Produce Your Own Unique Art Empire!
FIND ART GALLERYAugust 6, 7, 8 Friday-Sunday 10AM- 8PM1640 Superior Ave. Costa Mesa, CA 92627
With Special Guest Lectures by writer and art critic Peter Clothier, licensing expert Maria Brophy, social media master & botanical perfumer Roxana Villa.
Please read the REGISTER page before signing up.
Learn more about Artist As Brand on the ABOUT page.
Greg Spalenka
In this high tech world it can be easy to forget the importance of human connection. An infant and mother understand this crucial bonding, and as we grow this personal connection to touch and intimacy never really leaves us. In life our relationship to others reflects how successful we are at communicating our passions, desires, ideas. Union is key.
In business and commerce this facet of interconnectivity is called networking. In art networking we endear ourselves to our peers, fans and patrons to help build our art empires. Our supporters become the mortar between the bricks. I am always on the lookout for alignments, new connections and venues where I can meet extraordinary individuals. I contacted Peter Clothier whom I learned about through his lecture at LCAD. Though we initially met online which culminated in an interview of him for my Blog we also recently had a lovely lunch together. It is truly wonderful to meet like minded souls in person! We realized our viewpoints were deeper than expected and are now talking about collaborating on some workshops.
Mark Murphy whom I just interviewed is another alignment with who I am collaborating with. Roxana my wife and I are part of his Survey Select exhibition opening this Thursday, and I am presenting an Artist As Brand workshop in San Diego in conjunction with the show.
Two fantastic networking opportunities are coming to California. The Illustration Conference is this week in Los Angeles! Artists are coming from all over the US to this event. I will be there networking and meeting awesome new people. Who else is going?
How about the largest event for popular art culture in America?! The San Diego Comic Con is held next week July 21-25. I will be there at my booth 5553 and moderating an Artist As Brand panel discussion Friday 23, 6:00-7:00 RM 8, with Arnie Fenner, Mark Murphy, Ciruelo, Tara McPherson, Donato. My new Flowers of Fortune limited edition art card set and scratch off game premiers at Comic Con too, (and at FlowerFortune.com on July 21) where you can win one of my giclee prints, other printed items, and up to $1000.00.
Events like Comic Con increase your fans and patrons. 125,000 people move through the doors of this convention in five days. Imagine if only one in every one thousand people stopped by your booth. Being a part of this event for over 20 years has taught me the value of growing your support group in venues like this.
Some people will argue that it costs too much to be a part of these gatherings. All promotion has a price. This is an investment in yourself.
Events like these are important to the artist for exposure, new ideas, inspiration, sales, support, and new connections. Like the mother and her new baby, union and bonding with your peers and your buyers will bring you closer together. Technology has it's place, but remember the importance of face to face.
To artist empowerment,
Greg
Brendan Monroe (detail)
I have known Mark now for many years, watching him rise as a graphic designer, publisher of fine art books, event designer, artist, and now film maker. The one thing that has always stood out for me about Mark is his commitment to championing the artist. He is always ready to raise that flag and wave it for someone he believes has a uniqueperception.Mark is putting together a huge exhibition called Survey Select (Private opening July 15) with 55 artists from around the world. It's really more of a multi-media event as the show is only one part of the festivities. I am presenting anArtist As Brand Workshop at the gallery space/museum in San Diego, with Mark, Roxana, and other possible guests. It will be awesome!Mark took a moment during count down to the opening of Survey Select to answer some questions about his inspiration and what he loves!GS : Tell me why you love what you do.Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio puts you in the state of mind to get things done. Grey weather for most of the year encouraged me to discover space that allowed creative freedom. My life long mission has been to collaborate with creative minded clients, archive living artists and create inspired exhibitions for the public. Oh yeah, I love to design for clients, book publishing and film industries.
Matt Furie featured in the next Scribble Film
GS : Tell me a little about your "Scribble" documentary.Scribble.08 was filmed in 2003 capturing the heart and soul of the Southern California art movement. It was more than a film, it was a historic moment that needed to be captured on film, as the Clayton Brothers were inspiring a new generation of artists that included Jeff Soto, Martha Rich and Camille Rose Garcia. Scribble.08 was filmed with DV cams with friends piled into a Jeep fighting through 8 hours of highway traffic over the course of 2 weeks. TenStories backed me with editing support and MANUOK scored a great soundtrack. The public response has been great and the film has been featured at the Kent Film Festival in CT, DocuWest in CO and New Film Director’s in NY. Volume two is in production featuring Souther Salazar, Mark Todd, Esther Pearl Watson, Matt Furie, Shawn Barber, Kelsey Brookes and many others.
GS : You have an awesome art exhibition, "Survey Select" opening July 15th in San Diego with artists from around the planet. What was the inspiration for this show and what makes it different from your other venues?“Survey Select” is an exhibition that celebrates Narrative Art and 55 fine artists from around the world. The exhibition is a modern day salon that introduces the public to visual storytelling, critical writing, live performance, films and a workshops held in the space over 8 weeks from July 15-Sept 5. “Survey Select” looks to inspire new thinking in the world of contemporary art by establishing a select grouping of talented artists free of intellectual labeling.
Beautiful Loosers, Scribble.08 and 7 films featured during double feature film nights
What makes “Survey Select” is uniquely different from past exhibitions, “Heaven and Hell,” “Dialogue,” “SuperHero” and Miami Art Basel exhibitions, because it is a museum installation that features a conceptual space that houses art, educational materials, films and supporting artists who specialize in fragrance, interior, creative writing and musical design. Eight weeks provides everyone the opportunity to travel to San Diego and participate in the exhibition.
