8 Quick Tips on Photographing Your Art the Right Way

As an artist (other than a photographer) you are required to take pictures of your art in order to submit your art digitally for exhibitions, presentations and for promotional purposes. We see a lot of submissions by artists that have photographed their paintings and due to their sloppiness, the end result simply does not translate into what the artist originally had intended. A good photograph of your art may mean the difference between getting into an exhibition or making that important sale. It is worth it to take the time to get this aspect of your art presentation done the right way.

Here are some tips and pointers that will help you improve your art presentations the next time you are photographing your art.

1. Photograph your art outside when it is cloudy or with an overcast sky. Indirect light will show your art better than any other light. I prefer that the artwork is facing north when this is done. Shooting inside with a flash is very difficult to do the right way. Outside is a "natural" light and will provide the best representation of your art. Just make sure that it is indirect light.

2. Use a tripod or any other device (boxes, table or ladder) to hold the camera steady.

3. Match the angle of camera with the tilt of the art that is propped against the wall and make sure the camera is focused at the exact center of the art. Do not use a "wide angle" lens. If you have a zoom lens, then use that.

4. If at all possible, when shooting do not have your art framed or with glass in the frame. It is very hard to get away from any reflections in the glass. Also, if the art is frameless this will help in post production. If it is framed with glass or plastic make sure it is absolutely clean.

5. Make sure that the flash is off the camera. If not, the flash will produce "hot spots" on your art and there is practically nothing that you will be able to do about this.

6. When your art is leaning against the wall and you have focused your camera lens in the manner previously described, the thing to look out for are any distortions of the art and that your edges are straight and parallel. In the view finder match the edges of the art with the inside edges of the frame. If you cannot get it perfect, this can be taken care of in post production.

7. If your camera has different settings like SLR then try different shutter speeds and ISO settings. Try to bracket the camera's settings from high to low and you should be able to produce an image somewhere in the middle of the settings that matches the depth and color of your art. Slower shutter speeds will help with your colors. Experiment with the exposures and shutter speeds if you are doing this for the first time. Better yet, if you have a photographer friend see if they can help you with this.

8. You will need photo editing software to crop the image in order to eliminate any distortions and lines that could not be made exactly parallel. I also suggest that you eliminate the frame when you crop the image. Also, use the editing software to balance your colors and contrast. It will never be perfect, but you will be able to get pretty close representation of your art. Make sure that you are producing a jpeg image for the submission process as this is the accepted standard.

Overall, an image of your art will never be perfect but with trial, error and experimentation you should be able to present your art in a better manner than you were previously doing. Remember, you are competing with other artists that are sweating over this aspect of presenting their art, as they know how important it is. It is time for you to take your art presentation to a higher level. Good luck!

Light Space & Time - Online Art Gallery provides monthly opportunities to new and emerging artists to enter themed art competitions and art exhibitions and to market their art on a worldwide basis.

Teach Art Classes Online

There are a lot of people who want to go to an art school and this can get expensive. There are also many different art classes available that teach people different aspects of art. You can teach art in the form of drawing, painting, sculpture, DIY art classes or a variety of modern art that is fairly new. There are also art craft classes that you can teach. To teach art online can be a challenge and takes some work, but it can be done.

There are advantages and disadvantages to going with this route. Students can go at their own pace. There are no set times that they have to be at an art school. If a student wants to have a career in the art field, but doesn't have money to pay for art school then this would be an opportunity because you are able to hold down a part-time job at the same time. Students can also work at their own pace

There is no live interaction, but through your website you will be able to able to hold a forum between students and allow the students to have constant contact with you. Art work will have to mailed to you. It would be a good idea to have skype or some form of video contact so progress can be shown and video demonstrations should be displayed.

The other things you will have to do if you want to teach art online is to market yourself. This you could do in a form of a website, by distributing flyers at art galleries and art shops or where you think you are most likely to find students who would sign up. The most relevant place is to advertise yourself on the internet and there are many places to do this in the form of links and various programs.

