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"I don't know about you but I have so many books on drawing and watercolor that I would be embarrassed to list them all. In fact I did put together a short list when I first started my blog.

For me, it was an effort to learn all the things I didn't acquire by going to college. I had such a hunger for knowledge. I struggled to learn the basics so I would have the confidence to actually take a class or workshop. After all, I didn't want to look like a complete fool."

My favorite book on drawing is by J. D. Hillberry..."Drawing Realistic Textures in Pencil". In fact I ended taking one of the most valuable workshops ever from J. D. in Colorado. If you are interested in pencil and want a worthwhile class, I strongly recommend his workshops. It was here that I learned how to combine carbon, graphite, and charcoal in the same drawing and how to use various blenders.

EDIT: Don't know where my mind was when originally wrote this post, but Mike Sibley's book "Drawing from Line to Life" actually lays on my drawing table...and should be a part of any aspiring pencil artist's reference library. I've referred to Mike's book often when struggling with a subject and always found my answer.

My other love is watercolor...I'm constantly inspired by the way it moves on the paper. You're going to be surprised but I love the 'looseness' of watercolor. The way the color flows on the paper and mingles. I know...this is in direct contrast to the tight realistic pencil work I do. Perhaps the attraction is the contrast of style. Yet, I have to confess...it's my inability to achieve this looseness in watercolor that defeats and discourages me!!

My favorite watercolor books would have to be "Painting People in Watercolor" by Alex Powers, The Figure in Watercolor, simple, fast, and focused" by Mel Stabin, and "Paint Watercolors filled with Life and Energy" by Arne Westerman. Lastly, if we're going to talk loose you have to mention Charles Reid.
Cold weather is setting in and we are all going to be spending more time indoors. Share your favorite books on techniques, art history, or marketing...something that inspired your artistic juices.

So here's the question...What are some of your favorite books, or DVD's. Is there someone you studied under that sent you home to your studio 'filled' with excitement and inspiration? Is there an artist you look forward to studying under in the future?

My Final Thoughts: There is always an art book laying on the ottoman beside my chair. Most recently they are about Watercolor. I've said many times...I'm a watercolor want-a-be. It seems like my painting always gets put aside for my drawing commissions. I need to work on this or quit wishing and dreaming for the time to paint.

You see, for me the problem is this...drawing is easy, painting is hard.

Sincerely,
Marsha

Links:
Website ...Marsha Robinett Fine Art
The Extraordinary Pencil...blogspot
My Squidoo ...Drawing Techniques

PS...make a "Point"...leave a comment Read More

So you ask...What is Squidoo anyway?

Squidoo is a website hosting hundreds of thousands of "lenses", or pages. Each lens is one person's look at something online. Your lens is your take or opinion on any subject you like. You are the authority.

Think of it like this. Look closely at the Magnifying glass pictured above.  When you look through the lens of the magnifying glass, everything you see within the lens is bigger, sharper, and more defined.  This is exactly how it is with my Squidoo Lens...it's about a very defined topic and is explored in full detail.

The lens is easy to build and it's free...yes, I said FREE! and totally non-techy. You can link back to your website. If you have a blog, Squidoo will even grab your latest postings and display them on your lens.

I first became familiar with Squidoo while visiting Katherine Tyrrell's website, Making a Mark, when I clicked on her Artist Resources link.

In January of '08 I set up my own "Squidoo Lens", Drawing Techniques: using carbon, charcoal, and graphite. My lens is just a baby compared to the information for artists found in Katherine's lens. ..yet the traffic this one lens generates to my blog and website just doesn't stop. I can only imagine what Katheryn's group of lenses does for her.

Many of you have ask so here's what I did...
My thought process as I developed my lens.

• I chose the subject I'm ask about most by my customers.
• I kept it simple,concise and interesting.
• I associated appropriate photos and art.
  
• I linked back to my website and blog liberally and I put links to my new Squidoo Lens on my website and blog...(at the bottom of every blog post)
  
• Most importantly...I included the "module" on my lens that contains an RSS feed. This means that every time I update my blog my Squidoo Lens is also updated with a link to my new article. This not only keeps my "lens" fresh in the eyes of search engines but sends people back to my blog to read the article!
  

The Best Part is...The Results
This year to date, there's been a total of 5,185 visitors to my lens.

In the past 30 days the "most important" stats are as follows:

• Referrers: Visitors coming directly from: My Website, 68...from The Extraordinary Pencil, blogspot, 218...visitors directly from Squidoo, 53...visitors, as a direct result of blog articles I've written, clicking the provided Squidoo Link at the bottom, 72.

• Clickouts: Squidoo visitors clicking on links back to my website and blog: In the last 30 days alone there have been....356 clickouts to my Website and 125 clickouts to my Blogspot.

The beauty of my Squidoo lens is this...I never have to do another thing to it. It updates regularly via the RSS feed from my blog just keeps sending people my way through the links I provided.
My Squidoo Lens is my "E-Bunny". It just sits there working for me. I'll admit that although easy to do...it took a some thought and some time to set up. I probably spent most of one weekend writing it, but the final statistics can not be ignored. Definitely time well spent.  So I only have one question this week...Do You Squidoo?

Thank you as always for your support and encouragement.

Sincerely,
Marsha

Links:
The Extraordinary Pencil...blogspot
My Squidoo ...Drawing Techniques


Make a "Point"...leave a comment
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"You've begun your journey, you have your map, and you know your destination. Myself, I'm destined for the "long road". Like many artists, I began my career later in life. I have no "Fine Arts Degree" and to top it off, I live in a small Midwestern town...right in the middle of corn country. Yet against all odds I've managed a satisfying degree of success."

