Walmart Art

Aubergine

12x16

Sold

More reasons THEY are buying at Walmart continued from the last post!! Read it first.
3. Isn't everyone an artists? I can get Johnny (my child, my friend, myself) to do exactly the same thing for cheaper! The truth is that they never do get some else to do the art! Ignorance is bliss in this case...it takes skill, determination, guts and passion to put our art out there for the public to judge! If it were an easy thing we would all be artists and only originals would hang on walls. Another thing, self expression is a wonderful thing, but not necessarily art. Again Walmart has that covered ie: the craft/ art section of the store!

4.Buyers of original art want to share in the life of an artist by possessing a unique moment of the artist's life captured on canvas.
Does Walmart do this? They sell prints that are made to attract the lowest common denominator in art choices...something safe, everybody has it and it goes well with the sofa!
It is hard to wean people of this notion and present a whole different idea when it comes to buying original art. Is this really Good art?Galleries are wonderful because they select art they consider 'good/ valuable' so people don't have to try and figure it out. In our culture art is not nearly as prevalent as in others. Galleries are the front line for artists. They insure that the artists presents themselves as a professional. Select your gallery carefully...many are now not as stuffy as they once were. I have been to great openings with jazz in the background and cut up fudge for refreshments. Remember that a gallery will do what ever it takes to get a potential client through the doors to look at your work!

5. The value of a print goes up in time.....does an original painting do that? How do I know?
A good measuring gauge is to ask what has the artists done to further their career, technique and exposure. Once an artist is professional they will invest in their career and this will mean an increase in prices. Some artists are 'discovered' after many years of hard work, and it seems that their prices climb very fast. Luck are those supporting clients that bought before the big discovery!
All in all, Walmart has a role. Better to have some kind of art in a home that none at all! Better yet to have a unique piece you love than one that leaves you cold but looks good with the drapes!

Provence 8x10 SOLD

Art Marketing 101 Why THEY are only buying Walmart art

Good Company

14x18

Sold

Last class a student forlornly told me she knew many people who spent $1millions on their homes getting granite counter tops, the best hardwood floors available, the top of the line appliances BUT... went to Walmart or Homesense to buy art .

The six obstacles to buying original art I thought of are;

1.People redecorate with the next trend and don't want to invest in art, as it is an accessory to a room.

We're still in the era of the painting has to match the sofa! It's a hard lesson, but good quality doesn't go out of style. A painting defines the collector, not the home he lives in. The more interesting your personal story and the painting's story, the more symbolism or message you have in your art, helps to define your collector as more thoughtful, astute and intelligent.

Old China

9x9

$175.00

2. People don't know what is good value in original art...some new artist charge the same or more as recognized artists. There are no comparison price lists.If you can hit the canvas with the paint it is for sale!

Educating the public is our responsibly as artists. I am of the minority opinion that yes, Virginia there is BAD art! Sharing your education about art, justifying your choices and explaining your influences can give a collector motivation to buy. Just as you are motivated to paint , your collector wished to share in that complex process of creativity.


More on the next post!

Bette Hogg's Poem "The Teacher"

When Bette came to class on Sat. morning, she gave me one the most SPECIAL presents I have ever received. Bette has been attending Hidden Talent once a week on Saturdays and it was our Fifth Anniversary!!.Five years sounds like alot, but I counted the hours-(just shy of 500 hours or just 3 1/2 months of painting full time). She has grown immeasurably as an artist , has been an inspiration to others and is a wonderful friend. I will share her kind words as she has captured what I wish to do with each of you, my students.

The Teacher

I want to paint, so where do I begin? To see it all clearly,
And lay it all down so that others might see.
The bright springtime sky with the broad sweeping clouds,
Or the sunlight dancing 'mong leaves of a tree.

How can I do that, Where to begin?

I'll look for the chance, for they all say

When the pupil is ready the teacher will come.

Someone to teach me the night from the day.

The teacher arrived and so we begin,
"The shape is to start, so make sure that is right.
You must draw it correctly but shape is not all,
Composition will show it in just the right light.

Now I will teach you, it's values that show
The shape of the rose or the curve of the grape.
Yes, that is right, no colors to start,
It's the lights and it's dark that will give it the shape.

The shape is correct, you've done a great job.
Now comes the color, it's also called hue.
You must maintain the values and color's applied.
A little more red will warm up the blue.

That part's in the shade, in the dark so to speak,
So you'll need to make it a little more cool.
Yes, that's right, there is temperature there
Shade's cool, sun's warm, it's kind of a tool.

There are edges we watch as the masterpiece forms
Keep the focus quite sharp with edges so clear

With contrasts most great, the most light and most dark.

Line up side by side. You've nothing to fear!