You can't say which method is best, but it's probably the one which suits you the best.

The Art of Imparting Training

Excellence is an art won by training and habituation. We do not act rightly because we have virtue or excellence, but we rather have those because we have acted rightly. We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.

- Aristotle

Everybody cannot become Trainer. You can become a lecturer to educate students but in training you need to have expertise in life skills. The question is how to become a good trainer? The following tips may help you become a good trainer.

1. The training programme must be related to the problems and needs of the trainees. It should simply skills that are useful for the trainees' work and life.

2. The emphasis today, particularly, must be on trainee participation. Pumping information was never more irrelevant than now.

3. Training without precise performance objectives is entertainment at best.

4. Skills in dealing with people are best learnt in group situations.

5. The organization to which the trainee belongs must be such as to allow them to practice the skills they acquire. If the training learned in the programme is counteracted by the attitudes and behavior of their boss, colleagues, subordinates or the whole climate of the organization, then it is best that the training should not be undertaken.

6. In some engineering colleges when a trainee has solved a problem, the instructor asks the trainee to do the problem in another way. When that is done, they are asked to do it in another way, and then another, and so on. This searching for other ways of solving problems leads to finding better solutions.

7. The learning style of trainer is usually more reflective, abstract, and conceptual, while the practitioner's way of learning is more active, concrete and experimental. This tension can be fruitful.

8. Attitudinal and behavioural change must be based on an experience: an experience reflected upon, conceptualized and experimented with.

9. The behavior and attitudes of the instructor are the most crucial factors in any training programme.

10. Attitudes will not change unless the emotions and feelings of the trainees are engaged. Attitudes cannot be changed without the involvement of the 'stomach'.

Finally, a trainer must be active and training must be activity oriented and should avoid lecture mode. A lecturer is not a trainer and a trainer should never fall into lecture mode. Training must be full of activities and it must be interactive with thought provoking games and role plays.

How to Choose a Piece of Art

There's nothing that puts the finishing touches to a room like a piece of art, but if you're just getting started, what do you choose? Here are some of the factors to consider when choosing a piece of art for your home or business. First of all, think about why you want the art in the first place. Perhaps you have seen the work of a particular artist and like it, or maybe you are looking for something by a well known artist as an investment piece. It could be that you want to help a promising new artist get started.

Choose The Right Medium

Next, think about the medium you prefer. There's a wide range to choose from, including everything from digital art to sculpture to oil paintings on canvas. Each form has its attractions, so your own sense of taste is the most important guide here. It's also wise to think about the space where the art will be located, as this might limit the size of the art work you select. If you are decorating a large office wall, then you will need something larger than a five by seven print. Similarly, a small room in your home requires a piece of art that complements rather than dominates your existing décor. For this reason, the colors used in the piece of art will also determine your final choice.

Artistic Style And Content

Finally, think about the style and content of the piece, particularly with paintings where the same subject can be handled in a variety of ways. Look at a watercolor and an oil painting of the same scene and you will immediately see the difference. Equally, the difference between an abstract piece and one done by a portrait artist is stark. Keep these factors in mind and you will be able to choose a piece of artwork that will enhance any space.

Thanjavur - City of Ancient Art, Literature and Temples

Thanjavur (or Tanjaur) in Tamil Nadu was once the capital of mighty Cholas. It is said that the kingdom was so fertile that elephants used to thrash paddy here. To this day, one can see stately ancient buildings and their ruins on almost every street of the city. Tamil Nadu is known for nurturing literature, classical music and arts for hundreds of years. Thanjavur is not untouched by the sophistication, culture and knowledge that Tamilians are so proud of. Thanjavur paintings use semi-precious stones and gold foil to create deities in a style unique to the region. Since genuine antique Tanjore paintings are extremely rare, you will find only newer ones (perhaps with antique finish) in the market.

