Open Your Mind

Featured!

2008-06-16T18:22:00.000-07:00

My photography shop Amature Capture, is being featured! Take a look and enter for your chance to win a 8x10 photograph!

ENTER TO WIN!!

A New Shop

2008-04-16T06:32:00.000-07:00

I opened another Etsy shop a little while ago, but just now started to really add to it. (thanks to a new digital camera) It highlights my photography. Im also offering photo rendering services! Take a look!

Watch Me Create!

2008-03-13T15:27:00.000-07:00

Since Im asked so many times how I create my art...I decided to download a program that allowed me to record my desktop while I painted. I used a photograph of myself that I took myself.

I did not however show what I use exactly, as Id like to keep what I do as unique as possible.

The film is 13 mins long. So sit back and enjoy. I hope you like it and please leave a comment here on my blog and rate it on google to let me know what you all think!

Heres better view of finished painting too: http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g129/AeSigs/CilliPepper.jpg

I know its a bit boring at times as well. I had no idea what it was going to be till at the end. So I was studying it and thinking a few times. hehe

Oh and the program I used to record my desktop was CamStudio. Was very easy to use and its free!

Your Etsy Shop Views

2008-03-02T06:53:00.000-08:00

Someone on the forums told me about this site. A fellow Etsyian created it! It shows views from your first 3 pages. Youll have to keep track though, to see your daily hits. When you click on the link, my shop name with appear. No biggie..just type your shop name into the box. Enjoy!
http://www.majaba.org/ultracow.php?userid=msart&submit=Submit

Im Featured!

2008-02-28T09:17:00.000-08:00

Woohoo! Im so honored and touched to be featured on Etsy Art blog!! The blog is beautiful and has wonderful artists on it, besides myself. ;) Take a look!!
http://etsyart.blogspot.com/

Artist Spotlight: WoodyMart

2008-02-27T11:57:00.000-08:00

http://www.woodymart.etsy.com

Since it had been so long since I spotlighted any artists I decided to focus on two awesome artists. Here is the second one. Meet Woody Miller and see his unique and awesome art work. His art reminds me of my childhood. It has a great feel and the artistry is truly amazing.

WoodyMart

Tell us a bit about yourself

After attending the Academy of Art in San Francisco, I've continued to pursue art in many ways. I live in a way too small apartment with my wife and two nutty cats, where I work on my art in a way too small studio, with way too much stuff in it. I am inspired by lots of artists, by music, colors, nature, crafts, hand made stuff, picture books, good stories, movies, vintage goodies, bamboo, orientalist art, and of course, monkey's. I just keep striving to create images that delight, inspire, conjure feelings, and take one away to another place or time. I also work at picture frame shop where I create frames, do wood carving, gilding and french matting.

When and how did you discover your talent

When I was little and would get in trouble, we got put on time out. We (my brother and I) had to sit at a table in the corner of our kitchen. There was paper and pencils there, so naturally this is where my art training began. At school I always had friends who wanted me to draw them things, characters, F-16 fighter jets and such. So I always gravitated towards it, plus my wonderfully talented aunt Jill (a great artist herself) always helped inspire and teach us to continue trying new things with art. Now I can't stop making stuff and learning new techniques, I just love experimenting and creating.

What inspires you

Well, other than what's listed above, some of the artists that inspire me are: Pep Montserrat, Chris Van Allsburg, D.B. Johnson, Peter Brown, Shag, Charlie Harper, Wayne Theibaud, Jean-Leon Gerome, Alma-Tadema, Wolf Kahn, and Chris Sheban. Quite a mix and match, but I like to think I pull a little bit from each and make it my own. Other than artists, I like old movies because they always have such great costumes and sets, new ones too, but a little cgi goes a long way. I just love exotic things, tropical memorabilia, "Orientalism" painting (from the 19th century), Moroccan stuff, arabic patterns and tiles, Thai silk designs, I could go on. I try to just soak up whatever I can and use colors from here, shapes from there, patterns, whatever.