No, you're not quite done, there is one more thing.

The highlights are added and the sparkle appears.

The very last touches will bring it to life

Put the sunshine on water, the glisten on tears.

Now sign your name. " is this really mine?

Did I really do that? No, it was not all me.

My teacher was there every step of the way.

Guiding hands and eyes , as I came to be,

An ARTIST, the dream of a lifetime. That's ME!

I can keep all the beauty, and moments in time!

Thank you my teacher, my life is now changed.

The gift you have given, is received . It is mine!

Bette Hogg

Two WINNERS!

Come and sign the congratulations card at Hidden Talent!
Do you remember the Gamblin Torrit Grey contest? The one that you had to use that special grey paint and submit online along with 100's of other artists? Remember having Scott, the Gamblin representative come to our School and talk about Color Space? Remember that contest that has only one winner and two runner-ups from all the 100's of entries?????
Well,well, well, come by and shake MEMORY ROTH'S's hand....she is one of only three winners ( FIRST RUNNER UP) and will have her painting plastered over all their advertising, website and next years forms! http://www.gamblincolors.com/ What a fantstic and well deserved accomplishment Memory! I've managed to talk Memory into hanging the winning painting in our Spot Light Gallery, so don't miss it!
Speaking of well deserved-Check out the Featured Artist interview with our artist HEIDI FERGUSON in the Art Magazine Alternative Trends- http://www.alternativetrends.com/rts_heidi_ferguson.html
Great story, fantastic paintings! Can't wait to see the glossy magazine!Will she still talk to us now that's she famous?!!
Congrats to both Artists-you really inspire us all!

A

A

Year End Stats

Just a few stats-I promise!
I know how much we artists like dealing with numbers....

Stats for http://www.laurawatmough.com/
Total visitors -39,000
The most actual visitors (not hits) were in April (4033) May (4190) June (4147) July (4248).
Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario were the top Canadian visitor locations. The top US locations were California (by a large number) Arizona, and Virginia, Germany UK and Sweden were the top three in Europe.
I am hoping to decipher how to get blog stats very soon...any suggestions?

Thanks for spreading the word!

The Artist's Christmas

I would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and thank you for following this blog. I love all the comments and suggestions, even spelling corrections. I am especially thankful for being able to share my artistic life with you!

Christmas has just passed! If you are very lucky, your loved ones will have guessed ( with strong suggestions from you) what to pick out of the confusion at either John's or Kim's and you have a wonderful new-( insert art supply here) to play with. If you are only a wee bit less lucky, you will have the GIFT CARD, and have to postpone your enjoyment a day or two. Now the fun begins...

There have been a few new toys this year, but even the old standbys will be appreciated because of the advanced warning of an over the board price climb the beginning of 2009. This is truly the sign of real inflation coming to the market ...

After collecting a few supplies, the artists needs a place to set up and paint. One of my students has to put everything away after painting and time is wasted setting up each time she gets a few hours to paint. Two things need attention here. First, you can paint for mere minutes and still show progress. You don't need a few hours, just squeeze a few minutes in when ever you can.
Keeping your easel in view lets you paint those precious few minutes at a time and helps sharpen you artistic eye, BUT...it also keeps the mess in plain sight.
The second solution I've found is to throw a vinyl table cloth over the whole thing, easel and all, with an 'Under Construction' sign on it...sometimes a 'Don't touch' sign is a better choice!
So, if you have the time,( and now we know we really do) enjoy the holidays with a brush in your hand! I'm looking forward to a productive and colorful 2009!

Insider Scoop on Ducks Unlimited

John Eggerton from Ducks Unlimited visited us again on Sat Nov 22. He brought a print of this year's Sponsorship Print Winner- our own Barb Girouard! The prints look fantastic Barb! Well done!

John explained that the artists get to keep their original painting, but gives up only the copyright for paper prints to D.U. for one year.The artists may sell canvas Giclees of the image at any time.

There are 2000 paper prints made to give to people who donate to D.U. thus the Sponsorship Print. 12 of the 2000 prints will have a Remarque, or a small painting (acrylic or watercolor) on the bottom of the artist's print) that relates to the big print. The size is about 2"x3"These special Sponsorship prints will be auctioned because they have a mini original on the print and are more valuable. The artist will receive 100 AP( artists proofs) to sell once the year is up.

There were 86 entries this year, including some from students from very well known artists ( RB). All entries are sent to Ontario to see if they will be chosen for the Merchandise catalogue. John will deliver one as soon as it is available.

Changes for 2010

The Provinces will no longer have individual sponsorship prints. the top three picks from Alberta will be sent to Ontario and three National Sponsorship prints will chosen. One entry will be chosen as the D.U National Artist. There will be the regular procedure for the Merchandising Catalogue.