Traveling artists featured at workshops and Survey Select receptions
GS : You will be on my panel with Arnie Fenner, Ciruelo, Tara McPherson, Donatoduring this coming Comic Con (Friday, 23, 6:00-7:00PM. Room 8 ) for a discussion about artist empowerment and sustainability. How do you define artistic empowerment?Artistic empowerment starts with invitation and continues with purposeful exchange. For me, sustainability comes from public and private support. The art world is riddled with folks who look to make investment or turn on an investment, and for me it is more about soulful exchange. The honorable exchange is to archive living artists in books, films, exhibitions and critical essays. You never know what you are onto, and history beyond my years will be the final judge. (You can see more in my personal manifesto).
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Scott Daniel Ellison : Shawn Barber : Mark Todd
GS : I am presenting an Artist As Brand workshop at your gallery in August in alignment with your exhibition. How would you define a brand? Do you consider yourself a brand?
Brand is a notion for the complete package that starts at the core of who you are. If it is applied to a product, it is the essence of a product, and if it is a person, it is about where you come from and what you are about. Brand is really a corporate word for “soul.” Yes, I am a lifestyle kind of an artist. It is all encompassing, all moments of each day, the opportunity to exercise the left and the right side of my brain. I think I am much better at the creative side.
Tasha Kusama : Miss Van
GS : What do you feel artists will gain by taking this course?The course will help me take a moment to reflect on the process and progress of my career and offer a concentrated moment to enhance and focus. I look forward to the opportunity to take a moment for myself, which typically, almost never happens. For artists, I believe that the course will help redirect focus and assist in the narrative of their personal pursuits. Very important facts when it comes to explaining what it is that you do to others, especially museums, collectors and galleries.
Mark Todd featured in the next Scribble Documentary
GS : Any last pearls of wisdom?
Pursue your inner creative at all times. Take a moment to enjoy.
Thanks Mark! I will see you soon at your opening ofSurvey Select, at Comic Con and for my Artist As Brand workshop!
To empowerment and prosperity,
Greg
Learn the secrets to creating your own unique art empire.Bring clarity to your life, art and prosperity.
See what participants are saying about the Artist As Brand Workshop Here.
With Mark Murphy and the “Survey Select” Art ExhibitionAugust 20, 21, 22 Fri-Sun 10AM- 8PMWonderbread Factory 171 14th St. San Diego, CA. 92101
With Special Guest Lectures by art publisher/producer/film maker Mark Murphy, writer and art critic Peter Clothier, social media master & botanical perfumer Roxana Villa and more.
Please read the REGISTER page before signing up.
Learn more about Artist As Brand on the ABOUTpage.
Tuition- $295.00
Students- $250.00
Samantha Walker
Owl Prints on TinClient: VIP International
When I submitted the BYU Artist Survey a few weeks ago I received an email from an artist who felt she had created her own Art Empire. I was curious. I checked out Samantha Walker's story, and social media. I was impressed, and decided to share her journey of creative perseverance and prosperous love affair with licensing.
"After graduating in 1994 I was frustrated, yet determined to make an active living in illustration. I did not build my art empire overnight...but rather it has been a surprising journey including many "mini careers" that paralleled my art along the way. I quickly quit my first job out of college at a graphic design service bureau just two months after I started. I realized that I was just part of an assembly line printing and proofing other people's art finding no time for my own."
She ran off to Montana, Colorado, then Japan with her husband making folk art wood crafts and selling them at craft shows.
Samantha Walker
Pear Prints on TinClient: VIP International
"After the birth of my first child...I stumbled into the scrapbook product market...creating more with graphic design skills rather than my illustration. Okay...I didn't exactly stumble into scrapbook product licensing...I built a product line proposal, researched various scrapbook companies, then found the one that I wanted to target. I flew across the country from Washington state to Atlanta to attend a trade show where it took me 10 tries to get a moment with the president of the company to view my proposal. Did I mention I have severe anxiety? I did this anyway despite my nerves because I am such a determined person. We signed a 3 year renewable licensing contract.
Eventually, I sold my home decor business to dedicate more time to my suddenly booming scrapbook product line. The scrapbook market bottomed out and I scrambled to think of new ways to market myself, as my income from scrapbook products was dwindling (I still design it, it just doesn't pay like it did. The exposure alone has brought so many opportunities that I will continue to do it, and it helps me build my brand.) I truly believe that downturns can produce upturns if you work your angles right. My angle was debt and hunger...didn't like being there."
Samantha Walker
Digital Die Butterfly BasketClient: Silhouette America
"I networked like crazy, and then one of my other illustrator friends told me of a fabric company looking to license local artists. I introduced myself to this company, and I got a licensing contract designing textiles for quilt fabric. Meanwhile, I had a whole portfolio of die designs that I had done for another company that pretty much used and abused me, and so I revoked my designs, and called their competitor. Which turned into another solid licensing contract for an electronic die company. With all these successes, enjoying what I was doing, and money being much better, I still felt like there was even more that I could offer...something a little closer to my heart.
Then it dawned on me...I found that I could combine my textile designs with my simple die designs and invent an illustration style unique to myself--something very marketable as well. My new style caught the eye of a home decor company and they became interested in working with me and offered me a licensing contract doing my own line of home decor items. Not so surprisingly, creating home decor products fits so well with my other past experiences. Recently, I added a rubber stamp licensing contract to the mix as well."
Samantha Walker
Enchanted Garden Fabric LineClient: Riley Blake Designs
Licensing can work if you hold onto your copyright and you construct a contract that will procure you a healthy percentage of the company's sales, otherwise you are better off doing it yourself.