What dream do you have that hasn't been fulfilled yet

Lots, but I'm still just thirty-something, so there's time! Right now I'm working on a couple children's picture books, which has been a dream of mine I think since reading Richard Scarry books as a child. I have a missionary friend in Africa who works at orphanages and I'd love to be able to find a way to use my art to help there, either to bring them funding, or maybe inspire or teach the children. Also, I'm still working on getting that Italian villa off the coast of Lake Como where I will have a huge studio...

Any advice for us fellow Etsyians

I just recently started to sell more items from the Woody Mart on Etsy, I guess my advice would be just try to get the word out, keep adding new items every so often, and keep working at finding the right price point/ size/ medium/ product that people like. Etsy is great not only for selling, but I love finding stuff to buy, it's so great to know that someone hand made something with care. Don't just put stuff up to make money, put stuff up that you love, stuff that you'd buy.

I hope you enjoyed meeting Woody and seeing some of his fabulous work! He was also cool enough to send me a picture!

Visit Woody's site at http://www.woodymillerart.com and also his blog at http://pachydermexpress.blogspot.com!

A HUGE thank you to Woody and Cindy for taking the time to talk with me and answering my questions and allowing me to feature them!

Artist Spotlight: Black Cat Graphix

2008-02-27T09:12:00.000-08:00

http://www.blackcatgraphix.etsy.com

I love this artist. Such emotion in each piece. Must see! She also took the time out to answer some questions.

blackcatgraphix

Tell us a bit about yourself

I live in Georgia with six cats, three dogs, goldfish and an understanding husband. I have a Bachelor's degree in Photographic Design, but have never been satisfied with myself as a photographer. I taught myself Photoshop and oil painting and am finally becoming able to create the visions I see. I always have a book handy for any chance I get to read. I'm told I'm funny, but somehow it doesn't feel appropriate to be funny in my art.

When and how did you discover your talent

I was in the shower trying out a new soap - no wait, that was something else...

What inspires you

People who are obsessed with making art, regardless of their means or situation. Also, remembering my very industrious Gandma, who always had multiple craft projects going on.

What dream do you have that hasn't been fulfilled yet

Supporting my husband with my wildly successful art career.

Any advice for us fellow Etsyians

Hang in there. I haven't been on Etsy that long myself, but I notice some very successful shops have been around for over a year. Now stop reading this and get back in your studio.

I hope you enjoyed meeting Cindy and seeing some of her fabulous art! The colors and faces are amazing!

Etsy on Martha Stewart!

2008-02-26T09:19:00.000-08:00

Today Matt and Rob are filming with Martha! Heres the original forum link. When it airs has not been confirmed. I will post when there is an update. Yoohoo!

Lovin Redbubble.com!

2008-02-10T16:17:00.001-08:00

This site is really awesome. I just created some new tee's and here are some example of the laminated prints they offer that include title and artist name. If you havent been to redbubble.com, you need to visit!

Awesome!

2007-12-05T06:46:00.000-08:00

I just created some new shirts of my paintings on Redbubble and boy they came out awesome if I do say so myself. Heres a few of em...to see more click on one of the images. Also they come in all different colors as well! I love Redbubble!!

Branching Out

2007-12-05T04:11:00.001-08:00

One of my ultimate addictions is mmorpgs (multi massive online role play games). So I decided to branch out a bit and create some designs for clothing for ultimate/casual gamers. I also made a video showing some of the styles. Hopefully this venture will do well. Click banner to see more.

A Collaboration

2007-11-18T05:20:00.001-08:00

I want to thank micmac from Redbubble for allowing me to use my creative talents to create this awesome piece surrounding her original drawing that I rendered just a tad to go with the background. I think its hypnotic. I love how it turned out and micmac agrees.

Original drawing by Gisele Bedard. Aka micmac.

Im on YouTube!

2007-11-16T11:23:00.000-08:00

Yup! I think it came out great!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VM3Hp7CVEL0

If your a fellow Etsyian and would like to make your own video, this is all you do...
go to http://www.onetruemedia.com
Sign up..its free!
Use images that you use in your shop!
Have a YouTube account-also free
OneTrueMedia will post your video on YouTube for you.

Its easy! And doesnt cost a thing but some time.

