ... well anyways the story goes on and I have a little bit more to add to the background. Stock used by deathbycanon over at DA

Well of Tears

Didn't quite get this one done. Will be part of my emotional series.

Reference stock from DA.

Gypsy of Sorrows

Didn't finish this one up either. Might be adding a wolf to the background.

Anyways, I hope you all have a great week!!!

Take Care Everyone!

Commission Finished and Cat Photo

2010-11-13T11:29:00.000-08:00

Hey all!
Well, I finished my color pencil commission piece. The client has accepted it. I just don't know if he was truly happy with it or not. And the commission piece is going to a friend who is a photo realistic-artist. So, I think the client was looking for more of photo-realistic piece. Unfortunately, I am not a camera. I mean I can get realistic, but not hyper-realistic like some artists can. Those artists are really gifted and I admire their talent tremendously. Like Howard David Johnson http://www.howarddavidjohnson.com/pencil.htm I would love to one day take one of his online classes. To achieve his artistic mastery with color pencil, is definitely a goal of mine.

Here is a scanned image of the final work and then a digital photo of the work.
I have to say the biggest challenge of this commission was drawing the subject without the mustache. Pretty challenging, but I thought I did okay. Size of the artwork was 5 x 5.

I just had to share this photo of our kitten Taz. We found him when he was real tiny. We had to feed him by syringe til he was big enough to eat catfood. I don't know what happen to his mommy. He is so cute. We call him Taz, because he is just like the Tazmanian Devil in Looney Toons. Fast little bugger and into everything. This is a rare moment of him sleeping peacefully and not causing havoc. :)

Hope you all have a great weekend!

Update on Commission Work In Progress

2010-11-08T20:37:00.000-08:00

So getting near the end. Working on the skin, mouth area and nose area. I will go back and fix the eyes and darken the hair once I have completed the rest.

Commission Work In Progress and Art Marketing

2010-11-07T12:27:00.000-08:00

Work In Progress:
Update on my recent commission
Working on the eyes and skin now. I see areas on the right eye and eyebrow I need to work on and still need to darken the hair a bit more. I will be saving the mouth area for the very last as it will be the most challenging part. The client wants no mustache, so I will be drawing the mouth area without the mustache.

Art Marketing:

One of the challenges of selling one's artwork is learning how to market one's work. It's exceptionally difficult in today's economy

Here are some great links on marketing your art.

http://www.artbusiness.com/selftaught.html http://www.artbusiness.com/osoquspec.html
http://www.artbusiness.com/osord.html

Commission Work In Progress and Update on Procedure

2010-11-04T20:13:00.000-07:00

Good evening everyone!
Well I made it through the procedure with no problems on Tuesday. The doctor removed polyps from the stomach and colon and did several biopsies. I won't know the results of the biopsies for about a week. However, he did not discover any reason for the pain I have been having, on my left side. So I guess now I go see an internist, to see if they can help me out.
Thank you all for your prayers. Much appreciated!! ((hugs))

Commission Work In Progress:
Here's an update of my latest work in progress. I am working on the eyes now and defining the eyebrows and ears. I see now I still need to darken up the hair a little bit more on the left side and top area. So will go back on work on that area after I finish up the eyes, eyebrows and ears.

Update on Work In Progress

2010-11-02T07:08:00.000-07:00

Good morning everybody! I started the clear liquid diet yesterday and then began drinking the prep solution. Let me tell you that is the most terrible tasting stuff I have ever had. And there is so much of it, I almost got sick. Felt sick all night long and the bathroom was my best friend last night.. And I still have a little bit more of the prep solution I have to finish. I go in for the procedure later this afternoon, so hoping and praying that all goes well. Please include me in your prayers today. Thanks!

Commission Work In Progress:

I started working on the eyes. I will move to the eyebrows, forehead and ears. Right now I just layered down two very light layers of base coats of cream and pale peach around the eyes, forehead and ears. I want to finish up the eyes before I lay down any more layers of color.
I still can't get the scan to pick up the right colors. The hair is much darker than what it's showing. So tomorrow I will try my other scanner, to see if it makes a difference.

Work In Progress Update, New Photos, and Ebay Fraud

2010-10-31T06:49:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone! It's 6:50 am here. I begin my clear liquid diet today, for the colonoscopy and endoscopy on Tuesday. Asking for prayers that all goes well on Tuesday. I was in a lot of pain yesterday, but doing a little better this morning.

Commission Work In Progress:
I have a little more darkening of the hair to do and blending of the background, then I will move onto the face. The scan is not picking up the true color of the blue background or the hair exactly. I will see if I can't adjust that, next time I scan.

New Photos:
I have some new photos to share with you. I will be compiling a new floral calendar, after I finish up the commission I am presently working on.

Spring's Promise

Morning's Kiss

Morning Dew

Ebay Fraud:

I thought I would share this little information that Jillian Crider posted over at the miniature artwork group.

Jillian is a very talented miniaturist and runs the ebay ACEO group.

This is some info and some links, in regards to art fraud on ebay.
I thought it was pretty interesting, because the majority of the frauds are ACEOs done in color pencil or painting over prints. I didn't realize this was happening on ebay. I don't know if any of the collectors realize it either.
I have been told, there is a way to tell if it is a painting over a print or drawing over a print, just hold it up to the light and you will see lots of pink/magenta dots from the printer.

I also thought this was pretty interesting tol "eBay Refuses to Enforce Their Own Policy - What makes this especially frustrating, is that it extends beyond copyright infringement and art fraud. The use of celebrity images violates eBay's own policy. According to eBay's Faces, Names and Signatures policy: "Sellers are not permitted to list an item containing the image, likeness, name, or signature of another person unless the product was made or authorized by that person."
Correct me if I am wrong, this would mean you would have to get a model release or some sort of signed contract. There are many artists that create celebrity/movie ACEOs and sell them on ebay. I don't think many of them realize it's a copyright infringement, unless they get permission to do so.

