Lend Me Your Eyes: Abstract Paintings Art Blog

Saturday, January 30, 2010 / Labels: artist interview, featured artist, photography

Interview with photographer Sebastian Musial

Stairway (Photograph by Sebastian Musial)

Sebastian Musial: Photographer, husband, and new father. Sebastian has been married to his lovely wife Agata for over two years and they recently had their baby boy Gilbert who was born on November 20th 2009.

Tell me about your work and influences.

I love to travel and take pictures of nature, architecture, and people. These things have always interested me and are always great subjects to photograph. I have been very lucky to travel quite a bit around the world. I think the biggest impact on my photography came from my travels. I always want to document the things I see on my vacations which is how I got involved with the art of photography. I'm also a geek who loves technology which also inspired me to want to learn more about photography from a technical perspective.

Tell me about your relationship with your father, how it shaped you as a father and artist.

I have a great relationship with my father; however he has no educational background related to art. Like myself, he is an engineer. When I think about my father, I think that I picked up his sense of humor and an easy way of living life. As far as the parenting goes, I'm not sure yet. I'm still very new to this.

What activities do you enjoy with your new son?

Since our son is only 3 weeks old, the only way he participates in my art is when I'm taking pictures of him and my wife. We will have to wait for some time before he gets to participate in any other activity besides sleeping, eating, and soiling the diaper. When he gets older, I will get Gilbert a small digital camera so he can take pictures with me when we go to a zoo or a botanical garden.

How do you balance family, art, and making a living? Any advice on this subject?

The first month was a little crazy. It still is! I'm trying to adjust to a new schedule, so the verdict is still out on that.

Curve (Photograph by Sebastian Musial)

How has the current economy affected you as a father/artist?

I have been fortunate to have a good paying job and have never relied on my art as the only source of income. I also do wedding photography to subsidize my income and to invest in photographic equipment. I do worry much more about what would happen to our family if I would lose my job, then I have in the past. Having a son has definitely affected my outlook on life.

How has your lifestyle changed since becoming a father?

Less sleep. I always want to get out of work early to see my son. Weekends aren't about what my wife and I are going to do anymore, but what is our son going to do. We also have to plan a lot more if we want to leave the house for anything. We have to make decisions like if we can bring our son with us, or if we need to call a baby sitter. Life became more complicated, but it is all worth it!

What movies,TV, shows, books, games do you enjoy with your family and recommend?

I recently watched the movie “Food Inc”. I highly recommend it.

Mom + Dad + Baby = JOY!

If you would like to see more of Sebastian's amazing photography and maybe even buy a print or two, please visit his online art gallery here.

Those of you who enjoyed this post should definitely take a look at these!

More Featured Artists

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Oh Axel! How you make me swoon so! Take me away to that special place.

Fans Have Spoken! (1) / Read More

Saturday, January 9, 2010 / Labels: abstract art, acrylic painting on wood, inspirational, surrealism

A More Perfect Union

Hopefully, Tarantino will see this and consider me for the role of Mr. Red in his sequel to Reservoir Dogs. (Don't give me that look! The rose was not optional!)

Happy New Year, tigers! A new year begins and with it, an opportunity to form a more perfect union. As citizens of this big messy world, we all share social responsibility. So what the fudge am I talking about? Well, I define social responsibility simply as a willingness to help your fellow man/woman. It can be something as simple as helping an elderly woman cross a busy street, or donating food and clothing.

But I believe that we, as artists, have a particular obligation to our society. As painters, photographers, sculptors, musicians, writers, we all have the unique burden of having to reveal what has been hidden, ignored and the sometimes ugly truths that surround us. We also have a responsibility to remind everyone that there is still a lot of good in this world.

With each creation, we say to the world: This is beauty. This is life. This is what it means to be human. Greed will not define us. Nor will hate. Neither will violence nor the use of it to silence the cries of wounded nations.

The Burden of the Gods

48 inches by 48 inches, acrylic abstract wood painting for $450

Click here to buy a fine art print for $22

Our creations speak volumes about not only ourselves, but our collective aspirations for expression, communication, and freedom. Our character resides in each brushstroke we make, each word we write, each note we play. And our individual character is reflective of our society as a whole.

When you create a work of art, you are contributing to the goodness in our world. You are leaving your fingerprint in the clay that shapes our society (especially true if you are a sculptor!) Be proud of that; let that fact inspire you to continue to create throughout this new year and beyond, my bebes!

Dermis

48 inches by 24 inches, acrylic abstract wood painting, $300

Click here to buy a fine art print for $22

To those artists who might believe their creations are not good enough, you know what I have to say to you? Do not underestimate your contribution to this world. Especially when you get ridiculous ideas in your head like: you have no talent, you are wasting your time, you should give up, or you are never going to be successful.

Once you have grasped the importance of what you do and your confidence in your work is realized, this confidence will enhance all facets of your life. It will also bring you happiness and inspire you to inspire someone else who needs to be lifted up. And that, my friends, is how you form a more perfect union.

So what did you achieve last year? What are looking to achieve in 2010? I want to hear from my beautiful readers!

As for me, I will be trying to do my part for my fellow artists and will be looking to expand this art blog with more inspirational articles (like this one!), more art tips, art news, and art related goodies. I also will be making some improvements to the site and moving toward making a larger more interactive art community. So stay tuned!

Bring on the Good Stuff!

Wassily Kandinsky Exhibition at the Guggenheim Museum until January 13

Hola, bebes! As promised, I shall be serving my lovely readers the goods in addition to the routine helping of rants that I have provided in the past. What goods do I speak of, you ask? In this post, I will be offering my pretty public a crumb of art news, an exciting self-portrait contest and a residence opportunity that could nab you some quality alone time with you and your brush.

Enough kooky talk! Let's get on to the good stuff!

Wassily Kandinsky Exhibition at Guggenheim

If you will be in the New York Manhattan area in the next two weeks, I highly suggest you get your bum over to the HUGE Kandinsky retrospective exhibition at the Guggenheim Museum. The exhibit includes nearly 100 paintings and 60 works on paper dating from 1902 to 1942. Kandinksy is known for being one of the grandaddy's if not THE grandaddy of abstraction. His gestural work and use of color, especially in his earlier work, has had an immeasurable influence on abstract artists of all styles and disciplines. Kandinsky has definitely been one of the biggest influences in my work and still informs many of my abstract paintings today.

The Kandinsky retrospective will be ending soon and closes on January 13. For more information, including Museum hours and ticket info visit the Guggenheim Museum website. If you can't make the live exhibit, may I interest my international friends and non-New Yorkers in checking out the Online exhibition by clicking here? DO IT NOW!

Artists Wanted Self-Portrait Contest

ArtistsWanted.org is currently holding a self-portrait contest open to artists of all mediums including painting, sculpting, drawing, installation, print making, graphic design, glass work, book Arts, performance, video Art, street art/graffiti, photography, and oh yeah tattoo art!

In addition to online voting, there's also an interesting threesome that will be judging the entries: Steven Buscemi (the Reservoir Dog himself!) Chris Weitz (director of New Moon, American Pie, Golden Compass) and Guggenheim Curatorial Assistant Helen Hsu. Hmm..maybe she could get us into the Kandinsky exhibition for free? pretty please?

Artists Wanted has definitely stepped up their game, and I have to say the prizes for this gig are impressive. The grand prize winner receives promotion, a New York art reception, and the choice of either $7007 in cash(minus Uncle Sam's cut of course :( ) or 6 months of lush living in The Edge Wiliamsburg luxury complex in New York.

Entry into this poker game will cost you $10 per image, so choose carefully and good luck! For more information on the self-portrait contest, visit Artists Wanted.org. If you do enter, please let me know drop me a frickin' note! so I can vote for you and show some love.

Vote for fellow artist, talented photographer and loyal reader of the Lend Me Your Eyes Art Blog Gary Heller by clicking here.

I-Park Artist Residency

Wouldn't you like to get away for a few weeks and just create? I-park is offering just that for selected applicants.

I-Park is located in a quiet, distraction free part of East Haddam, Connecticut where artists can create without the interference of the daily grind. While there is a $25 application fee, Artists only need to pay for transportation to the retreat, with limited 2 and 4 week stays being provided including meals and board. 6 international travel grants are also up for grabs for my buddies in Canada, Asia, Europe and UK! Painters and sculptures aren't the only ones who are eligible. If you are a musician or writer get your goodies together, apply with confidence and let your talents grow wild in the wilderness, tigers.

The deadline for applications is January 11th and is approaching with leopard like speed! So get crackin'! For more information about the I-park residency program click here.

Take a gander at some of the sweet Environmental Sculptures created by former residents by clicking here.

Interview with Painter Stephane Trahan

Time Traveler by Stephane Trahan

One of the 2 billion projects I've recently undertaken in addition to painting and taking bad guys down to Chinatown as an investigator, is interviewing cool dads for a new site called DaddyOutpost.com.

I recently completed an interview with an extremely talented painter I discovered on Fineartamerica named Stephane Trahan.

Here is a tasty morsel of an excerpt of the interview:

Tell me about your work and influences.

I started doodling with my grandpa at the age of 2. Two years later, he introduced me to his friend, Otto Schmidt, a Doctor in Arts, who deserted his native home of Germany in the late 30s to escape a horrible fate. Otto took me under his wing and made me study and copy some of Krieghoff's work. He realized I had a good eye for details and Krieghoff's work was really intricate. So you could say that my early training was really formal.

Visit DaddyOutpost.com for the full zeisty interview

To see more of Stephane's awesome paintings, visit his online gallery here.

If you enjoyed this tasty serving of art news and goodies, and would like more of the same to fill your empty belly in the future click on the BIG SUBSCRIBE button at the end of this post to get more good stuff for FREE! You can subscribe using any service you wish, including updates straight to your email at light-speed!

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Thursday, December 24, 2009 /

Bah Humbug!

After tossing around the idea of expanding the blog further by including more art related goodies created outside of my own two hands, I'm about 90% certain that this must happen. Im currently working on multiple projects (both art related and un-art related) and will also be making new work that will be experimental and time consuming.

That being said, if I were to just post whenever I finished something new, you would probably be hearing from me once every leap year. In an effort to avoid such a catastrophe, I was considering including more tip articles, featured artists, and art news/clips that I discover along the way. If anyone has anything to ad...d or objects, please speak now or forever hold your lady and/or man parts.

Rest assured, my rants and sense of humor will remain intact. Also, I wanted announce that I am an affiliate of Amazon and DickBlick art supplies, hence the new ads. if anyone is having an issue with the ads on the site and having fits of madness, please let me know and I shall consider removing them. My readers come first!

Lots of news coming soon in new blog post. Between my new projects and the holidays, I have been neglecting my beautiful fans and readers. Life is wicked hard!! Arrggggg!!!

Enjoy your holidays whether you love 'em or hate 'em! WOO!

Fans Have Spoken! (2) / Read More

Sunday, November 29, 2009 /

New Abstract Painting! Woohoo!

Today We Escape - Abstract Painting
(Acrylic and Mixed Media on Canvas, 24 x 18, $300)
Click Here to Purchase a Print for $27

What is that monstrosity at the top of this post, you ask? That, my friends, is one of my latest paintings where, for the first time in a longtime, I threw caution to the sky and let my impulse, anger, and passion loose. Felt damn good. If you have been loyally lending your eyes to my blog(you better be!) and fondling the most recent posts(after washing with Purell!), then you may be aware that I have been having a magnificent tug-o-war between what my mushy heart wishes to create and the expectations of the public.

Detail 1

The abstract painting pictured above was formerly titled "Project Ugly Painting." Rightly so, since my intention was to create without reservations and challenge myself by using a limited palette, unusual materials, and fight against the natural urge to make the painting "beautiful." Due to various recent downers, bummers, and crappy happenings, I have been feeling a bit eh down, bummy and crappy. Makes sense? I couldn't communicate these emotions in a normal fashion with bright spirals of color and fanciful gestures. I wanted to make a painting that looked as wounded, complex and chaotic as I was feeling.

Detail 2

My limited palette included naples yellow, alizarin crimson, violet and a sprinkle of black, as opposed to my usual palette of EVERYTHING! My initial intention was to make a painting that reflected color field work by Mark Rothko and Helen Frankenthaler. But after laying the initial washes of diluted naples yellow, crimson and blending violet, something a bit nuts happened. Instead of blending with my brush, I decided to use some tissue paper. The paper was so soft (I have a sensitive bum) that it started breaking off and sticking to the canvas. I then saw it absorb the diluted paints, and thought "Interesting." After rubbing my hands together frantically and wiping the "mad scientist grin" from my face, I started adding more tissue paper to the surface of the canvas. The textures that I was able to create were exhilarating. I also liked how I was able to sculpt the paper and how malleable it was when wet. I had to very careful because the wet paper tore easily, but I got the hang of it quickly. It reminded me of a similar, "complex strategy" I used with Playdough when I was a toddler.

The close-ups below can give you a nice impression of what I mean when I say freakin' texture! I surrounded the paper structures with black outlines to make them stand out and enhance the three dimensional effect. In Detail 4, you can see where I experimented with some paper that I burned. A little dangerous, but worth it. Awww yeah....