"I own my copyright on everything! I just sell limited usage rights. At this point in my life, being a busy Mom of 3 little kids ages 8, 4, and almost 3...I am grateful that I have other companies selling my designs for me. I do get competitive royalty rates and I'm happy with what my designs bring in. This continues to be a remarkable journey, which I hope will someday lead to even more opportunities. I think when I am able to work faster and more efficiently (I'm always looking for ways to streamline my design process in Photoshop and Illustrator) I want to look into doing a children's book, look into stationary and greeting cards, and possibly create a conceptual editorial portfolio as well"
Kokeshi Paper and Sticker Collection
Creative Imaginations
"I am also grateful for the struggles and hard times. Without those challenges, I may not have been as motivated to think of new ways to market my work. Even though I feel I've built an Art Empire, (which I am defining as a good solid income, constant work, and recognition within the industries which I work) I feel that my illustration and my new empire is still in its infancy with so much potential as there are so many areas that I have yet to tap into."
Samantha is an eloquent writer and has much to share! I encourage all of you to continue a dialogue with her. You may find your calling in the world of licensing! Go to her
Thank you Samantha for your tireless commitment to creativity and the art spirit!
To artist empowerment!
Greg
I just finished teaching an Artist As Brand workshop in Provo, Utah. It brings me tremendous pleasure to see recent graduates, professors, and professionals working together to transcend their creative and professional lives. The gratitude I feel is the sincere appreciation of seeing individuals confront their fears and take hold of their destinies in new ways! There is a natural high that imbues the spirit when potential meets accomplishment.I feel a physical, mental and spiritual shift inside these students when the last day arrives. You can see it in their bodies, in their eyes, and hear it in their voices. They recognize it too, and are very vocal about it! This feeling can be experienced in any endeavor where the outcome reflects a strong sense of new awareness, and confidence. I share with you a few thoughts, a few moments with this intimate group of devout souls. I thank them all for the insight they have brought to me as a teacher too."It's inspiring and motivating for me to be around so much creative talent. I really needed and enjoyed the workshop. It was just what I was looking for to rejuvenate and focus my own artistic energy. Now I just need to organize and balance that energy with the demands of my daily life. I want to thank you, Greg, for coming out."- Thomas Royal Tolman, Artist, Sculptor
Photos by Richard Hull, Julie Bean, Ashley Glover, Thomas "Royal" Tolman- This pic Richard Hull, Ashley Glover, Rebecca Wessman
"Intense! Greg referred to the workshop as a “boot camp”... the information, guidance, and self-awareness I obtained was truly empowering. I’m much more confident in my potential."- Richard Hull, BYU Professor, Artist
Richard Hull, Tom Tolman, Julie Bean, Ashley Grove, Rebecca Wessman,Amber Erdmann, Me, Ben Sowards, Jay Fontano
"The workshop was far beyond what I thought it would be...I was very impressed with the amount of revealing information I learned about myself and that of marketing strategies. I would strongly recommend this workshop to anyone that is in a slump or would like to learn new and interesting marketing strategies."- Julie Bean, Artist
Amber Erdmann, Tom Tolman
"It was a great experience. Looking forward to hearing about everyone's progress. It was fun hanging out with all of you and getting better acquainted with the process."- Amber Erdmann, Artist
"I just wanted to say again how much I enjoyed the workshop. My mind has been going non-stop since and I am determined to put it to work now."- Jay Fontano, Artist
To Empowerment and Prosperity,
Greg
I am off to Provo, Utah to present a Workshop. BYU canceled my workshop for low enrollment, but a group of inspired and courageous artists would not take "No" for an answer! So I am flying out today to bring Artist As Brand to the SpringHill Suites, Thursday-Saturday.
I have much respect for individuals who are willing to confront the fear of change in their careers and in themselves. Transcending old ways that do not serve us are like breaking bad habits. So many individuals remain stuck for so long they forget the art of reinvention! I know how difficult this is as I am in the process of reinventing myself at this moment too! Our spirit wants to branch out and rise up. May we remain aligned with this purpose and grow with it's magnificence.
This group of creative souls appears ready for the transformational bootcamp coming their way. Lets see how they do!
I will post updates!
Robert Barrett
The art department chairs and faculty at Brigham Young University are a dedicated bunch. For decades they have been taking students on trips around the country to meet working artists, industries that support them, and open their newly trained eyes to the possibilities of new worlds. Bob Barrett, one of the professors at BYU, along with his sturdy crew of faculty have stopped by my studio many times to talk about art career potential. I finally visited BYU early this year to lecture, and am returning June 15-17 to present an Artist As Brand workshop. I am amazed at the creative vitality in this college town and surrounding areas. The arts are very much supported here.
This post gives me a nice opportunity to celebrate Bob. For as long as I remember Bob has been a calm and determined creative force. 28 years teaching at BYU, also The University of Utah, The Kimball Center, The Salt Lake Art Center, and City Colleges of Chicago reflects his commitment to education. He has had a number of solo exhibitions at universities and art centers. Devoted to his family, faith, teaching, and art, Bob embodies a classical quality that is steadfast and timeless.
*Bob answered my questions in capitalized letters, so I decided to keep it that way.
Greg: You are very much respected as an educator and an artist. How would you define success?