Vote and favorite it if you wish.

Who in the world is Stephen Colbert?

2007-11-15T06:48:00.000-08:00

I must live under a rock...all of a sudden I see this guys name everywhere...who is he?? I know he has something to do with politics, but whats he about and why is he so loved? Someone enlighten me please.

Got a cool email..

2007-11-15T06:44:00.000-08:00

from Benjamin Rogovy from Imagekind inviting me to join. Turns out I already had an account but totally forgot about it. I totally updated and uploaded my account and its now all set! Thanks again Ben for the invite! I look forward to being a part of the community!

RedBubble

2007-11-11T09:59:00.000-08:00

Appearantly I joined this site even though I dont remember ever seeing it before. Anyways, Im so glad! I starting uploading images yesterday and Ive already gotten quite a few views and comments! The site is really easy to use and Im really enjoying it. Its a site for artists/photographers/graphic and more, to sell their images in several different forms. The site is free and they print out your work to your customers and you get a commission (that you set). Check it out! Click the banner above!

And look...me on the front page!

Your Turn!

2007-11-09T05:30:00.000-08:00

Angel made from Oprah...Literally!

2007-11-07T09:05:00.000-08:00

Thats right! I took a picture of Oprah on my tv set and created this!

Her show at the time was about her Angel Network which inspired the angel.

You can purchase a print just by clicking the image.

I have sent this to the Oprah Show but of course I havent heard anything about it. What Id like to do is auction the original piece with her approval and support, on Ebay. Then donate all the money to her Angel Network!

Artist Spotlight-Etsy for Animals

2007-09-12T04:27:00.000-07:00

http://etsyforanimals.com
Been a while since I featured an artist..so this time Im featuring someone who is not only a great artist but they also do alot for animals! Read the interview to learn more!

mvegan5

Tell us a bit about yourself
I'm a vegan artist, jeweler, cat mom, and art teacher from California and living in Be'er Sheva, Israel.
When did you discover your talent
I have a BFA in Painting and an MAT in Art Education from the Rhode Island School of Design, and have been creating since I was small.
What inspires you
My artwork, jewelry, and teaching are inspired by my love for animals, nature, and children.
What dream do you have that hasn't been fulfilled yet
A dream I have yet unfulfilled.... to have lots more rescued animals (right now I have 2 rescued kitties) and to raise compassionate children who respect animals and nature. I would like to raise a lot more money to help animals, and sell more custom animal portraits.I would love to run my own children's art studio teaching love for art, animals, nature, and recycling, maybe with a little art and jewelry shop attached to it!
Any advice for us fellow Etsyians
I have found that sales have picked up with my involvment in the forums, street teams, and posting my site and items on other artist sites. I also pass out my business cards and Etsy for Animals flyers whenever possible.
What made you decide to donate money for animals?
I've always known I wanted to do something helping animals and be an artist, and have now been able to combine the two.I donate part of my store profits to animal charities, and founded and run Etsy for Animals: Artists Helping Animals (efa) and http://etsyforanimals.etsy.com.
Tell us about your Etsy for Animals group
We are a group of over 250 etsy shops with owners helping animals, many donate part of their proceeds to animal charities. Please visit my shop for Cards, Prints, Paintings, and Jewelry helping animals and Etsy for Animals for all different types of goodies, many helping animal charities.

Hope you enjoyed this interview! Also please check out mvegan's Treasury celebrating animals!

In Memorium

2007-09-11T06:42:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to take a moment and say that my heart goes out to all the families who lost someone on this tragic day 6 years ago. It will be a day no one will ever forget. I think most of us remember where we were when we first heard. For me, I was at work and I think it took me several hours to actually register that it was real. I hope nothing like this ever happens again. Many prayers and thoughts to everyone.

Im on Trunkt!!

2007-09-11T06:17:00.000-07:00

Very excited about being on Trunkt! Must check it out! And if your not on there..apply now! They are accepting applications. If your not a seller...go there and make your wishlists!

Support Digital Artists!