Blog on ebay fraud busters
http://ebayfraudbusters.blogspot.com/

Jillian's review of fake art on ebay
http://reviews.ebay.com/Considering-buying-art-Some-tips-to-avoid-fraud_W0QQugidZ10000000011106724

Video on how fake art is made
http://wn.com/Ebay_ACEO_Scam---How_to_spot_fake_art

Work In Progress Update

2010-10-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

Nearly done with the hair. I have some more darkening up and details to add. I applied a real light layer of blue to the background. Once done with the hair, will add more blues to the background.

Work In Progress Update

2010-10-25T17:54:00.000-07:00

Work In Progress 2
Done working on the shirt for now, Will go back and work on the shirt some more, after I work on the hair. Colors using on the hair are cloud blue, lt. cerulean blue, indigo blue, black grape, black cherry, cool grey 10% and 20%, dk brown, and black

New Commission

2010-10-23T21:24:00.000-07:00

I started on a new commission yesterday. A miniature 5" x 5" portrait drawing on 9" x 9" Stonehenge paper done in color pencil.

Just working on the shirt first, then onto hair and background.

"Refuge of Hope" Finished and Updates

2010-10-21T17:52:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally finished up "Refuge of Hope" a dedication to this month's Breast Cancer Awareness, to all the breast cancer survivors, to all the women who are fighting breast cancer and to two time breast cancer survivor http://junkbyjen.deviantart.com/ and her yearly Think Pink contest.
Prints are available at my DA page here http://mooresart.deviantart.com/#/d315661
I will be selling the original unframed for $100.00 and 20% of the sale will be going to the Susan G. Komen.
Contact me at info@mooresartgallery.com if you are interested in purchasing it.

I had quite a scare yesterday. I went into the hospital last week for a mammogram, the hospital called yesterday and wanted to do further testing, as something looked suspicious. Well today found out the results are benign. Praise the Lord!

With everything that is happening to me lately, medically, I am beginning to feel like Job in the Bible. But even though Job had so many troubles, he remained steadfast in his faith and love for God and he persevered. An example we all should follow. Even though times are at it's hardest, and satan keeps throwing burdens at us left and right, there is always hope and God will never let us bear, more than what we can handle.

Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and has made the
Lord his hope and confidence.
- Jeremiah 17:7

Update On New WIP 5

2010-10-11T11:32:00.000-07:00

She's starting to come to life now. Decided to stick with a limited palette, as I wanted the pink to be the main focus. October is the month for Breast Cancer Awareness. This is my dedication for Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer http://www.komen.org/ and two time breast cancer survior Jen http://junkbyjen.deviantart.com/
I will be putting this up for bid on ebay after completed, and a % of the sale will be going to Susan G. Komen.
Working on the body and face. Will get back to the wings later.

Update On New WIP

2010-10-06T11:20:00.000-07:00

Latest update on "Refuge of Hope"
Working on wings, hair and eyes.

New Work In Progress and my dog Remi

2010-09-27T15:06:00.000-07:00

Started a new work in progress last week. I am presently working on the hair. I am still trying to decide whether or not to leave this to a limited palette or not.
This is my dedication piece for the "Think Pink V" contest, Jen http://junkbyjen.deviantart.com/
who is hosting the contest, is a breast cancer survivor. To read more about the contest check it out here http://news.deviantart.com/article/124648/

This is going to be a hard week for all of us, as we are going to have to put down our beloved yellow lab, Remi. We have had her since she was a puppy. She is now 13 years old and her bladder and kidneys are failing. So we decided this Thursday, we will be putting her down. It's the hardest thing to do, to put down a member of the family. And she is like family. Wish we could do it earlier, but payday isn't til then. I am going to be balling all week and I am going to miss her so much. I am balling right now. We did everything together - we went on walks together, we did the chores around the farm together, we went on car trips/rides together. I will be doing a dedication drawing for the best dog ever ~ Remi

Hope you all have a great week and thanks for looking!

New Sketches and Feeling Terrible

2010-09-19T10:52:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone!
Well, I didn't make it to church this morning. I am feeling terrible. I started taking a new antibiotic last night, that the doc prescribed and not feeling well at all. I can't put off the gastroenterologist anymore. Next payday I need to make an appointment and get into see him. Every time, I take an antibiotic it starts to hurt my stomach and the protonix is not helping. Only this time I am feeling pressure on my chest. But the pain in my kidney is continuing, just not as bad and the pain in my stomach has gotten worse.
So I will be making this post short.

I just had to share my latest sketches from Ellen Millions September's Sketch Fest held on Friday and Saturday http://ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/index.php
It was a lot of fun. Wish I was faster. Some amazing entries.
I was able to do more drawings this time. Three of them I am really happy with how they turned out. They need more work and I plan to do all three in color pencil. I have to start working on my other two sketches first from a prior sketch fest first. I just started my Think Pink V dedication piece. I will be sharing my work in progress by the end of the week.

Hope you all have a great week!

Updates and Baby Kittens

2010-09-15T23:36:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone :)
Well, school started for the girls right after Labor Day. I am back to being the very busy chauffeur for everybody. It really tends to interrupt my drawing time during these shorter daylight months, as I like to draw next to the window light during the daytime, but I will make the best of it. I do have an Ott lamp and a Bell & Howell lamp I like to use at night time, but the colors just aren't as true as what you see in window daylight. If I ever get a studio built, it's going to have lots of windows. Love window light.

Jennifer and I, have been busy taking care of 4 baby kittens. Something has happened to the mother, as she has been missing now for 3 weeks. I will try to get pictures to share soon of the little ones. They are so cute :D

I finally finished up the Orange and White Tabby Cat for CAPS http://www.capsnv.org/ yearly art auction. I am really pleased how this one turned out. I think the colors blended well together.

I also updated my James and Giant Peach Daydream entry. I wanted to darken up the colors a bit more and worked on the background some more. I didn't place, but it was so much fun working on this piece.

My next projects will be the Think Pink V dedication piece, working on a new Christmas piece, Ellen Millions sketches and a new emotional and spiritual piece.
Hope everyone has a great day!
Take Care and God Bless!