Bob: I'M ACTUALLY MORE OF AN ILLUSTRATOR AS I WORK PRIMARILY THROUGH COMMISSIONED WORK; BOOK, EDITORIAL ILLUSTRATION, AND PORTRAITS. HOWEVER, I ALSO DO PERSONAL WORK.I THINK SUCCESS MEANS DIFFERENT THINGS TO DIFFERENT PEOPLE; TO ME IT MEANS FOLLOWING YOUR PASSION AND BEING ABLE TO FIND THE VIRTUES, RATHER THAN THE LIMITATIONS IN EVERY OPPORTUNITY. ATTITUDE HAS LOTS TO DO WITH IT. ON A PRACTICAL SIDE, I BELIEVE IT ALSO MEANS THAT YOU ARE ABLE TO MAKE A LIVING DOING WHAT YOU LOVE TO DO. TAKING CARE OF MY FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND BEING ABLE TO PROVIDE GOOD THINGS FOR MY FAMILY HAS SOMETHING TO DO WITH SUCCESS FOR ME.
silent night1
Twilight
G: Are you happy and content with your career, or do you desire something more?B: SO FAR I AM HAPPY WITH MY ACCOMPLISHMENTS THOUGH I BELIEVE A "HEALTHY DISSATISFACTION" STOPS ME FROM BECOMING COMPLACENT. I AM A PERSON WHO IS MOTIVATED BY LEARNING NEW THINGS AND HAVING NEW EXPERIENCES, SO I AM ALWAYS LOOKING FOR NEW OPPORTUNITIES. I LIKE TEACHING AND THE OPPORTUNITY TO GIVE BACK THINGS THAT WERE GIVEN TO ME BY OUTSTANDING TEACHERS ALONG THE WAY. THERE IS SOMETHING VERY REWARDING IN SEEING STUDENTS DEVELOP AND IMPROVE THEIR ABILITIES AND TALENTS.G: I love the statement:we are all standing on the shoulders of giants. We are learning all the time, and when that knowledge is shared we are encouraging self empowerment. How do you define artistic empowerment?B: I WOULD DEFINE ANY EMPOWERMENT, INCLUDING ARTISTIC, AS A SENSE OF CONFIDENCE IN YOUR ABILITIES AND IN THE OPPORTUNITIES LIFE PRESENTS TO YOU. SOME CALL IT A POSITIVE MENTAL ATTITUDE WHILE OTHERS MIGHT CALL IT THE ABILITY TO HAVE FAITH. I WOULD SAY IT HAS SOMETHING TO DO WITH MOTIVATION AND THE DRIVE TO SUCCEED. I HAVE TAUGHT MANY STUDENTS WITH TALENT WHO HAVE NOT DEVELOPED TO THE DEGREE THAT OTHERS WITH A SENSE OF SELF-EMPOWERMENT HAVE. I HAVE TAUGHT MANY STUDENTS HOW TO DRAW AND PAINT BETTER BUT ITS MORE ELUSIVE TO KNOW HOW TO TEACH THEM TO HAVE MOTIVATION.
Ballet Dress
Ballet Dress
G: Self motivation is key to empowered independence. This is why it's so important that your creativity and talent be aligned with what you love. BYU focuses on teaching conceptual and technical image making skill sets with an eye on preparing artists for the publishing, gallery, and entertainment industries. What could be some alternatives to these corporate models?B: SEVERAL OF OUR STUDENTS ARE HAPPY WORKING WITHIN THE TRADITIONAL STRUCTURES THAT ALREADY EXIST IN THE VARIOUS MARKETS YOU MENTIONED. HOWEVER, OTHERS WANT TO BE ENTREPRENEURS AND APPROACH THEIR CAREERS IN A MORE CREATIVE WAY. MANY OF OUR STUDENTS ARE FEMALE AND ASPIRE TO HAVE CHILDREN AND FAMILIES. THEY ARE LOOKING FOR ALTERNATIVES TO A CORPORATE MODEL. SEVERAL HAVE FOUND WAYS TO BALANCE AN ARTISTIC CAREER WITH THAT OF RAISING CHILDREN AND TAKING CARE OF A HOME. THEY HAVE STUDIOS IN THEIR HOME WHERE THEY DO THEIR CREATIVE WORK. SEVERAL ARE GREAT AT SELF-PROMOTION WHILE OTHERS HAVE AGENTS WHO PROMOTE THEIR WORK.G: Home based businesses are growing, especially when you understand how the internet can work for you. Its a whole new world of possibility. How you promote represents a huge part of your success. I have lots of artists ask me about agents. I tell them, no-one is going to sell yourself as well as you can. That being said, they can represent a stream of income if they are good at it. How would you describe artist sustainability?B: I SUPPOSE ARTISTIC SUSTAINABILITY IS LIKE ANY OTHER SUSTAINABILITY. YOU HAVE TO HAVE THE PASSION AND KNOWLEDGE OR SKILL SETS IN PLACE TO CONTINUE TO BE VIABLE. OUR MORE SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS, THOSE WHO HAVE ONGOING CAREERS SEEM TO BE THE ONES WHO KNOW HOW TO SOLVE PROBLEMS AND STAY "LIGHT ON THEIR FEET." THEY ARE FLEXIBLE AND ABLE TO MOVE AND CHANGE AS MARKETS CHANGE. THEY FIND THE OPPORTUNITIES IN A FLUCTUATING INDUSTRY.
