Abide Studio

A New Season

2011-04-20T10:01:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I have the privilege of hosting a dozen or so emerging artists at the studio. The purpose is to share my experience and give advice for participating in art shows. This has prompted me to begin writing again. I have just returned from three weeks and three art festivals in Florida and experience continues to be a great teacher. Why should others make the same mistakes I have? So, here I will continue to discuss the elements of selling and showing art. I will also share new paintings, new insights, sometimes humorous, sometimes poignant, always a part of my heart and journey in the business called art. And since art so often imitates life, there may just be a few life lessons along the way. It's good to be back!

Primed, Ready, and Waiting

2010-08-13T14:41:00.000-07:00

The buses are rolling as another school year begins here in Middle Tennessee. I am reminded of all of the excitement and anticipation that a new year brought...along with the anxiety and questions. I feel that way looking at this baby grand top. It is primed (photo tomorrow) and ready for the next step. Now if I only knew for sure what that step actually is supposed to be! For me, this stage of the creative process is filled with anticipation, excitement, questions, and anxiety as I ponder whether to do this or that. Deciding on palette choices, texture, style, etc can be the most anxious moments of a piece. So, I'll leave with you with this... Sometimes the right thing to do is sit, stare, ponder and muse. I believe it is in rest when true inspiration shows up: in the quiet moments of life when we are primed and ready and waiting.....

Scratching the Surface

2010-08-11T05:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I finally began my Steinway Project: Encore! Recover the Sound. This is a joint fund raiser for the Steinway Scholarship Fund and The Arts Council of Williamson County. We artists of the area were offered a myriad of piano parts to choose from to create and recreate artistic masterpieces. My choice was the hinged lid of a black lacquer baby grand piano. It has been standing in my studio since April. Yesterday I finally began the process necessary for turning it into a piece of art: I sand papered the beautiful lacquered surface. It was painful! I began to ponder how many times the hand of God has had to use a little sand paper on me in order to create or recreate me into His masterpiece. Something to think about as we face difficult times and decisions...what are we being prepared for? Just around the corner could be a masterpiece!

How About Some Still Waters?

2010-08-09T12:57:00.000-07:00

This painting represents just what I need today....rest and recovery. It has been a long haul since I last wrote as we took to the highway and traveled to two art shows in Chicago, came home to out of town company, and a grant deadline for the Arts Council of Williamson County. Now normally, I love my full life with all of its diversity. However, there are times when juggling all of the hats that I wear can be a little exhausting. And isn't that where good art comes in? A place that we can linger and take a breath; a place where our heart rate can slow and we can take deep breaths of refreshing air. This piece (titled Still Waters) does not hang in my home, and in fact it will soon hang in the home of customers, but it symbolizes what I'm talking about. These two days off (my normal Sunday and Monday) have given me what I have needed for about a month now. Still waters and a restored soul. May you find a little in your day as well.

English Please

2010-07-14T10:46:00.001-07:00

Just a note to say that I love the world wide web, but I am limited to reading only in English. If you'd like me to read your comments, would you mind translating them please. Thanks!

The Rest of the Story

2010-07-14T10:34:00.001-07:00

A matter of time. A matter of timing. Recently I sold a painting to a customer who had first seen it (and fallen in love with it) a year ago. Meanwhile, most recently it had hung on my gallery wall at home and I had decided that it needed more work. So, I brought it in (it was time to rotate my gallery wall pieces anyway). The very day that I brought it back to the gallery/studio, the customer walked in. By the end of the day I had delivered it and sold it. And the piece in its new home didn't need anything else. Perfect timing!

Ribbon of Light

2010-07-14T10:29:00.000-07:00

This is the first piece birthed in my "less is more" season. It is a re-purposed canvas which had so much texture, that I added more to actually smooth the lines out. Paint added with palette knife, the brushed with a wet brush, then removed with a damp paper towel created the base from which the rest of the painting evolved. It feels like I should call this the phoenix collection since thus far all of the canvases used to be something else. Out of the fire, a phoenix arises. Hmmmm. Someone yesterday used the phrase "fire-bird" and I immediately saw a new painting. Can't wait to see what develops.

A Matter of Time

2010-07-12T14:01:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it is JUST a matter of time. Naturally that can be interpreted several ways as in if you have all the time to create imagine all of the painting you could get done. Or the reverse, if you had double the hours to put towards your business think of all the marketing ideas that you could complete. However, that was not what was in my mind when this phrase came to me the other day. Nor was it the point when another interesting thing happened in the gallery.

What was in my mind? I was painting, actually repainting a piece. This particular piece has gone through several transformations as I continued to see more and more clearly how to develop my vision for it. What I realized over the past several weeks was that the wrong part of the painting was pulling focus. So, back on the easel, paint brush in hand, pink became dark red, and spring green became dark olive. That allowed the bright center to shine...just where I want the viewer to concentrate. Stare at something long enough and in a matter of time, you'll know what needs to be done. Part 2 tomorrow as I share the rest of the story

What's it Worth?

2010-07-07T08:14:00.000-07:00

There are few questions an artist has to answer that are more difficult than "What is it worth?" Pricing work is on the surface of that discussion and is so personal and subjective it seems that no two artists approach the subject in the same way. I had an amazing experience Saturday night that totally bore that out.

I sold this painting. Awesome, right? And I would agree. The rest of the story is this...

I painted "Abiding Presence" four years ago specifically to hang in out home over the mantel in our great room which is sort of the center of the house. It is in my book "Heartbeat of God" which was sort of my way of sharing its story and had prints made (8x10 limited edition) to enable others to share in its beauty. The piece however is 40x60.