On a personal note: I've been touched by everyone who sent emails and posted comments...the response to this series has been overwhelming. I believe as we share our own experiences we encourage others. Thank You

Developing Real World Marketing Strategies:
As an artist, it's my creativity and my passion for the "vision" that inspires and moves me forward. The process involved in the development of a new piece gives renewed energy and purpose. Where as the idea of "hitting the streets" with portfolio in hand to garner gallery representation can put me in a fetal position in the corner of my studio! Well...sort of.

The internet is a great marketing tool for today's artist, but it's not the only answer. If you read the blogs or websites of professional artists you will notice they are also mentioning other venues... private shows, juried exhibits, teaching, and galleries.

The truth of the mater is this...unless you get out there and promote your work you're going to end up with a huge private collection...your own "private collection" to pass on to your children. I would much rather be in my studio working, but it didn't take long to realize that I needed to get out there and personally market my art.

First things First...promotional and presentation materials:

• Business Cards and Brochures...I designed and printed my own for my first few exhibits, keeping them simple and professional. My first brochure was a half page...It had a photo of my art on the front, with a short bio. and artist statement on the back.
• Presentation of your art...all original art should be properly matted and framed, unless using deep edged canvas. Prints need to be either in mats or mounted, and packaged in clear bags for protection.
  
• This is your introduction to your public...present yourself and your art as professionally as your budget will allow.

Exhibiting at Juried Art Fairs:
1. A good starting point...join a local art club. My first exhibits were group exhibits held by the art club I belonged to. Exhibiting with others was a secure feeling. I could test the waters without a huge investment and get feedback from the public. I made connections with other artists that proved helpful when I began doing my own shows.

2. Preparing for my first "solo" art fair...Where better to find out the truth about the art fair circuit than from an art fair exhibitor. I spent the summer before my first show going to juried art fairs close to home. I was not there to see the art but there to see how the art was displayed.

I "tent shopped", checked out displays, packaging of prints, framing, quality of art being shown, and in general how the artists set up their area for traffic flow. I asked questions, made notes, getting names of suppliers for display materials I thought I might want to use the following season, and a list of other recommended art fairs.

• Local Art Fair Listings: Every state has a registry for arts and craft fairs. You can usually contact them for a free catalog or view a list on line...a good place to start.
  
• CraftLister.com...Art Fair Source Book...Art Fair Calendar are national registries for juried and non juried fine art and fine craft venues.

Juried Art Fairs have proven to be both an excellent source of income and exposure. I was careful of my set up costs and able to pay it off with my first summers income. Hundreds, of people pass through my both each weekend. They look at, touch, and talk about my art. They're able to make a deeper connection with my drawings as I answer their question and explain the process and inspiration for my work. It's a personal connection.

Sales for the most part have been good. I read somewhere that 80% of your sales will come from 10% of your shows...and this has proven to be true. I book most of my portrait commissions during the summer months as a direct result of my art fairs. I build my mailing list and get names of those interested in classes. For me it's been a win win experience.

Creative Marketing:
1. Specialty Shows...I once raised and showed Standard Schnauzers...there's usually a vender's area at these shows, selling breed specific items, and there was always at least one person offering commissioned portraits and selling prints.

If you specialize in a subject such as dogs, cats, horses...this could be a good venue to try. Thinking "out of the box". How about wedding shows, home shows, or antique car shows?

2. Talk to business owners about hanging your work in their establishments. Good venues for this would be car dealerships, libraries, furniture stores, interior decorators, frame shops, banks, hair salons, and restaurants. With some thought, I'm sure you could come up with even more.

• Have a portfolio and a plan for each call you make.
• Be ready to explain how your exhibit will benefit them.
• For some you could just do a "hanging"...bringing in new pieces every few months.
• For others you could present the idea of doing an "opening night" to meet the artist...with invitations and refreshments.
  

3. Plan a "Private Showing". Consider doing a private show from your studio...it could be just the excuse needed to get it de-cluttered! Your patrons enjoy seeing your work space. You could even leave out a partially finished piece. It's spring...plan a garden party. One of my artist friends had a very successful one man show at a "collectors" home.

Bonnie Luria of St. Croix-nicity converted her breezeway into a beautiful gallery setting for a one evening show. Be creative in your thinking. A large invitation list is wonderful, but not a necessity. JUST GET YOUR ART OUT THERE TO BE SEEN...as your reputation grows so will your sales.

4. Email and "Snail Mail" Marketing...I know this sounds like "Internet Marketing" but I would rather refer to it as "Personal Marketing". I purchased a piece of jewelry from an artist two years ago. I receive a note from her twice a year...around the Christmas Holidays and again in the spring to let me know her show schedule. She is a wonderful artist and I've worn the earrings often, yet I would have forgotten about her had she not done this one thing.

Court your clientele...by regularly communicating with those who have shown an interest in your art or have made a purchase. In order to do this you need to have an organized mailing list.

Clint Watson of Fine Art Views has some of the best information I've seen on the subject of email marketing...and you can learn how I conquered my mailing list challenge here.

In closing I would say this...Marketing is not my favorite thing to do. Like you, I'm an artist first...I'd rather be in the studio making art. As for the marketing end of things, it was the learning curve that got me...I simply had to figure out how to make it palatable.

Is it easier today than six months ago? Yes. Has it been worth the time it took away from creating my art? Absolutely Yes!

"It's The Journey That Defines You." Internet marketing alone will not get you there, but combined with a good real world marketing plan and done consistently your journey will become much easier.

Success is no accident...Success is hard work...Success is sweet!

This article continues here: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3


Links:
Marsha Robinett Fine Art...website
My Squidoo...drawing techniques


My Website Hosting Service:
Fine Art Studio Online...Easy Artist Websites
FASO requires No Technical Knowledge and offers
Positively Remarkable 24/7 Artist Support!

