E-book production

I've had my head down over a few projects in the last couple of weeks, one of which is the production of an e-book on palette knife painting.   This came from frustration on my part over the last year or two on not finding any practical resources for palette knife painting that explained the process.   As my experience in palette knife painting increased, so did my frustration at not having something or someone to compare notes with or help me over stumbling blocks.

As I've been teaching palette knife painting workshops as well, students are gasping for a resource that reinforces what they learned in the workshops and that need partially fueled my desire to go ahead with this book.

Necessity is the mother of invention it seems, so I decided that I would create the resource myself.  This ebook is a practical reference guide for painting with knives and covers everything from tools and paint to how the different strokes are created with a knife.  While not a major book (23 pages) I believe it will be a useful one in the arsenal of anyone wanting to learn more about this unique painting technique. 

Creating a resource means I can be selfish and have it the way I like to see art references presented.  Clear explanations and good images always cement the deal for me.  And price.  I want this to be as affordable as possible.  As an artist its important to me to be able to share techniques and ideas and this is one way of doing just that.

I'm currently working on the final edits for the book and then deciding which is the best way to make it available.  It should be ready to roll within the week and I'll have all the details on how to access a copy then.

Excerpt from the preface:

I created the Introduction to Palette Knife Painting as a reference guide for artists who are interested in learning  the techniques used in palette and painting knife to create impasto paintings. It contains practical information on palette knife choice and use, paint use and characteristics, techniques to achieve a variety of surface textures, lines and paint applications, as well as tips for cleaning and storing knives...

Retail Therapy

Its inevitable that the Christmas season is just 6 weeks away and artists, like retail stores are getting ready for shoppers.  Artists do tend to negate the idea that they are also businesses, but its a reality, as we have to eat and pay bills just like everyone else.  Our ability to create visual art comes with the need to show it to the world, so others too can enjoy it and have something beautiful and unique to see every day.

 While I have art available on my website all year round, during this season, I try to become a problem solver for people by making a range of pieces available in several price points.  Not everyone has a huge budget to spend on original art, so there are cards, reproductions, small paintings, workshops and gift certificates available.

On December 1st, I'll be releasing the list of my 2014 art workshops as well as the launch of a seasonal gift suggestion page on my website and blog.   There'll be a few new items as well as some classics, so save the date and perhaps I can help you with your gift list this year! 

Support local artists and local business this year.  Your purchase will help keep visual artists producing beauty and your gift of local art or craft will introduce that beauty into others' lives.

Lest we forget

In memory of Canadians and Newfoundlanders who fought and died.

South African War (1899 - 1902)

First World War (1914 - 1918)

Second World War (1939 - 1945)

Korean War (1950 - 1953)

Canadian Armed Forces (1947 - present)