art by magic - blog

I must blog about this - original art will increase in price

2011-12-07T16:23:00.001-08:00

I have announced that going forward, after my current inventory of art is sold, the new artwork will be priced higher. There is something I have to share and explain to art lovers and collectors.

The art supplies have always been very pricey. Talk about a nice brush being $20 bucks, a tube of paint $7-$15, a quality canvas can be several hundred dollars. Des Moines as a city had only one art supply store that unfortunately went out of business. Artists have discovered that similar art supplies can be ordered on-line at a little discount from the retail prices, which in turn destroyed art supply business as we know it.

The transition to cheaper materials found on the world wide web didn't last very long. In the beginning, the art supply dealers were generous with discounts, return policies and didn't really charge much for freight on big items. There were some minimum quantity rules that were not very difficult to meet for an art supply junkie like me.

My largest art supply order was around $2,000 and I was consistently ordering between $200 - $800 every few months. You can't really make art with nothing, so art materials are key in the production. However, the art sales in the last 3 years are consistently declining. Most artists accumulated several years worth of art, and some have decreased their prices in an effort to move that art and create something new.

The sad thing is that by reducing the prices of art, artists did get some of it sold, but still not enough revenue to create bigger and better projects. Therefore the overall production of art is decreasing. Artists simply can't be producing it at the same pace as it is not selling at that desired pace.

Reducing the prices is a double edged sword. In one hand it can help move an item, on the other hand it sets a very sad precedent for fine art prices. I am finding more and more women who are decorating their expensive homes are choosing catalogue art manufactured by companies like West Elm and Room and Board. Little do these ladies know that their poster art is worthless and has nothing to do with art collecting. Selling original works becomes an increasing challenge.

Finally as online stores have killed brick and mortar, now they are slowly revealing their 'bait and switch' strategy. As someone who bought incredible amounts of art supplies, I assure you I know what's the best stuff in the world of acrylic painting. This best stuff is now excluded from any online coupons, freight delivery prices have tripled, minimum quantities have increased. Literally, the same supplies cost 30-40% more than they did 2-3 years ago.

Since artists are not producing as much, and art supplies are becoming more expensive and harder to find, more substandard product is entering the marketplace. There are all kinds of manufacturers in China trying to overtake the fine art supply market. Artists are compromising on prices and ending up with inferior products. Basically, not everything out there is pro, and people don't know what's the difference anyways. I prefer the best. I am not sure that I can afford art-making though.

If we have to pay almost 50% for materials of our creations compared to the final sales price after expenses, there is very little, if any profit left to the artists. This is becoming more of a dying career, at least when we talk about fine art. Yes, some artists are still living and making income with art, but it is becoming increasingly harder.

The art distribution has been severely affected by the recession as well. More and more art establishments, art galleries are feeling the pressure of the economy and closing the doors. Meanwhile, there are more and more art shows organized by pretty much anyone. These art shows that are not juried and not properly advertised are adding to the strain of this career. Consumers are confused and don't know why should they pay something for a painting when the price ranges are so unpredictably diverse.

In a nutshell, art prices long term will go up. It is good time to acquire a lot of originals, and if you pick the right artists and good original art, you may be sitting on something increasingly valuable.

The artistic language

2011-12-03T18:29:00.001-08:00

I am making art today. It feels good. What feels even better is that people love my work. The confirmation is great to receive and it serves as my creative fuel.

I am noticing a huge increase in my confidence when creating art, and confidence in knowing what people want. Customers verbalize, and it is already in my head. I think how I could execute and achieve this intended result. I pretty much know what they have in mind. When they describe it, I automatically have a visual.

A bottle of wine, hip-hop music, rainy day.. all things good to create more. So I did. Boom Boom Pow!

I am definitely moving from just painting to some intense texture and mixed media. The secret seems to be in using a lot of quality material to produce a quality product. It is very simple: can't create something out of nothing. Ultimately the good art is such that it fools your eye in some way. In my mixed media style the goal is to stare at it, and not be able to really depict the movement or how things are put together. The more confusing, basically, the better it is. It needs to be confusing to the brain and to the eyes, but at the same time pleasant and have a balanced composition.