*Sign-Up...using this link or use the code (3209)
and extend your FREE TRIAL period to 90 days.


PS...make a "Point"...leave a comment
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"At a minimum today's artist needs a website and a blog. Your website is your online "gallery" where collectors and others interested in your art can view your works in an organized manner.

The major difference between a website and a blog is that a website needs to be promoted to be seen. Blogs on the other hand are like the "Energizer Bunny"...with the ability to announce themselves and keep on doing so with every posted update you make."

Link your blog to your website and like magic it will pull your website right along with it."

Don't Be Left Sitting on the Curb.
The above quote is from part one of this series...I put it in front of you because you need to read it again...you need to digest it, you need to believe it, and you need to do it.

The internet is here to stay. Businesses, large and small, are making their presence known to the world. Why should you as an artist be left behind? In the right hand column there's a list of marketing blogs for artists...they all say the same thing "Today's artist needs a website and a blog".

I'm just guessing, but I'll bet if you are familiar and comfortable with computers you already have a website. It's those of you who don't know how to do much more than send an email or do a simple web search that find the idea of setting up a website overwhelming.

I've been there, I was you. I exhibited my art for the first time in the summer of 2004. At every art fair as I passed out my brochure, people ask about my website. I told my friends that just hearing the word WEBSITE was a threat...and they told me I needed to get over it. I have brutally honest friends!

I spent every evening for the better part of two months searching the internet, looking at artist websites and web hosting services. I looked at so many sites that I had to start cataloging them.

The artist websites that I found most pleasing to the eye were all from the same web hosting service...Fine Art Studio On Line.

Developing a web presence that works:
The following is my "personal journey" into the world of internet marketing...the steps I took and the resulting growth in visitors to my website.

1. In late October of 2005 I set up my website. I chose FASO (Fine Art Studio Online) for two simple reasons.

• I loved the websites other artists had developed. They may have chosen different layouts and color schemes but they all had one thing in common...THEIR ART WAS THE FOCUS. There were no advertisements and nothing jumping around at you.
  
• FASO offerd 24/7 Technical Support. This was a huge deal for me. I even contacted several artists to verify that this was true...I needed the security of knowing there were "real people" to talk to. Remember, I barely knew how to email!

The basic set up went smoothly...I had a few questions but on the whole I have to say the instructions are clear and everything went quite well. Any questions I had were answered promptly...and YES there are real people if you need them! Very pleasant real people!

The Results...after all my friends and relatives did their "look see", things calmed down to where by December 'o5, I had 46 real visitors/with 510 page views. I was so excited...people I didn't know were actually looking at my work. Google had my name!

Traffic dropped off in Feb-May and then took a jump again when my art fair season began in June of '06. When my art fairs ended traffic dropped again drastically. The reality of it was this...I was no longer out there promoting my website!

2. In the April of '07 I set up the blog that was integrated into my website...calling it simply "My Studio Journal". This blog was part of my website package and had been there all along, but I never fully comprehended it's importance.

The Results...my monthly website traffic for May increased to 261 visitors/3271 page views and continued to increase monthly. December totals for '07 were 580 visitors/7721 page views compared to December of '06 (27 visitors/346 page views) ...close to 300% increase!

• I need to say this...In the beginning I wasn't a good blogger nor was I a faithful blogger. You can read more about my beginnings here.

3. In January of '08 I set up my first "Squidoo Lens" Squidoo is a website hosting hundreds of thousands of web pages called "lenses". Each lens is one person's look at something online. It's FREE and totally non-techy. I first became familiar with Squidoo on Katherine Tyrrell's website, Making a Mark, when I clicked on her Artist Resources link.

My Squidoo Lens, Drawing Techniques: using carbon, charcoal, and graphite, is just a baby compared to the information for artists found in Katherine's lens. Here's what I did.

• I chose the subject I'm ask about most by my customers.
• I kept it simple,concise and interesting.
• I linked back to my website and blog liberally and I put links to my new Squidoo Lens on my website and blog.
  
• Most importantly...I included the "module" on my lens that contains an RSS feed. This means that every time I update my blog my Squidoo Lens is also updated with a link to my new article. This not only keeps my "lens" fresh in the eyes of search engines but sends people back to my blog to read the article!
  

The Results...To date, in three months, there have been 1127 visitors to my lens. In the past 30 days the "most important" stats are as follows.

Visitors coming directly from: My Website...38, from The Extraordinary Pencil, blogspot...128, visitors, as a direct result of blog articles I've written, clicking the provided Squidoo Link...45

Clickouts...Squidoo visitors clicking on links back to my website and blog: In the last 30 days alone there have been....246 clickouts to my Website and 105 clickouts to my Blogspot.

The beauty of my squidoo lens is this...I never have to do another thing to it. It updates regularly via the RSS feed from my blog just keeps sending people my way through the links I provided. It just sits there working for me.

4. In February of '08...I set up an additional blog (outside my website) with Blogger...giving me yet another web presence. I'm not going into great detail here because by now you should be getting the picture of how linking to yourself delivers. But I will tell you this, since The Extraordinary Pencil...blogspot went on line, the page views on my website, Marsha Robinett Fine Art, have increased to over 12,000 per month.

I still post in regularly in My Studio Blog that is integrated into my website because it keeps my website updated and the search engines love fresh material.

I give you this information to encourage you.
To prove to you that someone who once considered the word "Website" a threat can do this. I could have used percentages instead of actual figures but I wanted you to feel the impact as real as I did, as I took these steps forward.

I'm not going to feed you a line and say this was all quick and simple. None of it was as difficult as I thought but it does take time to do it right.

• Once your website is set up, you need to upload your new works regularly and update your "About The Artist" page to keep it current...otherwise, unless you desire to make changes, your website is fairly maintenance free.
  