Detail 3

Detail 4

Hopefully, this wicked looking, abstract painting stands as a symbol of this passing moment. Yes, passing! Thankfully, I feel oodles better and more focused after completing this new work. And isn't that whats its all about bebes? Mowing through the BS, creating and finding light and good stuff on the other side? Sounds pretty sweet to me.

If my artwork and words stimulate your mind and body, please CLICK that big, beefy SUBSCRIBE button at the end of the post so you can receive updates including more art and guaranteed sass from Antonio! Visit my online gallery, why dontcha?

Here are some other articles you may dig, bebe:

Beyond Tomorrow

My Abstract Painting in USA Today

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Its 10:00PM, do you know where your Muse is?

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Sunday, October 25, 2009 / Labels: personal, watercolor painting

Beyond Tomorrow

Continued from previous post "For a Minute There, I Lost Myself"

On the ride back, I took my time getting home. I needed to think about this. Really think about this. I needed to remind myself of what I wanted, not only out of my work, but out of my life. I rolled back the days in my mind, letting flashes of distracting memory fill my head (which I don't recommend when driving on the highway at 80+ MPH).

16 again: I saw my parents splitting up and my father disappearing along with his income; the bills piling up at an obscene rate. I tried juggling school and work for the next few years, but it wasn't enough. I had to depend on using credit, which led to me still owing the Kingpins of greed over a decade later. Still, I was able to pay for school, graduate, and get by. After being hired as an investigator, I was even able to get my own apartment and house my few belongings (17 inch tv, radio, clothes, mattress, guitar, and my paintings). Meanwhile, I chipped away at my debt and worked as many hours I could without collapsing onto the street. And just when I had a handle on things, a certain blood relative decided to take my personal information and use it for their own benefit. I learn of this AFTER the IRS extends their greasy fist into my life and begins relentlessly sending me requests for payment in the amount of several thousand dollars, even threatening imprisonment if payment isn't made immediately. I had no choice but to pull out my pension.

After years of struggling, I couldn't believe that fate brought me to square one yet again. To say that I was bitter would be a massive understatement. And the gravity of all of these events weighed on me in ways I have yet to fully realize. It took nearly two more years to turn my thinking around. Then one day, I realized that the best way to process everything was to paint and paint and paint, then paint again. After a decade of being neck deep in debt due to countless mistakes my parents had made, I decided to take matters into my own hands instead of continuing the resentment and bitch/moan marathon I had engaged in. Instead of allowing the debt to rule me, I would become its master. I also knew that doing this would make me more disciplined and kick my procrastinating ass into a new creative gear. I decided to make the destruction(formerly deconstruction) of my debt my goal. So I painted, and when I wasn't painting, I was reading books on business, marketing, and other such boring but necessary topics.

With this renewed focus, I started getting show after show, even organizing a few of my own. Sales and recognition followed, and everything seemed to being going well. But there was something else going on underneath it all. With every sale, every glowing comment, every other hit to my online gallery, my perception was subtly altered. And the more exposure I got, the more obsessed I became. Checking my website stats, my email, and reevaluating my creations over and over. Wondering with mania about why people loved this painting and ignored that one.

I wasn't completely clueless. I had little hints here and there. Hints that told me I needed to slow down or stop altogether, before my work was completely dependent on what I believed people would accept or buy. Like the time I "held my brush back" and didn't include nudity in one of my paintings, simply because I thought it would deter a buyer (which in retrospect makes me infuriated). And I just kept telling myself that I needed to stay focused and was doing what needed to be done, the glaring debt smirking at me all the while. I kept reminding myself that all I needed to do was clear that debt and then I would be free. Free of not only what I owed, but the shit-filled memories that went along with it. This little delusion lasted for quite a long time, until that fateful moment in the park after the Musicfest.

So did I want to continue an obsession with some arbitrary number I associated with success? Did I want to create work based on people's expectations and how "pretty" it would look above their mantel? Or did I want to make work that was sincere, brutally honest, personal, and socially relevant? Yeah, that last line sounds right to me.

I started out with good intentions. But then again, how many bad things have been done by good men with supposed good intentions? So I've decided to go in another direction and return to my roots. I have renewed interest in making work that is less "furniture-friendly" than my clients and admirers would like, but then, that's the point I suppose. To give you an inkling as to what the fudge I am talkin' about, I'm currently working on something that I've affectionately labeled "Project Ugly Painting." My first thought was to create a painting similar to the one posted here in acrylic, but the fact that I had no intention of showing it or selling to anyone brought with it, an unbridled freedom to create. In the middle of using some tissue to blend an area, I decided to wet the tissue and paint on top of it, giving the painting an entirely fresh, elaborate texture. Felt damn good, baby...

I will also be making some experimental, highly controversial work that may or not be posted on here for various reasons. But don't fret bebes, I will still be posting art goodies for all to see. And there will likely be new works in styles that will be familiar to all. This just won't be my main focus, as it has been in the past. AND I will likely be abstaining from any exhibitions for a while, unless its for chairity or something very interesting comes up. I truly admire those who are able to make work with intentions to sell and do not allow the outside world to influence their creative choices, and are able to keep themselves from going absolutely mad. I suppose I am a bit extreme when it comes to such things. Truth is, I have been deceiving myself for months into believing that this was what I wanted. When in actuality it didn't mean anything at all.

I could have 10 sold out solo shows in my 10 favorite galleries and it still wouldn't be enough. I could be on the cover of every art magazine, receive every award, and be branded the greatest artist of our time. But it still wouldn't be enough. I do not seek fortune. I do not seek celebrity. What I seek is to create something truly original, legendary, and inspirational. Like Dali, Man Ray, and Eluard did with surrealism. Like Picasso and Braques did with cubism. Inspiring thousands upon thousands to forge their passion, raise their brush and express themselves with fearless pride. Maybe then, after achieving a groundbreaking work, would I begin to feel something that would resemble satisfaction. Until then....

Beyond Tomorrow
(Abstract Watercolor Painting, $250 18x24)
Click Here to Purchase a Print for $22 USD

So where the Hell have I been? Asleep I suppose. The better question is: Where the Hell am I going? What exists at the summit of those trees? Well, I am nowhere near the summit. But I will reach it...in time. I just need to pace myself. Reach up. Without caution. Grab hold. Pull myself up. Slowly. Hand over hand. Up the tree. Onward to my destination. Wherever it may be.

If you feel my pain and joy, visit my gallery. Document what you think of my rant and let your thoughts flow by leaving me a juicy comment or sending me a note.

Do you dig philosophical, artsy fartsy types who can spin a good yarn and make an awesome chicken salad? Then please do me favor, and massage the big SUBSCRIBE button at the end of this post. You can SUBSCRIBE for FREE by email or any other service your warm and toasty soul desires and can keep up to date on my strange ways, art tips, features, and art news. WOOHOO!

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Tuesday, October 20, 2009 / Labels: abstract art, ink drawing, inspirational, personal

For a Minute There, I Lost Myself

Where the Hell have I been? Lost in a storm, flailing in the violent winds of my own discontent. Dreaming awake, screaming silently, clamoring at my cubicle walls. A man seeking feeling, meaning in his daily existence. A man seeking something profound, inspirational, exhilarating; an island where fruits of knowledge, fruits of truth, in every color, shape and flavor grow on the tallest trees. And what exists at the summit of those trees? What awaits those who crave to know what exists beyond their own perception? Freedom. The gift of a renewed vision. An insight into the algorithms to life, love, art, and the passion for them all. Inspiration, creation, and the strength to pursue them endlessly, fearlessly, by every fucking means necessary.

I know what you're thinking: The eccentric artist formerly known as Antonio has officially gone nuts. The answer to that is an obese "NO!". I still have both of my ears intact thank you very much (No offense Senor Gogh). Surprisingly enough, I actually have never felt more composed. After a few necessary (and unnecessary) changes, my life has become less turbulent. Hopefully this will slow the progression of silver hairs throughout my otherwise pretty do.

So where the Hell have I been? And why in the "Prickly Pete" have I not written anything in nearly a freakin' month? Was it because I mishandled an air conditioner and my left hand and wrist were diced in the metal grating like a chunk of gouda? (Sidebar: I will never again use a cheese grater after this incident. I have far too much "cheesympathy" after the accident.) Was it because my left hand was again mangled one week later while I was trying to dissect my laptop? (Toshiba: you will be hearing from my lawyer, aka my Uncle Tito!) . Was it the destruction of said laptop and the subsequent crashing of my desktop that stopped my flow of genius? Or could it have been the ass-kicking I got from evil Mr. Flu (minus the swine)? None of the above friends. None of the above.

A few weeks ago, I came upon what you could call a crossroads in my life. I was at my latest event, the Fusion Musicfest, which was intended to be a weekend "fusion" of music and art, but ended up becoming a fusion of crappy weather and even crappier management that culminated in an, uh crapfest? The first day was marred by an enduring downpour. So I loaded my guns with determination and put even more effort the following day. Thing was, barely anyone knew I existed. There was absolutely no promotion on the website, flyers, and our area was setup on the faaaaaaaaaaaaaarthest end of the park with no kind of signage indicating we were there. The fact that we were on the opposite end of the music and food and other vendors didn't help either. I had to yodel in order to communicate with any potential buyers. I remember one gentlemen who moseyed on over and said, "Uh, you know nobody know you here, right? I didn't know there was any art or people back here, until I was leaving to pickup my car." Awesome, I thought. Check out some nifty pics below.

They we there to take me down to Chinatown! You'll never take me alive, coppas!

Needless to say, I didn't sell a bloody thing. Even though the odds were against me, I still felt like an absolute failure. I felt more and more disappointment in myself as I continued to dwell upon the situation. I angrily packed my supplies, buttoned my coat, and shoved my hat down over my "stupid hair!" Even my hair was making me angry! One of the silliest moments in my life. When I got to my car, I threw everything into the trunk and just stared.

For the first time, I looked at my brushes, paints, and paintings as if they were mere "things." I don't have any children (at least, not that I'm aware of!). So until then, my paintings are my children. Since I can remember, I have always looked at my creations in this way. They are extensions of myself. Bits of my character, my personality, my soul; both the dark and light elements of everything that composes me. To have looked upon them with any kind of disdain was not only disrespectful to them, but also to myself. And I remember catching myself right in the moment: a raw, dark stare at the paintings, then the slamming of my trunk door causing the entire car to bow and shake. Seconds after, I felt like a kid who was caught right in the middle of stealing from his mother's purse. I felt ashamed and sick, a slight moment of nausea shivered through me.

Continued in next post: Beyond Tomorrow

Hit the SUBSCRIBE button at the bottom of this emotional rollercoaster of a blog to get more installments of art, love, and er.. emotion! Subscribing is free, cool, and nourishes the soul, bebe!
For more of Antonio's art visit the ONLINE GALLERY.

Radiohead RULES!

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Tuesday, September 22, 2009 / Labels: featured artist

Beauty of the Carnival: Horacio Cardozo

Nude Laying on Rocks
Oil on Linen

"The main motive of [my]work is the dialog of opposites: light-shade;
color-grayscale; empty-full; flat-texture; front-back, sense-non-sense,
all combining with a subtle harmony."

Prepare your eyes for a glimpse into the extraordinary work of Argentinian artist Horacio Cardozo.

His influences range in depth and subject, including the masters Michelangelo, Raphael, Rembrandt and Dali. The delicate quality of his meditative compositions evidently reflect the weight of these influences upon both his hand and his mind during their creation. The careful attention to light and form is evident throughout each painting. And although Cardozo has never stepped foot on a stage, he manages to perform an amazing feat by entrancing viewers without the need for any extraneous bells and whistles. His work is provocative, sensual, and original without having to resort to any of the hyperbole often found in contemporary art.

In "Nude Laying on Rocks," Cardozo dares the viewer to look away. Here, we see how acute Cardozo's eye for composition really is, knowing that this work would not be as effective if the figure was in any other position. The woman is cropped perfectly and blends seamlessly into the ocean background.

Resting on a Red Cloth
Oil on Canvas

Solitude
Oil on Canvas

In "Resting on a Red Cloth" and "Solitude," we see Cardozo perform another great feat by providing the viewer with strong emotional content without having to reveal the figures faces, yet we can deduce the expressions. With only the pose, Cardozo provides an expressive window into the figures lives that is private, yet inviting. Its almost as if you feel an obligation to console the figures in these implied moments of need. The woman in "Resting on a Red Cloth" looks as if she is waiting for the viewer to curl up in the bed next to her. And the figure in "Solitude" definitely looks like she could use a warm hug right about now.

Beauty of the Carnival
Oil on Canvas

As anyone who is an avid reader of my self-proclaimed wonderful blog knows, I am a bit biased towards the strange and the surreal. That being said, my favorite work by Horacio would most absolutely be "Beauty of the Carnival." Here we see what we have already come to expect from the artist, patient attention to detail and rendering of the form, but a stronger element of surrealism is introduced into his work. The juxtaposition of the colorful, nude female and the clothed man in black and white demands the viewer to stare and stare, and yeah stare some more. Another contrast heightens the painting. Look closely and you can see the collision between the woman's enticing smile with the gentleman's stiff lips and brow. Cardozo's work is almost devilish in its ability to relax your mind, then sneak up and grab onto you with a mysterious power.

Horacio currently resides in New Zealand and Australia and is represented by the Sydney Galleries and Jones Gallery. His exhibitions include the 3rd Young Art Biennale, the National Senate in Buenos Aires and MAC 21 Marbella, Spain. Please visit his page on Fine Art America to see more of his work and tell him how much ass he kicks!