John uses Priority Printing for all the D.U. prints. If you are interested seer Ann Bussy. They are located at 107th Av and 178st in Edmonton.

This is a unique and wonderful opportunity to get National Recognition for your art! all the info, Forms and subject categories are available at Hidden Talent. The submission date is early July! Lets keep the brushes busy and see what happens!!!

GAMBLIN Colors!

Many thanks to Scott (Gamblin colors) and Kim (Paint Spot) for the informative workshop on color space, palette selection and color mixing! The handouts were extremely helpful and we loved the Radiant Blue! I have small samples at the back for those who would like to try it. There are also two different sample mediums , Galkyd and Neo megilp to try.

I am interested in the Sketching Oils and will probably pick up a few.
Let me know what you think of the paint and what your new favorite colors are!

Another One Gone!

Congrats to Pearl Der for selling her "9 Koi" original to JF in Sherwood Park. I went to hang the Sun Sisters Irises and the 9 Koi and they look fab! It's not often an artist can see where their art hangs and how it is presented in the art patrons home.

Studio's Open Weekend

What a great turn out for the St. Albert Artists Colony's first Open Studio! This summer has been a test of the Art Drive Brochure and establishing a Colony in order to share more of our art with more art lovers in the St. Albert area.


One comment we keep hearing is that yes, it is HIDDEN Talent! The Mayor NOLAN Crouse came by and asked why he didn't know of this wonderful gallery....Now he does! He's especially keen to see St. Albert Art as there are a few empty walls in his office. Some of the positive comments are- "Incredible work, I never knew we had this level of art in St. Albert! ". "I came in from Sherwood Park and this is the best display I've seen!" So... the calibre of art is very high, we just have to get ourselves known!
Sold!Judy from Sherwood Park will give "Sun Sisters" a good home!


Many of you have promoted Hidden Talent Fine Art School and Spot Light Gallery and we owe you a great big THANK YOU! Even the students who wish to paint strictly for enjoyment have helped the other students wishing to show in the gallery by bringing their friends and relatives to our Gallery events! With your continued support, we will be on the Art Map in a big way in a short time!


With the success of the Art Drive, we will be opening up the Colony membership to those that come twice and three times a week at Hidden Talent. Our reasoning is that these are the students that are very serious about pursuing sales of their art as well as producing more. There are special meetings dealing with marketing and gallery management, pricing and other subjects that are of interest to those that want to take their art to the next level. We anticipate a Christmas sale as well as a spring Event. We would like to establish a core membership prior to the next brochure being published and have images and bios ready. If this is for you, call me ASAP and I will give you more details. The St. Albert Artists Colony events are separate from the regular art exhibitions that are held for Hidden Talent Students.
We are very excited about the future of the St. Albert Artists Colony! Come join us!

Summer Fun!

Carol and Pam working on a Plein air painting in Pam's tropical backyard!

Hidden Talent Member News and Birthdays

What a summer for students of Hidden Talent Fine Art School!

Barb Girouard's painting 'Spirit Island' was selected for Ducks Unlimited in one of the catagories! We are very proud of her and wish her lots of luck with all the activities and (!) fame!!!

Marianne Konanz participated in the Art Walk on Whyte and sold 2 paintings and had an offer of $1000 for one of her paintings but she couldn't part with her 'baby'-that wonder painting of the the sun shining on the water !

Heidi Ferguson showed for the first time at a fundraiser for the Valley Zoo, of course outside the Tiger's cage and will be featured in the upcoming ART Trends Magazine!!!!

We had a great time painting in Pam's garden and a big 'way to go' to our plein air virgins!! It's alot of fun to paint a picture in a few hours!

Jeannette Sommers , one of our Event Artists , showed at Rock n' August and has a years worth of commissions!!!Dontcha love it when a plan comes together!!

Speaking of commissions, Memory Roth has finished both a pet and a portrait commission and is working on a business commission now!

We will be celebrating Memory's birthday and our Open House this weekend- Sept 20/21 so drop in for cake and if you want to get back into painting, a special drop in is from 10:00-4:00 for only $30 each day on both Sat and Sun.

Gamblin paints will be hosting a demonstration at Hidden Talent on Oct 10th at 7:00 free literature and some samples will be handed out. Mark this on your calendar and get your questions ready!

Plein air time, Drop-Ins and Special Events

Hi Art Friends!
I am finally coming up for air! It has been a busier July/ August than I had anticipated, but my brushes and canvas are now waiting at the door for me!
Here is my tentative schedule:

Plein Air
If the weather isn't great, we'll paint inside! Bring something to drink.
Plan to go for lunch afterwards if possible! Please join me...

