September

September 2024 Newsletter

News:

I’m cooking up some things for the future! I have nothing significant to share today or maybe for the foreseeable future, but I’m busy working on new ideas.

If you are ever interested in a print of one of the photos I’ve shared, let me know. (I have to remember to tell you what is for sale, I’ve read that you all are not mind readers).

I have the resources to print on demand right from my home studio. I ship free within the US. An email directly to CharleyLakesStudio@gmail.com will be fine. Don’t be shy, even if you’re not sure you’re ready to buy- I promise I’ll answer any questions you may have.

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These cats found a home!

Art at Home

I would be a rich woman if I had a dime for every time someone insinuated art was a frivolous activity or purchase. Yet, the people who value the arts the least still put posters on their walls to look at, play video games, and eat off of dishes with patterns. They go into furniture stores and are taken by the living spaces set up and leave with desire for that feeling in their own home. Often someone in their family will gift them handmade quilts and knitted throws and they’ll treasure them for a lifetime.

Here are some myths or commonly held ideas about my profession

Myth no. 1 Art is Expensive

It might surprise some people to learn I collect art. Because I have limited wall space I choose small works, mostly under 8x10. I spend about $50 - $150 on these. I have yet to regret one. Only the ones that got away. What else is $50 and will give you a lifetime of joy?

I also make sure to have prints and small originals for this reason.

Myth no. 2 Art is an Investment

Sorry. It is and it isn’t. I once almost bought a signed Ralph Steadman screen print directly from his website for about $400. I should’ve done it. His work does go up in value. But he’s a world famous illustrator with a decades long career. He is also responsible for illustrating Hunter S. Thompson’s writing.

Yes, that art in the gallery is worth the price they are asking. No, you probably won’t be able to make money on it. But it will last longer than your car, camper, sofa, carpet, siding, roof… it’s a one time purchase with no oil changes or fuel fill ups.

And it’s exactly one of a kind, unless it’s a medium that runs in editions.

I guess it is sort of an investment, an investment in creating your sanctuary, making your space personal. Whether at home or at the office, the art you choose to display tells a story about you.

Myth no. 3 You Don’t Know What to Buy

Okay, I can see where it might be a lot of industry terminology to wade through while trying to make a decision.

You know what you like. And for every taste, I promise there is an artist out there making something incredible for you. Many of us even take commissions.

Speaking directly with the artist about their material choices and process can help you understand if the art work is right for you. Ideally, the artist should know their medium inside and out- or be able to find the information for you.

If you have any questions about art, the difference between mediums, color theory, etc… drop it in the comments.

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A Note About Commissions

I believe last month I had a few words to say on this topic as well. This month I just want to tell you I received a commission inquiry this week and I started thinking about feelings.

Some artists don’t enjoy commission work and I can sort of see it from their perspective. It is someone else’s vision you are responsible for.

For me, it brings me joy to make something that makes someone else happy. It’s a special feeling to share my work in this way. It always blows me away when I receive photos of my paintings in their new habitats. Nothing is finished until I’m satisfied with it, but the work truly shines when it goes into your environment and reflects your energy. It’s then, I finally see my work from your perspective▪️