2007-09-04T06:24:00.000-07:00

I designed this logo in the hopes to help promote digital art and artists. What I want to do is be able to customize it for all you digital artists out there. All you need to do is send me a headshot of yourself! And I do the rest. I can also do other colors if you wish! Great way to promote yourself and your work! Can get the logo from my Etsy shop or get t-shirts, buttons, and more at my CafePress shop!

New Shop!

2007-08-28T10:06:00.000-07:00

After working pretty much nonstop for the past week I finally have a very nice CafePress shop. I am still adding new designs and products daily so make sure you check back! If there is anything youd like to see that isnt there, feel free to let me know!

Im very excited and Im hoping that it is a success!

A Rising Star

2007-05-09T16:31:00.000-07:00

This artist is just amazing. His use of colors are wonderful. And Im a proud owner of one of his works. Oh did I mention..hes 3 years old!! His name is Elijah and his proud mom is SilverDragonRescue. Elijah and his mom were kind enough to let me ask Elijah a few questions.

1.Tell us a bit about yourself:

I'm three. I have two sisters. I like to eat and drink all kinds of things. I really like dogs and cats. I like to color and draw. I like Bob (the Builder). My big sister likes to draw too.

2.What was the first picture you made?

Purple, Blue, and Red with my letter on it

3.What is your most favorite thing to color?
I like making more ACEOs and coloring in color books

4.What colors do you love to use the most?

Blue and Red and Pink. Orange crayons. Purple.

5.What would you like to be when you grow up?

I want to be a dad, a cooker, a grandpa, and an eater (food critic?). I want to ride a boat, eat cookies, and eat lollipops.

6.Any advice for us fellow artists?
Somebody loves you.

Was a great joy to get to know a bit about Elijah. Hope you all enjoyed meeting him and will keep an eye out on this aspiring artist! If you are interested in purchasing one of Elijah's works, just click on the pictures below and it will take you directly to the listing.

Elijah's 5 year old sister Abby is also an artist to praise about!

If you enjoyed these 2 wonderful artists, please leave a comment as Im sure they will be watching and anxious to see what others have to say.

Addicted to Making ACEO's

2007-05-09T04:30:00.000-07:00

Ive made 6 since yesterday. I'm on a roll!
Heres a couple of them. To see more please visit my Etsy Shop!

Haze

Dress Me

My Shopping Spree

2007-05-09T03:40:00.000-07:00

My best friend from my younger days, is having her second baby. A boy. So I bought several things to send her. Hope she doesnt see this before she gets her package. hehe
Thought Id share what I purchased. I have gotten everything but one item(its on its way) and I must say everything I bought is awesome! Thank you to all the sellers I purchased from!

For Baby
Giraffe Snuggle Pal Blanket from mamaziel

For Mommy
Handmade Lavender Set from SoapGeeks

PeePee Covers from aquiltedtreasure

For Daddy
Daddy Diaper Tool Belt from dcreations

For The New Big Brother
Big Brother Toddler Tee from roslynscloset

Poky Little Puppy Book and Puppet Set from MFcrafts

Card
Onesie Card from moderncard

An Artist that will amaze you!

2007-04-18T15:03:00.000-07:00

onlypencil

I had the great pleasure of meeting onlypencil in an Etsy chat room. His work is outstanding. At first I thought he was a photographer, but he does his work all by pencil. Amazing! He was kind enough to take a few minutes and answer some of my questions.

Tell us a bit about yourself

I'm 26 years old and i live in Toronto, Canada. I was born in El Salvador and have been here in Canada for 18 years. I was a web designer before, but recently became a full time artist and that is what i do for a living now. My art is my main focus at this time of my life and i want to take it as far as possible.

When did you discover your talent

Well i have always been artistic, art was always my favorite subject in school and i was the one who did all the artistic things in group assignments. Its always been a part of my life but when i was studying in college i put down my pencil and dedicated myself to my studies. After i graduated i took it up again and i've been doing it ever since and i hope to keep it like that for a long time. I got my first taste of what is to be an artist when i was in high school. I entered a couple of pieces in the school art show and i sold two of my first paintings. It was a great feeling and from that moment i have loved art.