New Work In Progress

2010-09-04T10:40:00.000-07:00

A new work in progress. It's a donation piece for CAPS http://www.capsnv.org/ The reference photo is from dreamstime. I really liked the pose and something about orange tabby's I have always liked. I have been working on this new miniature now off and on for about 2 weeks. A lot of detail and trying to work with limited colors has been a real hindrance. I wish I had a color pencil that was a pale orange not to golden. A deco orange might be perfect, but unfortunately Prisma doesn't offer the decos anymore and presently don't have the $$ to get the colors I need. School time for the girls, has drained our pockets dried. Anyways, got about a week to get it finished. So hope to have a finished piece to show everybody real soon.
Hope everyone has a great weekend!

New Color Pencil Kit

2010-08-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

Going to be keeping this short, as I have in-laws showing up today. Tomorrow my youngest daughter is going to be getting baptized at our church. I am so happy that she has decided to do this and has accepted Christ as her savior and has asked Him to forgiver her of her sins.

It's hard to believe August is almost over with. I can already start to feel the fall chill in the air and it won't belong and the leaves will be turning colors - it's a beautiful time of the year.
I haven't had much time this past couple of months to do much artwork. I have been so busy with family, last weekend I had a funeral I had to go to and I have been getting the kids ready for school.
I have been working on the final finishing touches on my Barn Kitten Color Pencil Kit. It's taken almost 2 years to get it ready and up on my site, due to constant interruptions and waiting on the editing and getting my site set up. I apologize to those who have been waiting.

Instead of a snail mail kit, I have decided to make the kit available as a pdf format along with jpg photo reference.
You can check it out here http://www.mooresartgallery.com/colorpencilkits.html
The cost is $7.00 and for those who complete the kit, I have an online kit gallery now set up to showcase artists/students works.
Any questions don't hesitate to me at info@mooresartgallery.com
Hope you all have a great weekend!

New Works and Updates

2010-08-18T16:22:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone,
It's been a while since I last posted. I have been so busy with family. I hope all of my follower's are doing well and are having a fantastic summer.
We finally got a new car. So thankful that God opened the doors for us to get buy a new one. Our old car we traded in, was on it's last wheel, so to speak. It almost even didn't make to the car sales lot. We were getting pretty worried. Now I can actually start going to shows, fairs, etc. without worrying, whether my car will make it or not.

I finally finished my newest work for the James and The Giant Peach Contest. Didn't make it into the finalist category, but it was fun to work on this piece. I was rushing to get this piece done and since I did not win, I plan on working on the detail a little more at a later time. First, I have few other works I need to get done.

I just posted some new items for sale up at my Zazzle store stop on by and check them out
http://www.zazzle.com/mooresart

make custom gifts at Zazzle

As of the August 11th, my artwork and photography will no longer be free for psp users to create sig tags, tubes, stationery etc., My art, prints of my art, and tubes of my art may now be purchased at Artistic Dreams Imaging, http://www.artisticdreams.us

And last of all, The Think Pink V Contest is underway going on til October 3rd.
Read all the info here http://news.deviantart.com/article/124648/
I will be donating a 8 x 12 print of Send Me A Song to the Tradtional winner and a feature for all the winners for a month.

It's for a great cause - the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
Take Care Everyone!

Updates and Skin Tone Tutorial Pt. 4

2010-07-22T15:40:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone,
It's been a while since I posted anything. The whole family has been battling this bronchitis/walking pneumonia for about 4 weeks now. Just now starting to feel better. Now my hubby just came down with it on Sunday. I just pray my youngest daughter does not come down with it again. Her immune system is not very strong. And I pray I don't get it again either, as I had a reaction to the antibiotics and wasn't able to take all of them.

We have been trying to see about buying a house, but we think God is closing the door on that, for us right now. Instead, we think, He is trying to tell us to go buy a car or we will be walking. The car situation is not too good. Three cars are sitting in the driveway and all but one is driveable, just barely.

Anyways, I haven't been drawing too much as of late. I did finish up the skin tone tutorial about a week or so ago and I am almost done with my egret ACEO I have been working on. Motivation has not been so high, due to all this sickness. I hope to be sharing the newest ACEO with you all soon.

Follow Along Skin Tone Tutorial Pt.4
This will be the last part of this tutorial. I am already working on the tutorial as a whole lesson for my website and DA.
So continuing on where we left off last time....

Color Pencils You Will Need
Prismacolor Light Peach PC927
Prismacolor Seashell Pink PC1003
Prismacolor Peach PC939Prismacolor Pink PC929
Prismacolor Clay Rose PC1017
Prismacolor Burnt Ochre PC743
Derwent Coloursoft Pale Brown C220
Prismacolor Greyed Lavendar PC1026
Derwent Coloursoft Mid Brown C600
Prismacolor Dark Brown PC946
Prismacolor Dark Umber PC947
Prismacolor Black PC935

Start off by adding a light layer of Pink PC929 in the shaded and detailed areas. Then add a light to medium layer of Clay Rose PC1017. Use medium pressure in the shaded and detailed areas and light pressure in the other areas. Next, add a light layer of Peach PC939 blending the layers of colors together.

Next add a light to medium layer of Burnt Ochre and then Pale Brown in the shaded and detailed areas. Adding more pressure in along the edge of the bottom part of the arm and in and around the fingers. Then add a light layer of Seashell Pink PC1003 blending the two colors together and evening the colors out.

Now apply a light to medium pressure of Greyed Lavendar PC1026 in the shaded and detailed areas. Next, apply a light to medium pressure of Dark Brown PC946 in the lower part of the arm's shaded and detailed areas and just slightly in the upper right part of the arm. Use medium pressure of the Dark Brown along the lower edge of the arm and up and around the fingers. As you will see the Greyed Lavendar tones down the orange-peach tone. Even out and blend the colors with a light layer of Clay Rose.