So, Saturday.... A woman comes into the gallery who had fallen in love with the painting from seeing it in the book at a mutual acquaintances place of ministry. The longer we talked and discussed artistic options, the more she came back to "Abiding Presence". Here's the point. It was clear at one point that I was to offer this piece for sale when in my heart it has always been a NFS (not for sale) piece. Was it about money? Absolutely not! Rather it was an answer to my heart's cry that my artwork would break through

Stop Thinking, Start Painting

2010-07-02T14:24:00.001-07:00

I love the question "What if?" In fact, I include it as part of my inspiration as I push boundaries and explore new territories at the easel. I also love to sit and ponder and meditate. It brings me closer to God, opens my spirit to the unusual, brings new perspectives and directions. However I have also discovered that thinking too much can deter me from inspiration and "What if?" can paralyze creativity if either is focused on the negative rather than the positive. "What if I don't get into this or that show?" "What if I don't sell anything?" "What if it rains all weekend for an art show?" Are just a few of the questions that the enemy of my soul wants me to dwell on.

This morning I caught myself going there so I did the thing that works best to silence the voice of doubt. I got up, got dressed, and got to the studio. Starbucks in hand, music playing, I began three new paintings. I stopped thinking about anything other than what I was doing and truly began to enjoy the process and the day.

Whatever your life medium, my advice is this: when you find yourself thinking too much, get up, get out, and get going to whatever it is you enjoy. You will find that the doing overtakes the thinking and you'll be on your way to feeling better.

What's Pulling your Focus?

2010-06-30T12:03:00.000-07:00

Okay, I won't be in the studio/gallery tomorrow so I wanted to write this today while it was fresh on my mind. " What's pulling your focus?" is a question I ask my students as they are completing a painting. It is a question that is meant to ensure that the focal point of a painting is in fact where the eye is being drawn. If anything else is competing with the focal point it is "pulling focus".

Lately, as I have been broadening the whole "less is more" idea to include my professional life, I have realized that there are those things in my work life that are pulling my focus away from what I feel I should be doing. Recently I have come to the end of the season of grace for a commitment I made and have followed through with for 4 years. It is time to release it. A good sign that it is time is I lack the passion and motivation I once had. I also find myself putting off what I should do for my career in order to fulfill the commitment.

It is good to evaluate our time commitments every so often. Sometimes we wake up to see that we're not looking at the focal point of our life; we are in fact focusing on and spending valuable time and energy on a distraction. Less is more. What are you focused on? I hope it is the true focal point of your life.

Free to Play

2010-06-30T05:57:00.000-07:00

Since I have a difficult time writing once I get to the gallery, here I am on my porch. The problem with that is that I have not taken the photo of the piece I want to speak of. I will try to do that when I get to work this morning. It is not so much the end result that matters as the journey to get there.

Freedom to experiment is what has been on my mind lately. Several weeks ago, when the transition to less is more began, I took about a dozen canvases and primed over them. Since much of my work is very textural, I needed to add modeling paste to the canvas to even out the surface of the design, but still left a highly textured support to work on. So last Saturday I took one of the canvases and began to paint. The point was simply to use up leftover paint from a creative expression workshop and play a little. What ensued was a process I am working to duplicate because I liked the effect so much. First applying texture to the canvas, then a thick layer of paint mixed with gel medium, then brushing it with a wet brush, then sponging off, and finally smoothing out areas with a palette knife. And that was just the background.

Here's my point. Give yourself freedom and time to simply play at your easel. The artist in all of us is a child and given too many adult responsibilities that child can become stifled. Explore, have fun, enjoy the reason you became an artist in the first place. You know what they say, "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy." It holds true even when you love doing what you do for a living. So have some fun today!

Part 2: Which voices to you listen to?

2010-06-28T06:59:00.000-07:00

The more I thought about my last post, the more I realized that it was only a part of the equation. Another part (not sure the equation is complete even with this part) asks the question, "Which voices do you listen to?" Now I'm not saying to exclusively surround yourself with those people who love and adore you, but I am saying know who is in your corner, hearing your true voice, and encouraging you on your path. In other words learn to recognize The Voice of Truth from wherever it comes. While at an art show (that ended with no sales by the way) a while back I was feeling a bit discouraged. Then a boy of about 10 walked up to my paintings and couldn't stop staring. He said to me as his mother called him away, "You are really good!" At that moment for me that was the voice of truth (as they say, out of the mouth of babes). You see for me it wasn't the source of the voice that mattered, but the message. My Creator knew that I needed encouragement for my own creating; so He sent a boy to pass on the message. Do I really believe that? Yes, I do!

We had the opportunity to experience something truly unique last night. The band Gungor played at Grace Chapel last night. Now there is a worship experience truly out of the box. Amazing! Check out their website, buy their cd Beautiful Things and see them live if you can. Breaking out of the box, following their true voice, no doubt about it. www.gungormusic.com

Finding Your Voice

2010-06-24T06:10:00.000-07:00

One of the main thing I tell emerging artists is that they must find their own style and create their own story. Some are even tired of hearing me talk about "a cohesive body of work". At the center of this advice is something that each artist must find: their own unique voice. Some will find they harmonize with the mainstream audience. Their art is "accessible" and easily fits in with today's decorating trends. Others will find their voice away from the crowd. Like the high pitch sound of a piccolo that rises above the sound of the symphony, or the deep base tones of the timpani/bass drum that undergirds the harmonies of other instruments, each style of art has its place.

This piece is called The Music of Embrace. Today it will remind me to embrace my place in the grand scheme of visual art. Whether you fly higher to explore the heavens, dig deep to discover the mysteries of the earth, or sing in harmony with your audience, may you too embrace the voice you've been given and sing it loud and clear.