Tues Sept 02 9:30 am meet at the School
Sunday Sept 7 9:30 meet at the school
Sat Sept 13, Sun Sept 14 9:30 Meet at the school

Drop Ins
Tues Sept 2 6:00-9:00 Drop In at the School $30
Thurs Sept 11 6:00-9:00 Drop In at the school $30
Sat Sept 20 and Sunday Sept 21 10:00-4:00 Drop In/ Open House for all day $30

Special Event
Saturday Sept 6 is the official Albert Art Day. The School will be open, but there will be no instruction. Come work on any of your projects and bring a donation to the Food bank.

St. Albert Artists Colony

The St. Albert Tourism department will be putting out a brochure called the ART DRIVE, which gives maps and details about artists and artisans in the Sturgeon county area. We have a few students who would like to start selling and take steps to begin their art careers.
On four Thurs. this summer, the newly former St. Albert Artists Colony will feature Pearl Der, June Haring, Memory Roth and myself at the easel. We will have homemade refreshments and will answer any of your questions about art.....bring a friend and enjoy an art night out!

Would you like to participate too? We welcome all Hidden Talent Students as our GUEST MEMBERS who would like to show and sell their art in the gallery as well as set up an easel- ( $30 plus 30% commission) This is a nice informal way to introduce your friends to your art. To book your easel call Laura at 419-2055
When?
July o3 - the same Thurs as the Downtown Art Walk.
July 17, August 7 ( Art Walk Night) and Aug 21.
All the info is at http://www.stalbertartistscolony.blogspot.com/ Thanks for your support!

Jeannette Shows How to Marketing your Art

I went to see Jeannette Sommers at the St. Albert Autorama today at St. Albert Mall. It was part of the Rainmakers Rodeo and sponsored by the Cruiser's Club....

Well, Jeannette and her hubby Phil went all out, purchased a trailer as a showcase gallery for her art and prints, had a great presentation, a great gimmick ( she has MOTOR oil in her oil paintings!! ask her how she did it!) and has everyone telling her about their first/best/restored car. They love her art!

What great marketing! I think the first thing was to specialize in a certain type of painting that would appeal to a niche market. Jeannette built up an inventory, so she wouldn't panic if a few paintings sold. Next, she made copies-paper and giclees with different price points. She had easy-to-buy art cards made for those who wanted something smaller. Commissions? You bet!

The trailer was a stroke of genius- great if it rained, art actually could hang in it,comfortable and homey, storage for bags, stock, chairs etc, can have a logo put on it, ready to go in an instant, classy and the perfect accessory for an auto show!

Well done Jeannette and Phil and good luck this summer at the auto shows!

Ducks Unlimited Opportunity

We had a great presentation by JOHN from Ducks Unlimited to 20 very enthusiastic Hidden Talent students. DU takes very good care of it's selected artists-great publicity, prints, fundraising, appearance's etc. Certainly a feather in the cap of any artist selected!!

Some important pointers- each image needs a form, but up to 5 images can be submitted on a single CD. Your copyright is returned after a year, you receive prints as compensation. There are different levels of competition, such as Alberta Artists of the Year. Almost any subject will be considered-more forms will be available at Hidden Talent for those of you submitting this year. Good luck to all of you!

Art Drive/ St. Albert Artists Colony

The City of St. Albert is putting together a spiffy brochure called the Art Drive. This brouchure will encourage art lovers to visit local and regional studios and watch art being produced. Some of our artists will be featured - June Haring, Memory Roth, Pearl Der and me.
We will be painting four Thurs evenings during the summer...July 3/17 and August 7/21 from 6:00-9:00.
We invite everyone from Hidden Talent to come paint with us as we have an Open Studio for the public. You can even hang you art in the gallery! Cost for studio time is $30 and 30% commission if you sell.It's a great way to get in some painting time during the summer.
Feel free to bring your friends by for a visit, as we will have great homemade food and drink, as well as works in progress.
Check out the blog:
www.stalbertartistscolony.blogspot.com

Torrit Grey Contest/ Gamblin Website

Artists love a challenge! Here is a contest that is perfect for our Art School!
Each year Gamblin paint company collects the pigments from their air filters and mixes them with linseed oil and produces a beautiful TORRIT grey that changes slightly every year. This paint is given away free of charge. Gamblin then runs a contest that limits the artist to using Torrit Grey, White and Black only to produce a painting! Kind of like a company sponsored Black and White Art Event.
I have some torrit grey to share with you!
If you are interested in the contest download the form at http://www.gamblincolors.com/.
I give this website 5/5 stars...lots of good info on paints, how-to's and loads on color. I have their DVD on color and will be sharing it with you during our break time!
Perhaps we can incorporate this into our Mona Lisa Club Art Show!