I do hope you enjoyed this review of our featured artist Horacio Cardozo! If you would like to find out more about the self-proclaimed, handsome and articulate dude who wrote this wicked article, then please visit my online gallery here. Oodles of art for all on there.

Did you enjoy the roller coaster ride of words and art known as the awesome Lend Me Your Eyes Blog? If this blog made you weak in the knees with love for art, then you should embrace the love by SUBSCRIBING! It is easy, free and you can choose any service that you want bebes. All ya gotta do is click on the huge SUBSCRIBE button at the end of this post and booyakasha! Free art and wit delivered straight into your soul.

Previously featured artists

Kristen L. Martin

Bruce Combs

A video for this dynamic duo is long overdue. If you haven't seen them live, then you haven't lived, bebes! Rodrigo y Gabriela rock out baby!

Fans Have Spoken! (6) / Read More

Friday, September 4, 2009 / Labels: abstract art, acrylic painting, oil painting, personal

My Abstract Painting "The Wait" in USA TODAY! Plus Other Awesome Happenings

Darla Horn (Director of Aftersputnik) in USA Today article next to "The Wait" (purple, beige painting on left)

There I was, in Atlantic City, at the closing of a time full of drinking, gambling, and debauchery (also known as Tuesdays!) when I check my phone and see an email from Darla Horn (pictured above) director of the Aftersputnik Project. It simply said "your artwork is in USA Today." So I of course concluded that I had drank more than I should have (which, honestly wasn't that much). But after rubbing my eyeballs several times and rereading said email, the words remained! Glaring at me, daring me to pickup a copy of USA Today to behold this "Holy Shit" moment!

I coolly ask the concierge at the fancy schmancy Borgata where I could buy a paper. She points me to the escalator and I take it down to the newsstand. I crack open the bad boy to find my abstract painting "The Wait" on freaking Page 2!!! And I of course respond by belting out a deep and gravelly "Holy Shit!" followed by girly schoolgirl cheering. I rarely get that excited. Here is a better picture of "The Wait."

The Wait $320 USD
(36 inches by 36 inches, Oil on Canvas)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22
Click Here to Purchase the Original Painting

This painting was first exhibited at the Metropolitan Building in Long Island City New York in an event organized by Darla Horn and the Aftersputnik project based on the theme "If your student loan debt was an image, what would it be?" Check out this earlier post "Elevation of Art and Soul" for more info on that exhibition and tons o' pics!

While this was obviously amazing exposure, lets not start tickling each other's tulips just yet. Unfortunately the article "In a recession, is college worth it? Fear of debt changes plans" doesn't mention me or the painting specifically. But I won't let that weaken my testicular fortitude. It was an awesome way to end a very lucky streak (not to be confused with streak-ing, as in nude joggers across the hotel grounds) I would never dream of such a thing! tee hee...

The lucky streak began with a monetary error IN MY favor while shopping on the boardwalk, as opposed to random crappy happenings that cause me to have large amounts of money stripped from my hungry, trembling artist hands. Then my muse happens to spot 10 bucks in plain sight at a lounge, which would later be christened "God Money" aka "Jesus Money" depending on who your particular savior is at the time. We split it 5 each. I play the Cleopatra slots and watch as she takes my holy dough with a wave of her digital hands. But I cant help but play again out for revenge and end up winning big time! Ah, good times. Finally, a couple bucks for new art supplies! And I can finally pay my remaining balance at Starbucks and take that cappuccino off of layaway! Hazaaah!

Epidermis $300 USD
(48 inches by 24 inches, Acrylic on Wood)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

In other fantastic news, I have been accepted into an upcoming art showcase at this year's Fusion MusicFest! In addition to some awesome bands like Pete Yorn, They Might Be Giants, and Third Eye Blind, there will be several kick ass artists (like ahem, myself for example) that will be not only be selling work but creating live art. The annual event drew over 75,000 folks last year alone, so yeah, Im getting quite pumped about this. I will be there on both days (September 12, 13) so come down and show me some love if ya can, my bebes! Giddy up!

So what pieces am I considering exhibiting? In addition to the abstract wood painting "Epidermis" pictured above. Here are a few more morsels for your palette:

Addicted to Lies $200 USD
(11 inches by 14 inches, Watercolor on Yupo paper)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

Tree of Life $175 USD
(9 inches by 12 inches, Watercolor and Ink on paper)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

Down the Rabbit Hole $200 USD
(11 inches by 14 inches, Watercolor on Yupo paper)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

The Keepers of Day and Night $250 USD
(24 inches by 36 inches, Watercolor and Ink on paper)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

Divine Intervention $250 USD
(18 inches by 24 inches, Watercolor on Paper)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

For more art by Antonio, click here.

I wanted to take a minute out and thank all of my magnificent followers, subscribers, and new readers for supporting me this far. My little village is growing more and more with all the love from my bebes! The comments and emails I get from you guy/gals are inspirational and keep me going everyday.

If you are new to the Lend Me Your Eyes blog and your eyes constantly crave ART, HUMOR, and pictures of strange artists making funny faces, then take what your heart desires and SUBSCRIBE to my blog by clicking the Humongous subscribe button at the end of this post! It is FREE and you can subscribe using any service you wish, or choose to have updates send directly to your email. Have a healthy dose of my blog sent to you instantly everytime a new post is published. My blog is good for you and has 0 grams trans fat!

If the art on here made your cheeks perk up and smile, please leave a comment expressing your joy! Comments make my day, tigers. Would you like to contact me privately and directly? Send me a note. Follow me on twitter. Become a Fan of Me on Facebook! I know so many sites, so little time. Don't worry there is enough of Antonio to go around! Keep in touch! I don't wanna lose you!

Fans Have Spoken! (13) / Read More

Thursday, August 20, 2009 / Labels: crtique, ink drawing, inspirational, personal, watercolor painting

Freedom is Expensive: Why its not easy to make a living as an artist

What happens when you start selling ad space on your face to Walmart, Apple, and Starbucks! Hopefully, one day, our society will be able to buy back its identity. Until then......

Freedom is expensive. Especially for artists. The freedom to create without bounds, without fear, but with confidence and a hunger to be truly, wholly original while living in a society that doesn't hold most artists in any high regard. It doesn't just cost money (supplies, contest fees, studio fees, commissions). There are many things that are more expensive than money: time finding one's style, isolation from friends and family while working on projects, loss of self-respect, confidence when failure looms.

In a recent radio interview I did with Christopher Schieman of DonkeyWeed.net, he asked me about my thoughts on why the "art industry" has not become as popularized as other industries such as movies and music. I only had about 2 minutes to answer the question and, in my opinion, did a fairly crappy job. So I'm going to use my blog as a platform to redeem my stuttering, Foghorn Leghorn rooster of a performance and delve into this meaty subject.

Being that many of my lovely readers and subscribers are artists themselves, I'm writing this with high (non drug related)hopes that my rant here will be productive and get a little conversation going.

Here are my 4 reasons to why art is (and might just always be) and underground kinda thang. Also, please keep in mind that when I say "art," I am referring to traditional and non-traditional art that would NOT be considered commercial and has not been created by a long dead pirated, copied artist (i.e. Warhol, Picasso, etc). Here we go, bebes!

1. Money

This was the first word that violently burst out of my mouth the second that the radio host dotted the question mark at the end of this juicy question. Unlike the music and movie industries, art has yet to find a niche that can be construed as “mainstream” and be distributed to the masses. Due to the intrinsic, contemplative nature of art, it can't be marketed like the latest chart topping single or the new Tarantino flick. No matter how great the background music is or how flashy the special effects, any advertisement that makes a direct attempt to throw art in people's faces would likely be met with bewilderment. It just doesn't lend itself to the notion of mass consumption. That's not art's bag, baby!

And until some would-be executive in his mama's basement discovers a business model marketing marvel that does create a need to feed, I'm afraid the arts will continue to be the red-headed stepchild in the family. (apologies to any readers who are redheads and/or step children!)

I truly believe that if the arts had promotional budgets as huge as the music and movie studio companies, there would be more art in people's homes then televisions. Unfortunately, this doesn't happen simply because there is less to no money to be made, which is due to demand and again the nature of art as I mentioned above. Sidebar: It kills me when I hear about a painting selling at a Sotheby or Christies auction for millions of dollars, knowing that the artist who created it didn't get shit or only received a pittance.

2. Mainstream Media

Aside from a blurb in a local newspaper, or a note about a retrospective at the Met, I don't really see any serious coverage on art, especially on television! Where the hell are all the emerging artists? The painters, sculptors, and photographers? They are trying to make a living and not be pushed out of artist communities by increasing rents. I suggest the media get to us while they can. How about an interview? I'm sure we artists are out there, and ready for our overdue close-ups. Good Day New York, FOX, ABC, how about you give us a gander. 5 minutes is all we ask. Bravo's Untitled Art Project Show might prove me wrong on this one though. For more info on my experience with this, check out my previous post.

Art Break!

Le Femme De L'amour
(Abstract, Impressionism Vintage Ink Drawing $225)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22!

3. Lack of Educational Support

Until very recently, art schools have not been providing students with courses that will actually help them sell art, which I've always found baffling. Every other major has the entire coursework created around the idea of preparing the student to work in that field. Art school will teach you how to draw hands perfectly, but doesn't teach you how to get your artwork into someone 's hands (and onto their walls of course, unless they want a tattoo. Then it gets a bit tricky). Many artists then reluctantly go into commercial fields, longing to create non-commercial work that gives them the satisfaction they crave. Nothing against commercial, graphic design artists (you guys also kick ass).

I also feel that schools rarely provide the students with exercises in which they can build confidence in their work early on and motivate them to expose their work. Which is the #1 reason why I created this blog, by the way :) Aww yeahh...

Art Break!

Self-Respect Is Not A Commodity
(Abstract Watercolor Painting on Yupo Paper)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

4. The Culture of Now!

Its undeniable that our society is all about instant gratification, aka the culture of now. Which is the reason why the internet, texting and social networking sites have exploded in popularity over the past few years. We are all on the move. All the time. Swallowing our lattes and fast food lunches, while are attention is divided into 60 second time slots stolen by the events that make up our daily routines. That being said, we might spare 3 to 5 minutes for an mp3. 45 minutes for a Tv show. And maybe even 2 hours for a movie. But a painting, a sculpture, a photo demands much more from us. Not only our time, but our souls and minds. Its a lot to ask, I know. Especially when many of us are pre-programmed ourselves and on auto-pilot half the time, not really thinking or experiencing life, but behaving rather like extras in that grand play called LIFE.

I would love to hear everyone's comments on this subject, especially my fellow artists. I know you are out there! I must hear from your savory souls. Don't be shy! I accept both hate AND love mail, tigers! If you don't want to leave a public comment here, feel free to send me a private message here.

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Hold on to your socks! Hear comes some good old classic rock! Pink Floyd!

Fans Have Spoken! (21) / Read More

Tuesday, August 11, 2009 / Labels: abstract art, acrylic painting on wood, exhibition, video

Youtube + Abstract Art = Awesomeness

I have no clue who these people are! All I know is that the dude in the sunglasses looks badass and reminds me of a young, strapping Richard Roundtree (aka the Original Shaft).

Hello my bebes!

Pictures of my last art exhibition in Jersey City at the awesome Love is the Message gallery have been long overdue. Please be sure to moisten your eyeballs with a dab or two of Visine, for the pics are juicy and plentiful.

This exhibit was presented by the NOLA Preservation Society with hopes of raising funds for various programs that provide aid to New Orleans victims. I do hope to see New Orleans truly prosper one day. My abstract wood painting, Elevation, is pictured above. That bad boy is 4 feet of delicious, woody acrylic goodness! To see photos of this abstract acrylic wood painting beauty, check out my previous post Rebirth of the Blog and the Bravo Untitled TV Project.

The wood painting "Elevation" expresses two meanings. One meaning has to do with the low physical elevation of New Orleans which contributed to the devastation caused by Katrina. The other meaning is more positive and is centered around the elevation of the people and economy of New Orleans through art, music, and education programs.

Elevation $300 USD
(Acrylic on Wood, 48 inches by 24 inches)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

While my painting is quite pretty if I may say so myself, it wasn't the only art that was making an impression with the huge crowd. Check it out tigers.

In other news, I finally pulled a GYST (Get Your Shit Together) and signed up for a Youtube Channel. Now I will be able to spread my artful, eccentric madness to the masses! Muah ha ha! As of today, I only have a short video featuring about 17 of my favorite paintings and drawings. Some of them you may recognize, others may be brand spanking new to your eyeballs. I set the vid to an instrumental by the music messiah known as Trent Reznor/Nine Inch Nails from his Ghosts series. I will mostly be posting videos that show paintings from drawing/concept to completion and videos of exhibitions. Ultimately, I would like to put together a show featuring tips, tutorials, artist interviews, comedy skits, and music. Exciting, I know! Simmer down, tiger. For now, baby steps, baby steps.

This is my first attempt at experimentation. So get ready, because you, my beautiful willing reader shall be my guinea pig for the next 2 minutes or so. As always, your thoughts are most welcome and serve as nourishment for my soul, bebes.

