How to Display Art in a Kitchen
Thursday 15th December 2011
Art takes on a personality of its own displayed in a kitchen. Choose from modern art, custom artwork, and more. Find a stunning piece of art called Dreamer, for example, and create a magical and surreal kitchen that makes you feel carefree after work is over. Whatever you decide on, now you need to figure out where the artwork should be placed in the kitchen.
Create a Focal Point
Instead of displaying many small pieces of art, find one large piece of art to displace on the main wall in your kitchen. As guests arrive they will love glancing at a landscape painting or a modern piece of art that seems to come alive on the wall. If the colors are bold on the painting, tone down the rest of the kitchen with neutrals. If you prefer bold colors, add a few more pops of colors on kitchen accessories throughout the kitchen. You don’t want the bold colors to overwhelm so it’s important to incorporate lighter shades as well.
Line up Three Paintings Vertically on a Wall
If you enjoy Southwestern elements, find a watercolor art piece with red colors. Confidents, from the Blue Thumb website, is a refreshing work of art that features a young woman with similar Southwestern elements and red color tones. Do you really want the artwork to stand out? Put three pieces of art right next to one another vertically on the wall. It can be the fridge or oven depending on your wall space. All three art pieces will play off of one another and create bold accents in your kitchen.
Create a Theme and Decorate around it
If you have a theme in mind, stick with it. Plan your artwork around the theme and let that lead you in regards to how you want to display your artwork. Perhaps you want a few smaller pieces of art on easels or a piece on your dining room table. Whatever the theme may be, let it guide you with the creation process. Add stylish elements such as a long rug or big clock to finish off the look.
What Is Contemporary Art?
Friday 11th November 2011
You may read the term “contemporary art” over and over again on websites
and articles, but do you really know what the term means? It’s quite
simple really, but can often get confused. Contemporary art refers to
art that is created during our current lifetime, specifically from the
1970s until now. Modern art and contemporary art often times overlap,
but here is an easy way to remember how
they are separated: Modern art comes from art from the Impressionists
(say, around 1880) up until the 1960's or 70's, where as contemporary
art comes from the 1960's or 70's until this very hour.
Contemporary Art is Socially Conscious
It is quite difficult to classify emergent movements but another way to
remember and identify distinctive contemporary art pieces is by
realizing that this art is much more socially conscious than any
previous era has been. Contemporary art continues to cover issues such
as feminism, AIDS awareness, globalization, and more since the 1970s. If
there is a “movement” happening and artists want to spread the word,
they let one another know and soon enough more contemporary artwork in
the making. Artwork is classified as contemporary when it covers and
addresses the modern times through painting current events and
interests.
What is the Appeal of Contemporary Art?
Contemporary art continues to enthrall artists and art owners like
because it encompasses a vast range of subject matters. Discover modern
cityscapes, impressionist inspired landscapes, idyllic coastal scenes,
fantasy art and more that comes from inspiration and current events from
our modern day and age. These contemporary works of art add a new
dimension to artwork with their vibrant images, canvases, paintings, and
other unique forms of art translation.
Incorporating Contemporary Art in Your Home
Incorporating contemporary art in a home is very common because there are a variety of themes and topics to choose from. Pair a Nude Swim
painting made with acrylics with a white sofa and crisp curtains near a
lake home or at a beautiful resort. Add a mysterious painting in an
office or bedroom and surround it with brightly colored elements that
pop. An example is Mystique,
an enchanting painting that exemplifies a modern woman that enthralls
and fascinates. Most homes already encompass contemporary art within
their interiors, but if they don’t, most home owners end up updating
their décor to stay with the times and to invest in contemporary art
that is a perfect addition.
Interview with an artist - Jane Welsh
Saturday 8th October 2011
J
ane Welsh started emerging as a successful, contemporary artist after moving
to the Sunshine Coast from Brisbane nearly 7 years ago. Jane is becoming well
known for her striking portraits created using the natural beauty of the
Sunshine Coasts beaches as her backdrop. Sitting comfortably beside these are an
eclectic mix of strong abstracts using nature as her inspiration and flowing
figurative sculptures in both wood and clay. Jane has won a number of awards for
her paintings and sculptures.
For the month October all of Jane's artwork will be discounted by 20%. Quote janewelsh80d as the discount code on checkout to receive the discount.
When did you first realise you wanted to paint?
I have loved art as long as I can remember, and I really discovered my gift for drawing realistically and having a good instinct for colour and design in middle high school. Since highschool I have known "I am an artist" even though I took the more "sensible" route through a couple of other professions.
Could you tell us some more about your work?
I have yet to settle on a style or theme as some artists do. I enjoy playing with colour and the flow of paint to produce abstracts that are vibrant, that have an energy or life of their own, and I guide them to suggest a landscape. I love vibrant colour and rich textures. I enjoy realism too, especially creating paintings that capture love, joy and connection and I hope these are passed on to the viewer. And I love to combine these two elements of abstraction and realism, which is perhaps the most challenging.
What is it that
inspires you to paint?
To capture joy, create joy, to express love or connection, to create a good feeling or mood.
What other artists have influenced you, and how?
I love Gustav Kilmt's work for the combination of glowing nudes and rich abstracted colours and patterns. I love the wiry rawness and freshness of Egon Schiele's paintings, and on the Australian scene I love Brett Whiteley for his fluidity and courageous explorations of confronting themes.
Does the internet have a positive or negative influence on art?
I think the internet has both a positive and a negative influence. I really appreciate the connections made with other artists, how easy it is to see fresh art. But it is also so easy to indulge in this instead of progressing my own work, ie procrastinating!