The Black and White Art Event

These original paintings (and a few more that wouldn't load) were sold at the Spot Light Gallery's Black and White Art Event featuring members of the Mona Lisa Club, whose members are dedicated to promoting realism in art.

The turn out was overwhelming with over 350 signing the guest book for the two day event. Many thanks to the members of the Mona Lisa Club volunteers who were on hand to answer questions and give out information.

If you are interested in purchasing an original Black and White please visit www.laurawatmough.com and look under Galleries/Black and White.

The LEARNING ZONE

I am getting better at reading my "stats" about my website, and although painful, I am amazed at how we are connected to the world.
This week California citizens were the #1 visitors to my website! Closely followed by Alberta, Florida, BC and then Ontario. My only problem is that I would love for you to leave a comment on this blog! If you haven't figured it out email me at lwatmough@shaw.ca for some tips.

The one thing that I showcase on my website is the dramatic progress that Hidden Talent students make in only a few paintings. I certainly didn't reinvent the wheel, but am passing on the experience of much better artists than myself (as well as the experience that 20 years painting has given me).. It seems that there are easy and hard ways to do things like painting but the hardest thing is to get to the LEARNING stage.

One student just recently turned the corner and has opened her eyes with the intent of learning how to paint instead of having the' ego thing ' happen....you know...if this isn't good I'll look bad, what if my husband doesn't like it? What will the grandkids think? She has progressed more in the last month than in the last year. She is focused, because learning is what we humans do better than anything, and she doesn't get bent out of shape if something isn't quite right. The one thing about how I teach is that nothing is permanent...we can always fix/change it. This takes the pressure and the anxiety out of painting. It will be wonderful and you will LEARN a great deal! I think you might even live a bit longer!!!

DRAWING-now that's a learning curve! I had a great turn out last Sat. and am expecting another one this weekend. We will be learning how to place our objects and draw their envelope so to speak. I had a great drawing course from Bill Williams from California and he had suggested to practice just the envelope until you KNEW they were right. ( That may take a bit of time!)
What do you draw? From teaching so many students, I find that the fear of drawing is what holds us back from painting! I am thankful for the grid system, because it starts us on our way and prepares those of us that want to draw.

A book for the next step!!!

I have followed Alyson Stanfield for about 3 years, reading her blogs and enjoying her wisdom when it comes to the art world. She is THE marketing guru for emerging artists as well as a major information lady for all of us in the business of making art and learning the skills of marketing! I highly recommend her new book" I'd rather be in the studio"....The title says it all! A link to her book in on the right hand side panel.>>>
I will be sharing a few tips in later blogs!
Do YOU have a favorite Art book? Let me know, I would love to list them!

10 Steps to Finding your Style!

At some time or another, artists worry about their style...do they have one?, is it good?, what is it?

Art lovers KNOW that artists have a specific style, and they can usually pick out an artists work in a gallery. These are some tips to help you identify your strenghth and therefore your style!

1.Do I prefer to paint a certain subject-still life, people, animals?

2. Do I have favorite colors that I love to use in all my paintings?

3. Do I like a certain brush because of how the paint gets applied?

4. Have people recognized my art work without reading the tag?

5. Do I prefer dramatic subject or moody atmospheric ones?

6. What are my favorite combinations for light colors? for shadow colors?

7. Have I done enough paintings for my style to fully develop? Try many subjects to see what is your passion!

8. Have I visited galleries to see how other artists stay within their perceived style- do they paint a series/ their travels/ only heads?

9. Do I reserve time to paint, so holding a brush and applying paint becomes second nature-just like handwriting?

10. Is there Calligraphy in my art?-do I paint certain shapes in a unique way? Do I always include a personal element? Some artists put initials or a small flower etc. that are hidden in the painting and this becomes their unique selling point.

Nikki is 'horse crazy', and spends alot of her time riding and grooming. As a result...she paints ONLY horses...she paints what she knows, she paints her passion. Nikki is 14 years old...How wonderful to find you passion so young!

Happy Valentine's Day!

I love this time of year-Have you ever had this experience? I pulled into the drive through at Tim Horton's and that wonderful person (who must have ordered the whole office's lunch) paid for my coffee!It made the wait worth while and I still believe there are good people out there!

This is a great time to thanks all of you who have shown random acts of kindness-bringing rags, buying coffee, baking goodies, offering encouragment to the other students, and helping out at the school! Your kindness is greatly appreciated!

HERE IT IS:

www.incompetech.com by popular request, this is the web site you can down load your grids from!!! print them, then go have them copied onto transparencies!