Lastly, apply a light to medium layer of Dark Umber PC947 and then a light layer of Black PC935 along the lower edge of the arm and in around the fingers. Even out and blend the colors with Greyed Lavendar and Peach.

Thanks for following along. I will have the full tutorial up on my site later tonight and up on my DA Gallery.
The images will be much bigger and explained a little better as well.
Hope you all are having a great summer and Happy Creating!

The Fawn and Battling a Virus

2010-06-30T10:54:00.000-07:00

My newest ACEO is now up for bid on ebay http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200489938961
The Fawn done in color pencil . The ACEO is part of an All Group ACEO for the Yahoo Animal Artwork Group
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/animalartwork/
Each artist will be donating a certain percentage of their sale to a non-profit rescue/shelter organization.

10% of this sale will be going to Nature World Wildlife Rescue Inc., which is out of Florida. They facilitate the rescue, rehabilitation and hopeful release of sick, injured and/or orphaned wildlife found in the Nature Coast Region of Florida. They are presently gearing up for the spill. I plan on doing a series of wildlife ACEOs to help out with the Gulf Oil Spill.

This ACEO was created with reference stock from Dreamstime.

Garsh my summer has not been so great very far, I have been battling a respiratory virus for over a week now. Just when I feel like I am getting better, the cough starts to get worse. Last night, I was coughing so hard, I could taste blood in the back of my throat. My chest is really hurting today. I go into the doctor on the 7th, so if things aren't better by then, I guess I will have to get some antibiotics oh and I am sure she will make me get an x-ray. I haven't drawn anything for the past few days because of it, but pushing myself today. I am working on another ACEO, that I plan to donate part of the sale to the Marine Mammal Center. Then after that I have to start working on my entry for the Think Pink V contest - all for Breast Cancer and Breast Cancer awareness. So I have got to get busy.

I hope everyone else is having a better summer than me.
Take Care and Hope everyone has a great 4th of July!

Happy Fathers Day, Sketches and Follow Along Skin Tone Tutorial Pt. 3

2010-06-19T22:17:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!
Been a rough week for me. Last Friday I was at the doctor's and hospital most of the day. I had to get a cat scan. The doctor thought I had diverticulitis or some infection in the intestine. The pain went away, after they shot me with iodine, but Sunday I started to feel not so well again. It's been a pretty rough couple of weeks. I started to feel better yesterday, but will be getting into a gastrinologist within the next week or two. And now I am coming down with that respiratory virus that the girls have had. Oh what a fun way to start off the summer break. :(

Happy Fathers Day!

I hope all the dads out there, have a wonderful Father's Day tomorrow. This time of year I really miss my dad a lot. It's been 3 years now since he died from cancer.
A Happy Father's Day to my husband who is truly a blessing, who is always there for me when I need him and who is always so supportive. I am so thankful he is in my life.

Sketches to Share
Just had to share two sketches I did at yesterday's Ellen Millions June Sketch Fest http://community.livejournal.com/emglivejournal/4323.html?thread=1#t296163
It was so much fun. I look forward to participating in it again.
I will be reworking these a sketches a bit more but plan to work on these soon.

Butterfly Blessings

Victorian Rose Maiden

Follow Along Skin Tone Tutorial Pt. 3
Continuing on from the last part, here is a list of color pencils needed for this section.

Color Pencils

Prismacolor Light Peach PC927
Prismacolor Seashell Pink PC1003
Prismacolor Peach PC939
Prismacolor Mineral Orange PC1033
Prismacolor Rosy Beige PC1019

Begin by applying a layer of Peach PC939 using medium pressure in the shaded and detailed areas and light pressure in the other areas. Next apply a light layer of Seashell Pink PC1003 over some of the areas of Peach PC939 blending the layers of colors together.

Next add a layer of Mineral Orange PC1033, using light to medium pressure, shaping and detailing in the darkest areas of the arm. Apply a light layer of Peach PC939 over the layer of Mineral Orange PC1033, blending and smoothing out the layers of colors.

The next color is Rosy Beige. Apply a light layer along the edge of the arm and in the shaded and detailed areas. This color will start to tone down the other layers of colors. Use light layer of Peach PC939 and Light Peach PC927 to blend all the colors together where needed.

Next week will continue adding the dark colors and defining the details and shaded areas.

Follow Along Skin Tone Tutorial Pt. 2

2010-06-12T23:14:00.000-07:00

Skin Tone Tutorial Part 2
Okay so we left off applying layers of cream, pale peach and light peach.
So here is a list of the colors you need for this section.

Color Pencils Needed

Prismacolor Cream PC914
Derwent Coloursoft Pale Peach C570
Prismacolor Light Peach PC927
Derwent Coloursoft Soft Pink C170
Prismacolor Deco Pink (now discontinued but available in the Prismacolor Verithin 743)
Derwent Coloursoft Light Sand C580
Prismacolor Pink Rose PC1018
Prismacolor Seashell Pink PC1003

Tips*

Remember to keep your points sharp.
To avoid getting debris on the surface of your paper, wipe the tips of your pencil before applying the layers of color on a cloth, tissue, or I use my sleeve or pant leg.
Rotate your pencil around as you are applying the layers of color, it will help keep your strokes consistent and smooth.
Keep the surface of your paper clean by wiping periodically with makeup brush or drafting brush.
To hide or remove flecks or specks of color that appear on the surface of your paper, use cream or pale peach lightly over the spot.

We are going to start off with this section applying a layer of Derwent Soft Pink C170 over the layers of cream, pale peach and light peach. Using light to medium pressure. Applying medium pressure in shadowed and detailed areas.

Apply the Deco Pink the same way, applying medium pressure in detailed and shadowed areas.

Next, apply the color Derwent Coloursoft Light Sand C580 using light to medium pressure. You want to be shaping the details and shadows of the hand and arm with this color. Then lightly apply a layer of Prismacolor Cream PC914 and Pale Peach C570 back over the top of the Light Sand C580, blending and evening out the Light Sand color towards the highlights of the center of the arm.