What do you do for
fun (besides painting)?
I have 2 wonderful little kids and we have a great time on our rural property in the Noosa Hinterland, recently enjoying the jasmine blooms, and eating mulberries fresh from the tree, and getting our herbs and vegies planted to make the most of spring.
What's your favourite painting and why?
I really like "Spring meadow" an abstract landscape painting that has a great mix of colours, lots of vibrant loose splashes and brush strokes. It is happy and lively, and one of those paintings that fell together in a fresh way.
What are you working on at the moment?
I am working on some paintings of my kids, my son swimming with an octopus, his favouriate animal, and my daughter getting a magic spell cast on her by fairy Tinkerbell. I am also working on layering of colours to decorate a stylised painting of a mother and child, a painting of love and connection.
What’s your greatest
ambition as an artist? 
I used to want to make it BIG TIME, for example to win the Archibald or the Wynne prize. But recently my drive has changed to wanting to be a positive creative force in the world, to create work that enriches people's lives and helps them to feel good, to be of service in the world by sharing my gifts.
For the month October all of Jane's artwork will be discounted by 20%. Quote janewelsh80d as the discount code on checkout to receive the discount.You can view all of Jane's art here.
Your favourite piece of art on display... in your bathroom?
Tuesday 4th October 2011
Bringing the outside into your home, and especially into your bathroom, is a dream many people have. It’s not necessarily all that practical to literally step outdoors to have a shower – especially if you live in the city - but by using natural materials and colours you can create a beautiful indoor space that’s totally in tune with nature. 
Perhaps you could opt for a solid wooden washstand with an interesting grain, topped by a natural granite surface. Both natural materials, both with a beautiful texture and interesting colour tone: choose from a range of natural wood tones and a veritable rainbow of granite types. A light oak might be complemented by either a pale, creamy granite or a dark brown or black colour with a greenish fleck, reminiscent of grass, plants and trees. Add to this washstand a cast stone, marble, or travertine vessel basin: there’s plenty of choice out there in terms of materials, colours, and shapes, so you’re bound to find one you love. Then, emphasise your natural theme with a waterfall basin mixer tap: combining the aesthetic appeal of running water with the functionality of a single lever operated tap, this item delivers a stream of water to your basin along a cut back spout – you can see the beauty of the moving water as it surges towards you. Modern waterfall taps are frequently designed to be eco friendly, water saving designs, so you can feel you’re doing your bit for the environment, too.
Add to your feature washstand a freestanding bath in either a traditional or contemporary style, with a matching floor standing waterfall tap. Elsewhere, stick with simple wooden toned bathroom furniture with capacious cupboards into which you can pile any extraneous clutter, leaving your bathroom surfaces clear – good for creating a really relaxing, zen-like space.
We all spend a lot of time in the bathroom. Surveys have estimated that women, in particular, are likely to spend over a year and a half in the bathroom over their lifetime. So it’s well worth making the room attractive. A nature-inspired bathroom could be the ideal home for your latest artistic purchase too: so long as you regulate the ventilation in there to protect the picture, having a beautiful scene to gaze at as you soak in a candlelit bathtub might be just what you’ve been missing.
Choose a striking wall covering that recalls a natural theme: try combining natural, neutral stone tiles with a bold bathroom paint. Tile to mid-way up your walls and paint the upper section in your favourite shade: emerald green is a gorgeous colour, but choose a tone that you love to look at and, crucially, that will provide a stunning backdrop for your central feature – your bathroom art!
Check out Bluethumb's range of affordable art to use in your bathroom.
Bio
Helen Davies is a senior content writer for Better Bathrooms, suppliers of beautiful bathroom furniture at discounted prices right across the UK. Ranges available include vanity units, bathroom cabinets and many other bathroom fixtures and fittings.
Why buy original art?
Monday 5th September 2011
With so many reproductions so readily available and inexpensive, you’d
probably think twice about spending more of you hard earned cash to own
original art.
Original art is special. Even in well made prints, the unique qualities
of the original are lost. If you see a print of a Van Gogh, for example,
it will look pretty. Viewing an original is an overwhelming and
emotional experience. You can’t take your eyes off of one. Museums sell
prints as souvenirs to help you remember the experience of seeing the
real thing, not to replace the original.
Another way of looking at it: Is seeing a travel photo of the Caribbean
as good as being there in person to admire the view. It’s exactly the
same as art. You buy an original piece for the experience, for the
emotional and intellectual pleasure the artwork gives you.