• Your Blog...I'm of the opinion that you should post at least once a week, two or three times is better. This could be as simple as a photo of your art and a short explanation of how you did it or what it means to you.
• Squidoo...if you decide to do this...keep in mind, it's not a "stand alone" answer. It doesn't take the place of either your website or blog. It compliments them.

The Secret is This...link to yourself.
On my website in the center of the home page is a link to The Extraordinary Pencil...blogspot and my squidoo lens has it's own topic on My Studio Blog. On my blogspot, close to the top in the side bar, are links to my website, and squidoo lens. On my squidoo lens, people are referred back to my website and blog. It's just that simple.

In addition...every newsletter, every email, and every blog post now have links to my sites at the bottom. As you can see I keep my "E Bunny" hoppin!

Note: Your Google ranking, your page views, and the number of visitors to your website will in time increase sales but cannot replace a personal contact with your customer base.

In the final part of this series I'm going talk about this and the importance of "Real World Marketing Strategies".


Remember, it's the Journey that defines you.

• Are you prepared?
• Do you know your destination?
  
• What do you need to do to get there?
• Why are you waiting?

This article continues here: Part 1, Part 2, Part 4


Links:
Marsha Robinett Fine Art...website
My Squidoo...drawing techniques


My Website Hosting Service:
Fine Art Studio Online...Easy Artist Websites
FASO requires No Technical Knowledge and offers
Positively Remarkable 24/7 Artist Support!

*Sign-Up...using this link or use the code (3209)
and extend your FREE TRIAL period to 90 days.


PS...make a "Point"...leave a comment
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In Part One of this series I compared developing an art career to taking a road trip. I touched on preparing for your destination, the importance of having a map and the need to stay focused. You've had a few days to consider your art career. It's now time to start preparing for your journey. Lets get started.

Preparation is Key:
Whether you're just beginning your art career or you're a seasoned professional preparing for a gallery opening... inadequate preparation is opening the door to failure.

For the seasoned professional artist, you've achieved many of your goals and gone on to set new ones...don't forget the good habits that got you here.

If you're a college student majoring in art, I envy you...absorb all you can, knowing that you will be getting on the road to success closer to your destination than many of us.

For those of you without professional training who are "thinking about", "dreaming about", or wondering "could I really" become an artist...I say, choose your destination, get out your map and start planning your trip!


The "To Do" list for Your Journey
1. Make a Conscious Decision...Say to yourself everyday, "I am an artist".
You have to believe you're an artist before anyone else will believe. Get the image into your head, make it part of your being. Develop and fine tune your vision...we generally get, in some fashion, what we think about and focus on most. It simply works.

2. Refresh and Fine Tune Your Skills:
Knowledge builds confidence. Depending on your level of skill, search out appropriate art education. There are online communities that will critique your work...join them and submit regularly. In 'part one' of this series and I gave you links to the two online forums I found most helpful. (see additional links below)

Take some basic drawing classes...regardless of your medium, drawing teaches you to see. And there is a tremendous difference between seeing and looking. Get on the web and find artists whose work you admire and ask questions. If they offer classes, sign up. I take a class or workshop two or three times a year...returning each time to my drawing board with renewed enthusiasm.

Join an art club, get together with other artists in your area. Once a month I meet with a group of painters...sometimes I paint but most times I draw. The exchange of ideas from others who see the way you see is exhilarating. Don't have a group in your area? Start one.

READ...there are lots of instructional art books by great artists crammed full of information. Most book stores today have a reading area or coffee shop where you can sit and browse before you purchase or...not. Many artists who write books also offer workshops. Some of my favorite books on drawing and watercolor are listed under the topic... Artist Resources.

What ever your medium is...make a schedule, setting aside creative time for your art...and don't let anyone or anything steal it away from you. There will be exceptions but when exceptions become the rule, you need to reevaluate...finding a schedule that is workable.

3. Create an Artist's Statement:
You may think it is a little soon for this, but it will give you strength for the journey ahead, define your goals, maintain your focus, and help you explain your work to others. For now your artist statement needs to simply explain who you are, what your art is about, and what you want it to say.

Asking a few simple questions can help you decide what to write: WHY do I draw? WHAT do I draw? WHERE do I get my ideas? WHO do I want to touch with my work. (At this stage, your artist statement is for your benefit) It will be revised many times in the next few months before it's presented to the public.

4. Develop a Plan:
To start with, on the back of your artist statement, make a list of achievable short-term and medium-term goals, creating a time line. It could be as simple as "taking a workshop" or "setting aside studio time each week"...to researching and planning a "small exhibition for friends in 12 months to unveil your new career as an artist".

Identify and list some steps for achieving each goal: noting the deadline for your workshop and making necessary travel plans, scheduling your weekly studio time, or preparing for your first exhibition...finding a venue, framing, designing invitations, contracting caterers, arranging for music.

Your "Artist Statement" and "Goals" are powerful tools...mine are always close at hand. In fact I keep a copy in my billfold.

5. Build a Strong, Cohesive Body of Work:
Start producing "frame worthy" pieces on high quality paper or canvas. You'll need 20 to 30 works in a style, medium, and subject matter that distinguishes you from other artists in some way.

If you work in more than one medium, select one to move forward with. You need to be recognizable if you want to get peoples attention. Galleries expect to see continuity in their artists work. Art Fairs are more tolerant but will charge a premium if you're showing more than one medium in your booth.


Well, I think this is enough to keep you busy for awhile. Remember...don't rush things, it's one step at a time. Take it slow, enjoy the journey and never, never give up on you!

Part 3 is next....Developing a Web Presence That Works.