Art and Flowers

2010-06-23T09:44:00.001-07:00

This is "Cotton Candy Memory". It is a painting inspired by my memories of sitting on a beach on Florida's west coast as a teen (yes, I had the privilege of living just an hour away from the beach through high school) watching the sunset with the boy who would become the man I married. A return to Florida's west coast for an art show precipitated the memory and painting earlier this year. This Friday it will serve (I hope!) as inspiration for a florist to create an arrangement which will then be offered as a silent auction item at the Art and Flowers event in Nashville. You can go to the event section of the website to get the details. Needless to say I think it will be a great night as 25 artists and florists are paired, food and wine flow, all serenaded by ALIAS Chamber Musicians. Maybe I'll see you there!

How Can You Let it Go?

2010-06-22T05:26:00.000-07:00

I am often asked how I can let paintings leave my studio. It is an interesting question. As an artist each piece is in fact an extension of my heart and my spirit. That is true. As a professional artist, each piece I create for my inventory is painted to bless someone else's heart and spirit. I am humbled and honored when a customer is willing to part with their hard earned money to purchase something I have created.

I am a mother of two adult boys. I delight when I see them doing what I know they were created to do. It is the same with my paintings. When the person for whom I created a painting takes it home, I know it is doing what it was created to do. In fact it fascinates me to see just who it was that I painted a given painting for. "Oh you're the one!" Is it difficult? No, it is a joy and a privilege. Thank you to all of you who have given me such delight as you have carried a painting out of the studio/gallery/tent. May it bless your heart and spirit!

Transitions

2010-06-21T07:16:00.000-07:00

This morning I have been thinking about my hair of all things. I am going through what they call "transition" as I let my natural (silver) color grow out without coloring it. Right now I am beginning to look a little "skunky" as that silver line along the part becomes more apparent. Like my hair, so my artistic expression and my life in general. I realized that although I am excited and anticipate my new look, I also am impatient to get to the end of the process. Yet, every now and then I catch a glimpse of what is to come.
My paintings are in the same mode as I transition from "creating inventory" to being more deliberate about my inspiration for each piece and carefully develop every inch of every canvas. I have glimpses of what the whole collection will be like as I can point to several pieces and know they fit the bill. But I also need to wait until the inventory turns over to see an entire collection of newly inspired paintings.
Interesting that what we in the general public call "roots" as our hair grows, stylists and professionals call "new growth or regrowth". I like that. Look to your new growth to see where you are heading and you might just catch a snapshot of your future. Happy transitioning!

A New Song

2010-06-19T10:45:00.001-07:00

New songs have unknown harmonies and never before heard melodies. It can be a challenge to break out of the box of conformity and preconceived notions to "sing a new song". I found that to be particularly true as I began to paint this piece. The overall image had come to my mind's eye while in quiet meditation about Psalm 33. My mind's ear heard "Sing to the Lord a new song. Let all the earth break forth in singing." I saw the image of the rocks breaking and cracking as new shoots rose to glorify God. Then, in the midst of the painting I hit a roadblock; what I saw in my mind was not translating effortlessly on the canvas. I was forced to retrace my steps, pause and ponder how to proceed. As I sat at the easel and worked things out I heard a whisper, "You're singing a NEW song; it will be a challenge".

Yes, new songs are a challenge, but if we are to grow and keep learning there will always be new melodies to learn and new harmonies to recognize. May your day be filled with fresh sounds!

Less is More

2010-06-17T09:34:00.001-07:00

Less is more; that is a concept I have been pondering ever since I returned from an art festival in Louisville last month. Since that time I have taken a good long look at each and every painting in my inventory and have even "repurposed" nearly a dozen canvases. That means I primed over them and they are ready for new paintings. Anything that did not meet my current level of expertise and vision was gessoed over. Amazing how liberating that was. I have decided that I am going to be more purposeful with my work, creating only those pieces that I am truly inspired to paint. The task can be daunting when you are in the art business, but I believe the universe will smile because I believe the heart message will be more noticeable in each painting. There you have it. Less is more...unless you are talking about keeping up to date with a blog, to which I am rededicated. Just ahead: turning the top of a Steinway baby grand piano into a piece of art, hitting the road again...this time to Chicago, and getting the word out there that I'm available for speaking engagements. Until tomorrow....

Studio or Factory?

2009-12-04T08:13:00.000-08:00

There is an inherent dilemma that artists face if they become commercially successful (ie. they are selling consistent!). I know as I have prepared for this Christmas season in a retail environment I have been very aware of what has sold, what might sell, etc. Whenever we prepare for an event or a show it is the same. The question I face in the midst of all of that is "Am I motivated to paint this or that, not because I have successfully sold it, but because it comes from my heart?" You see, I learned my line of demarcation on that score years ago. Every artist who sells their work faces that question and must place that line in place. And every artist has a differing placement of that line. I certainly have pieces that are more product oriented like these little angels, but somehow, perhaps quite miraculously, they still come from a place in my heart. Perhaps that's why they touch others. It's a heart to heart connection. I like that...

Getting Started

2009-11-29T08:13:00.000-08:00

I am often asked if I know what I'm going to paint when I begin a painting. There are times when I get my inspiration from a photo, but most often I paint what is in my heart, mind, and spirit whether it be a landscape or a non-objective abstract. Those are times when a blank canvas can be very intimidating. Where do I start? With a paint color or palette that inspires me at the moment. With that laid out, mixed with gel medium, palette knife in hand, I begin. At times I am amazed at what flows out onto the canvas. Easy at times, more concentrated at others, beginning is the most important thing. The vision comes as if the painting itself is showing me the direction to take.