Dancer
Dancer
G: Flexibility is important. I encourage building an industry around your own art empire. That way you know where you are at any given point in any economy, because you have built a foundation that is based on loyal supporters. Artists are more limited when tied to a corporate structure. That being said, how do you handle fluctuating economic factors in the professional corporate world?B: WELL, I SUPPOSE ANY ONE WHO IS PRUDENT PUTS THINGS AWAY FOR A RAINY DAY. IN OTHER WORDS, HAVE SOME SAVINGS AND RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO CARRY YOU OVER WHEN THERE ARE DOWNTURNS IN THE ECONOMY OR WHEN THINGS CHANGE. I THINK IT IS ALSO HELPFUL TO NOT PLACE ALL YOUR ENERGIES IN ONE FIELD OR SPECIALIZATION. TO HAVE AND TO BE ABLE TO BALANCE SEVERAL "IRONS IN THE FIRE" IS OFTEN HELPFUL. IN MY OWN CASE, I DO ILLUSTRATION FOR A NUMBER OF CLIENTS BUT I ALSO TEACH AND DO WORKSHOPS. I AM ABLE TO PAINT PORTRAITS AS WELL AS LANDSCAPES AND ROUTINELY ENTER MY WORK IN EXHIBITIONS AND SHOWS. I HAVE WRITTEN A NUMBER OF ARTICLES FOR MAGAZINES AND TRADE PUBLICATIONS AS WELL AS A BOOK ON LIFE DRAWING. I BELIEVE IT IS ALSO HELPFUL TO ATTEND CONFERENCES AND WORKSHOPS - TO NETWORK AND EXPERIENCE NEW THINGS.G: Multiple streams of income is a smart strategy. Any thoughts or comments on Artist As Brand coming to BYU?B: I BELIEVE THIS IS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY FOR OUR STUDENTS AND FORMER STUDENTS TO DO EXACTLY THAT- ATTEND A WORKSHOP AND HAVE A NEW EXPERIENCE. THERE WILL BE AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE EXPOSED TO SOME GREAT PRINCIPLES RELATED TO SELF EMPOWERMENT BUT ALSO THE OPPORTUNITY TO SEE, MEET, AND NETWORK WITH OTHER ARTISTS.
20225524
G: What do you think a brand is? B: I SUPPOSE THE TERM MEANS FINDING AN IDENTITY, WHAT UNIQUELY LABELS OR DEFINES YOU AND WHAT YOU DO OR ARE INTERESTED IN DOING. SUCCESSFUL BRANDING IS THE ABILITY TO CREATE A PERSONALITY OR COMMODITY THAT IS ASSOCIATED MAINLY WITH YOU AND YOUR WORK.G: I ask this because the word "brand" appears to be a loaded term especially in fine art circles. I believe the word "brand" has been branded! However to be clear... A brand is a purpose transformed into a product or service that connects to people, the planet, and beyond. The key word here is purpose, and specifically your purpose.Any last pearls of wisdom?B: WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO HAVING YOU COME BACK TO BYU AND SHARE YOUR ENERGY AND ENTHUSIASM WITH US AND OUR STUDENTS AND ALUMNI.Thank you Bob! You are such a gentleman. It's an honor to know you and connect with your grand art spirit.I look forward to seeing you and all the talented individuals associated with BYU, June 15-17 for the workshop, and on the 19th for the Illustration Alumni Show. Lets energize our potential, and power up prosperity together.HERE ARE THE QUESTIONS FOR ALL BYU ALUMNI!1. HOW MANY OF YOU ARE ILLUSTRATORS? WHO IS HAPPY WITH THEIR CAREER AND MAKING ENOUGH INCOME TO PAY THEIR BILLS?2. HOW MANY OF YOU ARE WORKING IN THE FILM OR GAMING INDUSTRIES AND ARE HAPPY WITH YOUR CAREER? HOW MANY ARE ALREADY BURNED OUT?3. WHO IS SHOWING IN GALLERIES AND HAVING CREATIVE/ FINANCIAL SUCCESS?4. WHO FEELS LIKE THEIR CAREER IS JUST STARTING? HOW MANY FEEL YOUR CAREER IS OVER? WHO IS READY TO RE-INVENT THEMSELVES?5. WHO FEELS THEY ARE LIVING AND WORKING FROM THEIR HEART, AND DOING WHAT THEY LOVE? IS ANYONE READY TO TAKE THEIR LIFE, CREATIVITY, AND CAREER TO ANOTHER LEVEL OF FULFILLMENT?THANK YOU EVERYONE! I LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR ANSWERS.PeaceGreg
Audrey Miller
Trace Mendoza
I am slated to present an Artist As Brand workshop at the Laguna College of Art and Design, next weekend May 28-30. Like the LAAFA students I interviewed in my recent post, artists have strong opinions whether they are students or not! LCAD students Trace Mendoza and Audrey Miller answered some questions about what they are learning and what is important to them. Audrey was in my Artist As Brand class and you can hear it!