Artist Interview: Pen Donovan
Friday 2nd September 2011
How long have you been an artist for Pen? Well this is a difficult question because to tell you the truth I don’t feel like an artist yet. For one thing I am not earning enough income as an artist to cover living costs therefore I haven’t ‘made it’ yet. If other people see me as an artist that’s great but I’m still doing an apprenticeship. It’s good to feel a sense of still practising. It relieves performance anxiety. I did a Fine Art Diploma way back. Over the years I would dabble a bit just to reassure myself I was up to it. It wasn’t until I was well into my forties that I realised I had to always have a painting on the go for my mental well-being. I made myself have a solo exhibition before I turned fifty just to prove I could do it. Now I am half-way through the ten-year apprenticeship it takes to get good at anything. Tell us about your first attempts to be creative? Well it’s too far back to remember. My parents must have seen a propensity for it as they sent me to a Saturday morning art class when I was seven years old. I can’t even say that from a young age I drew all the time. I have been incredibly lazy all my life. And too easily distracted by other things – being good, saving the world, domestic life and getting money to pay the rent. Could you tell us some more about your work? What artists have influenced you, and how? Anyone good. Lots of them. All of them. Artist’s are influenced by everything and everyone. We pinch ideas from all over. John Coburn, abstract painter – leaves - he makes the surface interesting. William Robinson – clever, painting the sky and the forest floor in the one pic. Picasso for not being a cookie cutter, Hockney for the same reason - ,just doing what he wants. Matisse, colour and form, Van Gogh for pushing colour and graphic style, Margaret Olley for just doing the one thing and working until she dropped. And then Aboriginal women artists for their steady adherence to their stories and their quiet methodical manner. For the profound connection with the natural world. I could go on. How do you recharge when your creativity hits the wall? I go to bed. I drink a fresh coffee every day to stay ‘up’. I try not to be too intense about it. I talk to artist friends. I visit galleries. What has been your most exciting moment as an artist? Winning the Artforce Award in 2010. I had painted a lot of traffic boxes over two years and the judges that year liked them. Score. What are your artistic goals? To paint a lot. To earn a living painting pictures. To gain strength as an artist. To generate the necessary pull-through (people buying) that will make me work harder. Because my push-through is lousy - if someone wants my paintings I can’t wait to paint, if no-one’s buying I lose spirit and waste time. I’m giving the abstracts a rest. I’ve almost finished ten pics of the flat I live in. A commission. (It relieved me of the torture of job-hunting for a few weeks.) In recording my world I’m learning to produce an artwork as opposed to a picture. Finally, what other interests do you have outside of painting? All of them, everything. I am very easily distracted. Unfortunately. I tend to give 100% to whatever is in front of me at any one time. So when I get a job, whether it’s sorting mail, waiting tables or graphic design - and now a teacher aide, I am totally involved. Great for my employer but an incredible waste of my time as an artist. I want to be paid to paint.
Artist Interview: Pen Donovan
I am on several different tracks right now – abstracts, recording my environment and traffic boxes. I like a little ambiguity. I want to paint a lot of abstracts. For an artist everything is ‘an abstract’, just a weird mash up of colour and form. In painting ‘real’ things I am still trying to follow Brett Whitley’s advice, to’ steal, lie and distort.’ 
Could you talk about your latest series of paintings and what you are trying to achieve with them?
To view more of Pen's art, click here.
Artist Interview - Wendy Nolan
Monday 8th August 2011
As I grow as an artist, my work becomes more and more an essential part of my being. I like to think of my art as exposing an otherwise
unseen part of myself. My intentions are to awaken the senses and evoke
memories, allowing the spectator to form a unique interpretation of my
work. Painting is a sensory experience for me. I am sometimes surprised
by what actually takes place as the brush pushes paint across the
surface of the canvas. My mind tends to zero in on details, and I work
with anticipation of the end result as the process builds layers,
textures and form with colour. Being able to paint is a gift I will
always treasure.
When did you become interested in art?
I don’t remember being not interested in art. From a very early age, I enjoyed drawing, as a child it was my favourite pastime. For me though, marriage, children and work took over. So art was kept it in the background until I studied Interior Technology in 2007. I completed modules in gouache and watercolours and realised I could paint, that’s when I started to experiment with different mediums.
I spent the
next few months creating my first ‘masterpieces’ and placed them in a
group exhibition at a local art gallery. Seven out of ten pieces sold,
and I was amazed that people were willing to pay their hard earned money
for something I had made! I've wanted to create ever since.
Could you tell us some more about your work?
Most pieces begin with intent, and I carefully plan them out before I begin work. Despite my planning, these pieces usually end up substantially different from my original idea, as I tend to modify my ideas along the way.
I also have a fascination for colours. I love going into an art shop and opening paint tubes to look at the pure colour. Colour inspires a lot of my work; I tend to use rich, vibrant colours that give my work emotional impact, I think colour focus’s the viewers’ attention and helps effectively convey my message. Plus, I’ve never met a colour I didn’t like.
Which movements and artists have influenced you, and how?
I admire so many artists, both dead and alive, that it is difficult to name just a few. I was exposed to the great masters during a trip to the Louvre, Paris and I still remember the impact. I was enamoured by these amazing paintings that make the mind boggle. I like to think I can still see their influence in my work, to this day.
What’s been your favourite project(s) to date in your career and why?
The
painting I’m working on is usually my favourite project. I have yet to
create the perfect artwork and with each new work enjoy the challenge of
painting something better.
Does the internet have a positive or negative influence on art?
Definitely positive. The internet provides artists with a wealth of information, new resources and creative ‘fodder’. I believe the internet is the marketplace of the future which gives exposure to a wider audience.
I’m in awe of a lot of work on Bluethumb but it doesn’t put me off, rather, it inspires me to try even harder.
What are you working on at the moment?
I am trying to finish a painting that I would love to enter in the Clayton Utz Art Award for 2011. I am struggling to complete this work and fast running out of time.
I decided I needed to learn something new and attended a workshop at the Art Shed in West End with Deb Gillett. She demonstrated her original technique of wet-into-wet with acrylics and inks to create the illusion of movement with colour. I was inspired and have used that knowledge to attempt my own interpretation.
What’s your greatest ambition as an artist?
Finishing the painting I’m working on is my goal at the moment. Being creative makes me happy, ‘just painting because I need/want to, so this is my measure, if this should lead to fame & fortune, then so be it! Really I just want people to see my work and like it. If I can manage this before I die I will be satisfied.
Finally, what do you do for fun (besides painting)?
My children, young adults, are at the centre of my life. They have their own lives now but I treasure every second I get to share with them. I also love spending time with friends, & traveling, although I haven’t done much of late. Books & movies have always been a favourite pastime. My newest pastime is music; the words inspire my work and take me to another world. I love to listen to my music very loudly while I’m painting.