My process and ability to communicate through art is improving. It appears that after a long dry period, I am again feeling inspiration and burst of creative energy to make it. For a long time I was feeling regretful of having the awesome art studio, basically commercial studio with no art being created. This is changing as we speak. I am re-channeling the energy used in the last 6 months to create shows and promote artists into creating my own work. Will be dedicating cold January for just that: creating new! I've concluded that my work sells the best, so there is no point in putting it on back burner.

Art is work, really hard work. And I keep working. I shall never give up!!!

Old Post Found in Drafts - House of artists goes crazy

2011-11-28T17:00:00.000-08:00

WOW! All I can say.. I found the following post in my drafts, this is a reflection of what was just before we moved into the new studio gallery in West Glen and before I found my job at Davis Life. Perhaps, wishes can and do come true!!

Old post never published:

This house of artists is driving me nuts: now we have a green screen covering my curtain and my Eddie is making movie with Dad... Eddie writes movie scripts and draws animated characters ... so imagine green screen and art drying pretty much everywhere... scripts and drawings everywhere...

I got to follow rules where I can spread, and where I can't spread... I was told today to stay out of kitchen... Dad says kitchen is for cooking not art making. It is enough that I started clock-making that pretty much keeps the dining table full of clock parts and tools, with no chance to land a spoon. Desperate situation!

In addition, I got a commission for 6 paintings and all that is being made right here in my home, so the living room is pretty much non-existent unless you want to count stepping on tubes of paint as a way to live.

How did it all happen? I don't know... I am diving deeper into making things and the gallery where I volunteered is closing down, so I will have not only more time but more ideas now when I don't have to think about anything else. At least for the time being.

The job hunt has been going on for 2 years with no permanent success. This rejection situation is leading me into becoming an even better artist. I often think about relations in life. If for example I didn't experience as many incompetent HR people I would probably have a good job today. If I had a job, I wouldn't create half as much as I do without a job. The tragedy is not that I don't have a job but that I work really hard and not really earning to call it a living. A working husband is a very happy circumstance for any artist, as you have to be able to afford being one.

My art sales have been steady and although I never know where they'll come from, something always happens, somebody always finds out about me and wants a piece... I don't even know how it works but every month is filled with uncertainty.

My Grand Wish for right now is a glam art studio so that I can get out of the way of family who likes to use our dining table for eating, and living room for sipping tea. If I just want it hard enough it can happen, I know it... even if I find something that's just temporary I definitely need to move all my stuff from the home. I'll be on a lookout for an affordable workshop. Perhaps a good opportunity will knock soon. 2011 is supposed to be a good year ... and future is to be discovered.

Happy Holidays

2011-11-24T09:03:00.001-08:00

The moment of bliss

2011-11-07T19:56:00.000-08:00

I have once heard that we people are very bad at predicting what are the things that will make us happy. Many times we make decisions seemingly logical and responsible that don't end up holding their own. However, occasionally humans are good at stumbling on happiness.

One thing I definitely know that at one point happiness was elusive to me. I was in a cycle of depression and disappointment, the world was gloomy and nothing felt right. Out of this despair I made changes in life thinking that my circumstances will change the way I feel. A new job, a new town, a new spouse, eh, not a bad idea..

There have been years when I have refused to watch television, both news and any other programs. I found that these programs were making me feel like I am living, when in fact, I was watching someone else live, completely passively with proverbial popcorn in my lap. Things had to change. They must have.

Then came the art. I started creating art and although I was improving my technique and my product, the process gave me much more than I have ever expected. I became that participant in life that we all want to be, but are too exhausted after our corporate sponsored jobs to tap into our own creativity and desire. Not watching television and art making combined started creating an internal change that basically led to the evolution of me as a person and evolution as a human soul. I strongly believe that our duty is to grow in this life, and if we didn't grow, we didn't live a full life.