This article continues here: Part 1, Part 3, Part 4


Links:
Carol's Drawing Club ...Scribble Talk ...artist forums
Wet Canvas...Art Papa ...artist forums
Books on Watercolor...Books on Drawing

Marsha Robinett Fine Art...website
My Squidoo...drawing techniques


My Website Hosting Service:
Fine Art Studio Online...Easy Artist Websites
FASO requires No Technical Knowledge and offers
Positively Remarkable 24/7 Artist Support!

*Sign-Up...using this link or use the code (3209)
and extend your FREE TRIAL period to 90 days.


PS...make a "Point"...leave a comment
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I remember taking family vacations when my daughter was young. She would wear us out asking "Daddy are we almost there?" We finally gave her a map and a marker and every time we passed a city she put a mark on her map. Of course then she wanted to know.."How much longer to the next town!"

Developing an art career is very similar to taking a road trip:
You have to make plans for your destination and you need a map to get there. You have to keep focused on the map and the road ahead. If you get lost or take too many side trips, arriving at your destination will take longer. If you don't pay close attention to others while you're driving, you could crash and not make it at all.

Don't rush things:
I know sometimes it seems like others always get the breaks. But in truth some artists simply get on the "road" closer to the destination. A fine arts degree would certainly do this for you, so would living in a large metropolitan area or having connections with other successful artists.

Many artists, including myself, are starting at the beginning. If you want to succeed you must have a plan...your plan is the "map" for your journey.

Hone your skills, build a cohesive body of work, and get feed back from others in your field. If like me there's nothing in your area, check out some of the many art forums on the internet...Wet Canvas and Art Papa are just two. You can view the work of others and post your own art for critique. Posting in forums will also help you develop a web identity.

If you have no formal education in the field of art, some classes from a local Art Club or Center for the Arts might be helpful. I also took workshops from well known artists in my field. Like many artists, I had a natural talent but it needed to be refined and stretched. Just being with other artists gave me a high!

Develop a web presence. At a minimum today's artist needs a website and a blog. Your website is your online "gallery" where collectors and others interested in your art can view your works in an organized manner.

The major difference between a website and a blog is that a website needs to be promoted to be seen. Blogs on the other hand are like the "Energizer Bunny"...with the ability to announce themselves and keep on doing so with every posted update you make.

Link your blog to your website and like magic it will pull your website right along with it! Or better yet get a website with an integrated blog.

Develop other "real world" marketing strategies. This is a topic on it's own...but for now, think about how you will get your art out there in front of people? I suggest you start locally...by joining an area art club...they usually have two or three exhibits each year. Check out the Juried Art Fairs in your area. Talk to business owners about hanging your work in their establishments. You could plan a private showing...inviting friends and business associates. Work on building your mailing list...getting both email and snail mail addresses.

Stay focused on the road ahead:
You've begun your journey, you have your map, and you know your destination. Myself, I'm destined for the "long road". Like many artists, I began my career later in life. I have no "Fine Arts Degree" and to top it off, I live in a small Midwestern town...right in the middle of corn country. Yet against all odds I've managed a satisfying degree of success.

Imagine if this were a real road trip, you wouldn't just quit 300 miles from home. You would at least try to get somewhere. True, you might stop for gas and to stretch your legs...checking your map for accuracy, and gather your thoughts. But you would get back on the road again until you reached your destination.

"Daddy are we almost there?"
Your career as an artist is a journey. The gift of the journey is what you see, experience, and learn along the way. These experiences build your confidence and hone your craft.

It's one thing to read about another artists climb to success but nothing can replace living the artist's life as you travel your own road to success. There are sure to be some pot holes and speed bumps along the way. You'll know you're making progress by the milestones and landmarks you pass as you mark your own achievements.

Remember, it's the Journey that defines you.

• Are you prepared?
• Do you know your destination?
  
• What do you need to do to get there?
• Why are you waiting?

This article continues here: Part 2, Part 3, Part 4


Links:
Wet Canvas...Art Papa...artist forums
Art Marketing Links...other articles of interest

Marsha Robinett Fine Art...website
My Squidoo...drawing techniques


My Website Hosting Service:
Fine Art Studio Online...Easy Artist Websites
FASO requires No Technical Knowledge and offers
Positively Remarkable 24/7 Artist Support!

*Sign-Up...using this link or use the code (3209)
and extend your FREE TRIAL period to 90 days.


PS...make a "Point"...leave a comment Read More

Does this sound familiar...while drinking your morning coffee and surfing the net you find a great site, and you have full intentions of coming back to take a really good look right after you take the kids to school.

You get back to the computer and guess what...you can't find that mind blowing site. It's like it just vanished off the face of the earth!

There's a quick remedy for this...it's called RSS.

If you're an active internet user all the content is sometimes hard to keep up with. You want to know when a favorite site updates it's information. Your bookmark bar is great for some things but for regular updates it makes you do all the running!

RSS is automatic...it brings fresh information from your favorite websites to you, rather than you going to the web, or scanning through your search history.

What does RSS mean? I'll bet you're ready for some real technical stuff here! Not from me, I'm not that technically savvy. RSS is most referred to as "Really Simple Syndication", but it actually stands for Rich Site Summary. Oprah even has her own name for it..."Ready for Some Stories".

Either way, it really is just that, "Really Simple Syndication". Why? Because it's an easy way for information that appears on your favorite websites to be regularly delivered to your computer in organized files, ready to read at your convince....kind of like the way the paper boy delivers the morning paper, but unlike the paper...its a FREE subscription!

When you "subscribe" to an RSS feed, you are simply telling that blog or website..."Yes please, send me your story headlines." It's like subscribing to your favorite magazine or newspaper, only instead of getting the whole magazine you will get just the headlines. If you find a particular headline interesting, click on it and like magic...you'll be sent the whole article. How perfect is this?

Let me say it again, It's Free! Just look for the word "subscribe" or "the RSS icon" on this blog or any other blog/website.