Have you ever watched the Food Network show "Chopped"? Professional chefs are given a basket of very unrelated foods and asked (with a stop watch going!) to create a dish using all of the ingredients. I have watched as some chefs have a complete knowledge of what they are going to do from the get go while others don't have a clue. But what I have seen is that inevitably the ones who don't know, begin the process: they slice, carve, crush, etc. until the idea forms.

Same process, different expression. I wonder how often in life we just need the courage to begin and allow the vision to come to us in the midst of the process. Worth pondering while I paint today....

Between Here and There

2009-11-27T06:10:00.000-08:00

I have pondered quite a bit lately on the business of art. The difference between owning a retail shop/gallery and being the artist behind most of the work in the gallery. The marketing of art seems to have a few standards that don't necessarily fit the retail model. But here's the thing I've come to. As an artist, I believe my job is to communicate what is in my heart and vision to the canvas and ultimately to the viewer/collector/customer. Getting the message out beyond the walls of the gallery has become my motivator and underlying mission to any business plan. We (my husband and I) are working to shift our paradigm and get out of the box when it comes to this business we are in. Stay tuned for new developments. For the first time ever I am offering my customers a drastic discount on art this weekend. We are working on a new program we call Artful Access. We are preparing to re-engineer the gallery. We aren't there yet, but we're on our way.

Kind of like the place that inspired this painting. It literally was in the midst of the mountains between the desert of Redding, CA and the coastal town of Trinidad, CA.

Pulling out all the Stops

2009-10-31T12:32:00.000-07:00

My eyes are positively blurry from all of the computer work I have done this week. I am doing all I can to get my work out there (or should I say here?) on the internet. You can now go to my shop at www.deborahgallart.etsy.com, order prints on demand from www.fineartamerica.com/profiles/abide-studio.html, become a fan of Deborah Gall Art on facebook, or follow me on www.twitter.com/abidestudio. Soon there will bargains to be had on EBay. I'm exhausted just thinking about it! It has been challenging and fun, and I hope will help spread the word and the art. Sometimes ya just gotta try.....

Rejected, Selected, or Directed?

2009-10-26T15:00:00.000-07:00

Being a professional artist is risky business I have come to understand. Being a professional artist with a retail setting even more so. Every time I submit a piece or pieces for an exhibit or show I am opening myself up for rejection. It's actually quite common, those rejections. I have recently decided however that I was not the object of rejection, my work was just not selected. That is a subtle yet all important difference. One is about me, my heart, my self-confidence, etc. The other is about the work and the juror; it is about the wrong fit, not bad work. The other day at the gallery a person (can't call him a customer or a gentleman really since he was neither) spoke out quite loudly against a painting I had on an easel just outside of the shop. Insensitive. Rude. Both describe the comment he made. Further consideration showed me Uninformed would be another valid word. Again, not a valid commentary on me or on the work, but in this case a reflection of the speaker.

So, I have decided that I will take these "bumps along the road" as direction. Protection not rejection. And along the way I'll pat myself on the back for once again risking it, trying something new, and putting myself out there. So I'll keep the faith, stay the course, and do it all over again.....

Interwoven

2009-10-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

This morning was a monthly Christian business women's networking breakfast. I am not accustomed to getting anywhere by 7:30 am these days, but once a month it is absolutely worth it. On my drive up to Brentwood this morning I realized that although I have gotten business from this group there is something more important to me. It's just nice to know that I'm not walking this journey alone. My regular customers help me along the way as well as friends and family, but I have also discovered the benefit of being intentional about gathering with this group who all share the same basic business philosophy: to God be the glory! Made me think of this painting, one of Angles, Lines, and Curves collection. It's titled "Interwoven" and although the lines don't necessarily follow all way across the canvas, I find that interesting. Kind of like life's relationships: for a reason, for a season, or for a lifetime...

The Sky's the Limit

2009-10-02T15:35:00.001-07:00

It has been a tough year in the art business. There is evidence of that all around me. I have decided however that I can concentrate on lack (of traffic, of sales, of interest, etc) OR I can focus on the future. With that the perspective I believe the sky really is the limit in terms of turn around and increase (of traffic, of sales, and of interest). And that is always true in terms of growth and increase of creativity. There is life to be enjoyed if we simply look and anticipate it. So my perspective of late has been, "What today?" Which painting do I work on? Who will I encounter? Where will i find a new lead or idea? What new technique would I like to explore? You get the point.
This piece is called "The Sky's the Limit" It is 30x40. $1350

Repurposing

2009-08-29T09:57:00.000-07:00

Is that a word? About a month ago I decided I was tired of looking at a few paintings and put hang tags on them with great discounts. And they're still here. So, in the spirit of "Living Green" (there's an expo with that title going on at The Factory today) I decided that I would simply redo the skies and add a few highlights on a couple of paintings. It helps my creative juices flow, recycles paintings, and gives them a fresh look that I'm not tired of looking at. I call that a win-win situation!
Rushing Waters before is to the left. Rushing Waters after is to the right. 16x20 $400

Dance Anyway

2009-08-18T09:01:00.000-07:00

Today I will close the studio early to attend a memorial service of a young man who died suddenly in a car accident last week. It's been a difficult week as we stood believing for a miracle and then heard the word that he had died. How do you find joy in the midst of that situation except to stand on the Rock of our Salvation? There is a passage in Isaiah that tells us that the Lord turns our mourning into dancing. I think it's the only way. This life is full of storms so it is imperative that we learn to dance anyway. To learn to dance in the midst of the storm is truly miraculous. Thanks be to God that He holds the key and gives it to His children. Shall we dance?