Did your eyes thank you for exposing them to my art goodies? Then you should visit my online gallery here. Follow Me on Twitter. Are you a ginormous fan of ART ART ART? Then you should eagerly hit the ginormous SUBSCRIBE button at the bottom of this post. Be the first to hear of my next exhibition, new paintings, and tips, links and resources for artists!

If you dig this article, then these should definitely tickle your toes:

Elevation of Art and Soul

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Some say I'm a joker, I'm a smoker, that I'm a midnight toker. Untrue! My behavior stems from the fact that when I paint, I hear the Sound of Madness. All hail Shinedown! Roooooock oooout!

Fans Have Spoken! (2) / Read More

Tuesday, August 4, 2009 / Labels: abstract art, inspirational, personal, tips, watercolor painting

Everyone Needs a Mission: 6 Tips to Get the Artist Within You Motivated!

Its a Bono sighting! Where's the rest of U2?

Everyone needs a mission. Direction. A path to follow and lead them into that place in their life where satisfaction lies in wait. We crave it everyday, sometimes without knowing, until we find ourselves lost. Something inside cracks a bit, and your soul starts to leak passion. The light in your head's attic, once full of inspiration and ideas, begins to dim. The momentum you had is nearly lost. Your muse has become silent. And then you ask yourself: How the Hell did this happen?

In the short time that I have been on this planet, I have had a decent amount of crapola(an unhealthy blend of crap and granola) thrown at me and slow my progress towards my goals, just as you have. From financial problems to negative comments from family and "friends." But the worst part of it was the undue garbage I was putting on myself, such as: being distracted by that wonderful bastard called "money," having little confidence in my work, and allowing my dayjob to define me and stifle my creativity in the process. These hurt the most, simply because they were things I actually had control over.

Financial difficulty is abound, especially in our current economy, which unfortunately is effecting many of us. And there will always be people who do not appreciate your work. These two factors are unavoidable, often uncontrollable, so let's move right along. Because what I want to focus on is what we do have control of, which is the growth and nourishment of the artists within us. This is done by tearing down the walls of convention, bebes.

Tearing Down the Walls of Convention
(Abstract Watercolor Painting on Yupo Paper)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

When you find yourself in a creative slump, lacking confidence, or on the edge and about to give in, I would like you to keep these 4 things in mind. Feel free to print this out and glue it to your wall or forehead so you don't forget it, damnit!

1. YOU have control over how far you want to go.
2. YOU have control over what you create.
3. YOU have control over your surroundings and the people you choose to surround yourself with.
4. And most importantly, YOU have control over when you are going to give up (which should be 4 minutes past never!).

I have had my share of tantrums and have more than a few busted canvases as evidence(and some brushes that I broke over my knee, for I am a student of kung-fu!). But there are a few things that have helped me stay focused, moving forward and are kept in my holiest of holy arsenals, friends. So enough jibba jabba, here I shall introduce 6 tips that will hopefully get your bum off the couch and into your studio! Booyakasha!

1. Choose your mission, soldier. Write it down and post it where you can see it every freakin' day.

A mission is not a goal. It is the end result of the successful completion of a series of goals. It is that pot of gold, lucky charms, or rather that ultimate achievement your beefy heart desires. When considering your mission, think of it as a long term goal that can be broken up into smaller, short term goals. Your mission could be to have a solo exhibition in your favorite gallery, for example. And one of your short term goals could be to build a body of work or to simply put together a new portfolio. Take a moment to ponder the good stuff, write it down and then post it up, bebe!

One of my current missions(I'm a multi-tasking soldier) is to pay off my school debt within this year. So I bought a dry erase board, wrote the amount in big, black digits, and stuck the board next to my bed as a constant reminder to push myself.

2. Let's get organized baby! Make a list of your mini (short term goals).

The best way to tackle the big stuff, is to start with the small stuff first. Let's say your mission is to build a body of work of 12 new paintings by the end of the year. That's 1 a month, right? Let's breakout that nifty calendar feature on your phone, shall we? Block out some time every week, depending on how fast you work of course, and work on that painting. Be sure that the reminder is set, so your phone can remind you that you should be creating instead of eating rocky road and watching tv! You can also use a dry erase calendar, but I suggest using your phone instead since its more likely to be in your pretty face daily.

At first, it may seem like a pain to work on a schedule, but this will become easier in time. You won't realize it, but what you are doing is making the act of creating a habit. What you are doing is building momentum by simply doing what you love. And that is quite awesome.

3. Reward thyself!

That's right! I studied psychology in college, and am a huge fan of the reward system. It can be difficult to free ourselves from distractions and social obligations to make time to work on our art, but you can ease some of that discomfort in your belly, if you treat yourself every time you complete one of your goals. How about you call up a buddy and grab a drink to celebrate the completion of that first painting?

4. Surround yourself with your best work

It wasn't that long ago when I fell into a dark period in my life and didn't create anything new for months. I was working with some intense cases as an investigator that consumed so much of my time and emotion. I had pretty much hung up my brush. I tried to paint, but just ended up staring at white space for hours in frustration. Then I reached into my closet and pulled out some pieces I hadn't looked at in ages. Each one made me smile a bigger smile, and before long I had been reminded of what I was capable of. I took 5 of my favorite paintings and laid them around my easel. The spark was lit. Not only did the paintings inspire confidence, but they also gave me some creative direction to make the new work in a similar style. Here's one of the paintings that still gives me inspiration, my abstract watercolor painting "The Power of Suffering."

The Power of Suffering
(Japanese Watercolor and Ink, 24 inches by 18 inches, $350 USD)
Click Here to Buy a Print $22

5. Join a local or online artist community

Surround yourself with positive, creative, driven people. The keyword here being "positive!" If you have someone who doesn't believe in you or your work, don't hesitate to show them the door. If you surround yourself with negative people and listen to their BS, then that is all the influence you have to look forward to. Luckily for you, the same goes for influences from positive folks. The benefits of keeping in contact with other artists are endless!

Not only can you offer each other helpful critique of each other's work, but you can also be there to lift each other up when you begin to lose hope or get a creative block. You can inform each other's work. And don't forget that this is one of the best ways to network and learn about opportunities.

So take a gander online and do a quick search to see if you have an artist's league/community in your town. Some of them have annual dues, so be sure to do your homework and see if you will be able to pony up the dough. If you don't have one, be a maverick and start one if you dare! You can always join an online artist community such as deviantart, redbubble, or fineartamerica. Or you can search for artists on social networking sites like facebook, myspace, or twitter (follow me, I getz lonely!)

6. Revisit your influences / Find new influences

Think about your influences, the masters whose work got your blood pumping, pupils dilated, and heart racing in the first place. Go see their work in person, if possible, at your local musuem or gallery. Step away from your workspace and remind yourself of who compelled you to create. If you don't have access to the work, then you can always use your trusty computer to find images of your favorite artist's work online. I have been known to bow before Picasso's Les Demoiselles d'Avignon both online and at the Met in times of distress.

If your stuck because you feel as if you have been repeating yourself, and want to try your hand at something new. Perhaps you should find some new influences and explore the works of more current artists. Take a look at some magazines such as Juxtapoz and American Artist why dontcha?

So what's your mission? Share it by leaving a comment here, or you can send me a note here. I would love to hear from you, tigers! Did you dig this post? Then these should also make you smile:

Why aren't you exposing yourself?

Learning the ABCs of Local Networking

Eyes to the Sky

Are you a fan of witty, long haired eccentric artists? Then YOU should SUBSCRIBE to my blog and hit that big old Subscribe button at the end of this post. You can subscribe using any service your throbbing heart desires and subscribing is FREE 4eva! I also read somewhere that it fights cavities!

If you would like to see more of my art click here to visit my ONLINE GALLERY. Now stop fondling the internet, go create something. Get out there and be somebody! No excuses!

Fans Have Spoken! (6) / Read More

Monday, July 27, 2009 / Labels: abstract art, oil painting, personal, tips, watercolor painting

Lights, Camera, Rejection!

At the ass crack of dawn, I awoke from a night of nervous, uncomfortable sleep with nothing but coffee and rousing hysteria on my mind. I said to myself: self, you actually pulled it off. You completed a 23 page application full of digging inquiries and mashed together your (self proclaimed) best work into a brand spanking new portfolio. But that was only the beginning of the battle with the beast!

I tore onto West 13th Street in my black metal beast and scanned the line for the casting call which was already around the block, even though the whole shindig wasn't set to begin for another 2 and a half hours. Good Lord. During the stomach churning, dehydration inducing 4 hour wait in line I was able to preoccupy my life with some Metallica, Nine Inch Nails, etc. etc. I also met some interesting characters and great artists like the wonderful Josana Blue. And just when I was ready to curl up into a ball and take a nap on the sidewalk like my Uncle Tito on Thanksgiving Eve, I was called to engage in what was unknowlingly to be the first round of cuts for the Bravo Untitled Art Project.

The generously tatooed woman with short, magenta hair waved me over and asked me to tell her about that thang I do, that I do so well, i.e. PAINT! I chose one my latest paintings to be the first image in the portfolio. Here is a pic of my abstract, surrealist oil painting "The Wait"

The Wait
(36 inches by 36 inches, Oil on Canvas $320)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

She seemed particularly interested in this painting/style and also my ink drawing "Soon":

Soon
(16 inches by 12 inches, Japanese Ink)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

I spoke about my love for abstraction, spontaneous large scale work, and of course color, color, color! I spoke about how much I admire Picasso, Dali, Miro, and Pollack for not only their creations but also their whimsy and temperament that I can identify with. After that, she simply said "Ok, this portfolio gives me a really good idea of the range of your work." And off I went to Round 2. Thank you Esther!

What truly sucked was the fact that I had lugged a bunch of originals that I painstakingly pulled out of frames only to be instructed that I can only choose ONE. So I chose my favorite piece, my surreal, watercolor painting "Portraits of Lilith."

Portraits of Lilith
(24 inches by 18 inches, Watercolor pencils, $450)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

After another short wait, I was escorted into White Columns gallery in the hushed space behind the filming area. And of course, after I was specifically told to walk out and stand at the taped off "T-shaped" area, I went straight for the judges and started greeting them, massive cheshire grin and sweaty palm out. The English dude in the middle, which was the primary judge, looked terrified and somewhat unpleasantly surprised at my antics. I could hear one of the crew call out to me "Antonio, you have to stand on the T." To which I articulately replied, "Oh, shit ! I forgot about the T!" I really wasn't trying to be comical(for once in my life) I was just delirious from the heat, and lack of fluids/food and was on autopilot. But he was a good sport about it and several of the other judges greeted me with relaxed smiles. Instead of 15 minutes of fame, I would have to estimate that they gave me about 65.5 seconds on camera, which will likely never see the light of day. After a quick flip of my portfolio, he said "Im sorry Antonio, but you will not be making it to the next round." And no, I did not weep! But I will tell you this, that was some of the most fun I had in a quite a long time. And the image of that frightened Englishmen will forever remain in my mind and make me laugh for years to come.

I struggled with the idea of being on a TV show, especially a reality-type TV show and the inevitable exploitation factor that comes along with it. The lack of privacy. The twisting of words and characters into drama, or rather, melodrama which = ratings. From what I read on other sites, all artists fell into 2 groups. One group felt that it was about time that the arts get some valid goddamn attention from mainstream media, and couldn't wait to get out there and strut their stuff. The other saw it as another way to mock artists and promote stereotypes that show artists as being mad, spastic desperate beings. I fell in between those two, but felt that I would rather live with rejection than regret.

I would love to hear from any other artists that tried out and everyone's opinion on the whole bloody concept too (both the love and the hate, bebes!) To those who tried out, and to those who continue to push themselves, challenge themselves, and move forward despite the odds, I just want to say that you guys truly, truly do kick ass. You are my heroes! So keep fighting the good fight, and I will do the same. Deal?

Here is a new goodie added to my portfolio that my lovely readers have yet had the pleasure of feasting upon. My abstract watercolor painting "Shatter the Glass Without Fear"

Shatter the Glass Without Fear
Abstract Watercolor Painting on Yupo Paper
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

Enough about me! I will leave everyone with 2 quick, easy tips on how to stick your art in people's lives without being a pain in the arse.

1. Going out to the coffee shop/diner? Take a small print/painting with you! Something portable and reflective of your best work that will catch the eye of an unsuspecting passer-by. You will be surprised how many people will ask you about the art. Then, boom you hit them with your biz card and modestly inform them of your amazing talent. I noticed that this works best if you're on a bus/subway. People are often bored out of their mind, if not reading or listening to their mp3s, and looking for anything to occupy their eyeballs. Give 'em somethin' to smile about eh?

2. Make some low resolution(50 kbs) digital images of your artwork and put them in a folder on your phone. That's right, you can use your phone as a marketing device! When you meet someone at a party, prison, or other social gathering and you're at that lovely part in the conversation where you talk about "stuff" you do; that's when you say "I'm an artist! and can instrantly show a mini-portfolio of your work. Ah the cell phone! Its not only useful for having long, redundant conversations and taking pictures of your bum on those wild drunken nights (maybe that just applies to me?)

Did you enjoy my ramblings? Did my mini-tips make you smile and feel creamy inside like the center of a Boston creme donut? Do you dig ART?! Then you should leave me a comment telling me so! Be sure to show how much you love me by SUBSCRIBING and clicking that big SUBSCRIBE button at the end of this post! It is free, and you can subscribe using any service you wish, my loves.