For more Wendy Nolan
A Beginner’s guide to buying Art
Monday 11th July 2011
Buying an artwork for the first time can be daunting. This article will help get you over the initial hurdle of where to begin. Your budget will answer many questions for you, like framed or unframed, under glass, print or original, to buy on-line or at a gallery.
When you are ready to start buying art for your home, talk to people who have artworks in their home, they will have probably gone through what you are about to. Talk to art dealers, go to galleries, talk to artists, go on-line and see what’s available, survey your market and then, start small, get the feel of the art in your home.
You will have an idea of what you do and don’t like, let this be your guide throughout the buying process. Don’t let anyone try to convince you to buy the next big thing or through any other unrealistic sales device. Most people in art sales will be honest with you, as they want you coming back repeatedly.
Let’s assume you have set your budget and you are ready to get out into the market and see what is available, you could ask yourself these questions first.
- Do I choose to buy on-line, at a gallery, in a shop or directly from the artist?
- What format - painting, sculpture, photography, multi-media, drawing?
- What style - abstract, pop art, realism, post-modernism, minimalism?
- What subject - portrait, landscape, body art, still life, nature, nudes?
- What medium - watercolour, oil, print, pen and ink, pencil, etching, lithograph?
- Alternatively, forget these questions and go with what you like.
You will also have an idea of where around your home you can hang or place the artwork; nudes may work best in the bedroom, a sculpture for the garden, a drawing in a study or library. The answer to this is open ended, be daring, show your family and friends how original you can be.
A company like www.bluethumb.com.au can be the perfect place to get you started. Here you will find over 50 artists that offer you a range of works that can be well suited to a variety of homes.
This painting by Matthew Simpson titled Clara Draper, named after his younger sister, could work well in any room. Its style is abstract and its medium oils. The nature of this work lends itself to many possibilities that can add to or offset the style of a room.
The light in or coming into a room is to be considered when placing an artwork. Strong sunlight is not suitable for viewing artworks and sunlight should never fall directly onto a work.
Cleaning an artwork, in a word, don’t. If you value your artworks, talk to an expert conservator when and if an artworks needs to be cleaned.
It is possible that you could frame a work like this; framing options are many, but as you can tell it’s a contemporary work, you would want a frame that follows this quality. Having an artwork under glass has its benefits; glass helps protect against environmental damage and people over enthusiastically pointing. Then there are issues with reflection to consider. While there is anti-reflective glass, it is just a coating and not completely effective. Talk to a reputable framer, they will advise.
Lines, colour and expression - Matthew Simpson Interview
Monday 27th June 2011
When did you first realise you wanted to paint?
I have always enjoyed art since I was a small child. I never stopped drawing from those early years. When I was 18 I attended the Victorian College of the Arts and completed the Bachelor of Arts in fine art.
Could you tell us some more about your work?
I am interested in lines. I have been interested in lines as the starting point for visual creation for a long time. I create automatic drawings by making marks on a page, taking a line for a walk. I doubt it is possible to make a truly automatic drawing in this way as there is always an underlying aesthetic sensibility dictating that a line go here or a line go there, and this is more interesting than a completely random approach. Separate marks initially stand alone and speak only of their relationship to each other as the emptiness that surrounds them. Gradually as their density increases the lines energise a field as iron filings on a page describe the magnetic field of a magnet underneath.
As lines blend together they suggest objects and at some points I emphasis the suggested objects and follow their sensibility. To continue, the lines coalesce into an all over pattern that looks as if the detail goes on forever and that part is the same as part only different in its aspect. In some of my digital work I have merged the automatic drawing techniques with controlled backgrounds. Central symmetry suggests the cosmic and a circle motif echoes mandalas. I am satisfied with a work when it draws on known visual configurations but holds my interest as an enigmatic object.
I am inspired to paint by colour and space and the endless possibilities that combinations of lines allow. Living and creating at this point in time we are free to concentrate on any subject and style as there are no schools in the post-modern, we are all free as individuals. With all that freedom I suggest there are limits that need to be self imposed. My rules at the moment are that I will restrict myself to only paint in lines.
What other artists have influenced you, and how?
Jackson Pollock and Ian Fairweather spring to mind for their use of line, their beautiful colour and expression.
What do you do for fun (besides painting)?
I love a good game of chess. I was getting together with my sister for a while for a fortnightly game but she had the nerve to get up and move to Washington to take up a job with NASA. When we are not so busy we will have to work out how to play each other online.
What's your favourite painting and why?
I guess a Paul Klee painting would usually fit the bill but the favourite changes with my mood. There are too many great artists to name them all. Of my own work, the favourite is usually the latest painting. This usually follows a pattern where from being my favourite I then come back to it after a few months and see flaws and how I would like to paint it differently and then another few months pass I begin to regard the painting with some of my former favour.
I am working on eight midsized canvases that I expect to exhibit later in the year. They are looking good at this stage.
See more of Matthew's beautiful lines, colour and expression
Feng Shui, Visual Art, and Interior Design
Monday 20th June 2011
The connections between Feng Shui and visual art may not be totally or instantly apparent, but like most things, if you get inside them and take time to understand them, they become perceptible and can add meaning to your life. Applying the art or principles of Feng Shui to an artwork or to an interior design will encourage positive energy, and induce beneficial effects in regards to health, relationships, and prosperity.
Feng Shui is an ancient art form, and like all things, the more you know and understand them, the more obvious the benefits. When correctly applied it can change your inner landscape; when put into use in your physical environment it will bring about positive change throughout your life. Feng Shui can be applied to a wide variety of purposes. Applying Feng Shui to visual art might best be described as; it’s not about what you put on the canvas, but the intention of what you put on.