Thanjavur is also famous for its Tanjore plates - brass places with silver inlay work, Indian musical instrument known as Veena, and colorful papier mache dolls known as Thanjavur thalayatti bommais which nod their heads like Bharatanatyam dancers. There is an interesting story about how the city of Thanjavur originated. It is believed that Lord Vishnu slew a demon or asur named Thanjan on the banks of River Cauvery. Just before dying, Thanjan prayed to Lord Vishnu that a beautiful and great town named after him rise on the spot of his death and his wish was granted. Thus, Thanjanasur (which later became Thanjavur) came into being.

Though some of the temple sites claim to be thousands of years old, the earliest of the present structures date back to 7th century CE. Home to some of the world's finest temple architecture, Thanjavur has as many as 24 ancient temples that are worth a visit. However, three most celebrated and revered temples at Thanjavur are:

o Brihadeesvara Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the name of the temple literally means 'Big'. The massive temple precincts have an enormous entrance arch and are surrounded by a moat that looks awe-inspiring. The grand temple does not have loud colored frescoes and has been purposefully given a sandstone-color finish to keep it unobtrusive and low key. The 13-tiered entrance tower to the sanctum carries a single block of granite stone weighing 80 tonnes on its top. Other notable features here include a 4-mile long ramp that was built to set the cupola in such a manner that its shadow never falls on the ground; the 12-foot tall monolithic idol of Nandi; and a 12 ft high lingam with a circumference of 54 ft. The beautiful frescoes of the shrine of Goddess Brihan Nayaki; the cave-like temple of Saint Karuvurar; and the Murugan shrine built like a chariot are a must-see at this temple.

o Bangaru Kamakshi Amman Temple: 2 kms from the Big Temple, this temple of Goddess Bangaru Kamakshi has an idol made in real gold, which is believed to have been brought here from Kanchipuram during Muslim invasion.

o Mariamman Temple: Goddess Mariamman, a manifestation of Mother Goddess, is believed to have curative and healing powers. Though the temple was built in the 18th century, the goddess was worshipped here in the form of an anthill since times immemorial. Descendants of the royal family of Thanjavur maintain the temple to this day. Devotees believe that goddess provides relief from measles, chicken pox and skin sores and that drops of moisture appear on the face and head of the idol from time to time.

Besides temples, Thanjavur has some beautiful architectural specimens at the Sivaganga Fort such as the 18th century Schwartz Church and the Royal Palace. The Rajaraja Museum and the Art Gallery are known for their rich collection of Chola bronzes and stone sculptures while the Saraswati Mahal Library in the palace complex has a large collection of rare manuscripts. You can also see panoramic views of the city from the ornamental balconies of the six-storey Sharajah Madi and the biggest cannon in India - Rajagopala Beerangi - at the fort.

Different Types of Traditional Indian Arts

When it comes to the nations that hold distinct images for having outstanding contribution in the global arena of art then the name of India comes on the top of the list. Worldwide popular as a culturally rich nation, India has always been hold a superior image in the minds of art admirers of all over the world.

As per the records, India's relationship with arts has a history of several decades. Since the pre-historic times, people have been engaged in different practices of arts, including paintings, sculptures and so on. With the advancement of science and technology, the modern age has become much advanced, but till date people from all over the world possess ardent enthusiasm for the Indian tradition paintings.

Some of the most popular types of traditional Indian arts are discussed hereunder:

• Tanjore Painting: Tamil Nadu is the origin of this type of painting. Excellent ornamentation is the primary characteristic of Tanjore painting. This form of art is exclusively made on the wooden boards.

• Phad painting: 'Phad' is a kind of cloth on which this type of painting is made. Through such painting the artists usually depict the stories of travails and adventures of local and epic heroes. This type of Indian painting is executed with non-permanent yellow color and other colors like brown, green, sky blue and Vermilion are used. After completion of a painting black color is used to outline the figure.

• Pichvai: The word literally means 'something at the back' and this kind of art depicts scenes from the life of the Hindu deity Lord Krishna. This form of traditional Indian painting is sold commercially.