You can see more of my work in my ONLINE GALLERY HERE. Want to send me a private message full of private love? Send me a note here! Plus, you can follow me on Twitter (yes I caved into the social networking fairy). I love hearing what you guys/gals have to say and always appreciate your support as it keeps me sane and all.

Whew! Long post! More tips, art, and madness to follow, bebes.

I shall leave you with the soothing melody that has been rocking out the halls of my mind

Fans Have Spoken! (14) / Read More

Monday, July 13, 2009 / Labels: abstract art, acrylic painting, personal

Rebirth of the Blog and the Bravo Untitled Art Project

Earth $300 USD
(Acrylic on Wood, 24 inches by 48 inches)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

Welcome back, tigers. Its been quite a long time since I last fondled my computer and given my bebes an update on the life of this joyous lad known as Antonio!!! First, I'd like to introduce the new layout that I worked on for the better part of my mid 20s. I hope everyone digs it and doesn't have any technical issues that may or may not cause your computer to regurgitate. In addition to the same old links, I have added a TIPS tabs at the top which will list any helpful articles about art marketing, painting mediums, etc. and a FEATURED ARTISTS tab that will list reviews I've written on artist's whose work I admire and keep close to my man bosom. So if there are any topics you are interested in reading, let me know lollipop! If you would like to be a featured artist your darling self, then please click on CONTACT and send me a link to your work for consideration. Capice?

Japan $300 USD

(Acrylic on Wood, 48 inches by 24 inches)

Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

I also have a featured video for everyone's hungry orbs. Check back often for new vids of yummy art and strange happenings. If you have a video of your goodies on youtube, drop me a line and I will take a gander at it. If I dig, I shall gladly post it on the Lend Me Your Eyes Art Blog. Oh, and by the term "goodies," I mean artwork, and not "your genitalia," just in case there might be any misunderstandings. This is the internet after all! Aw yeah..

All the usual edible stuff that you loved from the old blog can still be found with veritable ease in the columns on the right, including my buddies blogs and tons of art resources/magazines. So have at it!

Sex Candy $150
(Acrylic on Wood, 24 inches by 24 inches)

Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

In other news, I am actually considering entering the Bravo Untitled Art Project. While many of the details are pretty vague, I understand that it will essentially be a televised art compeition between 13 visual artists. At first, I said to myself, FINALLY, visual artists are getting some actual, valid attention by the media. Then my paranoia/hatred for media culture started infecting my thoughts, and I began to imagine a televised circus that would resemble something between the first episodes of American Idol + Big Brother+Intervention. And for some reason, a little Mad Max Thunderdome action thrown in just for shits and giggles. I don't really watch reality tv, but from the few minutes I have seen, the shows are usually focused more on exaggerated melodrama an ratings, then the actual subject matter they are supposed to be exploring. So yeah, I am having some reservations that are only being tempered by the interesting questions posed in the 23 YES! 23 page application. The casting call is this weekend. I'm still on the fence. Especially since the production company for Project Runway and Sarah Jessica Parker (huh????) are behind the whole bloody thing. Here is an interesting interview with Casting Director Nick Gilhool who was able to shed a little more light on the foggy details. And here is an even more ambiguous article with Sarah Jessica Parker on Artnet Magazine. The verdict is still out for me on this one. But I do wish anyone out there who enters the very best and God Bless! For you have grand proverbial balls!

Lava $300 USD

(Acrylic on Wood, 48 inches by 24 inches)

Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

Moving on.. let's take a lovely peak at some work in progress pics of my new abstract acrylic on wood painting Elevation! Shall we?

TADA! TADA! TADA! Here is the final piece!

Elevation $300 USD
(Acrylic on Wood, 48 inches by 24 inches)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22

This painting was created for my recent exhibition "Rebirth" at LITM in Jersey City. This abstract painting is part of an ongoing series of acrylic paintings on wood centered around various themes. The painting "Elevation" expresses two meanings. One meaning has to do with the low physical elevation of New Orleans which contributed to the devastation caused by Katrina. The other meaning is more positive and is centered around the elevation of the people and economy of New Orleans through art, music, and education programs.

I will be posting pics of my last exhibition next we meet. So stay tuned you saucy folks.

If your eyes crave more of my art, then you should visit my online gallery by clicking here Antonio Online! You should also show me mucho mucho amor by being so kind and SUBSCRIBING to my blog! Lend Me Your Eyes, you beautiful specimen you! Subscribing won't cost you a nickel and you can use any service your big, brave soul desires. Awwwwww yeah!

I'll leave you with the band and song that has inspired many a creation of mine. This song is about "being overlooked" as Maynard put it. And I think that's something we have all experienced at one time (or all the time?). Enjoy, lovers..

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Thursday, July 9, 2009 /

Damn you Google!!!!!

For the love of God and Gary Coleman! Just when I had the blog setup exactly the way I wanted, looking spry and beautiful, yet another fly fell right into my freakin' cup of apple sauce! Soon after cleansing my laptop of unnecessary crap, I stumbled upon Picasa and noted that i had a bunch of art pics on there I already had backed up on my other computer. A few days after deleting these pics, I notice my blog had no thumbnails in the summary posts. Hmm? Intriguing. So I probed further and saw nothing in the posts! Oh dear Lord nooooooooooooooooo!!!!After some online digging, I learned that pics loaded into your blog are stored in Picasa and once deleted are gone 4eva! Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!

And so, I must spend the rest of my youth uploading the pics again to make all 30 posts look alive again. Sorry everyone but Google trumped me once again. There was no indication that this would happen. But I shall dedicate this weekend to fixing the posts because I gotta do it for my bebes!

Just wanted to let everyone know that I havent disappeared or been incarcerated for drug trafficking, etc. etc.. Lend Me Your Eyes shall be back with the good stuff!!!

Mucho mucho amor,
Antonio!

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Tuesday, June 30, 2009 /

Im Still Alive and Creating!

United They Stood
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22 Smackers!

Just a quick note to all my bebes!

I wanted to let all my beautiful readers know that I will be retooling my blog over the next few days, so things may look funky for a spell, but rest assured that I will return very soon with baskets full of tasty morsels of art and oodles of fine wit for your enjoyment.

Some folks have been having issues with the current layout in their browsers AND I wanted to provide everyone with something that is a bit less clunky. So I will be working my bum off to give everyone the lovely blog that they deserve. Its been about 6 months since I started this bad boy, and its time that u lovely folks saw an update. So this one's for you, bebe! (Don't bite your fingernails off in suspense! Its unhealthy! I'll be back before you can say boo-hoo...

I also wanted to thank the smorgasbord of new followers and subscribers. You guys truly kick ass and as always I am eternally grateful for your support. If there is anything that anyone would like to see in the new layout/blog, speak now or forever hold your pieces, ok? Ok....

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Saturday, June 20, 2009 / Labels: abstract art, featured artist, mixed media

9 Broken Hearts, Grenades, and Vultures

Untitled 2008

"My paintings reflect my fascination with flesh and architectural structures."

Queens, New York based artist Kristen L. Martin

In "Untitled 2008" (pictured above) and "LineEnergy" (below), Martin's obsession with the plasticity and tonal qualities of flesh is clearly evident in her palette choice and painterly application. But we also see her preoccupations with geometric form reminiscent of the backgrounds in the work of Francis Bacon. It is also not surprising that Bacon's palette has also crept into Martin's work, as she notes him to be one of her favorite artists. Aside from these infuences, Martin's style is all her own. There is a surreal quality to her paintings that can only be described as trance-inducing. Her work draws the viewer with a feeling that they are being pulled into the painting and through to the other side, where fractured structures the size of New York skyscrapers await them.

LineEnergy

"Certain motifs [in my paintings] like vultures, grenades, etc. symbolize personal traumatic experiences."In Vulture 1 and Vulture 2 (below), the darkness and gravity associated with traumatic experience is present throughout the canvas. Suffering and pain is translated into black planes juxtaposed with environments infused with brilliant colors and layers of texture. A careful, subtle balance between solid and exploding forms. Although her paintings do not include human figurative elements, they do illustrate human emotion quite well.

Vulture 1

Vulture 2

The grenades depicted in "9 Broken Hearts" appear as metaphors for bottled, volatile emotion waiting to explode and effect everything around them. There is a lot of tension and quiet anger in this piece that seems, at least to me, sincere and valid which is why it is my favorite from Martin's gallery.

9 Broken Hearts

Kristen Martin obtained her Bachelors in Arts at the New York School of Visual Arts with a concentration in Painting. She has exhibited at the Upstream Gallery in Nebraska and Piola in New York, recently participated in Art Walk and is currently pursuing a residency in Berlin (let's wish her good luck!). In addition to Francis Bacon, Kristen is also a fan of Cai Guo Qiang and Louis Borgeious.

If you enjoyed Kristen's art, then I HIGHLY suggest that you let her know how awesome she is. Add her on facebook, twitter, or drop her a line at gmartin68@aol.com. You can see all her work in her online gallery by clicking here.

If you are a massive, huge, (insert adjective for BIG here) fan of art, then may I suggest that you SUBSCRIBE to my blog by clicking the button at the bottom of this post. You can SUBSCRIBE using any one of a billion services your big, juicy heart desires and its FREE!

If you want more info about me (Antonio!) the man with long hair behind the curtain wearing headphones rocking out to Nirvana, then visit my online gallery by clicking here. You can also Follow Me on Twitter if you dare!

I know life is tough, especially now (2 wars, weak economy, and you ran out of pop tarts AGAIN!). Yes, these are SOUR TIMES, but hey there's always Portishead and wine, right?

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Wednesday, June 10, 2009 / Labels: abstract art, photography, surrealism, watercolor painting

Fueled By Faith

Uh..yeah..SHES HOTT!

Yes, I am aware I have been somewhat of a penis-face because I have not posted any art goodies in quite some time. But that is only because I have been ridiculously busy making oodles upon kaboodles of new artwork, which shall be unveiled in due time, bebes. I also have been learning the intricacies of my minxy Lumix camera and been experimenting with photography. I recently had a faux photo shoot with my lovely muse at a nearby train station. The station looks like a set for a Marilyn Manson video with rotting walls, scattered rocks and glass, and epic ceilings. Perfect for photo ops! So I took a few pics of my minx(gf) with my other minx(camera). One of which is at the top of this post and was tampered with a bit by yours truly. Here are two more from the shoot which I thought had a little bit of pizzazz and should pitch your tent. Men: Keep your hands out of your pants! Im watching you, you dirty scoundrels! :)

Isn't she lovely? She's also a poet! and sharp as an ice pick! You should visit her blog and express your adoration. Don't worry, tigers. I haven't flung my paint brush into the abyss in favor of Miss Camera. I'm just flirting with her lens a bit. Awww yeah...

Let's move on to my new watercolor painting! WOOHOO! I was able to take some pictures of this new, abstract surrealism painting in different stages as I worked on it. So the pics give everyone some luscious insight into its development. I do hope that you dig it! Strap yourself into your lazyboy, and set your phasers on WOO!

I start with an automatic drawing created from my subconscious with ink

Then I start filling in areas with brilliant color using my watercolor pencils

Here, you can see some textures forming for the background. I continue to work from left to right, maintaining a balance with color choice and application. This way I can judge one area of the composition against the other to ensure a harmony is found in the painting.

The background textures are almost entirely filled here and there is a nice overlay/cross hatch effect used which will look incredible when I apply a brush with water later in the process. Oh the suspense! I'm all a twitter inside!

Here's one of the few clear pics I was able to take in the crumby lighting of my home studio. The painting is still technically a drawing at this point. But everything has been filled in with practically everyone of the 72 watercolor pencils i have in my freakin' set! Good God, I love color! Can u tell?

This pic and the ones that follow will hopefully give you a nice idea of how dramatic effects can be achieved when you go over watercolor pencil layers with a brush and bit of H2O.

And Tito! Drumroooooooooooooll, por favor!

Here is the final piece, bebes! Bang! Bang!

Fueled By Faith
(Watercolor and Ink, 9X12, $175 USD)

Click Here to Buy a Print for $22 Bucks!

If you dig this here blog, then you should click on that there huge, SUBSCRIBE button at the bottom of this post so you can consume endless, fat free, no calorie art goodness. Subscribers are informed of my events, new work, tips for artists, art discounts, and regular injections of dry wit.

In other news, I will be exhibiting over 20 paintings and prints in Hoboken this Sunday June 14th from Noon to 6pm at the Monroe Arts Center on 720 Monroe Street between 7th and 8th Street. All art will be for sale, and there will definitely be a lot of new work up at affordable prices, some even ON SALE. But those surprises will only be for those who visit me in Hoboken and show me wondrous affection. I will also be offering matted, signed prints for sale for 20 and 30 dollars each! So come out and enjoy life with me!

Still on the fence? Then visit my ONLINE GALLERY by clicking here and take a peek at what artwork will be welcoming you at Hoboken.

Last, I wanted to let everyone know that I am working on making videos that will show the evolution of my abstract paintings from beginning to end for your hungry eyes. I appreciate all the positive feedback you guys have given me, including all my lovely, loyal subscribers and fellow artists who are fighting the good fight alongside me. Keep creating!