"Dance!" 18x18 $375

Different Perspective

2009-08-04T13:59:00.000-07:00

Yeah, yeah, I know it has been a very long while since I've written...and I apologize and pledge to stay on top of things. It is interesting how a month or so can change your perspective on things...kind of like this painting vs the previous Redwood painting. I am fascinated by people's reactions to these two pieces in the gallery. Each has its own unique message and energy level and I find myself being drawn to one or the other depending upon my mood and energy level on a given day. Interesting. Being the ponderer that I am, it also interests me to see how one month later I am looking ahead with different lenses. Moving forward in the journey of life does that. Suddenly you have rounded a bend and the horizon looks different than it did just the other day. So, this being the month of new beginnings I wonder where the next bend in the road will take me. Wherever it is, you can be sure I'll still be painting! Until next time....peace for the journey and vision for the future be yours.

It's taken awhile...

2009-06-20T14:31:00.000-07:00

So interesting that my last blog spoke about painting majesty. Last Saturday I began this painting titled "A Road Less Traveled". It measures 24x48 and in fact in person it does a pretty good job of communicating the majesty of these incredible trees. At least that's what my artist's heart felt as I worked on it. It really was an exercise in worship of the Creator. A joy filled and very fulfilling experience. May we always approach the canvas with a sense of wonder and amazement. I believe it unlocks the creative process in a deeper and unique way. Today a friend commented that in fact I had to go down the road less traveled in order to be able to paint this piece. Guess that happens when we step up to a new level of operation; it feels strange and bit foreign. Eventually we adjust to the view and the new perspective...that is until it is time to step up again.

Inspiration

2009-05-23T07:26:00.000-07:00

Here's the question. How do you paint majesty? Over the past week, I have witnessed amazing landscapes, terrain, and vistas. Desert, mountains, ocean coast, giant redwoods, rolling hills, and now vineyards rising on every hilltop. We have taken over 200 photos (thank goodness for digital cameras). I don't paint from a photograph usually so why the photos? To remember is the obvious answer and that is truth. But also to study. How do light and shadow work together to communicate to the eye the shape of a hill? Where do lines converge to give scale to these giants of creation? How do colors fade or brighten as the horizon fades or waves lap the sand?
Can't wait to get back to the studio and explore the possibilities.

From California

2009-05-23T07:04:00.000-07:00

Greetings! I have been in California now for several days. As I woke this morning I realized that I wanted to share an experience of a couple of days ago. We were in Redding earlier in the week, surrounded by mountains and it was time to head west to the coast and the redwoods. No quick way to get there. One must traverse the mountains in order to get to the ocean. So we did. It was beautiful. So here's the thing. I have never been to that part of California but as we traveled from Redding to Trinidad I kept repeating "This is amazing! I've never been here, but I've painted it!" I've had others tell me that I have painted a place I've never been, but I've never experienced that for myself. The Creator whispered something in my ear, inspired me to paint, and brought to canvas something I've never seen with my eyes. As an abstract artist that's more understandable. That He would bring to my vision a specific place? All I can say is "Wow!"

Muti-Faceted

2009-05-08T07:13:00.000-07:00

This morning I have been struck by the multi-faceted nature an artist in business must have in order to succeed. Yes, there's the obvious right brain/left brain, creative/business contrast. More than that however, in today's economy I see artists all around me pulling out the stops to stay in the business of art. Whether it is developing new ideas, new products, or new venues for exhibition, I am amazed at the creative thinkers that surround me. It is what keeps us going I think: creative exploration. When artists take their creativity off of the canvas so to speak and apply it to marketing, sales, scheduling, product development, etc. it is fun to watch. It is why I love being a part of an artistic community where ideas are tossed out, shared, and hands reach out to help. It is what community is all about.

This piece is called "Brilliance" it is 18x36 and sells for $850. As a part of my multi-faceted approach I am submitting it for an exhibit, so it's "on hold" until I hear whether it has been accepted. I keep ya posted!

New Work

2009-04-16T14:42:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, it's been awhile. I have been having problems with my shoulder. It doesn't like it when I spend much time at the computer/internet or if I overdo it at the easel. Not a good combination for an artist in business! I am however learning to overcome and have indeed worked on new paintings that I believe are the beginnings to whole new collections. This one is part of an abstract series (that can only be seen in my head at this point) called "Castles in the Air". It is 24 inches square (available for $525). What I see in the series are 18 inch square canvases each focusing on a different color. To be hung together or separately. I gotta say, it must be the spring season, but I am having a great time exploring new images to express on canvas. Several have been a matter of revisiting something I may have interpreted in fiber years ago. Renewal. Regeneration. Or is it that there is nothing new under the sun? Don't know but meanwhile I'm having fun! Visit the website. I just added nearly 20 new pieces to the New Work page with more tomorrow. Enjoy!

Musings at the End of the Month

2009-03-31T15:45:00.000-07:00

Wow! March is already past, April is upon us and that's no fooling! This has been a whirlwind week as I connected with a new gallery in Bowling Green, Kentucky and took a collection of work to them yesterday. The gallery is The Gallery at 916. It is at 916 State Street for any of you who may be in those parts and I highly recommend a visit. Not just to see my work, but all of the other fine artists represented there.
This is one of those art business messages. It is a tough economy right now. There is no doubt about it. And I am truly grateful for the customers out there that continue to support the arts through these times. Thank you on behalf of all artists and small businesses out there! For those of you who are artists, let me encourage you to use this time to explore new things. Whether it is a new venue for your art (shows, galleries, exhibits, etc) or you use this time as research and development time to explore new techniques, new media, new ideas, make good use of the time.
Let me encourage you, better times are ahead. Don't know when, but I know this is a season to persevere in the things we have been called to do. Eventually the storm passes and a new day dawns complete with sunshine.