Check the random acts of kindness section in the St. Albert Gazette!

Feb. ART challenge

With the recent plunge to -35 I. find myself reflecting about my recent visit to Cuba...ahhh warm sand, fruity drinks! To get into the spirit, I challenge you to a quick -paint. Here are two of the Cuba photos that I took...can you do a quick, ALA PRIMA ( done all at once) painting that captures the essence, not the detail of CUBA???

Just to make it interesting, lets try for a finish date of March 1st...remember, not alot of detail!!!Paint away!

February is a COLD Month!

I am desperately waiting for the Feb. thaw! Winter scenes are truely Canadian and I love to paint them! The challenge is to discover the color that is waiting in all that whiteness-oranges, magenta, cool teal blues!

This painting is from a trip to Terrace BC, where they get to -10 and have LOTS of snow! There are old growth forests and many rivers and streams to check out and of course paint. The original and Giclee are available. Contact me if you wish to see it in person!

While you are tucked safely inside to keep warm visit Jeff's website at http://www.jeffhayes.com/ . It is a great find-a realist painter who does a glorious job of painting everyday object....a reminder that all things are fair game when it comes to putting paint on canvas! A Painting-a -day is a very popular theme for painters. We get alot of paintings done and they are small and affordable for our collectors!

Speaking of small....The Mona Lisa Club will present a Black and White Art Event in April, Sat 12 and Sun 13 from 1:00-4:00. There will be a gallery filled with $100 8x10 painting, all black and white with a touch of color. This is a remarkable opportunity to buy originals that will go anywhere in your home. This will also introduce you to our methods of painting-we do a monochromatic underpainting, sometimes in black and white, then layer color overtop. You can have a sneak peek at www.laurawatmough.com under galleries/black and white.

Currently I have a pear still life on the go, as well as a large Iris painting that is in the gallery, ready for me to do more underpainting.....come by and see the progress! When you get cabin fever...the gallery is open and the coffee is on!

Art ideas for the New Year

The New Year is an exciting time for artists. Once your artists eyes have opened there are so many many things to capture and express on canvas!! If you have only done a few paintings or are ready to approach a gallery, the New Year is a blank canvas ready for our imagination.

I set goals within the first three weeks of Jan. and find much to my surprise,, many of them just happen to get done by the end of the year. I have three major areas that I work on, if I have too many I get bogged down. I am all for a balanced life a long as it is mostly art!!!

1. What paintings/juried exhibitions/events do I want to do.
2. What do I have to do to make this happen
3. What resources are needed-time frame, materials, marketing

The top two events for Hidden Talent are the Trade Fair held late March and our Mona Lisa Black and White held mid-April. I am also planning more glazing workshops for late spring.
Now is the time to look for images for next years Christmas cards. I tend to ignore this until I absolutely have to get one done. I am almost out of cards, so the pressure is on.....
What are your goals? Are they important to spell out? Do your New Years Resolutions usually happen? Leave a comment...maybe by just putting it down you can make it happen!

Art is CHOCOLATE for the Brain

Keep your brain fit and young with artistic pursuits!
Dr. Gene Cohen have studied our mature brain and found our brains are firing and working great when painting and doing other creative pursuits. The quick passing of time, the intense concentration and of course the fun, provide the ultimate workout for the grey matter.

Our regular painting workouts sprout new dendrites and seeking out new challenges is what keeps us sharp. This helps to prevent dementia!!!
Our brain develops a hunger for artistic activities as we age and these activities influence more connections between our two brain hemispheres or 'moving to all wheel drive'. Using our brain in a more synchronized way (using both sides of the brain at the same time) is like chocolate for the brain.
Great aging is linked to making art and we are in our 'creative age'. This researched landed the good doctor on the cover of Time Magazine. Well done!
When you have your chocolate, it boosts the immune system and ends up keeping the body healthy as well!
Just another great reason to come to class...see you there!

www.cbc.ca/thecurrent WEDNESDAY Nov.21 section 2

2007 Year End Thoughts

I would like to thank all the devoted and enthusiastic students that make up Hidden Talent Fine Art School.
It is such a joy to see your enthusiasm for painting, that bright smile when something 'clicks' and that wonderment as you stretch yourself further than you thought possible. The joy of learning, regardless if you paint for fun or for a gallery is the true reason to pick up a brush!
Thanks to you, the students, the reputation of our School is fantastic-friendly, supportive, encouraging. Thanks to all of you that make the atmosphere of the studio what it is and that brought snacks, tips and humour to our well regarded school. I appreciate all of you that have recommended the school to others. The joy of painting is greater when shared!

2008 will bring many events- We have our annual Trade Show the end of March, a great opportubity to showcase our talented students. The Black and White show will be held in April , and by request a GLAZING class in the spring.