There are two places to look for a site's feed.
1. In Your Browser...You can typically find these RSS symbols or text links in your browser window, in the address bar or just to the right and below the address bar. (See the orange icon shown above.)

2. On the Site...Over the last few years you may have noticed a lot of little buttons and widgets appearing on your favorite blogs. Links called RSS, XML, ATOM, little Orange Buttons, "counters", and the list goes on. (see photo to left) These can usually be found on the sides of the website page, or at the bottom of the page. Once you know what you're looking for its easy to find.

Because nothing is standard on the web many of you are using not only different operating systems (Mac vs. PC), but you are also using different flavored browsers like Internet Explorer, and Firefox. The way to get an RSS reader will be dependent on what Browser you like to use and how you like to receive and organize your feeds.

Just like there are different flavors of browsers, there are also different flavors of RSS XML feeders like RSS 1.0, RSS 2.0, and Atom. Again, the flavors are only important if you want to be a techie...and if that's the case you don't need my advise. If you will just stick to looking for an RSS symbol like I have shown you above, you will do just fine.

Now here's where I'm going to hand you over to the professionals. Below you will find links to very easy instructions on how to Setup and Subscribe to Feeds...by people who know a great deal more than I and can explain it much better.

1. For "Firefox" users...How to set up Google Reader

• Note: Google Reader is a breeze when using FireFox. You can download FireFox Free and still keep your current browser on your computer as I did.
  

2. For "Internet Explore7" users...The FEED lesson

• Note: From my understanding Internet Explorer 6 is difficult if not impossible to use with Google Reader.
  

I'd like to leave you with this thought:
Now that you know how feeds work, did you ever wonder who's subscribing to your site feed? Collectors and Galleries use feeds regularly to keep abreast of the new works of artist they are interested in. Clint Watson says it like this.

Is your website and blog "feed ready"? As a collector could I subscribe and be updated each time you post a new work?


Links:
How to set up Google Reader....Firefox setup instructions
The FEED lesson....Internet Explorer 7 setup instructions
Clint Watson talks about the importance of feeds for today's artist
FireFox Free Download

Marsha Robinett Fine Art....website
My Squidoo


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Ive had several emails asking about the "Carbon Farm" that I mention in my tutorials. I'm not sure where I first heard the phrase but it must have been one of my first drawing classes.  I've had a "farm" on my drawing table for so long that I assumed everyone knew what it was...my apology. 

It's really quite simple. Because I use blenders to also apply color to my drawings, I use a small pad of drawing paper (6x8) and build up a solid area of 6B carbon, 9B graphite. If I'm going to be using charcoal I also build up an area of 6B charcoal. I then use my blender to "harvest" or "pick up" color and apply it to my drawing.

You will notice each "plot" or "area" is color coded for ease of use and I always use a separate blender for each medium and label them in the same manner. ("Yellow" for graphite, "Green" for carbon, and "Blue" for charcoal) The color coding is important because each medium has very different characteristics and these characteristics will be reflected in the finished drawing.

If you would like to learn more about the individual characteristics of carbon, charcoal, and graphite, check out my Squidoo Lens... Drawing Techniques: using carbon, charcoal, and graphite. Read More

Watercolor Books...on my shelf
This is no doubt my second love...I don't show any of my watercolors but my daughter has them hanging in her home. These are some of my favorite books on the shelf. Since you know me as a pencil artist, I am sure you expect to see books with watercolor paintings exhibiting lots of realistic detail...I think you will be quite surprised. Links provided for REVIEWS.

*These are good for the beginning watercolorist...
Drawing and Painting People...by John Raynes
Watercolor Planning and Painting...by Alan Oliver
Watercolor..Simple, Fast, and Focused...by Mel Stabin

*Watercolor Books that I refer to again an again...
Painting People in Watercolor...by Alex Powers
The Figure in Watercolor...by Mel Stabin
Painting the Unposed Figure in Watercolor...by Ballestar and Sanmiguel
Paint Watercolors Filled With Life and Energy...by Arne Westerman
Making Color Sing...by Jeanne Dobie
Interpreting the Figure in Watercolor...by Don Andrews
Painting Watercolor Portraits That Glow...by Jan Kunz
Transparent Watercolor Wheel...by Jim Kosvanec
Painting Watercolor Portraits...by Al Stine

*A Collection of Charles Reid's books on Watercolor...
Painting What You See...by Charles Reid
The Natural Way to Paint...by Charles Reid
Portrait Painting in Watercolor...by Charles Reid
Painting Flowers in Watercolor...by Charles Reid

I hope you have found the resources listed here helpful and informative.

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Give your art career a kick in the fanny!
We artists sometimes are not the best business people.  We would rather be doing our craft...in my case, that would be drawing.  When marketing our art is made easier we're more likely to do it. 

This art career of mine started late in life...at the age of 58!...to be exact.  I have felt a real need to kick it in the fanny if I am going to get it up and running before I'm too old to care.  Over the last couple of years I've compiled a list of sites that I read regularly, if fact I subscribe to their feeds so their new posts come directly to my computer. If you are not yet using RSS feeds, it's something you definitely need to look into.  The information gleaned from these sites has at times proved invaluable.  Clint Watson written several articles on his blog about using the RSS feed...check them out.

I have also included a list of sites that I use for my Art Fair Display Needs, Art Materials, and  Equipment.  I did the legwork for you...all you have to do is read. 

Art Business and Marketing:
These websites and blogs are some of the more useful ones that I connect with on a regular basis. websites and blogs are some of the more useful ones that I connect with on a regular basis. The information gleaned from these sites has at times been invaluable... I hope you find them useful as well.