Another item necessary for happiness is art of letting go. Letting go of hurt, desires, anything and anyone that projects negative energy into your environment. Replacing these feeling and hardships with positive thoughts and feelings, surrounding oneself with creative and giving people. This letting go process is something that can be practiced and therefore accomplished. It is a little like a piano playing. Some parts of letting go are easy, but others, like that part II of a sonata just brings back old memories and feelings.

Coincidentally after 4 years of non television, years of crying over mundane and senseless things in life I have achieved it. The state of complete, utterly perfect bliss. Yes, bliss. I feel blissful today. I woke up, went to my job, worked there. The fact that the day is long and tasks not to my liking doesn't matter. I still felt happy to be doing those tasks secretly enjoying the feeling of my sweater on the skin. I communicated, helped people and looked forward to the end of the job day to go to my studio.

I arrived to the studio around 5:30, and it was already very dark. The rain started pouring, pretty much my favorite in the studio. Since we have 3 story ceiling topped with a metal roof, the rain creates a soothing symphony of white noise and serenity. The art filled by positive energy of their makers stared at me from all angles. I have opened the gallery but logically nobody came in this heavy rain.

I have set the ipod to shuffle, turned up the volume. Then I found some leftover wine and poured a little glass. The time was to start working on a commissioned project for a client. I have laid out my idea with the wine glass in hand pondering and kind of spending a meditative moment over it. The wine literally helps unleash creativity. Since creativity needs us to let our guard down. Think about making a baby- guard down. Think about making art - guard down. Basically, that's how it goes.

I realized that my work clothes may get ruined by paint, but that wouldn't be the first time. To make myself a little more comfortable I knocked off the pointy heels and slipped into studio slippers that allowed me to dance to the loud hip hop music that was no playing on the ipod. It was kind of my own club with my own toys and dreams inside it. Completely alone, making art in the studio, while the music is loud, wine is floating in my veins, and the rain is pouring on the metal roof.

This was not a moment but full 3 hours of pure bliss and happiness. That elusive happiness was found.

If I get eaten by a mountain lion

2011-10-19T21:48:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, I will drive to South Dakota with a friend to spend a weekend in a wood cabin. The Black Hills are infested by mountain lions, therefore I may not return alive. So, I am writing this blog post just in case. You never really know what can happen.

So, if these are my last words what would I want to say. I think that ultimately what matters is nothing more than creating beautiful memories. We can not take anything with us, but if we have to live through the last moments, all we would have with us at that point is memories.

Everything is fluid, it changes hour to hour, month to month, year to year, lifetime to lifetime. In this fluidity we seek rigidity. In the natural process of change, we try to intervene and stay young, cheat death.

However, the life is about creation and destruction. It is about a cycle. The excitement of creating new artwork is just that. A birth, a new idea, a new beginning. Through the process of change artwork will either become something more or become something less. I am hoping that some of the art I create will become something more.

The first steps, a new discovery, falling in love, all signify a beginning of something. Every new beginning is also an ending, and every ending is a beginning. It is pointless to think about what was or what it will be. The memories we create are not created in the past or the future. Our most precious moments are right now, right at this very moment.

I will remember my best days like the one when we were in Kauai and this beautiful rainbow formed right on the beach with me and kids running under it and making wishes. Or, the time when we received our immigration visa and celebrated by eating lunch at the sidewalk cafe in Rome. Or, I may remember the moment my children were born, the time when my husband was waking me up with kisses, the scent of my garden in May.

If lions eat me alive in the mountains, I have lived well, loved a lot, took a lot of risks, made a lot of stupid mistakes, and I have never figured it out. If everything goes smooth as planned, I'll share pics of beautiful Black Hills, SD. It may inspire me to create new art too!

The work is getting better

2011-10-15T17:55:00.000-07:00

I was very lucky to experience people actually being willing to pay for my art very early, right at start of active marketing of my creations. As months pass me by, I am realizing that I was gifted with a talent for art indeed. For some unexplained reason people judge the art I create as very good, very artistic and their dollars-worthy. This inspired me to continue creating, and to continue exploring this talent.

The last 2 works I have created have sold within couple of months of their creation. Both works went to very nice people with nice homes. This inspires me. Also, I am thinking about the art created earlier, and have realized something: my art is getting better.