The Emerging Artist Group is off to a great start. We are now up to 7 members and with unlimited lessons expect to see a huge jump in skill levels and inventory!

Do you have a special request? a good idea? some tips for me? just blog them to me! I'll get to them ASAP!
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays...I hope Santa fills your stocking with art supplies!
Laura

On Laura's Easle

I have a special blog on my art work at http://www.artbylaura.blogspot.com/ Have a peek at my finished 8x10...I just couldn't keep the color away from my black and white.

And MORE Black and White

Bonita has an exciting landscape from her holidays ready for the Black and White Show.

Looking for art in all the wrong places?

Try a back alley scene once the snow comes or an arrangement of Christmas ornaments. Remember that the ordinary things in your life make great art- plate of cookies or a basket full of sock, that Hawaiian Hula girl on your dashboard!

The wonder of art is to make the ordinary- extra ordinary!

Even more Black and Whites

Eric from the Young Rembrandts painted a striking butterfly to add to our collection for DaVinci's Birthday party. And so quickly...Eric, get your Mom to buy a few more canvases for Christmas and bring us some more!

A reminder...all the Black and White paintings will be shown in the Spot Light Gallery in April and will be for sale at the amazing price of $100 each.....

More Black and Whites

Look no further for inspiration! Ruth spent last weekend doing three watercolor entries into our Black and White Show. The flowers are fantastic and very rich...you don't even realize they are black and white. The big question is how did she get her background so dark? Ruth has also found an inexpensive frame to use in the show. Please ask me about it if you plan to do watercolors. We would like to keep the framework consistant.

All black and white paintings will be on sale for $100 at our opening in April.

Student Sucesses!

Congratulations! Marylou Olsen sold this painting at the St. Albert Painter's Guild art show to the City of St. Albert.

Congratulations! Melissa L'h was awarded a certificate, cash prize and ribbons from the Peace Hills International Aboriginal Art Contest! Melissa currently takes the 6-9 yr. old classes at Hidden Talent. Her painting is the Bear Spirit at the top.

Art Material Demo

Thanks Kim from Paint Spot - we learned so much about paint, brushes and varnishing! Lots of great door prizes and handouts! Visit Kim at her store on Whyte Ave. or High Street ( just off of 124st ).

Would you like to hang your art at her store??...she will have openings in Feb. and there will be a sign up sheet at the School.

An interesting comment-one of the watercolor students thought she wouldn't get to much out of our gallery talks during coffee break since most of us paint in oils. She was surprised at how much she has learned about composition and how it is effecting her choices for her next painting. During our breaks I am explaining Visual Fundamentals or as the English say a 'Foundation' course..

Want to know what the other students are up to???Be sure to visit http://www.laurawatmough.com/ for the latest student pictures and MORE balck and whites.

Is there anyone you know who might be interested in joining our school? Now is the time to have them register, before the Further Ed Brochure comes out in Dec.

Show and Tell

Who's painting at HTFAS? I have taken pictures of students working on their current masterpieces and invite you to send your 'Fan Club' to www.laurawatmough.com. If you know of anyone interested in starting art the Old Master's way, this is an easy way for them to find out what we are doing. Interested 'scared stiff and stick man drawers' are invited to drop in on a class.
There will be special drop in classes the first two weeks of December! Details to follow.

My New Toys

Every artist wants the ultimate carry all! We seem to collect alot of brushes, paints, tools and gizmos. With Christmas coming this might be the little hint you wish to pass on.

I managed to find this great storage box, complete with wheels at Costco for under $25. it has 47 pockets, at least and is very handy not only for travelling, but for organizing my reference photos, receipts, brushes, etc.

Do you have a favorite 'art toy'? Share your discovery and email me the details. I will post it for you!

Art Show Season

Thanks to all of you that attended the Urban Roots Show with the West Wind Artists. What a variety of art...we had over 80 pieces from contemporary to Realism. It certainly is a funky place to show at. We had a photo and a nice article in the St. Albert Gazette featuring the seven of us. It is open 12:00-4:00 most days.

October and November are filled with art show openings to attend. I enjoyed the Gallery Walk in Edmonton early this afternoon and visited with Cindy and Jim at Out of the Fire Studio on 124st st and Jasper Ave. I have a few pieces there (the rest are at Urban Roots and the Wood Gundy Show) and went to see how the turn out was....fantastic! If you didn't make it there this weekend be sure to drop by. Not only do they have great art, they also have beautiful glass pieces that would be perfect for Christmas giving.

