How to choose a painting - finding an artist

Today I’d like to talk about how to find an artist. I begin the search for an artist from the position of not knowing anything about art or about a particular painter. First, we can check the dictionary for a definition of ‘artist’. It tells us that an ‘artist’ is a ‘painter’ or ‘draughtsman’; I associate both words with art.

The next port of call is the local arts centre, which will have lists of exhibiting artists and details of upcoming events such as art fairs, festivals, open studio weekends and art weeks. The advantage of a large group exhibition is that you can see a lot of works of art in one setting. It also removes the feeling of being expected to buy something.

Third, your local library will have an information board about local artists and art events, and may even have an exhibiting space.

Fourth on the list is the internet, a vast space that allows you to browse in privacy and at your own pace. The disadvantage is the possibility of being overwhelmed with too much information.

You can also check the Yellow Pages under ‘artist’, galleries’, and ‘public galleries’. This may lead you to other areas you may not have thought of.

To-do list:
1. Visit your local arts centre
2. Check the yellow pages of your telephone book
3. Check with your local library
4. ‘Google’ visual arts on the internet

Remember to have fun while you are doing this! Also, if you let me know about any interesting discoveries you make during this process, I will be able to pass them on to others.

You’re now on your way to finding an artist. In the next session I’ll speak about engaging with the artist and suggesting some key questions that will help you to do this. Until next time, then, happy hunting,

Marie

How to choose a painting - getting started

I can’t tell you how many times I hear the phrase: “I don’t buy art for investment, I buy it because I like it”. Buying a piece of art because you like it is the most valid reason for making such a purchase. However, I reply by saying: “Why not have your cake and eat it?” This means buying what you like or what has caught your eye, but – with a little bit of research – making the best possible purchase from an informed point of view with the funds available. What an excellent way of acquiring a good piece of art and beginning to make your way into the market! 


Understanding what you like or dislike about a painting – and why – will save you making expensive mistakes and ensure that you always get joy from your art purchases. When you look at a painting, there are eight key questions you need to ask yourself:

     

1.                What feeling do you get from looking at this painting?

2.                Why do you get this feeling?

3.                Does it remind you of something?

4.                Is there something pleasing about the painting?

5.                Is there anything unsettling about the painting?

6.                If the painting were yours what name would you give it?

7.                Now that you’ve named the painting, does it change the way you see it?

7.                Does naming it make you want to look at it again?

Here are some paintings to look at whilst you consider these questions http://www.marielaywine.com/acatalog/Angel_Gallery.html

The Studio of Marie Laywine | Art Therapy - Exploring your World

What is Art Therapy? Art Therapy involves the use of art materials for the making of images, drawings or claywork for self-expression, reflection and exploration in the presence of a trained Art Therapist. No previous experience or skill in art-making is required. The value of the drawing or painting lies in its contribution to the therapy rather than whether it is ‘good art’. The process of creating the work is more important than the final product. In every session there is time for activity and discussion.Many difficult and poorly understood feelings can find release through image-making. The image is the focus of all communication between creator and therapist. As a result, very often poorly understood feelings begin to find a clearer definition. The Art Therapist does not interpret the images. Art Therapy touches all aspects of a person. The overall objective of Art Therapy is to enable the person to change and grow on a personal level. I am particularly interested in the development of the creative process.

Art Therapy Workshops A typical day starts using paper and pencil, and the use of adjectives to best describe a way of feeling, followed by drawing; taking a line for a walk around the feeling to give it a form; clay work; followed by painting and the use of colour to give amplification to the feeling explored. In summary, the Art Therapy Days focus is to give a form to feelings. The next workshop day is 2 July 10-4.30, the focus of the day is to explore your relationship with yourself.  You will be provided with all art equipment, tea and coffee. There are numerous tea rooms in the village where  you can buy lunch. You will need to wear warm clothes. No experience is necessary though experience is  welcome. See my website for bookings http://www.marielaywine.com/acatalog/Art_Therapy.html