Do Overs

2009-03-20T08:50:00.000-07:00

About a month ago I began working on a painting. I loved it at first, then as I "developed" areas of it I felt like it was not ending where I wanted it to. So I did the drastic thing and took my gesso and painted over the area I wasn't happy with (which happened to be smack in the middle of the piece). Last Saturday I took the canvas out and knew what I wanted to do with the center. As I shared the story with my son Jesse (graduate student in creative writing) I used the term gesso as a verb and he was really struck by it. I "gessoed" over the part I wasn't happy with. Now whether or not it is grammatically correct, it is a very descriptive word to us artists. Gesso is a primer that is extremely opaque, so when it is used what is beneath is truly covered. Of course that got me thinking about life. Wouldn't ya just love to gesso over things occasionally? Sometimes life imitates art...and we are given a chance for a "do over". That's when lessons are learned and the masterpiece of life is perfected.
The painting? It's almost done. I'll share it soon.

On being stretched

2009-03-12T14:00:00.000-07:00

Today I am fine tuning and preparing for a presentation in the morning. I am always surprised (don't know why) when my life so closely parallels a word I am speaking or writing about. The topic tomorrow is basically the analogy of how we artists stretch a canvas and how we are sometimes stretched by life circumstances. I have come to realize it takes strong support, perfect alignment, and a relaxed attitude to not only handle, but grow from what life throws at us at times. Not unlike a good canvas is it? Strong support: to hold up under the stress of fabric being stretched, the weight of paint or other media. Perfect alignment: of the canvas so that it doesn't sag in the midst of a masterpiece, of the support so that it hangs beautifully on the wall. A relaxed attitude: like a moistened canvas that more easily allows it to be stretched and stapled in place. So, I'm surrendered to the Master Artist's hand as He stretches me to receive more and do more for Him.
This painting is titled "Just Beyond". It is 18 x 36 and is a reminder to me that nothing lasts forever and there is always a clear day just beyond the storm. It retails for $750.

Landfill Art

2009-03-07T11:20:00.000-08:00

No, I haven't fallen off the edge of the earth, just buried with admin stuff. Oh the joy of being a gallery owner, landlord, and artist! Anyway, we had a great turn out for our art event last night and I am encouraged. I know that runs contrary to popular attitude, but I just believe there is business to be had even in these economic times.

So, one of the things I have spent my time doing is painting and presenting a display of re-created hubcaps. All of the artists at The Row @ The Factory participated as well as my friend Becky Gholston whose work I sell here in the gallery. I must commend Ken Marquis for his insight and effort to go to the landfills and recover the collection of hubcaps. His international efforts can be seen at www.landfillart.org. Meanwhile enjoy. It's titled "One Fine Day"

I'm Back!

2009-02-18T12:32:00.001-08:00

Sorry for the delay on postings. We had a death in the family which meant an unexpected week long trip out of state. Makes me think of all the unexpected things in our lives that take us to other states of mind. Certainly when dealing with the crises in our lives it is more difficult to allow the creativity to flow. However, upon return to the studio I have reached for my paints (in all my favorite colors and palettes) and have been restored as I have spread paint across multiple canvases. But more on that later.
For now I wanted to share the finished piece "Hope". It was an interesting journey as I first was led to paint the darkness of the background before layering the light which represents hope. We see hope more clearly when it is set against a background of grief, concern, discouragement. But even as I painted the background, I knew in my knower that the light and shine of hope would be applied to the canvas and that gave me the confidence to also know in my knower that there was hope for my situation as well.
"Hope" 10 x 30 $300

Oasis

2009-01-28T14:34:00.000-08:00

As artists we occasionally paint what we hope for. Recently I was moaning to someone about January (lack of) sales and the friend suggested that I do a painting about hope. Hmmm, good idea...and I have begun a series today: Faith, Hope, Love. We'll see where it goes.
Meanwhile, this is a recent painting. Another friend told me it transported her to a place where having been walking in the desert for a while, "life" was seen. Oasis: "a fertile or green spot in a desert". That's what the dictionary says. My heart says "refreshment, rest, restoration, refueling for the journey ahead". So, if you find yourself in the midst of the January blahs or anxious about the year ahead, rest awhile under the shade of the trees, breathe in the cool evening breezes, and sip on a long sweet sip of refreshment. Isn't that what art is all about? Giving pause in the midst of the chaos in order to refresh, restore, and refuel for the rest of the journey. Ahhh yes...I think so.
"Oasis" is available from the website under New Work or from the studio. It measures 30" square including frame (painting is 24" square) and sells for $600.

Wine and art; Art and wine

2009-01-20T08:40:00.000-08:00

I just added this piece to the website and sent out a "Heartbeat of God" message regarding it. It got me thinking about all of the descriptions used for wine: "hints of cinnamon" "a peppery finish" "subtle blackberry flavor" etc. But wine is made of grapes!!! I have learned that those flavors come from the environment in which the vine grows. Hmmm. So many people ask me where the images I paint come from. My response is often "from a lifetime of input". As artists everything we see goes into this wonderful brain we possess, it then mixes with the air of experience, is rooted in the heart, stirred with the wind of creativity, until ultimately it ends up on canvas. The result: artistic expression that has hints of this, flavored by that, with a unique finish. etc. Aged properly fine art like fine wine will blend the uniqueness of the artist with their particular season and experience in life to produce art with a distinctive flavor to be enjoyed. There's freedom in that!
If you'd like to learn more about "The Heartbeat of God" message, email me at deborah@deborahgall.com and I'll tell you more. The painting is "Fruitful"; it is 10x30; retails for $300; available online in the New Work category or at the studio.
Cheers!