This explains perhaps why my latest works have sold faster than some art I have created like 3 years ago, and I still have it. I wonder if I should have a super sale in January of all the art unsold and older than 1 year. That way I would have space to create more. Sometimes the space we need is physical, but for me it is also mental. In other words, I like to reduce the art I have on hand as that gives me space for creating more and more.

The transition over the last 3 years is evident, and here is what I have noticed: I am going more toward serious colors (neutrals, sophisticates), and less working with intense cheerful palette that was evident several years ago. Another transition is change from painting to mixed media. Currently I incorporate glass into my creations, definitely something developed over a period of time. Lots of experimentation. I have found some other artists also doing it in similar fashion, but have a gut feeling they are copying me.

The latest piece "DeCode" is a diptych 24 x 48 inches each. I yet have to figure out how to photo it, since the idea is for it to lay vertically, which will make an overall size of around 100 inches. The work turned out superb. Several people who walked in today and saw it in final stages (I've been working on this over several last weeks), said how cool it is ranging from young kids to an older gentleman. So, I am happy. And, certain this one will find its home quickly like the last two have.

Therefore, I will be posting pictures of art as soon as I can, although it is not that easy to take good pics, best to come see it in the gallery while it is still there. Also, art that doesn't sell by the end of this year will go on a super sale in January. That way you will be able to really get a super bargain on one of my older works.

To visit my art gallery, come on a Saturday. I am usually there, creating something.
www.westglenart.info

About the balance

2011-08-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

Recently, I've had a good amount of insight into our human nature. The rainbow of human desires and emotions spans from selfish and ugly to loving and beautiful. There is absolutely everything in our character and emotions. There is pureness of love, and there is hatred, and absolutely everything in between.

Which part of reality you live, weather you view people and events as positive or negative largely depends on your choices of which people and which events you allow to happen in your life. Yes, we can't choose everything, but when faced with options we can select the most loving option. That best option most frequently is the one that is based on unselfish love and acceptance.

Without explaining my observations in every miniscule detail, I'll just say that there is that which is good in life, the force that is expanding and multiplying everything... and also there is that which is evil in life and is destructive and eliminating. Perhaps we float between those two extremes until finally dying and allowing another cycle to replace our temporary existence.

The contrasts of fear and safety, the contrasts of intense passion and indifference are the forces that shape our everyday existence that rests on fragility of unexplained miracle of life.

Sometimes I listen to a special inspiring music and I realize that there are forces that draw up to the light, goodness, love, and forces that draw us to the dark, untruthful and hateful places. The art gallery I have created ultimately gives me that spiritually uplifting feeling of goodness and inspiration. Places can have their own positive or negative energy. So do people. And events.

The matter of goodness in one life is much more a matter of recognizing what already exists than the matter of seeking the buried treasure. This treasure might just be buried nowhere else but our own heart and minds.

What is an Art Collector?

2011-07-06T20:55:00.000-07:00

To understand art collecting, a person has to understand the different levels of aesthetic and conceptual understanding in different audiences. I'll try to explain what's at work here for you.

General Public - lowest level - 1

Vast majority of folks have no intention to ever be shopping for original art. Their taste in art is too shallow and undeveloped to be taking such a monumental step. The needs of such masses are mostly met via the chain store mass production. I'll call this layer general public.

Original Art Shopper- a way of distinction -2

A step up from a general persona is someone who wants to feel a little more special. They scour the original art market carefully, usually with a tape measure in hand to find just that perfect piece of inexpensive art that can satisfy their decorative sensibilities. This group has a potential to develop a few collectors but it hardly succeeds. People in this group will pay a little more for originals than what they would pay in a chain store. They frequently don't feel confident in their choices and need a lot of reinforcement from others to go through the purchase. Their primary motivation to buy is to feel a little different and distinguish themselves from the neighbor. These folks usually earn very good incomes but don't spend much on art. They feel art is too expensive and generally waste of money (never mind that Lexus in garage.. that's another story).