Anna Zarasyan of Zara Interiors http://www.zarainteriors.com.au who specialises in Feng Shui, art and interior design, talks about the connections between the three arts. “Feng Shui corresponds with other art forms and at their deepest levels, all the arts are concerned with harmony in one way or the other. All art forms connect at a profound level, but in my judgement, and experience in the arts, Feng Shui is one of the most complex art forms.
When applied by a professional, Feng Shui is such a powerful method of manipulating the blueprint of the energies in a given space you will feel it work. Artworks, such as paintings and sculptures, can be used as a part of the space for healing and enhancement, however not all artworks can be effective as Feng Shui remedies. This is not only about the intent of the artwork, but also, and more importantly about the perception of the viewer.”
Anna from Zara Interiors is an artist who has studied painting at Sydney College of the Arts (SAC), and interior designer at the Commercial Arts Training College (CATC). Anna has also studied the art of Feng Shui (Form, Compass, and Flying Star Schools) at the Australian College of Environmental Studies (ACES), she is an expert in all aspects of interior design and decoration, and she’s a professional artist.
Many businesses and homes apply Feng Shui principles to the flow and design of their spaces, the choice, and placement of artworks around your home or business is best done by a professional, like Anna. Blue Thumb has a selection of artworks that you might feel could be suitable for this process, we can advise and help you make the right choice for you. We can even commission artists that can create designs, which will suit your individual needs. Talk to Anna or us about your needs, we can add art and Feng Shui into your world, to help change and improve your life.
by
Rob Kennedy
View paintings in the bluethumb online art gallery
Interior Design & Abstract Art
Saturday 4th June 2011
Interior designers the world over have been matching and blending visual art to houses, apartments and commercial properties for many years. Some people have their homes built around their art collections. There is always a match for your style of art to your style of house; this even applies to abstract art. One description for abstract art is it’s a style of art that uses form, line, shape, and colour to build a work of art, which may or may not represent a known or imaginary visual image.
For business, a space for rest and chill out time can be essential to harmony and productivity for a work place. A water feature or aquarium combined with the right visual art, will get your employees in the right mode and tuned up for a day’s work.
An abstract art can blend into and highlight many areas of your home or business. Pot plants and flowers bring nature and a comforting feel into most homes and business. Many businesses have a daily selection of flowers in their foyers. You can add to the beauty and calming effect that plants and flowers bring by choosing the right type of artwork to go with them. Plants have their own abstract nature; there is an idea espoused by the 19th century French painter Edouard Manet that, ”there are no lines in nature.” Looking at the stems of plants and the trunks of trees, we know this idea simply isn’t right.
An abstract artwork such as the one below, Looking for Light by Charlotte Wensley can help to add a relative feel to a bunch of blooming flowers. Alternatively, as an accompaniment to a potted plant, or a small house shrub. The possibilities are endless when looking to match houseplants and flowers to abstract art, which can extend the visual ideas of any internal area.
Abstract art can be frightening, and confrontational. Abstract art can be soothing and comforting. All forms of art will add a new dimension to your home or business. The thing about abstract art, it always starts a conversation, it gets people involved and interested. Buying an artwork will be a personal choice; it will be something that adds a freshness to where you live or work. An abstract artwork can help bring out your individuality.
Article by Rob Kennedy
Meet the Artist - Rex Woodmore
Wednesday 18th May 2011
Rex Woodmore hails from Jarrahdale, WA.
"In my art I attempt to capture the essence of Australia in all its
diverse, colour, splendour and intrigue, but the works of a mere mortal pale into insignificance when compared to the awesome wonders of God's amazing creation. My favourite subject in my paintings is trees. I use
high pigment acrylics finished in acrylic gloss, on stretched canvas or art board"
When did you first realise you were an artist Rex?
The easy answer could be “When I made my first sale” but it was sort of a hollow victory. My work seemed to be full of borrowed creativity and not my own.
The defining moment in my recognition and acceptance of myself as an artist, would have been when I produced work in my own style, with my own ideas, to my own satisfaction and yet acceptable and appreciated by others.
Could you tell us some more about your work?
Even to a casual observer it is probably obvious, that trees with their individual beauty, strength and structure are my favourite subjects. Most of my work to date has been on professional quality stretched canvas. I prefer Atelier interactive acrylic applied over Gesso primer, finished with several coats of a compatible gloss acrylic. I am fastidious about continuing the painting, on the canvas, around the outside of the stretcher frame.
What is it that inspires you to paint a particular subject?
At first I attempted to emulate the style and subject matter of others, until an experienced artist suggested “Paint what you are passionate about and it will shine through your work” Today I can only hope that others see my passion for Australia and her trees in particular, shining through my work.
What other artists have influenced you, and how?
I like to think that the paintings of the late, great Australian Aboriginal artist, Albert Namatjira was an influence on my work. He achieved what I attempt. Albert Namatjira captured the essence of the Australian Outback in his landscapes of rocks, hills and hauntingly beautiful trees. If I have anything in common with Namatjira, it is our shared love of art and the beauty of the Australian wilderness.
What do you do for fun (besides painting)?
At one time I would have said SCUBA diving, but those were the days when I wore a younger man’s wet suit. I still enjoy snorkelling and at Coral Bay last year I dived with reef sharks, turtles and a massive Whale shark. http://rexwoodmore.weebly.com/underwater-adventures.html
I am blessed to have a lovely supportive wife by my side and together, in our off road ‘Supervan’ we escape the suburbs and go mineral prospecting, enjoy the wildflowers and outback sunsets.