Greg- What do you want to say with your art and why?Trace- With my art I want to convey to the viewer a distinct image that displays a strong narrative towards any topic, whether it be personal or commission.Audrey- I want people to know that it's alright to like a bunch of different things. If you have a style that you're comfortable with, that's great but don't be afraid to branch out and try something new. It's important to branch out and let others inspire you. If you don't, your work can get old and lose it's spunky fire.G- What are the attributes that make up a great artist?T- I think there are really two main attributes that make up a great artist. First understanding the fundamentals of producing work and the history of art in all mediums from Oil Painting to Digital imaging. Second would have to be the ethics of the artist. I am ultimately attracted to working with artists that have a "Do it yourself" work ethic.A couple months ago, my friend Eddie and I recorded a time lapse video of myself using house and spray paint to construct a large image onto a wall. With this video we were able to both promote ourselves with my creative process and also Eddie's Video editing capabilities. This was done on a extremely low budget and is now promoting both of us all over the internet.A- A great artist should be someone who respects others and their work as much as, if not more than, he / she respects themselves and their own work. Be proud of your work but don't get cocky. Stay humble. A great artist always wants to learn more and improve their skills but is also willing to help and teach others. Being an artist Is not all about the individual, it's about the collective art spirit of the world thriving together.G- You both have a very pro-active approach to art creation and a holistic view of honoring the collaborative art spirit. What do you think about having a career as an artist?T- My marketing strategy lately has been to network with Artist, Bands, and various companies to build my portfolio. My ultimate goal besides being a freelance artist is to teach. Eventually as a teacher I feel students will have a lot to gain from my perspective, and with these new artists, will come new inspirations that will keep my artistic fuel going.A- In short, I plan on selling my art online and at various art shows. From there plan on using profits to open a store / sell my art at other stores. By the end of 5 years I plan on having a full functioning store with staff, a fantastic webpage and I would like to donate a portion of my sales to organizations like the ASPCA and the humane society to help injurred and abused animals find a home.G- Big plans for large visions! What do you feel you have most learned most from the classes at LCAD? T- Because my Major is Illustration with an emphasis in drawing and painting and a minor in sculpting, I feel that I have grown as a well rounded artist that is knowledgeable in multiple styles and mediums. Classes lately that have been the most influential are my Illustration classes constructing narratives and understanding the ability to experiment, and my fine art classes which focus on encompassing the figure.A- The most important thing I've learned is that it's ok to make mistakes. I used to be one of those artists who refused to ever let anyone see my sketchbooks because I was afraid and ashamed of my "bad drawings". Now, I couldn't care less because those drawings are just for practice. They're not supposed to be masterpieces and if you happen to create something good on the first try, be proud but don't settle for it. Keep working on it to make it something great. They say there will always be someone better than you at whatever you do in the world. I use that phrase as motivation for me to keep growing as an artist and as a person.I'm disappointed that some teachers at LCAD don't emphasize that it's normal to not get something perfect the first time. They'll tell you to thumbnail your brains out but won't say it's ok to be wrong. Some students need to know that. That's the whole point of school, to make mistakes and learn from them.G- Can you name an artist you respect who is making a living from their art alone?A- Michael Phillips is a friend of mine and is a local artist in Laguna Beach. I've learned quite a lot from him about what it can be like to be an independent artist and how hard it can be especially when the nation is in an economic rut. He works his butt off to keep doing what he loves. It's definitely not the best way to become a celebrity over night, but if you're smart, determined and do what you love to do, you'll end up where you want to go.T- Dave Choe is the first artist that comes to mind. He's got a show going on at Lazarides gallery in Beverly Hills, designs for RVCA and has his own line of vinyl toys. He's proof that if you work hard enough success will follow.G- What are your thoughts about Artist As Brand principles? T- Audrey...A- Artist As Brand is all about doing what you love to do and making a living from it. Essentially, it's how to obtain your dream job. Growing up and definitely now as I am soon to join the working world, people always tell me, " when I was younger I wanted to do this... I WISH I had stuck with it.." I can't stand hearing that. If you want it so bad, get off your butt and go do it. Take the leap of faith and if you fall, get up an try again. People need to learn how to listen to themselves and learn how to take themselves seriously because those are key to finding out what makes them happy.Awesome! Trace and Audrey are going to do well especially if they can keep the attitudes and perspectives they hold dear to them now. Thank you both for your time and thoughtful answers. Onward and upward.To empowerment,Greg
Greg Spalenka
In the spirit of supporting common visions this post is part of a May Flowers blogging extravaganza at Roxana’s Illuminated Perfume Journal.
Flowers have spoken to me more than I can tell in written words. They are the hieroglyphics of angels, loved by all men for the beauty of their character, though few can decipher even fragments of their meaning.~Lydia M. ChildThe purpose behind a flower, as seen from a purely scientific perspective, is only for the propagation and survival of the species. Yet humans have placed meaning upon these botanical delights for eons. A flower’s virtue may be overt or covert but never denied. These petaled entities have sparked the imagination throughout history in the realms of desire, love, purity, sensuality, elegance, sacredness, sadness, happiness, power, magic, and ethereal worlds. Some blossoms have become timeless symbols.The Fleur de lis is one such emblem. It is a stylized lily (in French, fleur means flower, lis means lily) or iris, and is widely thought to be a conventionalize version of the species Iris pseudacorus. A few scholars believe it represents a trident, arrowhead, double axe, dove, pigeon, or bee, but most agree it is of a botanical nature.Decorative ornaments that resemble the fleur-de-lis have appeared in artwork from the earliest human civilizations. The image is found on Mesopotamian cylinders, Egyptian bas-reliefs, Mycenaean pottery, Sassanid textiles, Gaulish and Mameluk coins, Indonesian clothes, Japanese emblems, and Dogon totems. It has consistently been used as a royal emblem, though different cultures have interpreted its meaning in varying ways.While the fleur-de-lis has appeared on countless European coats of arms and flags over the centuries, it is particularly associated with the French monarchy.This symbol was used to support the claim of anointed Kings of France that their authority came directly from God. It can be traced to an ancient image evoking the rising sun which had the form of a Greek cross with the horizontals curved upwards on either side.Legends enhanced the mystique of royalty with stories of a vial filled with oil brought by a dove from heaven to anoint and sanctify King Clovis (493AD) at his coronation. Another variation says a lily appeared at the Kings baptismal ceremony as a gift of blessing from an apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is often associated with the flower.During the reign of King Louis IX (St. Louis) the three petals of the flower were said to represent faith, wisdom and chivalry, and to be a sign of divine favour bestowed on France. During the 14th century, the tradition of Trinity symbolism was established in France and then spread to other parts of the globe.What is mysterious and amazing is that a flower symbol could resonate so deeply with people that it took on a new life. The image became a brand of its own. Mother nature is full of these icons because she is an awesome designer. Imbue those petaled wonders with meaning and Voila! we have a timeless combination.To flower power,GregCredits-WikipediaThe Secret Teachings of All Ages, by Manly P. Hall
I recently picked up a magazine calledFIND in the LCAD library. It was a free publication, small in size 5"x7" but exuded a vital art spirit. Featuring a very cool cover by Rick Rietveld and filled with artist imagery that piqued my interest, I decided to contact the Founder/Publisher Neight Adamson to find out more. I found in Neight a kindred spirit, a champion of the arts. I asked him to tell me a little about himself and his mission.