An art lover - sophisticated taste and understanding of art - 3

The step up from the original art shopper is an art lover. Most artists belong into this category. Many have swapped or purchased artwork from each other, and regularly visit art openings and events related to art. The art lover is not necessarily a collector since this one is just getting acquainted with the game, and developing its artistic taste. People in this category develop fine taste for art that can almost be passionate to the point where they will blow all of their discretionary income on art purchases. The art lover knows at least 20 artists by name, is familiar with their artistic direction and has a clear idea of what pieces would be in his/her collection someday. The problem with this group is that many art lovers don't earn high incomes to sustain the market. Therefore artists are mostly selling to the art shopper (refer to level 2.)

Art collector - blood and soul of the art profession - 4

Finally, we have an art collector. The art collector is a person who is not new to art buying. This person generally has consumed art for a period of time and both developed the taste for it, and also has sufficient income to actively collect. The collector is an elitist in the art world. This person knows how much art is worth and generally will never purchase something under $500. Artists who sell for less than this amount will rarely grab their attention. The reason to collect art can be as personal as there are art collectors. Some do it for the feeling of rush, a hunt, the feeling of acquiring something just because. Some art collectors are collecting as an investment. At the very high end of collecting, art becomes a numbers game and a way to diversify one's portfolio.

Art philanthropist - safeguards human creativity to survive generations - 5

On the very top of this art food chain, there is an art philanthropist. This is an art collector who buys art not only for the sake of the acquisition but also to support an artist's career. The art philanthropist will donate money to museums and other art organizations. One of the great examples of art philanthropy is John and Mary PappaJohn sculpture park that is a result of their tremendous art collection that was later gifted to our city. These art philanthropists are very rare, and they are not always extremely wealthy. The art philanthropy is the business of giving and educating, it is an active support system for development of ideas and artists.

So, there you have it, now you know what is an art collector. Maybe this gives you a little bit of insight why that painting that was just a red dot on a white canvas fetched millions? Was it an affluent art collector, or an art philanthropist, or perhaps a fund manager acquiring a fine example of the artist's career for their investor's portfolio. You can now make an educated guess...

Female Energy opening reception, Friday night

2011-06-19T21:01:00.001-07:00

To see entire video frame, view on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00vA7jOtTfM

Purple Rain... hmm.. Purple Art

2011-06-13T20:50:00.000-07:00

I like purple. Not sure why I like it but they say that if you do like this color, your nature is artistic. Perhaps because this is the rarest color in the nature, and a color of royalty. For years, whenever I made purple art, I had very hard time finding a buyer. If you follow me on Facebook, you'll remember that I once had a purple art sale, that's how convinced I was that no-one will ever purchase purple artwork. I was convinced to only make purple for myself and never for others; this is one of those colors that don't generally fit into one's decor.

Then, during the month of May/June I sold several purplish art-pieces. Why all of a sudden? No idea. It's like people have all of a sudden realized that this art is awesome like it always was, just waiting for it's buyer. But all purple art sold in the same month, that is bizarre!

I want to congratulate all the buyers for their awesome selections and hope they'll enjoy this art. I like creating art, and selling is the only way I can make more. Therefore, a warm thank you to my collectors!

Which pieces have sold this month:

Purple: 40 x 30, sold to a visitor of gallery, a person who never knew me or followed my art.

Guitar: 48 x 24, sold to husband's coworker who is apparently a collector.

French Connection: 30 x 40, sold to a friend, someone who knows my art well.

Video Tour of Art by Magic studio gallery in West Glen

2011-06-08T04:42:00.001-07:00

Custom Art - Burklunds

2011-06-07T18:47:00.000-07:00

Size: 48 x 60 inches on linen

Inspiration pillow from client's home

detail

This large art was created custom for a client's home. How do I do it? Well, I really can't create art unless I understand my client and what they like. Joe and Jane had these pillows in their home that they found extremely attractive. I have also snooped around their living room to understand what are the shapes and styles that attract them. Ultimately they wanted art that employs their color scheme, and also consists of some rectangles and gives playful energy. Mission accomplished!