Now apply a layer of Prismacolor Pink Rose PC1018 using light pressure, shaping the details and shadows of the hand and arm. Next, apply a light layer of Prismacolor Seashell Pink PC1003 over the Pink Rose to even out the tone, blend the colors and draw in the details of the hand. And finally, add another light layer of Light Peach PC927 and Pale Peach C570 to blend and even out the colors towards the highlights of the center of the arm.
Note: The Pink Rose PC1018 can tend to leave specks, so keep to a light touch and try to keep your strokes consistent and points sharp.

Next week we will begin applying the darker colors and working on the shadows and details of the hand.

Follow Along Skin Tone Tutorial and Etsy

2010-06-05T23:48:00.000-07:00

Follow Along Skin Tone Tutorial
I have had a few requests for a skin tone tutorial, so I thought I would do one here on my blog, breaking the tutorial up over a few weeks, giving viewers a chance to follow along and share what they accomplished at the end. I will be putting this tutorial up on my web site and DA gallery, when completed.

Materials Needed
Reference photo of a arm ( I am using a reference photo from WC Stock on DeviantArt http://wc-stock.deviantart.com/ )
8.0" x 11.0" Professional Grade Acid free Drawing Paper (I suggest Rising Stonehenge)
Electric Pencil Sharpener
Eraser
Makeup or drafting brush
Drawing pencil

First 3 Color Pencils Needed

Prismacolor Cream PC914
Derwent Coloursoft Pale Peach C570
Prismacolor Light Peach PC927

Note: Make sure to try and keep your color pencils sharp at all times unless stated otherwise.

Start off first, doing a light sketch of the arm. I made my sketch a little darker than normal, so the scan would pick up the lines. If you make the lines too dark, you can go back and lighten dark pencil marks with an eraser.

Next, apply a layer of Prismacolor Cream over the entire arm, using light to medium pressure. Use medium pressure in areas that are of darker value and light pressure in areas of lightest value.

After that, layer Derwent Coloursoft Pale Peach over the cream, using a light to medium pressure. Using the medium pressure again over the areas that are darker in value and light pressure over the lightest values.

Last, apply a layer of Prismacolor Light Peach, using again light to medium pressure. Using the medium pressure in areas that are darkest in value.

Next week, will pick up from this stage and continue on with the lesson....
If you would like to share or have any questions feel free to comment or email me at info@mooresartgallery.com

Etsy
For those who don't know about Etsy http://www.etsy.com/ , it is a place to buy and sell handmade items. From art to jewelry. You can also buy arts and craft supplies there as well.

I have had a store over at Esty now for a couple of years. I have made a total of 8 sales and just made my ninth sale, last Sunday on May 30th. The only problem with my last sale was, the buyer didn't pay me, til today. I emailed the buyer once, prior to this, the day after the initial sell, notifying them I could not ship out the artwork, until I received payment. No reply. I waited for another 6 days, today, before I sent out the second notice. A policy I keep on Ebay is the buyer has 7 days to pay me, before I report them and re-list the item. Etsy's policy is payment should be made within 3 days, before the seller should take action.

I have been pondering all day, did I handle the situation well with the customer. Communication is important when being the seller. It is important to let the buyer know how much you appreciate the sale and appreciate their interest in your artwork.After all, they might be a returning customer.
However, I find it very interesting, when someone purchases your artwork on Etsy or Ebay, why some people fail to pay the buyer right away. Especially, when payment is directly through Paypal only and once you click on the buy it now button, you go right to Paypal. This has happened to me twice now, when the customer delayed in paying for the item. The first time, the buyer got upset, when I sent a second invoice, but she did let me know when she intended on paying me. This second time, no response at all. How do you handle a customer like that.?
I have done some research and have come up with a list of tips and ways of handling non-paying customers through Etsy and/or Ebay.
I hope this list may help other artists in dealing with customers.

Specify in your listing or store policy clear expectations - when the payment needs to be received or the payment deadline. Three to seven days is a good time, unless a site policy is already in place..

Specify in your listing what will happen to buyers, if they choose not to pay.

Communication! Prompt follow-up and communication is a must through invoice via paypal, etsy or ebay. Your first communication should be a courteous e-mail congratulating and/or thanking the buyer the day the purchase has been made. Let the buyer know the item is packed and ready to ship out as soon as payment is received.

Try providing incentives for buyers to promptly send payments - Like buy and pay today and get same day shipping.

If you do not hear anything from the buyer within 3 days of purchase, attempt another communication follow-up. Again tell the buyer, until payment has been received, you cannot send the item they purchased. Ask the buyer if he or she has plans to pay for the item or not, so that way you can cancel the transaction and re-list the item.

After 7 days or more have passed and you have still not received a payment or any communication, send a final email, explaining to the buyer, that since they have failed to pay for the item within the allotted time frame, they have left you no alternative, but to report as non-payment and cancel the transaction. You might still give them another 24 hour waiting period just to see if you get a response, if not cancel transaction and provide proper feedback for non-payment and non-communication buyer.

A couple of interesting Links on Etsy
Etsy Customer Service Tips - http://www.squidoo.com/etsy-customer-service-tipsEtsy is a Four Letter Word - http://nataliejost.com/3723

Update on new Work In Progress

2010-06-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

I hope you all had a great Memorial Day weekend! We went to the movies and saw the Prince of Persia. The movie was okay. It wasn't quite what I anticipated. It kind of reminded me of the Mummy and Aladdin mixed together. It did kind of inspired me to do a drawing one day - kind of based on the theme. Will add it to the list of mile high art projects to do. :D
After the movies, we went to the cemetery to place flowers on my dad's grave and grandparents grave. I think the girls are finally starting to understand what Memorial Day really represents. At least I hope so. So many strong and brave soldiers have fought for our freedom and I thank God for them. I pray that the Lord will bless them and their families.