PJ! Take it away! Way Down the Water

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Monday, May 25, 2009 / Labels: abstract art, acrylic painting on wood, exhibition, oil painting, surrealism

Elevation of Art and Soul

This guy looks familiar. I think I saw his pic up in the post office!

Hello there, guys and dolls. I finally was able to gather all of the photogs I took of my last exhibition (Aftersputnik Group Exhibition) which took place in Long Island City Queens and featured my abstract, surrealist painting "The Wait." Awww yeah. I had to break out the suede jacket for this one! This painting was a huuuuuge challenge for me, tigers. Being that I am not the most experienced dude when it comes to the subtleties of the oil medium, and most of my work is closer to abstraction than realism, this painting was quite a feat of strength, my friends. And eventhough it got pretty frustrating at times, and I had thrown more than a few brushes at the wall in fits of wackiness, I enjoyed it all the same. If you would like to lend your eyes to pictures of this painting in progress, then you should visit this earlier post. I also discuss the meaning of the symbols and metaphors found in the painting. Can you dig it?

The exhibit took place at the Metropolitan Building which was HUGE and an amazing place to hold events. I didn't expect it to be such a large, beautifully decorated space especially since I am used to displaying in places that could be mistaken for freakin' bomb shelters. And for this reason, I have included a buttload of pics in this post that I do hope you enjoy from the comfort of your home, or Starbucks, or uh.. bomb shelter? Eventhough, I would have preferred that my magnificent readers be at the exhibit with me to knock a few drinks back and rock out! Considering that most of you are from other time zones, I guess I could forgive you. :)

Lookin' HOTT!

Before I whip out the Polaroids of the show, I'd like to invite my bebes and the entire planet to my next exhibit in Jersey City, New Jersey. That's right. WOOHOO! I got into another show. On June 2nd, 7:00PM, I shall be exhibiting the new abstract, wood painting "Elevation" at LITM located at 140 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07302. This will likely be my last exhibit until the Fall, since I will be quite busy working on two events where I will be working with some folks to offer artworks for sale in Jersey City and Hoboken. Wish me luck, its going to get hot out there!

Elevation
48 inches by 24 inches, Acrylic on Wood, $300 USD
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22 bucks!

The abstract painting, "Elevation" is part of an ongoing series of acrylic paintings on wood centered around various themes. This painting was created for an upcoming exhibition centered on New Orleans. The painting "Elevation" expresses two meanings. One meaning has to do with the low physical elevation of New Orleans which contributed to the devastation caused by Katrina. The other meaning is more positive and is centered around the elevation of the people and economy of New Orleans through art, music, and education programs. Hope you guys dig it.

If you would like to lend your eyes to more of my art goodies or possibly looking to buy some abstract, surrealism, or colorful art, please visit my ONLINE gallery by clicking here. If you dig this blog, you should SUBSCRIBE using any service of your choice and plunge into the mad, mad world of Antonio!

Now get ready for the good stuff. Roll that beautiful bean footage!

Its Smashing, Baby!

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Saturday, May 16, 2009 / Labels: abstract art, ink drawing, inspirational

Eyes to the Sky

My eyes are tired and closing. I look out the window of my train to see nothing but sky and wires. I watch the train smoke dance and strange, cubist faces with missing features begin to emerge. And I wonder if I will be able to remember them all, sketch them down quick in my book. But the day has been too long and there isn't enough will to reach for my pencil. My mind wanders and desperately imagines what is behind the wires, and the skyscrapers and the noise. My eyes are shut, but Im not asleep. I'm too anxious to sleep. So I wait.

I think about the day. And how every one before it has been exactly the same. I remember coughing after breathing exhaust. I remember the guy stepping on my shoes. And the guy that stepped on his shoes. Because we are all packed so tightly in the valley next to the New York PATH train. I remember the droves of people pushing and running and raging through the streets trying to make it to Broadway before the light turned green again. I remember officially feeling like cattle when I was stopped by men who used a yellow chain to prevent everyone's passage and let traffic through.

Wit
Prints for $22

Then I think about how small my world was when I was a boy(mini-Antonio!). How the park was the biggest attraction and seemed larger than life itself. How it seemed as if nothing existed outside of it. And I wonder if I ever left there. At least, in my mind. I realize the enormity of the world and how little of it I have seen. And I realize how little depth my own world has in relation to this massive globe we live on.

I get to my stop and can feel the weight of my thoughts on my chest. My breath getting tougher to catch. A familiar cold chill runs up my neck. The people, the noise, the lack of space is getting to me. I run to the bathroom and wash my face. I look at my eyes in the mirror and nod to my reflection. A gesture that says I need to step back and take action.

So I am seriously considering pulling a Thoreau and taking a mini-hiatus. Just taking a few days to collect myself in order to prevent the stifling of my creativity caused by my daily routine. Henry Thoreau is a writer best known for "Walden." The book explores his spiritual journey and how it transcended his life.

Breathe
Prints for $22

I believe artists should not be content. They can be happy. But not content. Being content is comfortable. It causes boredom and boredom is poisonous to creativity. To prevent boredom, we have to constantly challenge ourselves by using new mediums, new subjects, new philosophies. But we also have to challenge ourselves in our own personal lives, where much inspiration and many ideas can and should be taken. I believe we should seek out new relationships, new cultures, and new environments.

It is time that I travel down roads I've never tread upon and shake hands with strangers with hopes of calling them friend. Any suggestions of where I can go and there is ample quiet are quite welcome, friends.

So please consider taking your own journey. Don't let your daily routine rule you. Take a step back and think about what you would like to do differently. Start small, like trying a new dish or adding a new color to your palette. Think about your relationships in your life and how they influence you and your art. And allow yourself time FOR yourself. Doesn't have to be a roadtrip or a flight to another country. How about a spiritual journey. You'd be surprised how far you can travel within yourself. And the wealth of things you could learn along the way.

If anyone has any stories or understands what I've expressed here, I would love to hear from you. Please leave it as a comment below, or if you would like to share privately click HERE and drop me an email.

If you dig my rants and art please SUBSCRIBE below using the service of your choice. For more of my angst ridden artwork, visit my online gallery by clicking here.

If you enjoyed this post, you would also be bedazzled by this one: Nothing Seems to Satisfy

The tone of this post calls for a little bit of Nine Inch Nails. Take it away Trent!

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Saturday, May 9, 2009 / Labels: acrylic, art review, featured artist

All of Us are Searching

Women at the Wall

Click Here to Purchase a Print

Today, I would like to introduce my bebes to the art of fellow fineartamerica friend Bruce Combs. Bruce is a retired English professor who has studied representational drawing and painting techniques with Jean Eliott Jones at StudioJean in The Hague, The Netherlands. There, he spent considerable time studying both the old masters and contemporary artists. He was especially inspired by the natural light sources and reflections on water found in his surroundings. He has had four personal shows in The Hague, with encouraging reviews in the Nation's largest newspaper.

Spiritual Ecstasy From Sun and Sea
Click Here to Purchase a Print

Sometimes So Hard to Think
Click Here to Purchase a Print

Bruce enjoys working with acrylics in a variety of styles using a range of colors. His compositions are filled with contemplative narratives that are created with thick, confident brushstrokes. Bruce continues to explore environmental and political issues through his work. Much of his paintings employ different surfaces that he utilizes to create intriguing texture.

Although it is difficult for me to choose my favorite work from his collection, I couldn't take my eyes away from "All of us are searching." I'm not sure if its the title or the subtle tension between the figures, but this is definitely my favorite piece. This piece conjures feelings of bewilderment and longing. Two things I am very familiar with. I feel that artists especially have this perpetual sense that they are searching for something. Searching for a way to express what is within them and communicate it in an original and profound voice. And I do believe Combs' work sings with a unique voice all its own.

For more about Bruce Combs, you should lend your eyes to his gallery by clicking here. Aside from being a great painter, he is also quite a nice guy. So be kind and leave him a juicy comment if you dig any of his work on there.

All of Us are Searching

So what are YOU searching for? If your first, second, and third answer is ART, ART, ART! then you should click the gigantic SUBSCRIBE button at the end of this post, tiger. You can subscribe using any service your tiny heart desires. If you would like to see some oodles of art by me, Antonio! You can visit my ONLINE gallery by clicking here.

Looks like we will be having a bit of Dead Weather today. Rock out!

May the power of Antonio compel you!!!

Can I borrow your sunglasses? Please?

Fans Have Spoken! (2) / Read More

Saturday, April 18, 2009 / Labels: art marketing, oil painting, surrealism, tips, watercolor painting

Learning the ABCs of Local Networking

The Keepers of Day and Night
(24 inches by 18 inches, Japanese Watercolor and Ink, $250)

Click Here to Buy a Print for $22 Bucks!

I will be the first to admit that I haven't always been the most organized and prepared guy. I also haven't always been the most articulate or social dude in the room. So how was I able to obtain all the opportunities that I have been given? Simple: I learned from my mistakes and promised myself I wouldn't make them a second time (or I would have to whack myself twice on the knuckles with a ruler! WHACK! WHACK! OUCH! OUCH!)

As I'm writing this, I remember some trips that turned into falls. Like the times I was asked for a business card and had NONE. Which forced me to resort to writing my contact info down on a post it, napkin, or anonymous body part(awkward!). Imagine how complicated and unprofessional that can get, especially if you don't have your own domain name and your website address looks like this: www.1@#%$$%^%%^antoniowingdings&**!com. Or the time someone asked me about the meaning behind a painting, and I froze because the meaning was very personal and I wasn't prepared to discuss it on the spot.

Fast forward a few years later. Im a bit wiser, a bit older, and although Im still learning, I believe I am light years ahead of where I was when it comes to networking and marketing my work. And let me tell you folks, the fruits of my labor have been quite sweet. I've not only been able to get some opportunities and sales, but have also met some awesome, creative, beautiful people along the way. Take for example, you lovely readers and your juicy emails/comments. The art community is bigger than you think! Its HUGE! and full of amor (love). Embrace it, share it, appreciate it like you would a tiny, warm baby in your arms.

Speaking of fruits of labor, my abstract watercolor painting "The Keepers of Day and Night" is set to make a cameo appearance on a new reality series on ABC "Holidate." Footage for the show was recently taken at Steven Mohn Furniture and Design and four of my paintings stuck out their necks in an attempt to grab some limelight. Steven is a tall, kind and gentle soul who has allowed me to put up a few of my pieces on his welcoming walls. He is an interior designer based in Bloomfield, New Jersey who also designs his own furniture. I recently passed by to review and sign a release so the paintings can be shown in the footage and not blurred out like the face of a testifying witness or something. Although the paintings will be in the background, it is of course huge free exposure for my work that I wouldn't be able to get or afford any other way. Now if ABC could only get there act together and make a reality series based on the struggles of a young, passionate, latino long haired eccentric artist who is trying to make it BIG, i. e. ANTONIO! I will be awaiting your call ABC....

If I had not visited Steven's store, genuinely complemented his work, and approached him directly about displaying my work, this opportunity would have never existed. Simple as that. I encourage other artists to do the same.

Here are 6 networking tips for artists:

1. Visit your local business owners and engage them in a conversation. Try to focus your search for places to place your work on businesses related to art or your particular type of art. Frame shops, antique stores, furniture stores and the like are good starting points.

2. Try to visit when things should be slow. Weekdays are usually better than weekends, since shoppers mostly buy on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. If the owner seems interested but distracted/busy, offer to make an appointment for another time when you can both sit down comfortably and go over the meat and the potatoes.

3. Start off by discussing THEIR business first and provide a compliment. Be sincere. You should have a working knowledge of the business they are in and some specific details about the owner's particular store/shop. Do some research. Try to have the owner's name BEFORE you enter. This is where the internet or local library is your best friend.

4. Have promotional materials ready. At the very least, have a few business cards handy. But you should also consider: a copy of any written clips you have received, resume, artist's statement, or a large postcard featuring 4 of your best images.

5. Be prepared to answer questions and don't rely on you website or promo materials to answer them for you. Expect to come across business owners that would much rather talk to a human being face to face than sit behind a computer. I had one owner who put my business card aside and never visit my website. Instead, he had the bartender pour us drinks while we spoke for an hour and a half. He agreed to have my work up on his walls for two months. What school did you go to? Where have you exhibited you work? Who is your favorite artist? Be prepared.

6. Discuss terms and responsibilities. Ugh! Responsibilities! I know, I hate that word too. Bear in mind, that the owner is the boss. So he should have final say in the particulars and you should try to compromise as necessary. That being said, you should always be careful of getting scammed and/or screwed.

Be sure to ask about how sales of your work will be handled. If someone is interested in a painting, do they call you? or can someone buy it directly from the owner?

Are you obligated to give a percentage to the owner? This would be reasonable, depending on the percentage the owner wishes to receive. If this is the case, get everything in writing.

Are they charging any fees to just hang your work? If so, look elsewhere.

Try to find places that will let you put up your work for free. You'd be surprised how many would say YES!

If you artwork gets damaged, who is liable?

Will your work be featured in any promotions for the business?

Hopefully, these tips will help my fellow art buddies reach a bigger audience and make better decisions. If you dig these tips, you should SUBSCRIBE! I will be posting oodles of helpful articles in future posts along with my nifty artwork.

So you may be asking, what were the other 3 paintings that will make cameos on ABC's "Holidate." Get ready to be smothered in arty goodness!