What inspires you

Art itself inspires me, to know that someone is able to create something out nothing is incredible to me. Each artist thinks and sees things differently making each art piece much more interesting. I want to create art that is unique and beautiful. In my case i love pencil and i believe that pencil doesn't get the recognition that it deserves. I want to show everyone what can be done when pencil it is used correctly. I have always been an animal lover and that is the reason why the majority of my subjects are animals. As you can see there are a couple of things that inspire me, but the most important reason is that i love what i do.

What dream do you have that hasn't been fulfilled yet

Well i consider myself a lucky person because i'm able to do something that i love. As for a dream, i hope to take my artwork as far as possible and on that journey be able to meet new people and learn new things. I hope to write a book with my artwork and teach what i have learned in my years as an artist.

Any advice for us fellow Etsyians

Do what you're doing, there is nothing more important than doing something that you love. If you're doing what you love to do then this will show in your what you're making. Keep growing as an artist and as a person, like they say 'if you're not growing, you're dying'. Improve your craft and don't stop doing it, that is the only way to take it to the next level. Well, i guess thats my advice :)

Hope you enjoyed meeting Lisandro, Please take a look at his work below. Can visit onlypencil here. If your interested in purchasing any of the items shown here. Just click the picture and it will take you directly to the listing.

Finally

2007-04-13T11:52:00.000-07:00

I made some ACEO's! Im really happy with how they came out! A huge thank you to Soap for having wonderful aceo card stock and sleeves!

Brant

The Red Dress

To see more, please click my Etsy link.

Promos

2007-04-02T23:08:00.000-07:00

I am currently looking for Etsyians to send me their promos for upcoming shows and to send to buyers from Etsy. Ive already begun to receive some, and I thank everyone who is participating. I hope that it brings you some exposure and sales! If anyone would like to send me some, please contact me.

Latest

2007-04-02T23:07:00.000-07:00

Camel

An Artist to Shout About

2007-03-20T09:49:00.000-07:00

MWilson

Mindy Wilson was kind enough to sit down with me virtually and answer a few questions.

Tell us a bit about yourself
I live in western Montana with my sweet hubby of nearly 22 years and our two children who are just so big days it kills me to think they'll be gone one day. I illustrate children's illustrations and create funky stationery products. More recently, I have developed a large series of prints called Morphans. I used hand drawn images, photos and graphic manipulation in creating them.

When did you first discover your talent
A clean piece of paper always gave me a thrill so I must have liked drawing at a very young age. But, it really wasn't until a few years ago that I learned I was capable of starting and finishing a project. That lesson was learned when I illustrated my first children's book project The Halloween Tree written by Tina Roark. Illustrating that story was one of the biggest gifts I gave myself. I really didn't know if I could do it and now I know that I can!

What inspires you
Being around more creative people, nature, my children always inspire me. I like being around people that make goals for themselves or that are also working on projects.

What dream do you have that hasnt been fulfilled yet
I want to work at HOME! That is where I want to be! Otherwise, I want to illustrate a children's book that shows up in every library.

Any advice for us fellow Etsyians?
This art-creation-thing that I do is a bit of an illness, I have to create, paint and draw. Though I have gotten down a bit when it seemed I was the only one that liked my work, it really never discouraged me. Just keep making what you love to make-I guess that's my advice!

Was a great pleasure talking with Mindy. To see more of Mindy's work please visit her Etsy shop .

Now to show off some of her work!

She doesn't just work with original art. She also does stationary, cards, prints, and personalized originals.

I will feature other Etsyians as well. I will contact you if Im wanting to feature you to get your permission.

Hope you enjoyed getting to know Mindy! I know I did!

What I Sent to a Local Gallery

2007-03-19T22:50:00.000-07:00

I havent heard back from them yet...keep your fingers crossed.

We Are Three

Trippy

Smile

Mantis

Rain On My Window

The Art of Melanie Sessions

2007-03-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

What to say about my art? Well its digital. hehe.

I start with a photograph, go into Image Ready and see where it takes me. Unless Im doing a custom order, or just really want to make something in particular, I never know what the outcome will be. And I love that.

This is what I made today.

Stalactites