New Year/New Goals

2009-01-13T06:24:00.000-08:00

For the first time in well...ever!..we have designated two days to do nothing but envision the year ahead. I must admit that there are times I'm more comfortable to fly by the seat of my pants than to plan, set goals, etc. I have recognized however the importance of formalizing (as in write down!) specific goals. Here are a few thoughts for the process if you choose to join me in this endeavor.
The first step is to re-identify who you are. Allow plenty of time to ponder this, not assuming that you are the same person you were a year ago, a month ago, or even yesterday. Where are you going professionally, personally, creatively? What is your life message? Allow creativity to flow concerning the future. The discoveries are amazing! And something fairly insignificant can change the trajectory of your journey until you end up in a completely different place.
Then there's the matter of the self-fulfilling prophecy. We become what we speak. Studies have shown that those who formalize their goals are more successful at achieving them. So, what is it that you want to happen in 2009? Wow! That question brings up all kinds of thoughts and ideas doesn't it? Write your list...don't worry about how long it is! Then go back and prioritize.
What I know is that after spending time to do some of this brainstorming for the future I am more secure in who I am, my purpose in life, and where I want to go. I may not end up where I think I will, but that's what makes life such an adventure isn't it? Can't wait.

Finished

2009-01-05T15:13:00.000-08:00

The painting and the year! Thought I'd share the completed painting that was in progress a couple of posts ago. The piece currently hangs in my home which means it will not be available through the website. I will have a print made of it however.
So, year end. Not a business minded artist's favorite time of year as inventory has to be taken and reconciled, sales and expenses totaled and analyzed, etc.. It is however a great time to thank those who supported the art and the artist. The final tally for 2008 was better than I ever expected in light of the national economic situation. Thank you! I appreciate you! Now I'm looking forward to 2009 and new pieces are getting finished and added to the gallery. Watch the NEW WORK page on the site for updates to the inventory. Or if you're in the Nashville area, stop by for a visit. Happy New Year!

Musings

2008-12-27T08:47:00.000-08:00

Being an artist in a retail environment is always interesting. I understand that a person walking into the gallery would not automatically know that I am the creator of the works they are viewing. However, it is amazing how casually people speak out their personal likes and dislikes without consideration. This holds true for art shows as well. Yesterday it was quite blunt "I don't like that one or that one." Then the inevitable "Are you Deborah?" and the chagrined look and back pedaling. It has triggered musings about the push/pull of emotions that we artists must live with. In order to survive in this environment one must develop a bit of a thick skin. Comments like "I could do that" or "Look at that price!" or whatever are more than common. On the other hand it takes a soft heart and an ability to reflect upon life to open the door for creativity. So, we learn (or keep trying to learn) to not take comments personally, laugh about it, think about that book of customer comments all artists dream about writing, and move on back to the easel.

In Progress

2008-12-22T06:05:00.000-08:00

Thought I'd share something I'm working on. This is a large piece: 48x48. It feels great to be working large after focusing on smaller Christmas season items for a while. What you see here is the first layer of paint. Several more layers will follow bringing definition and detail, highlights and lowlights, additional texture and all 'round finish to the painting. Kind of like life isn't it? We start with who we are in our most basic sense, and as life moves forward we experience that which brings greater definition and depth through the highlights and lowlights of life. In that experience we gain greater texture, depth, and all 'round finish to our lives. Hmmmm.

Sold

2008-12-15T06:12:00.000-08:00

This painting went to a new home yesterday. As I moved it from the available section of the website to the Sold Gallery,I was reminded of the question I am asked so often. "How do you part with something you have put your heart into?" And "Time of Reflecting" is a good one to consider as it did have special meaning to me (a memory of a family trip on a houseboat on Lake Powell in Utah.) The answer to the question is this. As a professional artist, everything I paint is meant to be enjoyed by someone else. It's purpose is to bless (I hope) another house and speak to other people. Therefore it gives me great pleasure when it is "released to its destiny" so to speak. It brings joy to see something I have had a hand in creating be what it was created to be. And I must admit, I am honored when others think highly enough of my work to part with their hard earned money to enjoy it in their homes. So I'm on to the next piece, got a "hole" to fill on the wall.

Just Keep Painting

2008-12-13T15:29:00.000-08:00

Let me just say I am opposed to the term "starving artist". I intentionally do not use the phrase because I believe in the self-fulfilling prophecy that suggests that we become what we speak. I believe one of the keys to being a successful artist and running a successful business is diversification. In addition to painting, I teach, speak, write, etc.. I try to follow design trends so that I can offer my customers advice when asked to serve as an "art consultant". Here at the gallery, by representing other artists we give our customers a variety of purchasing choices. Today, being a Saturday in December I certainly sold my share of jewelry to customers who were not looking for art. Different income streams is how I present the concept to artists I speak to. Diversify your product line: yes, diversify your sources of income: absolutely, but never, never give up your first love. Just keep painting.... With that I think I'll make my way to the easel...