Here is the latest update on Alice. It's taking me a little bit longer than anticipated to complete and I have taken a couple days break from it and I will now finish adding final details etc. today or tomorrow. I keep saying I am going to finish it, and then something will interrupt the drawing process or I find something I need to work on more :)

Also, I have some new listings up at my Etsy store you can view them here http://mooresart.etsy.com/
Some of my limited edition prints of ACEOs are available there now. I hope to be adding more this week, if time will allow.

I just discovered this on Nicole Caulfied's blog. Google Street Maps http://maps.google.com/help/maps/streetview/
You can pan through cities or towns all over the world. Many artists are starting to use it as a reference tool for drawing backgrounds, landscapes etc. So I am off to go check out Ireland, Scotland and England. This is so cool!

Alice -- Work in Progress

2010-05-22T07:29:00.000-07:00

Still working on Alice. I was hoping to get her done this week, but too many things going on. So hopefully today I can finish it up. I really wanted to participate in Ellen Millions May Sketch Fest today, but no time. http://community.livejournal.com/emglivejournal/3255.html Maybe next year :)

Alice is done in color pencil. I am using mainly Prismas with some Derwent Coloursofts and some Lyra Rembrandts. The paper is Canson Mi Tientes and it is 6.0" x 8.0" This piece is part of my new fairy tale series, based on Grimm Fairy Tales and Disneys.

New Work In Progress, Scams and Seminar

2010-05-15T11:45:00.000-07:00

New Work In Progress
I had to share my latest work in progress. Color pencil on Canson Mi Tientes. I normally complete the hair first, but I had to put it on hold as I ran out of some greys I needed.
Its the first of my new fairy tale series. This one is inspired by Disney's latest movie "Alice In Wonderland" with Johnny Depp, and Avril Lavigne's new song "Alice". Reference photo by the beautiful Aline Potter http://alinepotter-stock.deviantart.com/ I am hoping to get it finished up this week, so I can start on a new piece for the "Picture Yourself in Wonderland" contest being put on by Walt Disney Studios. I don't know if I am going to have enough time or not, as the deadline is June 4th. Going to give it a try though, that is if I can find the right reference photo, for what I am envisioning.
http://news.deviantart.com/article/117360/

Scams
It's pretty scary for all the artists out there in cyberworld at the moment, with all the scams, identity theft, and art theft going on on the internet. I think I receive at least 5 scams a month of people wanting to buy my artwork, but are not legit.
Purchase Scams, Phishing Scams, Nigerian Art Scam and Gallerie Scams are just some of the type of scams that artists receive monthly. Now the latest type of scam is a student emailing to you tell you, that they are wanting to write a report on you and need some personal information - Phishing.

Here are some warnings and ways to protect yourself from becoming the next victim.

Avoid emails inquiring about purchasing your artwork that have bad spelling, bad English and vague inquiries.
Avoid ever giving out any personal information, such as Social Security number, place of birth, passwords, names of your children, mother's maiden name, pet's name and so on.
Red warning lights should go off, if someone is offering to send you a money order, a cashier's or corporate check in an amount that is greater than the purchase price of your artwork.
Never ship an artwork out, til the check clears, especially if the purchaser is located outside of your country.
Insist that you only take payments through Paypal. No money orders or cashier checks. Put the Paypal logo up on your website, as it tends deter predators.
Avoid Vanity Galleries and Vanity Publications that charge expensive fees. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vanity_gallery and http://www.artcalendar.com/article.asp?ID=145
Check galleries and businesses out through the Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce to make sure they are legit.
Avoid emails from Nigeria period.
Avoid emails about art awards or art grants, unless you requested the information.
If you are a victim of fraud, contact the Internet Fraud Complaint Center http://www.ic3.gov/ or go to http://www.ftc.gov

Help spread the word about these type of scams and identity theft to help protect other artists.

Seminar
Ann Kullberg has a new seminar that I would really LOVE to attend "The Teacher in YOU Training" seminar. Time to start saving up! You can check out the details here if you are interested http://annkullberg.com/teacherseminar.php

Artist's Statement

2010-05-08T10:16:00.000-07:00

So I have been doing some research on how to write an Artist Statement, there is a lot of criteria I did not even know to include or not to include in the statement. Like it should be simple, and short, about 1 page in length consisting of about 3 to 5 paragraphs. The idea behind the statement is to entice the readers interest into wanting to view your artwork and to tell not a story about your life, but a story about your art and why you create it.

Below is a list of what to include in your Artist Statement.

Why do you create your art?
What influences or inspires you?
What materials do you use to create your works of art?
What is your process or method in creating your works of art?
What techniques do you use to create your works of art?
What are your future goals?

So here is what I came up with so far for my Artist Statement....

Ever since I can remember, I have always had some artist's tool in my hand, whether it was a crayon at the age 5 in kindergarten, or a paintbrush at the age of 17 in high school, I have always had a passion to draw and paint subjects I love. My passion stems from my mother and uncle, who taught me at a very young age, the world of art, and from there it continued to blossom and grow. That passion continued to grow all the way through my college years and continues to bloom and grow. I am constantly inspired by everything around me, from many subjects, from many gifted artists and from God's beauty all around us.

I discovered my love for color pencils while taking an illustration class at Pacific NW College of Art in 1983. I was hooked immediately. I explored and experimented using different color pencils and papers over the years, until I discovered Prismacolors and Stonehenge fine art paper. My method of applying color pencil is a slow process of layering various colors on top of one another. Sometimes I will use a blender marker or pencil to blend the colors together and I like to use the impressed line technique to create whispy hairs, whiskers and other fine light details. I also sometimes, like to combine Prismas with other color pencils brands such as Derwent Coloursofts, or with charcoal, graphite, watercolor pencil, and/or acrylics.

Presently, I am working on three series. The first is an emotional series. In this series, I am conveying and capturing different emotions of people, in different situations. The second is a miniature angel series. In this series, I want to convey what angels represent to me - Hope, Faith, Love, Grace, Blessings, Messengers, Strength, Joy, Service to the Lord, Protection, and Comfort. The last series is a Fairytale series. I just began this series, and plan on portraying my own version of some of the classic Grimm Brothers stories and Disney versions.