We continue to get new artist joining us at Hidden Talent! Welcome to all of you and I know you will enjoy the atmosphere and great company that we have in the studio! The Winter 2008 Schedule is now ready and if you would like to reserve your place, please let me know. If you know of anyone interested in taking art lessons, please pass this info on and we can accommodate them before the Jan. rush!

Black and White Show Update

What a bunch of clever artists! We had cherries, portraits, shoes, animals, balloons, florals and a fountain! Many of us are inspired to do a few more minis after seeing how spectacular theses turned out!

We decided to postpone our Black and White show until April ( DaVinci's birthday) in order for new students to be able to participate and for the artists already participating to do more and larger (16x20) paintings. It will take a good number of small paintings to fill Spot Light Gallery. We want to make a big Splash, not a drip when we open the show. The same rules apply for the 16x20's.

When your paintings are done, bring them in to be photographed and put on the web site. You cans see some inspiring examples at http://www.laurawatmough.com/ under Galleries-Black and White

Free Photo to paint!

Paint this Free Photo!
I have had over 20 blossoms this summer on my two Hibiscus plants in the front framing area of the school. I must have 2000 photos! I would like to share one with you so that you can paint it at home if you like!

Why paint this picture?
My first thought is that this flower has motion and rythym. The composition is fluid and not boring. The negative space is varied and interesting. There are nice areas of light, and the highlighs are not to washed out. Love the colors!
Small changes...
I would crop the top closer to the flower and maybe leave a bit more space on the right side. Or else I could increase the space on the left. If I enlarge this photo, I would make sure that the leaf area was enhanced or lightened to ensure that I could see what was there.
What Size?
Try a longish rectangle and decide small or large. What about 24x36??? or 18x24? make sure you gesso the canvas twice and lightly sand between coats.
Colors
Monochromatic: Yellow Ocher, White and Light Red.
main colors: Cad yellow Light, Cad yellow, Cad orange, Cad red Light, White. Shadows: Add paynes grey, Perm Green to your palette. Experiment and add magenta and browns.

I retain my copyright but give you permission to paint this photograph in any way you would like. If you would like to sell reproductions of your painting, please email me for permission at lwatmough@shaw.ca

Art Answers
My newest blog, ready to help you with more fine art information.
This month: Photo tips for artists...
Check this out!
http://www.artanswers.blogspot.com/

Finally the Newsletter!

Finally...There has been major problems with the blog, but they are working on it. I see there are still a few glitches. Thank you for all the emails wondering where the newsletter was!

Summer News
I was asked to be the offical oil painting teacher at the Capitol Ex
( Klondike Days to us oldies). My sponsor was Kim at Paint Spot who did a fantastic job . Between the two of us, and my wonderful volunteer students we inspired many to 'pick up the brush'. That's my very supportive hubby( the one in the shirt!), Ed, making sure everything is going right!






Capitol Ex First Annual Art Walk
Barb Girouard, and Jeannette Sommers , members of the Emerging Artist Group joined me in displaying our art to the many people in the agricom at Capitol Ex. This was the first year and with help from Stephen Liley many of the bugs were ironed out. Congrats to Barb for selling her painting of birds.




Urban Roots

West Wind Artists ( a group of artists that I exhibit with on a regular basis) will be showing new works at Urban Roots ( Whyte Ave.) in October. Would you like an invitation? Please email with the words 'Wine and cheese' and I will send you all the details. We would be delighted to have you come!

Mona Lisa Club
We will be presenting a 'Black and White Show' in November...all 100 pieces will be the same size and same price, an affordable $100! and of course black and white with a touch of color. Please email the word 'Mona' for an invitation to a private art preview!

Fall Registration

Registration is currently being taken for the fall semester!

All classes start the week of Sept. 17th.

Adults

Mornings-Tues, Thurs and Sat from 9:30-12:30

Tues afternoon-12:30-3:30

Mon., Tues, and Thurs evenings from 7:00-10:00

Young Rembrandts

Mon. 7:00-9:00 or Thurs 5:00-7:00

Children

6-9

4:30-5:30 Mon, Wed, Fri
5:30-6:30 Tues

9-12

4:30-5:30 Tues

5:30-6:30 Mon, Wed Fri

call Laura at 419-2055

Emerging Artist Group

Would you like unlimited lessons? Want to learn to paint faster?Are you interested in learning about marketing and gallery shows? Would you like to take your art to the next level? We have limited spaces available for the right person! Call Laura 419-2055 for details.

Look for Glazing Workshops and photos of Hidden Talent Students at Capitol Ex at http://www.laurawatmough.com/

Painting Tip: Have you seen the new paint pushers? They look like short handled brushes but have different shaped pieces of soft plastic on the ends that let you sqeegee off run away paint! See Lee at Paint Spot on High Street to reserve yours now!