Mmm, Modern Masters Metallic Paint

I have been enjoying creating loose expressionistic water paintings.  I want to share that I love Modern Masters Metallic Paint!  This is one of my detail shots of a recent abstract, water inspired painting on cradled panel.  I am mixing artist acrylics and these Modern Masters Metallic paints too.

But I might not have ever discovered-among other things-these great materials... metallic faux finishing paint and inexpensive "chip" brushes had I not worked with artist Chris Craft.  He is my husband and business partner and has years of fine art and commercial art painting.  He turned me on to these metallic paints when I was helping him with some of his amazing faux metal ceilings.  (This was when he was "Brushmark Studios.")

Below is another detail of my newer work.  I am exploring "Water" in a more experiential, more expressive and unplanned way... as compared with my better known women in water paintings.  I create depth by painting a layer and sealing it with a layer of gloss varnish.  (There is a richness with the layers, and metallics, and contrast between opaque and translucent that cannot be captured with a picture.)

chriscraftartist.com

www.modernmasters.com

E-commerce and art.

Who has bought something online? Have you?

I have quite often and don't know many folks who have never made an online purchase. (My grandmother, who is in her 80's, is the only one I can think of off the top of my head.)

Too many traditional galleries are closing, taking on more artists or diversifying by selling "other than original art" products. Most everyone is feeling the pinch of this economy.

The trick to success in tough times is to learn, grow and adapt your business practices. There ARE people making plenty of money in spite of this crazy economy. What are they doing that is different? How can we as artists-who make AND market our products-make more money?

First, follow the trends. How do people purchase and take care of details of their lives? Why online of course!

As an artist, I just got on board with technology in the past five years and I came kicking and screaming. But, once I figured out some basic similarities and strategies for folding technology into my regular business practices, I see the value.... and, honestly, I do enjoy facebook, working on my website and online research.

Still, I don't update enough and may spend too much time on the silly side of fb, but any business person has to balance their day to day operations and adding technology tools is no different.

So, Happy New Year to everyone. As for me, I'm venturing out into uncharted waters with a brand new website (coming soon!) in which all my paintings will be for sale online.

And, I am happy to announce my business is now a division of Brushmark Studios, LLC. My husband and fellow artist, Chris Craft and I are now "officially" business partners.

My prayer is for all of us hard working individuals to have a prosperous 2011!