Greg- Neight, please share a bit of your artistic journey.
Neight- I have always been extremely passionate about art. I started by scribbling, doodling and drawing on everything I could get my hands on. When I was enrolled at Brooks College in Long Beach, I met a teacher named Mike Hanson (now at the Art Institute of Orange County) who inspired my way of thinking and helped me take my art and design to a whole new level. After college I couldn't find a design job for the life of me but found a job at the Wyland Gallery in Laguna Beach, learning everything an artist needs to know about marketing oneself. On the side, I freelanced with companies like Nike, Hurley, Alpinestars and Chronic Tacos, specializing in advertising and illustration. I began learning the art of business and how to maintain a creative mind set in a cut-throat society. Branching out on my own, I began piecing together my own design studio with Chronic Tacos as my biggest client and unlocking the door to the glamorous world of marketing. As well as using many different artistic mediums to market my ideas, I planned on bringing artists, spectators and buyers together to share in their ideas and give everyone an opportunity to network and grow as an artistic collective.
G- Sounds like you are into artist empowerment too! Tell me about your FIND Art Magazine.
N- FIND Art Magazine is working to build a local art community by bringing local artists, galleries, companies and spectators together into one "Found" space. It is a tool for artists to show their Art to thousands of people. FIND Art Magazine is released every 2 months and is dedicated to promoting and showcasing all different mediums of artwork within each issue. It is sized conveniently to 5x7 inches leaving each page open to the possibility of being framed. There are millions of artists out there that have not had an opportunity to show their art to very many people at all. It is completely free for artists that are chosen to participate in the art show and is also free to the public. The philosophy behind FIND is two fold: One to create an art community where artists can inspire each other, and two, offer a platform for undiscovered talent to have their name and artwork exposed.... The initial response has been phenomenal and we're getting a ton of new submissions every week.
Advertising in the magazine is great for art driven companies. We even offer special discounted rates for individual artists and galleries.
G- You own a gallery that works in concert with the magazine, correct. Tell me more.
N- The whole idea of the magazine is to advertise the artists that are going to be a part of the FIND Gallery exhibition (Costa Mesa, CA.). The same artwork that's in the magazine is in our gallery too. A 5X7 print in FIND might be a five foot oil on canvas... The plan is to grow the magazine, expose more artists and showcase their work in a gallery setting while actually establishing a point of interest within the community.
G- How would you describe artist sustainability?N- When the the signature at the bottom of the canvas is worth as much as the artwork itself.G- That is a nice way to put it! Tell me about your upcoming shows and where can people find your magazine?N- Our closing show for the current issue is actually this Saturday, May 8 giving people a last chance to see the artwork before we take everything down for the next issue. The next Issue will be released by the 21st of May with the opening reception for the exhibition on Saturday, June 12. The magazine can be found at all the art driven locations that we can find: art schools, art supply, tattoo, fashion retailers, edgy restaurants, advertisers, etc.G- Thank you Neight! You are a true patron of the Art Spirit.After realizing our visions for artist empowerment were similar it only seemed natural to connect the FIND mission with the Artist As Brand workshops! Neight and I are formulating a powerful alignment that will bring some awesome value to anyone taking the workshop. I am talking amazing promotional opportunities.We have decided to set up an Artist As Brand Workshop at the FIND Gallery August 6, 7, 8 (Fri-Sun, 10AM- 8PM). Stay tuned for more details.Neight is looking for artists to be included in the FIND Art Magazine and gallery. ContactFINDfor submission instructions and advertising possibilities.PeaceGreg
What sustains your creativity?Could it be new electronic toys, fashionable attire, fascinating information, splendid entertainment, food, money, sex, drugs, rock and roll?Long term creativity is sustained by your heart.Creativity connected to your true essence will sustain you for the long run. When not in alignment with your core virtue, boredom, unhappiness, and lethargy creep in. Creativity is like the electrical juice coming from a car battery. If the engine is hooked up properly it recharges the battery allowing it to last a long time. If there is a disconnect somewhere and the battery does not receive that returning jolt of energy, its power is drained and can die much faster than expected.Loving what you do will help you keep on keeping on when ideas become scarce and economic downturns put the squeeze on.The Los Angeles Times article on "A writing career becomes harder to scale" by Dani Shapiro talks about the struggles authors expected to confront as they gained experience in the publishing world. But now it is sell -- or else. Writers like visual artists must confront the realities of a changing publishing paradigm when it comes to promotion and selling product. In the face of these changes focusing on the source of your power keeps the battery of creativity charged and ready to go.Knowledge of your product line, marketing tactics, long term strategies work only if they are built upon the foundation of knowing what you love. Those individuals who are connected to the source of their true being whether selling their art, writing, music, film, etc. can keep a career energized.I am committed to empowering truth within you and your artful journey!Greg
Matt Mahurin
It was 1979 and the assignment given by the teacher in my Art Center College of Design illustration class was to create a black and white drawing of a mysterious meeting using two point perspective. All the students accomplished the assignment with varying degrees of success using images such as lovers meeting in a spooky park, people lurking behind doors, or shadowy figures jumping out from around a corner. Every solution used two point perspective correctly, except one. This image showed one point perspective of two blind men walking straight toward each other. The punch line for this piece was the focus on their walking canes tapping mid-stride. The teacher criticized the piece harshly because, "Where was the perspective!?" I knew this art was the best in the class by far, with two point perspective or not. The power in this image was its conceptual perspective which made a unique, intriguing story, and invited the viewer to think!