Subversive

(24 inches by 24 inches, Acrylic on Wood, $220)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22 bucks !

Truth
(24 inches by 30 inches, Oil on Canvas, $250)

Click Here to Buy a Print for $22 bucks!

Love is Necessary
(24 inches by 24 inches, Oil on Wood, $250)
Click Here to Buy a Print for $22 bucks!

Has this article helped make your life sweeter and breakfast taste better? Then tell me! and click here to drop me a line! You should also be a beautiful soul and consider SUBSCRIBING to my blog using any service of your choice by clicking the uh SUBSCRIBE button below.

If you would like to see more of my abstract, surrealism work and learn more about the man behind the machine, visit my website here.

If you dig this article, you would probably find this one just as juicy:

Why aren't you exposing yourself?

And now, it is time to ROCK! Karen O! Take it away, baby!

Fans Have Spoken! (4) / Read More

Friday, April 3, 2009 / Labels: abstract art, acrylic painting, exhibition, watercolor painting

Saving the World is Kinda Kewl

Humble

(24 inches by 18 inches, Japanese Watercolor and Ink)

Click Here to Purchase a Print for $22 bucks!

Oh yes, I have donned my cape and cowl once again, friends! I have leapt from the tallest buildings in a single bound. Chased down bad dudes in their Mazda Miatas using my superspeed. And I have gotten confessions from the worst criminals by getting them drunk using my "superpower" and turning their bottles of Evian into wine! (which has also made me a hit at cocktail parties). Actually, I think I might have been dreaming all of this stuff. Oh, Antonio, you silly silly little man.

What I really meant to say is that I have assisted in the saving of our world by donating two works of art to the Art with a Heart auction that recently took place at Centerstage NODA in Charlotte, North Carolina. The event raised a whopping $138,000 smackers for the United Family Services Domestic Violence Programs and was attended by more than 725 folks. The show included 275 pieces of awesome goodness ranging from abstract to still life to landscape and portraiture. I felt honored to participate in such an awesome event and look forward to doing so again. This cause was especially important to me, because of the scarcity of social service programs for victims of domestic violence in the communities I have worked with. It was very discouraging to have to tell victims that they need to wait on a list for counseling services.

One of the works donated, "Humble," is pictured above. It was based on an automatic drawing sketch. I then blew up the image with a projector and laid several washes of Japanese color for layered effects. The painting is sn exploration of nature's helping hand. This work includes Japanese Kanji symbols: Self, Help, and Bird.

The second painting was a smaller version of one my acrylic on wood pieces based on my "SKIN" series which used layers of wood as metaphors for the layers of the "self."

Skin
(24 inches by 24 inches, Acrylic on Wood Panel)

Click Here to Purchase a Print for $22 bucks!

Speaking of saving the world, you can help me help some babies learn, bebes! I will be participating in a non-profit silent auction in New York along with several other artists who kick mucho asso. Proceeds from this auction will go to the Room for Read organization.

Here is their mission statement:

Room to Read partners with local communities throughout the developing world to provide quality educational opportunities by establishing libraries, creating local language children's literature, constructing schools, and providing education to girls. We seek to intervene early in the lives of children in the belief that education empowers people to improve socioeconomic conditions for their families, communities, countries and future generations. Through the opportunities that only education can provide, we strive to break the cycle of poverty, one child at a time.

I am considering donating this painting or something in a similar style. Whaddya think?

Sex Candy
(24 inches by 24 inches, Acrylic on Wood Panel, $150 USD)

Click Here to Purchase a Print for $22

Please be a dear and donate something purty from your collection of art goodies for this cause. Plus, you get to hang with me and have a drink or two or thirteen. For more information about the silent auction event click here. For more info about Room to Read click here.

Speaking of having a drink or two or two billion with me, I will be at the lovely Metropolitan Building on April 10th and exhibiting my new surrealist painting "The Wait."

The Wait
(Mixed Media on Canvas, 36 inches by 36 inches)

Click Here to Purchase a Prints for $22 bucks!

The exhibit will take place on Friday, April 10th, 2009 from 8pm to 1am at the Metropolitan Building in Long Island City Queens, New York.

Here's a lovely summary of what you can expect:

Join us for this spectacular event, MC-ed by Victoria Libertore, and including live music by Allison Miller and other musical guests, followed by DJs The Gunseller and Rontronik.

Dancing, food, and refreshments, AND, of course, the opening of the pieces from our 30+ contributing visual artists answering the question, “If your student loan debt was an image, what would you see?”

There will be also be opportunities to create art at the show!

If you would like to attend the exhibit, meet my crazy "present self," have oodles of fun, listen and jam to music and meet many, many other awesome artists, please click here to purchase a ticket. Remember to enter the discount code ArtistGuestSingleEventTix because you are one of my wonderful readers.

Price includes a free yummy drink! Show your love, bebes!

If you have gotten this far, you may have just fallen in love with me! Before we end up walking down the aisle (at Stop and Shop?) you should visit online gallery so we can really get to know each other. To preserve a long term relationship, please subscribe to the beautiful madness that is my blog by clicking one of the many SUBSCRIBE! buttons you see before you.

Anything you would like to see? read? fondle? Have a grievance, compliment, splinter in your mind? Please contact me here.

As always, here are more morsels of music for your ears and tongues to savor. Enjoy!

Fans Have Spoken! (9) / Read More

Saturday, March 21, 2009 / Labels: oil painting, personal, surrealism, watercolor painting

Divine Intervention, Truth, and Modern Love

Bowie: "Well, I'm almost an atheist. Give me a couple of months"

I've never considered myself a "religious" individual, but I have always felt a connection to something (God, Buddha, etc.. give it a name...) I do believe in the existence of the soul, spirituality, and divinity. Having been in more car accidents than I can count, attacked twice by knife-wielding maniacs, and in a plane with a flaming engine, I have seen my share of near-death showcases. (And before you ask, no I am not Batman!).

I do believe that some things are destined and others are absolutely within our control. So what does that make me? I don't know, probably just as curious, lost, and bewildered as everyone else. Some call me agnostic, some atheist, some extremists would even label me as a hethen flavored bastard. Although I did have a short lived relationship with Christianity when I was 17, I never could devote myself to organized or disorganized religion. I think David Bowie expressed it best in an interview with Anthony DeCurtis when he said, "Questioning my spiritual life has always been germane to what I was writing. Always. It's because I'm not quite an atheist and it worries me. There's that little bit that holds on: Well, I'm almost an atheist. Give me a couple of months."

Divine Intervention
(Watercolor Pencils, 18 X 24)
Click Here to Purchase Prints Starting at $22 USD

Much of my artwork is a meditation on spirituality, divinity, and existentialism. I also believe that these themes tie into how we perceive ourselves, the progression of our lives, and concepts of control and freedom. Are we completely free beings? Or are we just puppets forced in the directions chosen by another being?

The painting, "Divine Intervention", explores these questions. This was one of my first pieces where I began experimenting with color, and was created in 2001. A huge thanks goes to a collector from Beverly Hills California who recently purchased a huge, juicy print and frame for Divine Intervention.

This collector also purchased a large print of the oil painting "Truth."

Truth
(Original painting, 24X30, $250 USD)
Click Here to Purchase Prints Starting at $22 USD

This painting's theme differs from the theme in "Divine Intervention," in that it focuses more on the figure's concept of the self in relation to the "greater scheme" of things. With this painting, I tried to limit my palette to form a harmony in the composition, instead of going crazy with color like I usually do. You could call it an exercise in restraint. Restraint being something I am not always the best at. But I love the way it came out.

I shall make good use of the much needed funds from these sales, and am working on opening up an etsy store to sell prints and smaller, more affordable paintings for the lovely citizens of the world. Wish me luck!

Aside from all this goodness, I have completed my new painting, "The Wait", for an upcoming group exhibition in New York. The exhibit will take place on Friday, April 10th, 2009 from 8pm to 1am at the Metropolitan Building in Long Island City Queens, New York.

Here's a lovely summary of what you can expect:

Join us for this spectacular event, MC-ed by Victoria Libertore, and including live music by Allison Miller and other musical guests, followed by DJs The Gunseller and Rontronik.

Dancing, food, and refreshments, AND, of course, the opening of the pieces from our 30+ contributing visual artists answering the question, “If your student loan debt was an image, what would you see?”

There will be also be opportunities to create art at the show!

If you would like to attend the exhibit, meet my crazy "present self," have oodles of fun, listen and jam to music and meet many, many other awesome artists, please click here to purchase a ticket. Remember to enter the discount code ArtistGuestSingleEventTix because you are one of my wonderful readers.

(Price includes a free yummy drink!)

If you dig me and/or my art, you should visit my website here. Any content, articles, body parts you would like to see? Please drop me a line at doveraven@gmail and we can go over the nooks and crannies together.

Speaking of restraint, I have been unable to stop myself from listening to the Bowie cover, "Modern Love," by the Last Town Chorus, because Im obsessed with it. So here's a two for one! The cover and original. Which do you like better? I love Bowie, but have to say I am loving this cover 10x more. Its so haunting and dark. Two of my favorite things in the world!

Fans Have Spoken! (4) / Read More

Saturday, February 28, 2009 / Labels: art marketing, inspirational, tips

Why aren't you exposing yourself?!!

Whoa! Ok! Ok! Keep your clothes on! This isn't that kind of website. There's enough porn on the net! When I say "exposure", I mean exposure for your art to your audience. I mean the multitude of eyes that should be glued to your art. You know, those painterly expressions that you keep hidden under a rock or in the back of your closet.

There are far too many great, emerging artists that have been doing themselves a disservice, by failing to take a few simple measures to increase their exposure. I've come across many artists who fall into this category, and they ask me how I got an exhibition or how I found a certain connection, not knowing how they could easily have obtained the same opportunities.

Being an artist myself living in America in this economy, I absolutely understand losing faith in the ability to get your work seen, let alone purchased. Yes, the pool of collectors shrinks, while the pool of artists multiplies and divides! But you cannot let this discourage you. You cannot let it murder your spirit. Take it from someone who has seen his share of financial and emotional breakdowns. Art will stand mighty, strong and unflinching in the face of anything this world throws at it. If you want to be successful, you cannot be idle. You have to put your work out there, if you ever want the eyes of opportunity to find you. So here are 6 juicy tips for exposing your work without having to pawn your mother's jewelry.

1. The #1 piece of best advice I can give is: have a website. I was absolutely invisible before I made one. If you dont have one already, get a website up with digital images of your work. If you don't have a camera, you should buy one eventually, but can borrow someone else's for now.

I have most of my work on fineartamerica.com. You can make a simple gallery on there for free. Try to use a site like this one, where there aren't a million ads cluttering up the page and distracting people from your work.

2. Once you have the site, send an email to everyone to start getting some hits. Post the site on craiglist.org, and other forums, and everywhere you can. Attach the link as a signature to all your emails. Have some business cards made with the site address prominently placed and printed large enough to see clearly. Vistaprint is nice and cheap.

3. Network! Go to exhibits of emerging and mid career artists and talk to them if you can. Sign their guestbook and be courteous. Ive gotten half of my exhibition opportunities like this. For example, I saw this girl's work up in one of my favorite cafes and sent her an email about how much i like her work. She ended up inviting me to a group exhibit she was organizing, where I was able to make more connections, sell some prints, and was invited to another exhibition by someone I met there. It pays to be nice!

4. Look for local shops, cafes, and especially antique stores in your area, preferably something close to where you store most of your work. Pick a place that has a good amount of traffic. Visit the shops and ask if you could put some work up on their walls. Be sure to ask if they would want a part of the sales. You should be able to find places that will let you do this for free. You'd be surprised how many local business owners will say yes, and its great free exposure. Remember to leave business cards or contact info along with your art if you go this route.

5. Start a blog (like this one!)and post new work as you make it. remember to market the blog like you would your regular online gallery, and link them to each other.

6. The greatest resource I have found for myself to give me more ideas on how to get my work out there and actually sell is Artcalendar magazine. There's always a bunch of helpful info on there. Also, if you don't have the money to spend on a bunch of magazines, I suggest you visit your bookstore with a notebook and take some notes on contents, exhibition opportunities listed in these type of magazines and also the Artist's Market book which has tons of listings to send samples of your work too and get gigs/sales.

For more info about me, be a dear, and visit my website. If you dig me, please show your love by clicking the Subscribe button below and keep in touch. Any questions, concerns, rashes? click the CONTACT tab and shoot me an email so we can sort it out.

Until next time, may the power of Antonio compel you!

I shall leave you, as always, with music that has been occupying the dark caverns of my mind. Here is "You Better Pray" by the Red Jumpsuit Apparatus.

Rock out! And Keep the Scene ALIVE!

Fans Have Spoken! (27) / Read More

Saturday, February 7, 2009 / Labels: inspirational, oil painting, personal, surrealism

Love is Necessary

Being an investigator by day and artist by night makes for an interesting life. I've come across people of all ages, cultures, religions, classes and moral values. I have always considered myself to be an open minded patient man, and I love meeting new people in new situations. I've met many beautiful people in impossible situations and have helped those that I could with the limited resources I had. However, investigative work more often exposes you to the darker sides of humanity. Unfortunately, you spend more time with the perpetrators than with the victims.You gain firsthand experience of how desperation, greed, or just plain evil can drive people to do the unthinkable. Within a short time, you can become jaded, angry with the world, to the point where you question whether your work is even relevant, whether the human race is worth saving. Fortunately, I have always been able to turn to art, music, writing, and my circle of friends to remind me that there is beauty and goodness in the world.