• Madhubani: the literal meaning of the word is 'forest of honey'. As this type of painting has origin in Mithila region of North India that's why it is also known as Mithila painting. In the ancient times, the women of Mithila used to perform the Madhubani painting on the walls of their homes and prayer room, their motto was to invoke the divine protection.

• Kalamkari: Andhra Pradesh is the origin of this type of painting. It is performed on clothes with pointed bamboo, which is called 'kalam' or pen. Before starting the painting, to remove starch from the cloth is washed in the river water and then fabric is dipped in a solution of myrobalam, water and milk. After that the cloth is then twisted to wring out the water.

To summarize, the Indian traditional arts are the true symbols of the country's elegant nature, down to earth nature and culture.

The Different Types of Art

Art is a something that is all around us. In can be seen in architecture, the design of virtually anything, clothing, and so much more. The more traditional types come in the form of drawings and paintings. The following are a few types.

Abstract art is a type that is not really about composing a piece where it is just shows an object and it is more about visual language. It does not have to make sense. For example, it could be a painting of a face where all the parts are misplaced, missing, and disproportionate. It is more about showing the idea in the mind of each artist through the placement of shapes, colors, and lines.

Portraiture is a famous type. It is one of the oldest and most traditional forms. Long ago when many countries were ruled by royalty, portraits were often painted of the members of each royal bloodline. They were often hung in the places where the ruler resides. Modern day portraiture is still done. Some people even get their portraits drawn out in the open from an artist who operates on the street.

Realism is a type where what you see is what you make. For example, a realistic portrait of a person unaltered is a type. Also, drawing a still object is another. One example of this is if you placed an apple on a table and then drew or painted the apple and the table just as you see it.

Surrealism is a type of where there really are no boundaries. These pieces are often dreamlike and depict scenes where impossible things are occurring. There is an element of realism in this type, meaning the objects in each piece look realistic, yet is surreal because the objects have been altered to look extraordinary.

Those were a few examples of the different types of art. There is such a vast variety out there to be explored. You can see different types all around you, no matter where you are.

Billy Red was not only the innovative artist who became very popular at the Brusells Street Festival, he also created the post modern sculptures for Akim Marekic in Bosnia Herzigowina and represented many German authors and artists as well. You will find his art very special and unique.

Types of Art Paintings

Wherever you go today there is surely art to be found. Anywhere you go in the world there is certainly an art form to sweep you off your feet and leave you breathless as they are exceptionally beautiful and wonderful pieces of genius. Taking that into view, art painting artists don't actually just paint only one type of paintings but they do vary in different genres and themes. Hence, below are some examples on the types of art paintings down today.

The most common type of painting done by artists would be oil paintings as they can be drawn or done in various designs and methods. Oil paintings are actually paintings that are done with pigments that are directly added or incorporated in drying oil. It was first used as varnishes but through the ages evolved into painting materials. Oil paintings are available in various colors and designs, and if done well are exceptionally beautiful works of art.

Art painting artists also do tend to paint fantasy paintings that are currently in demand in today's market. Fantasy paintings can be anything from just a complicated and creative idea of an artist or even a magical realm that is created out of nothing. Paintings are capable of bringing wonders into a person's imagination and mind, and fantasy art is one example of it that could simply mesmerize you as they are usually a portrayal of an artist's imagination.

Last but not least would be landscape paintings which are somewhat common. Landscape paintings like the word says are paintings that portray what we view around us such as beautiful scenery. They can range from grassy hills to beach sides and snowy mountains. Artists have a great sense of imagination and creativity and some can even draw these landscapes to an extent that they look actually real and are a photo captured into canvas.

Sand Art - Storytelling For Business Marketing in a Challenging Economy

Are you looking for a new way to market your business? One that has withstood the test of time? One word: Storytelling. Recently BusinessWeek, featured an article on the importance of using Storytelling for customer interest. Need to kick it up a notch? Check out storytelling with sand animation or "Sand Art."