Visit me at my studio evenings and weekends to talk about your custom art.

www.westglenart.info

Soaking knowledge

2011-05-15T18:56:00.000-07:00

Big project - finished art on the floor

Size: 96 x 60 inches, stairwell project

detail

I have completed the stairwell project for the latest commission. It is very difficult to take a good photo of this art, since, well, it's bigger than I am. And it is meant to be viewed from a distance. Can't wait to see how will it look installed. I wanted a fun piece of artwork, the one that will get attention, and what attention getter this is!

Their time but not their hearts

2011-05-09T19:05:00.000-07:00

The true success comes from having a passion about something. There was never a good athlete, a good scientist or a good employee who was doing it just because of the pay. When people receive pay in exchange for their work, they will eagerly perform the tasks. However, only a business owner has a true passion for the business. The employees can be great, can be shabby but in the end, money can't buy their hearts.

Since I have embarked on a business ownership path, I've started observing the customer service that I am receiving everywhere I go. The other day I was going to return some bras to Soma (too bad now you know where I shop for bras - shame!). I have arrived in front of the store couple of minutes too early. The two employees have seen me, but they continued their conversation, and one left toward the back room. The other employee was texting on her cell phone. By the time they opened the door it was 4 minutes past the opening time. This is something employees do... business owners, they would never inconvenience their clients or make them wait like that.

I have once read that people buy products and services, but they come back because of the value that product or service provided to them. I can not agree more with that statement. It is never an issue how much you pay for something as long as you receive good value for your money. If the client doesn't come back, it is not because of your price, it is because of lack of value you have provided. Customer service is one of the most crucial components of fostering your clients and developing them further. No wonder there is so much customer service training going on at all the most successful corporations.

I've had more than one job in life when my mind was there but my heart was not. And that is ok way to earn money. As a matter of fact, as a business owner, I assure you it is easier to make money with a job than it is to build a business. However, a business owner values his freedom so much that he is willing to put inordinate amount of hours and effort into something that may not show results for years.

The business is built slowly. Like a seed you plant, you plant your business seed, you nurture it, you trust in it, you talk to it nicely. One day the business shows you a little seedling.. as time goes on, and if that seed is planted in the right place and the right time, and has a chance to grow, it just may become a mighty oak. But see, the oak didn't become that big overnight. It took time, energy and a lot of beleiving when that seed was planted that this will happen in the future.

Maybe that's why small businesses have a hard time. If I have a seedling business (like my art business), and it is overshadowed by a mighty Oak (like a Target store), my seedling may not have a chance to grow. All the sunshine is soaked up by the big tree and the little seedling - nobody pays attention to. So, we have to keep planting those seeds because eventually, one of these seedlings will find its opportunity and outgrow the shadow. It will reach for the sun!!!

Employee is logically thinking about their next check. A business owner is having a sight on that big tree. The difference is in perspective. The difference is in the way of thinking. I am glad that I am thinking this way since eventually I'd like to see that big tree. Sounds crazy? Let's talk in 10 years and check out on progress of my seedling. You'll see that I was right... I think I am on the right path.. I trust the process...

Have something worth paying for

2011-05-07T06:18:00.000-07:00

The best advice I can give to anyone who wants to succeed in art, and business in general, is to always think about what is your value proposition. The art world is specifically conflicting on this issue since artists seems to compare themselves to each other and form their pricing based on what they have seen someone else price a pice of work.

Just as there are different prices in cars, furniture, housing, restaurants and all other kinds of services, there have to be different prices in art. The difficulty comes when the cost of time and materials exceeds the amount market is willing to pay for.

The solution is twofold: find a way to reduce your product expense and produce same quality at the lower price, or, get better at your product or service, provide more value, unique product to your customer and ultimately win over your competition.

The question is this: would you pay the stated amount for this product? If the answer is yes, then go ahead price it like that and market will support you. If the answer is no, then either work on making a better product or reduce your price where others will pay for it.

I am uncertain if this rambling makes sense, but ultimately if you want to sell anything it has to compete in the marketplace. This includes art and all kinds of fine, high-end functional and non-functional items, as well as services. Have something worth paying for and you'll succeed!