Ancient Artist...developing an art career after 50, very inspiring
Art Biz Blog...marketing resources and motivation
Art Business.com...offers a large collection of great articles
Art Print Issues...marketing and business
Blogging for Artists..."Squidoo Lens" by makingamark
Blog Herald..."The NY Times of Blogging"...latest updates
Copy Blogger...copywriting tips for online marketing success
Empty Easel...realistic art advise for artists of all levels
FineArtStudioOnLine...easy artist websites with marketing help
FineArtViewsBlog...the Art Marketing blog of Clint Watson
FineArtViewsNewsletter...straight talk about art marketing
Lorelle on WordPress...great information about blogging
Making a Mark...I highly recommend this site...it's full of info.
Painters Keys...on line gallery, newsletter, nice"art quote" section
ProBlogger...blog tips to help you make money
The Art List...art contests, competitions, and juried art shows


Artist Materials and Equipment:
Living in a small town, most of my art materials are ordered online. The following are some of the resources that I have used in the past.
ASW or Art Supply Warehouse...artist supplies of all types
California Paper Goods...high quality blank paper goods
Cheap Joe's Art Stuff...fine art supplies, good selection and price
Daniel Smith...fine art oil, watercolor, acrylic paints, supports
Dick Blick Art Materials...full line of equipment and materials
Fine Art Store...offers fine art supplies and equipment
Frame Fit...quality discount frames
Clear Bags...acid free crystal clear bags and crystal clear boxes
Mister Art...fine art and craft supplies, books, videos,
Stiffy Bags...designed specifically to protect framed art in travel


Art Fair Display Needs:
Armstrong Products...display panels, display cubes, and desks
Flourish...indoor show frame, outdoor canopy, mesh display walls
Hand Trucks R Us...home of the "Rock'n Roller" convertible hand truck...another highly recommend item!
Hollywood Chairs...high quality director chair, padded seat...one of the best purchased that I ever made.
Totally Bamboo...Hollywood Chair accessories
Stiffy Bags...I highly recommend these and could not get along without them. They're, reusable, waterproof.

I have found these listings to be dependable and often use them personally.

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Some of my Favorite Books on Drawing:
Because I am a self taught artist, I've attended a few workshops but books on drawing were my main source of learning, and I still refer to them yet today. Over the years I have managed to build quite a library. These are great references whether you are Just beginning to draw or have been drawing for years. When possible, I've included a link to BOOK REVIEWS or PREVIEWS.

Books by authors who's work I personally admire...
Drawing Line to Life...by Mike Sibley
Drawing Realistic Textures in Pencil...by J.D. Hillberry
Advanced Drawing Techniques...by Matti Kataja
Beautiful Landscapes...by Diane Wright

Good basic drawing knowledge...
The Drawing Book...by Sarah Simblet
Pencil Magic, landscape drawing...by Phil Metzger
Drawing Solutions...by Albany Wieseman
Keys to Drawing...by Bert Dodson
Keys to Drawing with Imagination...by Bert Dodson
The New Drawing on the Right Side of Your Brain
...by Betty Edwards

Drawing the portrait...
Painting and Drawing Children...by John Norton
Drawing Expressive Portraits...Paul Leveille
Life Drawing in Charcoal...by Douglas R Graves
Drawing People, how to portray the clothed figure
...by Barbara Bradley

More Advanced Books...
Learning to Draw, a Creative Approach...by Robert Kaupelis
Experimental Drawing...by Robert Kaupelis

A collection of George B. Bridgman's Books...
Bridgman's Complete Guide to Drawing From Life
Heads, Features, and Faces
The Book of a Hundred Hands
Drawing the Draped Figure
Read More

These are the supplies that you will find in my studio. I've included links to retail suppliers for your convenience. This is going to be a rather long post, I will talk more in depth about some of my supplies as I use them in tutorials or in another article.

My Squidoo lens will tell you more about Carbon, Charcoal, and Graphite...why they are different and when it is best to use each.



Graphite: Pencils, Power, and Crayon












Graphite: I've used several brands of Graphite Pencils over the years, the Mars Lumograph has remained my favorite. Graphite Powder...This isn't something I use frequently, but when I do I'm very glad that I have it. I simply put a small amount in the lid and apply it using an artist brush. Graphite Crayons are handy for covering large areas and also perfect for building your "graphite farm".

Charcoal: Pencils, Powder, and Sticks












Charcoal: I have used Generals Charcoal Pencils from the beginning...as with all charcoal pencils there is some "grittiness". General now has a new charcoal pencil called Premo that is said to be smother but I haven't tried it yet. The Charcoal Powder and Sticks are used in the same manner as for the graphite mentioned above.

Carbon Pencils: I've never been able to find carbon powder...I keep hoping.











Carbon Pencils: Wolf's and Conte: The most influential item on my drawing table is the Wolf's Carbon Pencil. I've tried others but always come back to Wolf's...you just can't beat it's silky texture or the beautiful deep rich darks it produces. I also use Conte Carbon Pencils once in a while...their color is somewhat warmer than Wolf's and their texture is a little firmer.

Blenders: use anything except your "finger".








Blenders: The ones I use most.
If you don't learn anything else from this segment...I hope it is this! NEVER use your finger as a blending tool. Your finger will leave oil on the paper, making the color 'grab". This will sometimes cause actual finger prints to appear. Stumps: (upper left), are pointed on both ends and have a smooth, felt like covering. I buy these by the box...size 4, 5, and 2. Tortillon: (lower left), are made of rolled paper and come to a point on one end. These are purchased by the dozen...size small, medium, and large. The stump and tortillon may look similar but are really quite different, and used for very different types of blending. Chamois Cloth: Others have said that you must purchase these from an art supply house...I have found the ones from the automotive department work just fine...and much less expensive. In fact their random texture can be to your advantage.