When we return home we get back to gardening and laugh about the adventures we had, the flat tyres, the flies and how we got bogged and spent three hours digging the vehicle out of the only mud hole in the middle of the desert! …That’s my idea of fun! http://rexwoodmore.weebly.com/our-supervan-adventures.html
What inspires you to create art and how do you keep motivated?
My motivation to create art often comes from my desire to be in the scene I paint. Through my art I return to the enjoyment of touring the outback, wandering through a forest or sitting under a Jacaranda tree. If I am not motivated to paint, then it is probably time to head off back into the great unknown.
What's your favourite painting and why?
There are so many great artworks by great artists, but I really like a simple painting, in pencil over water colour, by Albert Namatjira called Ghostgum, Central Australia circa 1945. A single contorted ghostly white barked tree growing in a rocky terrain.
What are you working on at the moment?
None of my ideas are ‘’Set in concrete” but until I change my mind, I intend concentrating on a series of Jacaranda Paintings. The Jacaranda tree seems to have international appeal and apart from that, my wife’s favourite colours are all shades of purple & mauve. http://rexwoodmore.weebly.com/jacaranda-paintings.html
 Forest Freedom |
 Stepping Stones |
 Subtle Sunrise |
Bluethumb Gift Vouchers
Wednesday 2nd February 2011
Need to buy a special gift for someone. How about a Bluethumb great gift voucher.
Our artists have whipped up a range of works leaving the “gifted” spoiled for choice!
Got a special someone whose walls are looking a little tired and devoid of colour? Can’t think of the perfect present idea?
This’ll help you out...
Buy a gift voucher at www.bluethumb.com.au by clicking this Gift Voucher link (or find it in the Services menu at the bottom of the screen). Fill in all the details, enter whatever amount you like for the voucher and we’ll email it off!
You can choose to have it sent to you – so that you can print it off and snazz it up with some gift wrapping - or we can email it directly to the lucky recipient.
The gift voucher is safely stored on the web and can be redeemed with confidence within a year of purchase.
If that blessed person with the nondescript walls finally sees sense and chooses to invest more into sprucing up their life than your gift voucher allows, that’s no problem! They can just use the voucher and pay for the difference.
NB. Gift vouchers can be redeemed against any original artwork on www.bluethumb.com.au and may not be redeemed for cash.
Ben Eckersley Exhibits at Inspire 24th July
Saturday 10th July 2010
Bluethumb artist Ben Eckersley, will be exhibiting his portrait exhibition, faceworks, at West End’s InSpire Gallery Bar in the last week of July 2010. Opening night on Saturday 24th July will be particularly exciting, with a special live performance by his band, The Wells.
Pushing the boundaries of predictability, Eckersley’s series of interesting ink on paper portraits explore the face and its physical limitations. The faceworks exhibition is a great representation of the talent and original affordable art that can be found in Brisbane. Each work will be available for sale at the gallery via internet portal to bluethumb’s site www.bluethumb.com.au.
Eckersley, a 34 year old Brisbane-based artist, musician and graphic designer, shows marvellous skill and promise in the up-and-coming generation of visual artists. Guests and the public will be able to meet Eckersley on opening night, Saturday 24th July, browse his works and enjoy a live performance by The Wells, a five piece indie rock band of which Eckersley is the lead vocalist.
To view or purchase artworks by Ben Eckersley or other emerging Australian artists, visit www.bluethumb.com.au. The faceworks exhibition will be held at InSpire Gallery Bar, 71 Vulture St, West End, from Thursday 22nd July to Wednesday 28th July 2010.
Artists Resale Royalty Scheme
Monday 28th June 2010
The Australian government's Resale Royalty Scheme came into effect on 9 June 2010.
It doesn't impact your sales here on bluethumb as they are direct from you to the buyer, but it may affect you if your work is resold in the future.
Under the artists resale royalty scheme:
- commercial resales of artworks must be reported; and
- a 5% royalty is payable on some resales.
- The Australian government has appointed Copyright Agency Limited (CAL) to manage the scheme.
Key features of the scheme:
- it applies to resales of existing as well as new works;
- it applies to a range of original artworks, included limited edition prints authorised by the artist;
- it does not apply to a private sale from one individual to another;
- a royalty is not payable on the first change of hands after 9 June, but all resales must be reported;
- a royalty is not payable on resales for under $1,000;
- the scheme will be extended to artworks from countries that have similar schemes.
For more information on how the Resale Royalty Scheme may affect you once your work leaves bluethumb, see www.resaleroyalty.org.au.
Pen Donovan Joins Bluethumb
Wednesday 17th March 2010
This month, we welcome Pen Donovan to the bluethumb community. She’s a fifty-five year old artist from Brisbane and calls herself “a late developer...either that or very, very slow!”
Since moving to Brisbane three years ago, Pen says she has realised how strongly location is linked to what she produces. Hence, the Brisbane River and sunlight playing in water has influenced her recent work.
In her spare time, she’s also having fun painting traffic boxes around the Brisbane area. It relieves the ‘no studio’ angst – and it’s getting art out there in public space. Good for morale and a great way to get work out there!
Pen cites Reg Mombassa’s biography as an inspiration. She also loves David Hockney’s work and attitude to art.
Like many artists today she continues to struggle with making a living versus producing art. In five years time, Pen hopes to be painting full-time and making a living from it. Doesn't everybody?
Check out Pen’s profile!
Olive by Pen Donovan, acrylic on canvas, 121cm x 91cm, $150
Grants and Funding Information
Saturday 6th February 2010
Applying for grants and funding can often be difficult and overwhelming, and from our own experience, very hard work! But, you've got to be in it to win it! Good luck!