Sand Story is a fresh and innovative storytelling approach to business marketing. Mixing sand and light, pictures are formed and reformed into ever changing shapes and images that tell visually powerful stories. Set to music, these images inspire, challenge and motivate in a captivating way. Sand Art is performed live and projected on screens for a powerful and standing ovation experience. More than entertained, the consumer walks away remembering the corporate message - which is after all essential for any business choosing to marketing its products and services.

Sand Story also reaches across a broad spectrum of marketing venues from nonprofits to corporate business. Newsweek Magazine has also affirmed the versatility of Sand Art as a storytelling marketing strategy for business: "Part performance art, part visual art and part storytelling, the craft has been featured at Cirque du Soleil and Christian youth camps, Russian nightclubs and corporate events. Live shows enchant audiences not only because the visual effect is riveting, but because they tell a story, typically about love, war, or faith."

Internationally known artist, author and master storyteller Joe Castillo has traveled to over fifteen countries and performed for many Fortune 500 companies such as Disney, Mercedes Benz, Eli Lily, Pfizer, Bank of Dubai, Direct TV, CBS, NBC and the BBC to share their corporate message. Businesses may offer similar products and services, yet each possesses its own unique business marketing goals. With over twenty years of successful advertising experience, Joe Castillo is the only Sand Artist that is able to customize his craft to any business marketing goal or specific event. Joe is an artist, author and storyteller with a passion for promoting a corporate message using the visual arts as a way of touching the heart.

The Art of Creativity in Life and Business

Here are some tips to give you a nudge in the right direction of creative thinking as business-survival training.

Look for the second best answer.

Kids are great at doing this. What do you do with an empty toilet paper roll? Turn it into a megaphone. Play with your cat. Curl your hair. Make binoculars. Cut, paint and use as napkin rings. Make a tall hat for your doll. Store your underwear.

Ask "What if"?

What if this were titled "The Art of Non-Creativity In Life and Business?" The very act of changing the title forces you to be creative and to ask questions.

Is non-creativity an art? How can that be? Are we now dealing in grim facts? The art of being methodical?

Ask "What if?". "What if someone else had my challenge, and how would they handle it?" Make up someone in your mind like, say, Dr. Seuss, and ask how he would handle it.

Change your question.

You need money to grow your business?

Don't ask, "Who's going to lend me money?"... the bank? My family?

Change your question to, "What are different sources of capital?"

The possibilities are endless. Leverage from collateral. Other people's credit. Creative debt such as capital in exchange for equity. Time or labor in lieu of cash. Collaborative opportunities. Overlooked assets.

Turn it upside down.

When I create artwork I turn it upside down so I can see the canvas as a whole without being distracted by the image itself. This is how you see things like negative space, color, line weight, coverage, etc.

Reverse your viewpoint. Ask yourself what is missing from the picture. What happens when you turn an idea upside down?

Here's your picture... you plan to buy a run down house, fix it and sell it for a profit. Can you see the property? Turn the picture upside down. What are the other possible scenarios?

The house doesn't sell and now you might be upside down indeed. Do you see the deal in another light? You've challenged your original exit strategy and now you might do things a little differently. You won't go so hog wild on the upgrades, for example. You might finance the deal a little more conservatively. And now, you have two exit strategies... the only way to go.

Challenge current conventions.

Ask, "Why do we have to do it this way?" Pick a basic belief, list the conventional rules and see if you can break every one of them.

When I started buying multi-family properties it was "suggested" I begin with a little property -- like 4 units. Instead, I started with a 29 unit apartment building. And, I didn't find it from the local apartment boys (brokers), it came from making cold calls to property managers. Because of my unconventional approach I found a "pocket listing" -- meaning a property not on the public market yet -- and in real estate investor's words, "priceless".

Can you practice some creativity today? I'd love to hear your results and would be honored if you shared them.