Studio Notes: The stump, tortillon, and chamois are all three used to both blend and to apply color to your drawing. Other blenders I use that are not pictured here are felt squares, artist brushes, non oily tissue, cotton swabs, paper towels, etc., (anything you can think of to create the desired texture "except your finger")

Erasers: as important as your pencils for making marks.





















Erasers: I didn't know I had so many but I use each differently as a "marking" tool.


Starting left to right: The Factis...made especially for charcoal and graphite. The Kneaded Eraser...will last forever, can be pulled and shaped to fit the smallest of areas. The Union Eraser...(pencil and ink combo)...when the ink end is cut with a blade it can pull out the skinniest of lines...The Pink Bear...is stronger than the "pink pearl", I use it the same as the union and factis to make marks. The Sakura Cordless Electric Eraser...used for lifting highlights in the darkest of areas (when nothing else will work). This is a must. The refills come for pencil or ink, I use both. Tuff Stuff Click Eraser...a fresh cut edge on this eraser will again pull nice skinny lines, great for making light hairs. The pencil shape makes for more accurate use. Bostik Blue Tack ...This is not an eraser, but a sticky putty...used in a dabbing motion to pull out highlights. It can be stretched and shaped just like a kneaded eraser. It's also great for picking up that one little speck that wont shake off...and does it without a smear.

Pencil Sharpeners: Oh so many to choose from!







Pencil Sharpeners: Your choice will depend on how much and where you draw.

Pencil Sharpeners can range from the Heavy-duty Work Horse to a simple Sandpaper Block. I'll begin with the work horse (upper left). The X-ACTO Heavy-duty 41...I didn't start out with a work-horse, but I did buy something similar to the one shown above after a year or so, having gone through several smaller, less expensive, ones. When you're ready to make this type of investment just make sure it will take more than one size of pencil. The Panasonic KP 4A...this is what I started with and still carry it in my tote. A good little sharpener, I just like it's size and shape.







The Maped Canister Pencil Sharpener...This would be another good traveler. The Maped is a small hand held sharpener with two holes. The best part is that it catches the shavings and has a metal housing. The Alvin Hand Held Metal Sharpener...this little guy is another great traveler, a little messy, but a small plastic bag can fix that! The Sandpaper Block...I have carried one of these in my art tote for years. It works great to bring your pencil back to "point". On my drawing table I keep a square of sandpaper from the hardware store.



Drawing Papers: your drawing style will always dictate your choice of paper.














Your Drawing paper is very Personal:
J. D. Hillberry says in his book "Don't let the paper be the boss". If you keep this in mind, you will do just fine. The papers shown above are just three from my stash...and I'll admit that I'm a paper junkie. Your paper choice will effect your drawing every bit as much as your technique. My drawing technique requires a paper with some texture or "tooth" to it. If you have a more "photo realistic" style you may want to try a smother textured surface such as bristol vellum. I also happen to prefer a warmer toned paper rather than white. Canson Mi-Teintes...are fun to work with and come in a full range of soft colors. I still often use Strathmore 400...this paper has a soft cream tone, is acid free and comes in a pad with 80# sheets or you can individually order 100# sheets. Arches Hot Press Watercolor Paper...I usually 300#, 140# is fine too, you can purchase it in pads or by the sheet. Experiment, don't be afraid to try a new surface, and most of all have fun!

Miscellaneous Studio Essentials?

Essentials or Extras?
I use most of the items shown here regularly. Yet some could certainly be considered extras for the beginning artist.

The Light Box...I use a light regularly to see greater details in my photos and to occasionally transfer my initial layout drawing onto my good drawing paper. Leather Pencil Case...this was a wonderful find. I restructured the inside a little by cutting the threads holding some of the elastic in place, allowing my larger drawing necessities to fit better, making it perfect for travel. The Drawing Board...I personally use a drawing table now but in the beginning I didn't have a anywhere that I could just walk away from my work and leave it...this allowed for easy mobility. I could just pick up what I was working on and and move.
Frisket Film...this is something that I've not used often, but was glad to have it when I need it. Magnifying Glass on a Stand...mine is a little different than this and less expensive, (mine is no longer available.) The important thing that you need to notice is that it is on a "stand". I hang my photo reference on it with tape, so that my hands are then free to draw. (I don't know how I ever got along with out this.)

Workable Fixitive...the final step for every drawing to help protect it from smudging, I spray two light coats when I'm finished. Compass...I frequently use this to check measurements. Hake Brush...used to gently brush residue off your drawing. Pencil Extender...prevents waste by making short pencils easier to use. Turquoise Clutch Pencil...I use this for indenting, by inserting a darning needle "point first" into the clutch end (where the lead goes), leaving the "eye" of the needle exposed.
Carpet Tape...(the thin double-sided plastic type, not cloth or padded). This is a trick that I learned from J. D. Hillberry. I tear a piece of computer paper just large enough to fit along the side of my hand, (from the tip of the little finger to start of wrist and about 2 1/2 inches wide). You want to cover the side part of your hand that lays on the paper when you draw. I put the carpet tape in the middle of this piece of paper and mold it to the side of my hand...protecting my drawing paper while I work. It can even be removed and reused.
Artist Tape...this is what I use around the outer edge of my drawing to give it a nice clean straight border when I am finished. The trick is to stick it to your shirt first and remove it, (repeat this several times). Doing this will dull the tackiness of the tape, making it easy to remove later from your drawing paper without causing damage.
Pencil Point Protectors... These are inexpensive little things and great to have when traveling. I keep one on all the pencils in my leather pencil case that I keep in my tote.


Somewhere in the future one or more of these products may no longer be available...causing a "dead" link. I would sure appreciate it if you would notify me in this situation. If you have other questions about any of the art supplies listed here, please don't be shy about asking. No question is too small or unimportant.

Thanks for your interest.

If you have questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Marsha
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