To Frame or Not to Frame

2008-12-10T13:02:00.000-08:00

That is always a question for an artist in the retail environment. Here at the gallery I try to offer my customers choice. I frame many of my smaller pieces (11x14 or smaller) but I seldom frame my larger pieces. I find that although many people prefer a framed painting, there are just as many who do not. I am often asked my opinion. I suggest the client consider a few things. First of course is personal taste: some people feel strongly one way or the other. Second, what type of piece are you considering? Many abstract paintings do not look as good if they are confined within a frame. And conversely many landscapes look more finished with framework surrounding them. Third, what does your space look like? Framing makes a great way to give more presence to a painting but would it cause it to be overpowering? Fourth, what color are your walls? With the deep rich tones we are using on our walls these days there are times that the wall itself serves to frame the piece. I give my customers choice by using "gallery wrap" canvasses. These are the canvasses which are stapled on the back thus allowing a painted edge. From a gallery owner perspective, it allows my customers to decide not only if they want something framed but it also keeps me from having to guess what style of frame would fit the perspective buyer's decor. It's a win/win situation.
So yes, I have spent the last day or so getting some of my smaller pieces framed. The name of the piece shown is "Under a Golden Sky". It measures 6x12 unframed and 13x19 framed. Sells for $165 and is available from the website.

Another week gone by

2008-12-06T15:02:00.001-08:00

Can't quite believe it has been over a week since I last posted anything. But then it has been a very busy week of doing the business of art (not the painting of that I'd like to be doing). We had our annual Christmas open house on Friday night and Saturday. Our fifth. That in itself seems unbelievable to me. We sure have come a long way in five years. Last year saw the move to my new space/storefront which allowed us to carry more than my work and begin the process of building a studio/gallery. The photo shows the variety of gift ideas we currently carry. Art makes a great gift you know! It is something totally unique and personal. I am always happy to do special orders, so if you have an idea for one of my pieces for someone on your list, just let me know. It's not too late!

Prints...

2008-11-28T13:58:00.000-08:00

Recently I made the decision to publish limited edition prints of some of my favorite paintings. Now I love original art and there's nothing quite like the original. The question has been raised if prints dilute the value of the original. I would suggest just the opposite viewpoint; when the "demand" for a particular painting increases, the original becomes more valuable. Offering prints gives me the artist the chance to offer the same art at different price points. It also allows me to offer work that is otherwise not available. As an artist that gives me great joy. The piece here is called "Abiding Presence". The original is 40x60 and hangs in my living room (not for sale). The print however is for sale and is available from the web site or in the studio (8x10 prints are matted to 11x14 and retail for $48). Check out the site for the other eight titles that are available.

Giving thanks

2008-11-26T13:09:00.000-08:00

The afternoon before Thanksgiving is usually a pretty quiet time here at The Factory. Today has been no exception. I just had a customer who is a musician. She and I were comparing notes (no pun intended) on our professions which prompted me to ponder. Being a successful professional artist is one of my "biggies" when it comes to giving thanks. I get to come to work and do what I love to do. And working full time at my art has not spoiled the love I have for it. Another big "Thank you!" Then there's the people who make it possible: friends, family, and customers who support and encourage me on the journey. To you I say "Thank you!" Oh so much to be thankful for. Let's agree to not get caught up in the negatives of the day, but to remember and give thanks for all of the positives. May you and yours be blessed this Thanksgiving Day.

Week's End

2008-11-22T14:52:00.000-08:00

Kind of interesting how things like the economy can bring about new creative projects. I have just started painting these smaller pieces. They are a 5 x 7 format and framed with chunky dark frames. The combination makes a great looking splash of color and art for the nook-like spaces in our homes. This particular one is called "Singular". It retails for $100 as do all of the 5 x 7 pieces. Check out the web site's "New Work" page to see the three that I currently have in stock. There are more in progress which should be available next week. Until then, may the Lord bless you and keep you.

The Color of Embrace

2008-11-20T15:48:00.000-08:00

I must admit this is truly exciting. The shipment of the cocktail table style book of my art and verse that we've been working on arrived yesterday. It is now available through the website or directly from blurb.com. The link below will allow you to preview the first 15 pages. Three great ways to purchase: from the publisher, from my website, or from the studio. I must thank my husband Rick for all of the hours he has put into this project. The book is high quality, 40 pages of original art and verse, 13" x 11" and sells for $67.

The Color of E...

Original art and v...

By Deborah Gall

Book Preview

Angelic

2008-11-19T13:29:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy week at the studio so far. Today is angel day as I sit down to create a "multitude of hosts" so to speak. Just getting ready for the holiday season. My angels seem to have a mission of their own somehow not related to art sales. Funny, that... Anyway I always marvel how they are each unique. These angels are sculpted with modeling paste (which is what I'm doing today) and painted (tomorrow's task) and framed in easel back frames (4x6 and 5x7). By the time they are sitting on the shelves ready for their new owners to walk in the door, they have each taken on a wonderfully unique personality. Some look as if they are in flight, some have the look of protector, and others appear ready to wrap someone in their wings. It is one of those delights of being an artist, surprises that come along the way as the art takes on its own personality.

Devotional Books Available

2008-11-14T09:10:00.000-08:00

Below you will find the link to preview and purchase my newly published devotional book of art and word. We have it here in the studio or it can be ordered directly from the publisher. The link allows you to preview the first 15 pages of the book before making a buying decision. Paperback is $20. Hardcover is $30. I have to say it is an amazing thing as an artist and writer to see my work in print. Kind of surreal actually. The process of writing and formatting even this little book was grueling at times. In the end though, it is most rewarding, particularly when people purchase it! Let me know what ya think.

2008-11-14T09:03:00.000-08:00

Heartbeat of God

...expressing God'...

By Deborah Gall

Book Preview

New Beginnings

2008-11-13T12:59:00.000-08:00

It seems there is always something new to learn. Thank goodness! It keeps my outlook fresh which is always good as an artist. Today it is this. A journal of sorts of my artistic journey. Here I hope to preview work as it unfolds on the canvas, share work that might not make it on to the virtual gallery, and in general just talk about life in the art biz. I don’t promise daily entries, but I do hope to be posting something several times a week. Keep coming back…I promise to get better at this.