Love is Necessary
(24 inches by 24 inches, Oil on Wood Panel)
Click Here: Purchase a print for $22 USD

When I worked as an investigator for the state in a previous life, I found no other way to soothe my anger and resentment than by painting and painting and painting. I would come home exhausted from working 12 or 14 hours straight looking for people and "paint through the pain." My anger the only thing fueling my work. It allowed me to find a balance in myself and keep me from losing hope. So what's my point?

The other night, I was talking to sexyminx about this and got so heated that I yelled out "why can't people just fucking love each other!" Let me be clear, Im not expecting everyone to magically turn into hippies and suddenly hold hands in an orgiastic moment of glee. Im talking about helping out your fellow man when you can. Showing compassion and actually making a sincere attempt to let go of the influences our apathetic culture has instilled in us.

Between the wars, the dying economy, and the pressures of daily life, I understand how we can let the anger, anxiety and despair get to us. I'll be the first to admit that I have allowed it to get to me on more than one occasion. But at least I fight against it. And I know that money controls everything. But love, love my friends, is necessary. It is what binds us. It is what inspires. It is the soothing voice in the storm. If the shit were to really hit the fan, money would become irrelevant. No one would have power. In the end, all we have is what we give. So give, baby, give.

I suggest you practice random acts of kindness when you can.

If you dig my blog, you should SUBSCRIBE and visit my website here.

I'll leave you with an awesome video featuring the song "Under Pressure" by Bowie and Queen, since this song is what inspired this post. Enjoy!

Fans Have Spoken! (5) / Read More

Thursday, January 22, 2009 / Labels: abstract art, ink drawing, personal, surrealism

Nothing Seems to Satisfy

I paint because I have to. Its the only thing that cures my fits with insomnia other than copious amounts of wine and/or whiskey (depending on my mood). It is one of the few things that actually make me feel somewhat normal. Which is strange considering some of the comments that have come my way. Once upon a time, I had a gentleman come up to me and say, "hey, I took a look at the artwork on your website" To which I replied "oh really, what did you think?" And he replied, "It was interesting. I was thinking, man Antonio has to be pretty fucked up in the head!" I just nodded and thought that the interesting part was that the strange, wild surrealist abstract creatures and shapes I create are actually what stabilize me into a normal human being. My paintings and drawings are the end products of a weekly catharsis. To illustrate my point, here's a picture of my recent ink drawing "Nothing Seems to Satisfy."

Nothing Seems To Satisfy
(18 inches by 24 inches, Created with Japanese India Ink)
Click Here to Purchase a Print Starting at $22 USD

This drawing was created using the technique of automatic drawing which was frequently used by Salvador Dali and Joan Miro. For more info on automatic drawing and why you should give it a shot click here. The title was inspired by lyrics in the song "Stinkfist" by my favorite band Tool.

The song is about longing and craving and needing to fill a void inside. Its about seeking what makes you feel alive and gives meaning to your life. Hopefully, this drawing will stand as an expression of that.

Here's my questions of the day for you saucy readers out there:

Why do you create and/love art? Is it a hobby? Is it your passion? Or is it a kind of medicine that heals you and something you can't live without? I would love to hear what everyone out there has to say.

In other news, congratulate my wacky ass!

Because I got into another show! In April 2009 (date to be determined) I will be exhibiting a brand spanking new painting (that I haven't even started yet!) in NYC baby. Awwwwww yeah! Would you like to exhibit with me and be dual exhibitionists to be arrested and confined to prison? Um, wait sorry Im confusing one definition of exhibition for another. The exhibit is called the Aftersputnik Project and the theme centers on the impact of student loan debt on the American student, which is something Im sure my lovely readers can identify with. If you would like to participate in the exhibit click here. Hurry though, because entries won't be accepted after January 31. So hurry, and giddy up! Good luck and hope to see you there friends.

For More about me visit my website here.

If you love me, you would subscribe to my blog so we could keep in touch and share our successes and failures. Click here to SHOW ME LOVE and Subscribe! Subscribe to Lend Me Your Eyes by Email

Quick News: Art Calendar just posted oodles of new calls for entries on their site. Check it out and good luck. Let me know if you win so I can congratulate you and buy you a beer!

Click here to see the Calls For Entries.

I'll leave you with the video to Tool's AMAZING "Stinkfist"

Fans Have Spoken! (3) / Read More

Monday, January 5, 2009 / Labels: abstract art, acrylic painting

The Lava of My Life

Lava

24 inches by 48 inches Acrylic Paint on Wood
(Fine Art Reproductions Available Starting at $22 USD)
Click Here to Purchase

Don't have much time for a lengthy post today, but I wanted to take a moment out to put up a picture of my latest painting in the "Abstract Acrylic on Wood Series" I was able to get such a high quality picture of this lovely piece, due to my new, sexy camera. I've been working on since April 2008. The series is conceptual and based on different themes. The current theme I am working with is Earth and the various colors we associate with this fancy, enormous, rotating globe beneath our aching feet. This painting is one of three large scale works in the series and measures 2 feet heigh by 4 feet wide. Awwwww yeaahhhhh... I will post pics of the next painting in the series when its completed. Oh the suspense!

The original painting is available for $300 USD. You can contact me directly to inquire about purchasing this work. Affordable prints are available here.

This painting, titled "Dermis (the second layer of skin)" was the second piece in a series titled SKIN which used the layers of skin as metaphors for the layers of the self. This work is also available for $300 USD and was exhibited at Gallery 364 in New York. Check it out, bebes!

Dermis

24 inches by 48 inches Acrylic Paint on Wood
(Fine Art Reproductions Available Starting at $22 USD)
Click Here to Purchase

If you are still hungry for more of my art, please be a saucy fellow/minx and visit my online gallery here.

If you dig my art and my shimmering personality, please enter your email address in the box on the right (Stay in Touch) and click SUBSCRIBE.

Why should you sign up? Here's why!

You're email is not shared with anyone! Not even your mother-in-law!
Invitations to exclusive art exhibitions in New York and New Jersey.
Discounts on original artwork and related merchandise.
Because I'm a nice guy with long, flowing Pantene perfect hair(thank you Portia De Rossi!).

Fans Have Spoken! (3) / Read More

Wednesday, December 31, 2008 / Labels: abstract art, oil painting, photography, tips

Making Love to the Camera....

After a lengthy, claustrophobic commute on the New York PATH train I walked toward my door, and there she was. In the darkest corner, waiting for my nimble fingers to open her up, press my quivering lips and unshaven cheeks against her body. Waiting for me to play with all her nifty, naughty buttons and figure out the mysteries to discover her full potential. Although I was starving and hadn't had dinner yet, my craving to play with my new toy overwhelmed the previous hunger for a chicken parmigiana sandwich.

I'd like to introduce you to my new toy/lova! The Lumix FZ28!

What did you think I was talking about? You dirty, dirty internet audience! Seriously though, if I could make love to this camera, I would. Its that beautiful, dependable, and plain damn sexy. It may look huge in this photo; however it only weighs a mere 417 g, including the battery. It fits perfectly in my hands, which means it will probably fit well in anyone's hands. I was comparing its size and weight to my friends Canon Powershot SD100 and I have to say I preferred the FZ28 far more. Especially considering that it is capable of 18X zoom without having to be as massive of a burden both physically and financially as a DSLR.

Here are just a few of the kick ass features this bad girl comes to town with:

1. 10 MP
2. 18X Zoom
3. Quicktime HD video (can zoom in and out DURING recording!)
4. Can record pics in RAW format(uncompressed, so you can edit and save without losing quality)
5. Intelligent Auto(automatically adjusts exposure and changes mode to take best possible pic)
6. Available for under $300 on Amazon.com

So you might ask, Antonio you're a PAINTER, why the google do YOU need a camera for? And this is the part where I ask you to have a seat, so I can deliver oodles of helpful knowledge to your fertile minds. Here are 3 reasons why I got a camera and you probably should too(if you're an artist or are cultivating the courage to become one!)

Fine Art Reproductions(also known as Prints or Giclees)

Between my full-time job as an investigator, familial obligations, errands, and social life I am nowhere near as productive as I'd like to be. I would love to create 7 to 10 nice, big fat paintings a week, but end up cranking out 1 or 2 on a good week. Sounds familiar?And what happens when you sell a painting? The image is gone 4 EVER! And what about the client after that? Lost because you already sold the painting she/he would have loved? Damnit! Now, if you had lovely Ms. Camera along your side, you could earn continued revenue from that one painting if you made a high quality digital copy of it. So that painting you sold for X, can now earn you 10X more. When a reproduction of the art image is created on paper or even canvas, the reproductions are called PRINTS or GICLEES. These should be sold for much less than the original. Also, signed prints should cost more then unsigned prints.

For example the following original painting is $350.00. However, someone could purchase a print as low as $22, or a signed print of the same size for $40.

Pre-Post Madonna

With Ms. Camera, a photo editing program, and some practice, you could upload the digital file to various sites and provide your art to a global audience at a fraction of the cost of the original. And you won't have to get all misty-eyed when you sell the original, because you know that the image will always be with you.

Some tips

Choose a camera with at least 8MP to be able to offer large, good quality prints.
Take pictures with NO FLASH and crop everything that isn't related to the image.
Take pictures outdoors in natural lighting.
Get as close as you can to the image, the more you crop the more quality you sacrifice (unless you have a camera like mine that takes pics in RAW format!)
Use an editing software (free one-Photoscape is kinda nice :) to adjust exposure, brightness colors, etc. to match the original as closely as possible.
Have the original nearby while editing the digital copy so you can easily refer to it.

I currently sell prints of all my work through FineArtAmerica.com ($30 annual fee). You can have a gander at the site here. I also have some goodies on Imagekind, Redbubble, and ArtistRising, but prefer FineArtAmerica because of the quality and everything they offer for the low fee.

Better Compositions

Even the best models have trouble staying in certain positions. Especially when the artist takes a few minutes after forever to finish the drawing(ME!) So the second reason for getting the camera is to take photographic references for the more complex, realistic work I would like to begin the coming year. Although I am very, very grateful, Im also very tired of using other people's photos as references for my work. I want to create new work that is completely original and independent (aside from the model/flower/polar bear that is being featured in the artwork of course). Also, taking pictures forces a different perspective where you have greater awareness about light and shadow and various compositional elements. Basically, I feel that taking pictures will give me a stronger sense of composition that will better inform my work. Plus, who knows I might end up loving it and start dabbling in photography as well! Am I floating your boat yet?

Videos for Blogging and Youtube

Many cameras possess the ability to record short videos. The FZ28 allows up to 15 minutes of HD video for better clairity and sound. If you already have a website than you are halfway there. If you have a blog and a website than you are kicking more ass than many other artists out there(ahem.. your competition..) Now if you have a website, blog, and a Youtube channel you are officially an internet God/Goddess. Youtube gets a ridiculous amount of hits and is the best place to get your hands ona global audience. And in the coming weeks, I hope to start the process to getting my work on there and seen by the masses. Plus, it will give me the chance to share more of my wicked, dry wit with my lovely readers and the rest of the world (thereby saving it?)

For more info about my crazy self visit www.AntonioEstevez.net. I can also be contacted through the site or emailed at doveraven@gmail.com. I would love to hear what you think about my art and if you find this info useful. You can also feel free to lob me some questions about art or life and I will attempt to answer them as efficiently humourous as possible.

Come to think of it, I have done a damn good promo job for Panasonic. How about some compensatin? I could really go for that chicken parmigiana sanchwich right about now. I need to recharge after making love to the camera. Also, a cigarette would be nice.

I'll leave you with this video on the Lumix Fz28. Pay special attention to how they have the camera rotate in the beginning while they go over the specs. It reminds me of a sports car display in oldtime dealerships. I wish I had a rotating table to place mine on and watch it spin like a sassy, sexy little dreidel. Oh Lumix, you big tease!

Fans Have Spoken! (1) / Read More

My Blog

Interview with photographer Sebastian Musial

A More Perfect Union

Bring on the Good Stuff!

Interview with Painter Stephane Trahan

Bah Humbug!

New Abstract Painting! Woohoo!

Beyond Tomorrow

For a Minute There, I Lost Myself

Beauty of the Carnival: Horacio Cardozo

My Abstract Painting "The Wait" in USA TODAY! Plus Other Awesome Happenings

Freedom is Expensive: Why its not easy to make a living as an artist

Youtube + Abstract Art = Awesomeness

Everyone Needs a Mission: 6 Tips to Get the Artist Within You Motivated!

Lights, Camera, Rejection!

Rebirth of the Blog and the Bravo Untitled Art Project

Damn you Google!!!!!

Im Still Alive and Creating!

9 Broken Hearts, Grenades, and Vultures

Fueled By Faith

Elevation of Art and Soul

Eyes to the Sky

All of Us are Searching

Learning the ABCs of Local Networking

Saving the World is Kinda Kewl

Divine Intervention, Truth, and Modern Love

Why aren't you exposing yourself?!!

Love is Necessary

Nothing Seems to Satisfy

The Lava of My Life

Making Love to the Camera....

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