MYSTERIOUS MEETING-MAHURIN
This was the first moment I met Matt Mahurin. I recognized a rebel, a genius, a heartfelt and kindred soul who embodied the art spirit completely. We became fast friends and I am truly blessed to say that even though we live on opposite coasts (he lives in New York) we are still the best of buddies. I learned much from Matt over the years, and still do! He is an accomplished award winning illustrator, photographer, music video director, and film maker. His most recent film, FEEL can be seen on the Sundance Channel. Check out his awesome work here- http://www.mattmahurin.com/I just returned from an evening in Santa Monica with Matt reminiscing over our careers and the new artful visions that harken to us now. It reminded me how friendships and alliances sustain us in our personal and professional lives. When the going gets rough, friends can ease that journey. They can also challenge us and give a wake up call when we are slacking off as well as offer honest criticism. Mostly, friends and team players remain steadfast allies to our dream potential pumping up the support and inspiration.Whether working in film or music with other highly respected artists I found it always engendered greater creativity. Matt and I have not had an opportunity to work on a project together yet, but I surmise when it happens something really special will come of it. In the meantime Matt and I have been on a similar wavelength concerning artist empowerment. We have taken stock of our careers and all that has gone into making them and are giving back to the world some hard won knowledge. I encourage all of you to check out Matt's grand opus to the art spirit: The Imagemaker's HandbookIt will answer many questions you may have about pursuing your dreams as an artist.Peace and Empowerment,Greg
ARTISTart·ist [ahr-tist]–noun1. a person who produces works in any of the arts that are primarily subject to aesthetic criteria.2. a person who practices one of the fine arts.3. a person whose trade or profession requires a knowledge of design, drawing, painting, etc.: a commercial artist.4. a person who works in one of the performing arts, actor, musician, singer; dancer, public performer.5. a person whose work exhibits exceptional skillBRAND[brand]–noun and verb1. kind, grade, or make, as indicated by a stamp, trademark, or the like.2. a mark made by burning or otherwise, to indicate kind, grade, make, ownership, etc.3. a kind or variety of something distinguished by some distinctive characteristic.4. to impress indelibly.5. a brand name.****What do Michelangelo, Ralph Lauren, Geogia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, Clint Eastwood, Auguste Rodin, Apple, Sting, Frida Kahlo, Porsche, Picasso, Damien Hirst, Mark Ryden, Annie Leibovitz, Henry Moore, Greenpeace, Maxfield Parrish, Ray Bradbury, Joseph Beuys, and Elizabeth Taylor, all have in common?They are all brands.A brand is a purpose transformed into a product or service that connects to people, the planet, and beyond. The key word here is purpose, and specifically your purpose. This is where the heart of your essence resides, where your most potent art manifests, and the strength of your perseverance matures. The purpose inside you aligned with your personal vision is the foundation of your creative power. When your heart is joined with your art, a vital one of a kind signature is formed. This brand is unique to you and your intimate product.The word “brand” is derived from the Old Norse brandr, meaning “to burn.” It refers to the practice of producers burning their mark (or brand) onto their products. 1.In the beginning, before multi-national corporations, before boards of directors and proxy fights, before mergers and franchises and takeovers, there were family businesses founded on individual enterprise or invention.Before the corporate image or the company logo, there was the individual name stamped on a product, a service, a laborsaving device, or a form of entertainment, usually because it was the proud handiwork of one individual. 2.The artist’s mark is unique to its owner even if its a copy of something else. However the ambition of most artists is to make a mark that touches their so audience deeply, it burns this symbol into memory. The lifetime of a creative mind can burn a series of meaningful marks into the mindset of a generation, but if their passion is great its possible to start a fire that contributes a brighter light to the world.Peace and passion,Greg Spalenka1. Wikipedia.org2. The Branding of America, By Ronald Hambleton
Learning to create a new economic paradigm for yourself can feel daunting. We all want to relax in the lap of corporate and economic models we were brought up with. There is security knowing we are going to be taken care of by larger business entities that have planned for economic downturns and other market changes, right? There will always be a job that our skill set can fill, right?Living as a freelance artist for 28 years gave me a certain perspective on the economy as I had my feet in the corporate world but still remained independent of it. Living and working as a sole proprietor gave me a certain resiliency and exercised my creative brain powers into thinking differently. Cranking up my innovative capabilities or aligning with those who were in "the flow" increased my chances for manifesting other income possibilities.Check out this great article Path to success is no longer labeled in the Los Angeles Times on how musicians and bands are shifting their marketing principles. Innovation and re-invention are key components I stress in the Artist As Brand workshops to create your own economy.PeaceGreg
The Quito Gang, 2009
When Eduardo Villacis, professor/illustrator asked me to present a workshop last year at the Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Ecuador little did I know that Artist As Brand™ which was brewing inside my head for many years would manifest as flame in my heart too. I am committed to empowering truth in us all through art, education and introspection. When Artist As Brand™ struck such a deep chord with the students in Ecuador it became clear to me this concept of artist entrepreneurialism was meant to be shared. I am amazed at how quickly wings have grown around this idea as it journeys to other locals . Laguna Beach, Salt Lake & Bountiful UT, Los Angeles venues are lining up.Its exciting to see the enthusiasm in peoples eyes when I mention the ability to connect their heart with their art and their income on their own terms. I'm inspired to shift our perceptions of the ubiquitous corporate model into a new view of possibility. Yes, to paradigms that are good for the heart, mind, spirit, and business too!Stay tuned for the first Artist As Brand™ giveaway! Win a free workshop.PeaceGreg Spalenka