I have a little bit more to add, but I am nearly finished.
One thing I have learned is, it's important to update your Artist's Statement. You want it to show current works or exhibitions. It's also great to send it along with slides when approaching galleries and post it up on your website. I plan on putting my statement up on my site, as soon as I get it finished.
Hope you all have a great Mother's Day Weekend!

Miniature Artwork

2010-05-01T19:05:00.000-07:00

It's been a challenging past week for me, I have been working on what I call, my very first miniature work of art, of a black tail deer. I have much more to learn and much more practicing to do, but I am on my way and I have joined a great group, full of some amazing talented artists http://groups.yahoo.com/group/miniatureart/
I used watercolor and color pencil to do this piece and used my own reference photos. It's 2.5" x 3.5"

You might say, "Well that's the same size as an ACEO and what's so challenging about that?" A lot! A miniature work of art is a specialty art and has layers of more fine details, than an ACEO. Miniature artwork can range in size from 1.0" x 1.0" to 5.0" x 7.0". They are to be no more than 1/6th scale of the actual subject and specific art guidelines are to be met with each association.
Working in color pencil at such a small of scale and fine of detail can be quite challenging as the color pencil tips can break easy and you have got to keep your points sharp at all times. I am thinking, Prismacolor verithins, might work better for such small of detail, only problem is, the verithins do not have a wide range of colors available, but I plan on testing them out on my next piece.

Some amazing miniature art can be seen at Wes and Rachel Siegrists' site http://www.artofwildlife.com/

They have two books out "Exquisite Miniatures" and "The World of Nature in Miniature" located here

http://www.artofwildlife.com/miniature_painting_books.html

Take a look around at their galleries, their works will just blow you away. Truly inspiring, blessed and talented artists.

ACEOs

2010-04-24T09:32:00.000-07:00

Continuing on with the topic of ACEOs from my last post....

To me, an artist must have good marketing skills, in order to survive out in this crazy economy (something I am still working on). My number one challenge this week, was researching ACEOs, and finding out more about how to market the type of ACEOs I wanted to sell. I know I will still face difficult challenges, even after all this research, but at least now, I know what I need to strive for, in order to become successful at selling ACEOs or any art for that matter, on eBay or even Etsy.

Well, I did a little researching on ACEOs (Art Card Edition and Originals), when I first started creating them about 3 years ago. Recently, I have done even more researching. Here's what I have learned.

The History

The ACEO movement was basically started by a gal named Lisa Luree in 2004. She created a group on eBay to help promote the creation and sales of ACEOs. “She started the ACEO movement, in response to the prohibition against selling what was associated with ATCs”, which is Artist Trading Cards. Artist Trading Cards, originated in Switzerland . They are always traded, not sold, and are the same size as an ACEO, 2.5” x 3.5”. ATCs were originally used as an artist training tool. Artists would exchange with one another, in order to learn each others' techniques and styles.

ACEOs, on the other hand, were created to sell on eBay and other art auction sites. The goal is to put them into the hands of customers, who are willing to offer the highest bid or price. The higher the bid, the better for the artist, and the more value or worth of the artist's art goes up. Selling ACEOs on eBay, also gives the artist's followers and collectors, a chance to own something original that they created. And the ACEO movement started an artist/collector craze out of this world. Every artist starting creating ACEOs and the collectors came out full force. And then the tanking of the economy began to hit in the later part of 2008. Selling ACEOs slowed down for many artists and completely for some, but the well known artists continued to sell their ACEOs really well and at high bids.

Being Successful at Selling ACEOs

I have learned a lot this past week about ACEOs, some things I did not know before, other things I did. I have gathered up some tips, that I would like to share with all the artists out there.

Sell original ACEOs. What do I mean? Make them original, one of a kind. Create something that no other artist has tried yet, and see what sparks it creates.
Make your listings and auction pages original. Create a auction page and listing that is going to grab the bidders attention, yet be professional looking as well. Make sure there is enough information in the description and that the image of the art is good quality.
Make sure the back of the ACEO has the following information – full signature of the artist, date, title, medium, website or email, print number, and © symbol. You can check out my tutorial here on how I create the backings for my ACEOs http://mooresart.deviantart.com/art/ACEO-Tutorial-158327473
Never start your bids lower than $4.99 and definitely not at .99 cents. It is usually a red flag warning for most serious art collectors, that you do not value your own work as an artist.
Make sure you pack and ship your ACEO well. Keep it professional. Place your ACEOs in either penny sleeves or penny envelopes with a backing of some kind. Never post shipping costs higher than $3.00. Ship in a timely manner. I always ship mine in a 6” x 8” mailer. I always include a packaging slip, a business card, a thank you on the slip and a certificate of authenticity, if it is a print. I always try to ship it out, just as soon as I receive payment. Something I just discovered, is try creating a handmade decorative envelope to place the ACEO in. Tie with ribbon or raffia. The template is located here http://www.ruthannzaroff.com/mirkwooddesigns/atcenvelope.htm
Keep a record of all sales. Record name, address, and email. Send out notices to the people on the sales record, when you have a new listing.
If selling prints, make sure they are good quality inks and on good quality paper. I have been getting some of my prints at http://www.artcardswanted.com/prints.cfm
Once you have sold a few ACEOs and ACEO prints (50+), try opening up an eBay store. The price of listings is way cheaper, than per auction page.
Check out your competition! See what other artists are starting their bids at. See how they design their listings and pages. See how they design and create their ACEOs. But DO NOT COPY.
Advertise! Spread the word around, that you have got a new ACEO up for bid on eBay. Let followers know, if you have a special going on, or if a certain percentage of the sale is going to a specific donation, such as the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

Not all artist are successful at selling ACEOs, but I think if you use these tips you can be. A true art collector and follower will pay the price no matter what it is, to acquire your works. These are the people we “artists” need to be true to, need to promote to, need to say thank you to. If it weren't for the fans and collectors, most artists wouldn't have their works hanging on walls or in a book on a coffee table.