The Metro Gallery Award
The Metro Gallery Award, now in its eighth year, is Australia's richest art award for emerging Australian artists. It has helped launched the careers of several past winners including Ben Quilty, Jackson Slattery and Sam Leach. Get your applications in!
Entries close May 1st, 2010.
$50,000 Metro Art Award - to find out more visit www.metrogallery.com.au/award
JUMP
JUMP directly supports the career development of artists aged 18-30, and in the first five years of their professional practice, by facilitating mentorships with professional artists regarded highly in their chosen art form.
Applications are now open and close Friday, 26 February 2010.
To find out more, visit www.jumpmentoring.com.au
Free Grant Writing Workshops - Sydney
ICE and Fairfield City Council have teamed up to provide free information sessions and a grant writing workshop/mentoring program for those interested in applying for a 2010 Community Cultural Development Grant.
Council is calling on artists and community groups to apply for funds up to $4,000 to support arts and cultural projects. Applications are being accepted until Monday 22 March 2010. Funding is provided to projects that address social issues of importance to the local community.
Free Grant Writing Workshop - Monday 22 February
* 10am – 4pm – Whitlam Library, Gough Room, Level 1, Railway Parade, Cabramatta
RSVP: Monday 15 February. Contact Mouna on 02 9897 5744
Introducing Irena Zbrankova - Bluethumb Artist
Saturday 6th February 2010
Bluethumb artist, Irena Zbrankova, lives on Brisbane’s north side, and is a single mum of two daughters (who she loves to “pamper endlessly” – lucky girls!) and an avid rugby fan.
Having studied drawing, painting, sculpture and graphics for seven years at the Zlin Graphic School of Art, in Czech Republic, she made the long move to Australia in 2008.
Her most recent work Virility in Yellow is a study of the male figure, focussing on masculinity and the male form as a result of sport and hard, uncompromising training. Using colours to complement the figure’s skin tone, she has also expressed tenderness and understanding in his facial features.
Irena describes the work as “expressing man's emotions as well as his fighting spirit, strength and courage”.
Having created many portrait pieces, she says her work is always influenced by the emotional perception of the model.
Irena’s biggest inspiration is Michelangelo, with his continuous efforts to represent perfect physical beauty.
She says that in five years time, her dream is to live in a sun-lit house, with a large garden and loving husband by her side.
Welcome to bluethumb Irena! Check out Irena’s profile.
Introducing Jane Welsh - Bluethumb Artist
Monday 25th January 2010
Jane Welsh has been a passionate artist for 8 years. Years prior, Jane had a career as a dietician/nutritionist, but says that she just knew in her bones and soul that she was an artist, and took the plunge eight years ago to support herself from her art alone.
She spent many busy years creating many commissioned portraits, and balancing these with more free abstracts and some sumptuous nudes.
After having kids, less available time saw the balance shift to commissions alone to keep the money coming in. In 2009, she broke free from her lists of commissions and got back to experimenting with colour to create vibrant paintings with a landscape feel. Since this transition, Jane has created her Bloom Series of works (see them on bluethumb!) and has gotten back to her first love – sculpture – creating her Melody and Unity series.
Most recently, she has started working on some languid nudes – females and couples, and has just photographed three models for material to work from.
She hopes to adorn people’s bedroom walls with her works to imbue a mood of relaxation and joy.
Jane Welsh lives in the country in the Noosa Hinterland of Queensland, and loves being surrounded by nature and her permaculture garden. She works out of a spacious new studio, with half the week fully devoted to her art career.
When asked what influences her work right now, she says “I create for beauty. I believe our intrinsic appreciation of beauty, our emotional reaction to it (like the “Ahhhhh” we feel when we look into a sunset) is so precious in our society of busy (even stressful) minds and bodies. I want my art to reach out into the world and help people to feel good, whether it’s the relaxed mood of my nudes, or the vibrant blossoming of my Bloom Series.”
Check out Jane’s profile!
Bluethumb World News
Friday 22nd January 2010
WHAT'S ON SHOW AROUND THE WORLD?
Masterpieces from Paris
The National Gallery of Australia in Canberra is holding one of Australia’s most important exhibitions ever -
Dates: 4th Dec 2009 to 5th April 2010
TIX: Adult $25
Find out more at the National Gallery of Australia
WHAT'S A GREAT OPPORTUNITY?
ArtStart
BLUETHUMB ARTISTS!! Get your applications in! We want to see your name in LIGHTS!!!
The Australia Council is now accepting applications for the ArtStart grant. Individual artists from all art forms may apply for a grant up to $10,000. You are eligible to apply if you have completed accredited artist training in the last 3 years or if you will complete accredited artist training prior to the project start date for each round.
Applications open online from 25 January 2010
Closing date is 8 March 2010 (for July 2010 - June 2011)
Get more info @ The Australia Council
WHAT'S CHEAP?
Art Gallery NSW – Gallery Shop Australia Day Long Weekend Sale!
Up to 50% off a fantastic range, including selected fine art books and art-inspired merchandise - from 23 to 26 January and only available in store.
Address: Art Gallery Road, The Domain, Sydney NSW
WHAT'S INNOVATIVE?
Post-it Notes!
David Alvarez’s portrait of Ray Charles using more than 2000 coloured post-it notes is Innovative Marketing! His follow-up piece with a portrait of Jimi Hendrix using playing card got this guy’s name onto CNN. Cool things happen when you think outside the Square…
Design Your Next Room With My Walls!
Thursday 29th October 2009
Will that painting clash with my retro pink decor? Why not try before you buy!