By the way, I just had to share my latest news. I just sold my very first ACEO print! "Bridge to Paradise"

I am awaiting payment, but I am very excited.

Thank you all for your support!

A Struggling Artist Introductory

2010-04-17T19:42:00.000-07:00

So, what is thiis blog all about? If I had to sum it up in a few sentences, it's about the disappointments and successes, in trying to make it as an artist, in today's ever changing economy. It's about sharing information, tips, ideas, sites, techniques, and discover ways to help out other struggling artists. It's about my journey on becoming the successful artist of my dreams and to help other artists achieve their dreams too.

I am literally what one would call the "Struggling Starving Artist". We basically live from paycheck to paycheck, which doesn't leave me a whole lot to buy art supplies or to enter many exhibitions or contests. Why? I quit my part-time job a little over 2 years ago, to help care for my dad, who was dying from cancer. I decided, after he passed away, I really wanted to try to make a go with my art full-time, plus the kids, and health reasons were really preventing me from wanting to go back to elderly care/housekeeping profession. I am happy with my decision, as I get to be a stay-at-home mom, plus I get to work on my artwork, when I want to.

So my journey began. It started off pretty good, as my friend, Jillian Crider, introduced me to ACEOs (Art Cards, Editions and Originals). I sold quite a few on ebay, but then the economy started to tank and I started having a hard time selling anything on ebay or etsy. The economy has improved some, but I am still struggling to sell any works. So I am thinking 1) I need to improve more on my marketing skills 2)I need to improve my skills as an artist and 3) I need to discover that unique niche that most well known artists have, that could launch my art career. My passion is my art, and my expertise is color pencil. It's finding that special niche and concentrating on sticking with and creating 1 to 3 genres and targeting specific audiences. So my journey continues....

I just created a poll at my Deviant Art Page "What do you want to see me draw/paint more of?" If you are on DA please stop on by and vote
http://mooresart.deviantart.com/journal/poll/1154487/

Faith

I created this piece just before my dad passed away in December 2007. When I created Faith, I poured my heart and soul into it, literally cried tears while working on it. It never won any competitions, but this piece reminds me to never give up, to always have faith and hope.

Moores Art Gallery Blog

Updates, Valentine Giveaway and Resource of the Week

(¯`•.•´¯) (¯`•.•´¯) "Happy Valentines Day *`•.¸(¯`•.•´¯)¸.•´ ♥ ☆ º ♥ `•.¸.•´ ♥ º ☆.¸¸.•´¯`♥

New Work In Progress and Resource of the Week

Happy New Year, Updates and Resource of the Week

New Work in Progresses, Updates & Resource of the Week

The Show, Updates and Resource of the Week

Invitation to Show, Work In Progress and Resource of the Week

ACEO FAQs - The BEST ANSWERS on eBay!!! PART 1

Work In Progress & Resource of the Week

Updates, New Work In Progress and Resource of the Week

Miniatures Complete, Eye Tutorial and Resource of Week

In Memory, New Work and Resource of the Week

Updates, New Work, and Resource of the Week

New Work

Tujunga Sunrise

Note: The scanner didn't pick up all the details and colors of this small piece either. Really need to get that new camera or a new scanner.

Resource of the Week

A site on color pencil basics for mainly beginners, but a resource for all level of artists.

http://drawsketch.about.com/library/weekly/aa051303a.htm

Updates, New Work and Resource of the Week

Road Trip, New Work In Progress & Art Resource of the Week

Happy 4th of July! ~ New Work, Work in Progress, & Resource of the Week

New Sketches, New Work and Art Resource of the Week

New Work, Work in Progress and Resource of the Week!

Work In Progress and New Tip

Newest Work in Progress and Sucked Into Facebook

New Artwork, WIP and Updates!

Finished Artwork, Sketchfest and Updates!

JAPAN, WIP UPDATE, EXHBITIONS & MY NEW ART TABLE

Work In Progress, Easter Giveaway and Artist Tip

Update on Work in Progress and Free Easter Giveaway

Happy Valentines, New Work and Updates

Update and New Works

Happy New Year and New Work In Progress!

Merry Christmas and New Work!

Something a little different from me, the first of my new Victorian series. Inspired by artist Alphonse Mucha and one of Ellen Millions Sketchfest prompts http://www.ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/index.phpOriginal is for sale at my website http://www.mooresartgallery.com/rosemaiden.html

Update on Christmas Piece, Sketchfest and New ACEO up for bid

Commission Finished and Cat Photo

Update on Commission Work In Progress

Commission Work In Progress and Art Marketing

Commission Work In Progress and Update on Procedure

Update on Work In Progress

Work In Progress Update, New Photos, and Ebay Fraud

Work In Progress Update

Work In Progress Update

New Commission

"Refuge of Hope" Finished and Updates

Update On New WIP 5

Update On New WIP

New Work In Progress and my dog Remi

New Sketches and Feeling Terrible

Updates and Baby Kittens

New Work In Progress

New Color Pencil Kit

New Works and Updates

Updates and Skin Tone Tutorial Pt. 4

The Fawn and Battling a Virus

Happy Fathers Day, Sketches and Follow Along Skin Tone Tutorial Pt. 3

Follow Along Skin Tone Tutorial Pt. 2

Follow Along Skin Tone Tutorial and Etsy

Update on new Work In Progress

Alice -- Work in Progress

New Work In Progress, Scams and Seminar

Artist's Statement

Miniature Artwork

ACEOs

A Struggling Artist Introductory

(¯`•.•´¯) (¯`•.•´¯) "Happy Valentines Day
*`•.¸(¯`•.•´¯)¸.•´ ♥
☆ º ♥ `•.¸.•´ ♥ º ☆.¸¸.•´¯`♥

Something a little different from me, the first of my new Victorian series. Inspired by artist Alphonse Mucha and one of Ellen Millions Sketchfest prompts http://www.ellenmilliongraphics.com/sketchfest/index.php
Original is for sale at my website http://www.mooresartgallery.com/rosemaiden.html