Bluethumb has a great feature - perfect for those home decorators or interior designers.
My Walls lets you upload photos of your walls at home or those of your design client, and test out artworks to see how they'll look.
The process is easy! Just sign into your bluethumb account and click on the "My Walls" link in the bottom menu. Upload your photos following the simple instructions. Add as many walls as you like!
Then get browsing... As you find artworks that you're into, click on the "Preview on my wall" link below the "Buy Now" button of the artwork. You can change the wall behind any
artwork and My Walls will scale each artwork proportionately to the size of your wall.
Here's a good example:
Happy decorating!
Introducing Charlotte Wensley - Bluethumb Artist
Monday 21st September 2009
Charlotte Wensley is a Queensland artist displaying a range of wonderful acrylic, oil and mixed media artworks on bluethumb.
Her most recent work is At the Water’s Edge, inspired by her childhood memories of growing up on a farm in the Vale of York in England - a farmhouse on a 300 acre property with a beautiful duck pond which she describes as "a pure oasis of physical and emotional freedom". Sounds like a perfect fairytale to us!
Charlotte lives on the Sunshine Coast with her husband and 4-year old daughter, and together they run a market stall selling calamari at the famous Eumundi markets. This allows Charlotte quality time to work on her art, and she also turns it into quality time with her daughter, who also has the creative gene! They spend hours painting and drawing together and she says that Harriet’s lines of inquiry often inform her own, resulting in the fascinating artworks she is creating.
Currently, her works are influenced by contemplating and revisiting her past experiences and the emotional responses she has to them. She wants to fully explore the important and defining moments throughout her early life, and immortalise them in a visual sense.
Charlotte's 5-year goal is to have had at least one solo exhibition, and then to be squashed into a purpose-built travel truck with her family, off on a huge adventure to explore the world, giving her precious time with her family, as well as the time and space to absorb new experiences and explore new influences on her work.
Charlotte strongly believes that all artists are heroes. She says "The commitment to observe, investigate, react and create is inherent in all creative people and that is a human quality which I very much admire."
We certainly agree. Check out Charlotte's profile!
Introducing Benjamin Eckersley - Bluethumb Artist
Sunday 13th September 2009
Benjamin Eckersley is a 33 year old artist and musician living in Brisbane, and new Bluethumb resident!
A graphic designer by day, Ben is trying to focus more on his art, working in particular on paintings, drawings and ink works. He figured Bluethumb would be a good starting point to get his artworks out there!
His most recent works, shown here on Bluethumb, are a series of faceworks and figures that push the boundaries on predictability! You'll see what we mean when you check them out.
He lists his current influences as Goya, Fred Cress, Francis Bacon, and includes Rosalie Gasciogne, Kandinsky and Matisse as his all-time heroes.
Ben hopes to be painting full time in five years time, replacing his 9-5 job with a life full of art!
We wish you luck Ben! Check out Ben's artworks at Ben's Profile.
ps. If you want to see your name in the Bluethumb lights, just send us an email!
Be Inspired!
Tuesday 18th August 2009
Artists - be inspired by something new in West End, Brisbane!
The InSpire Gallery Bar recently opened its doors to the public. The Bar is offering an upper level gallery area that can be hired for exhibition purposes by local artists wanting to get great exposure in Brisbane's West End. What a perfect opportunity for emerging artists!
Unique to InSpire is the live internet video streaming service that will allow global exposure for gallery openings, live music performances and daily life at the fully licensed bar and cafe.
Owners Marcel and Jacqueline say that they hope to make Australian art more accessible to the general public by combining Gallery and hospitality in one package.
InSpire Gallery Bar is located at 71 Vulture Street, West End QLD.
Opening hours are Sun - Wed and Thurs 11am to 10pm, and Fri - Sat 3pm to midnight.
Contact Marcel or Jacqueline on (07) 3846 3442 for more details about gallery space or visit www.inspiregallerybar.com.au
Bluethumb Celebrates the Launch of its New Website
Friday 1st May 2009
Just a week ago, the bluethumb team chilled the sparkling, and celebrated the upcoming launch of it's new website, www.bluethumb.com.au.
We'd like to thank our business partners, family and friends for joining in the fun, and for their continuing support and encouragement!
Our guests joined in to create a "communal" artwork which was truly...um...interesting! It will be hung proudly in the bluethumb halls of masterpieces.
We hope that the community finds the website valuable and fun, and we welcome any comments and suggestions that you may have to improve it now and into the future.
Aussie Government Introduces Resale Royalty Rights Scheme
Friday 1st May 2009
The Australian Government recently announced its intention to commence the Resale Royalty Rights Scheme.
Resale right legislation for Australia's visual artists is expected to be in place by 1 July, 2009.
The royalty will be applied only to re-sales of original works of visual art sold through the secondary art market where the seller has acquired the work after the legislation takes effect. It will not be restricted just to works created after the scheme starts.
The royalty will be applied only to resales of original works of visual art sold through the secondary art market where the seller has acquired the work after the legislation takes effect.
Royalties are to be paid to artists who are Australian citizens or permanent residents, or their heirs. It will cover works being resold during an artist's lifetime and for 70 years after the artist's death. Royalty is to be calculated on a flat rate of 5%, uncapped. The minimum resale price before a royalty is imposed will be $1000.
The scheme will be managed by a single collecting organisation, appointed by the Australian Government following an open tender selection process.
bluethumb supports the royalty rights of artists and will provide the collecting organisation nominated by the Australian Government any necessary information required under the Resale Royalty Rights Scheme for all applicable sales of artwork made via the bluethumb website.