Creating Big Art

2011-05-01T09:26:00.000-07:00

The biggest painting I have created is 4 x 6 feet. That's pretty big! But, I've never embarked on creating a commercial installation like I am doing today. Painting big canvases is pretty challenging and physical. I enjoy the process very much and it seems like time just keeps flying when I do it. My last project that consisted of 5 big canvases was ruined by a brake-in. Someone stole 2 out of 5 finished paintings that lined up make a rainbow.

I have decided to move on, and not worry about the theft. Police has my paintings, I'll call next week and try to get them back; if repairable we can try to repair, if not new canvases are on their way to me and should be delivered next week. They are very nice canvases, heavy linen, I just love them! The school that commissioned the project :DMACC, is super cool. They are just so nice to me and said that deadline doesn't matter, they've been talking about getting some art for the campus for a long time, and a few more weeks won't make much difference.

I think this experience will give me more know-how when I have an opportunity to go into the next commercial installation. There are so many things I never knew how to approach, installation being one of them. The artist should always build some cushion into their proposal for expenses that occur during the project. Nobody can fully predict what will happen, and much less anticipate that someone would steal two paintings no smaller than 3 x 5 feet. Next time I propose to work on something large, I'll have to build in those "unexpected" things into the commission contract. This time I got really lucky that I have one of the nicest clients possible.

The consequence of not delivering the project can be that you have to refund the money that you have already spent on creating the project. I couldn't really deal with that at this time. I am starting my own studio gallery, every artist's dream come true. People are seeing me working in there and that must be pretty unusual. I spent too much time setting this gallery up and talking to other artists. Now is time for some creative activity, the whole reason why I have rented the space in the first place.

Stolen Art

2011-04-24T20:35:00.000-07:00

Stolen Middle "Green" painting in progress 36 x 60 inches

Stolen "Red" painting in progress 36 x 60 inches

Stolen "Green" painting in progress 36 x 60 inches

I feel violated. I feel raped. I've felt like that before when I left my homecountry because of the bullies who wanted to see me leave for my property. They've got my shit, they got rid of me. I came to United States. I've built a life here.

Last night, someone broke into my studio gallery in West Glen and stole 2 pieces of art that were freshly finished and the glossy varnish was drying. They only stole 2 canvases out of 5 that lined up in order make a rainbow, a beautiful rainbow designed and painted to represent diversity of an educational institution that I was making it for. I was excited about the art. It turned out great after a month-long creation process. Now it is ruined. It is like someone cut off it's head and legs. I have 3 canvases left that are disjointed and missing the two pieces.

I have no idea how can I recreate such large artwork. I can match colors but it is a lot harder than creating a piece from scratch. The new canvas, paint and medium will cost me dearly, I will need at least additional 40 hours to recreate the missing pieces. It took a lot of physical space and time to create one artwork that is 324 inches large artpiece. I am hurt. I am in pain. The dream commission is turning into a nightmare commission.

My vision of what could have happened is that there are some low life people partying in neighboring West Glen bars and possibly eying the art that could be seen through the windows. Maybe they have seen me working on it. Maybe there was a group of drunk low lives daring each other to try and steal it. Maybe it was planned, maybe it was not. But the result is that the art is gone. My heart is broken.

The thief only went for the art, they didn't take anything seemingly more valuable. They didn't brake into my office. They didn't take money or wine that was there. Sophisticated thief must have a lot of money and a big house to hang my shit. Will they hang it? Or destroy it?

I certainly hope to get it back. I hope they will get undrunk, think clearly and return my work back to me.

I just think it is unfair how we always think of good neighborhoods as the ones where "rich" people live. And we think of bad neighborhoods as the ones where "poor" people live. This is wrong. Being poor doesn't make you bad, and being rich is not making you good. Stealing things means hurting people and affecting their ability to provide for themselves and their families. Stealing things means raping their souls.

I will survive this just as well as I have survived war, discrimination, injustice, illness and loss. But right now I just don't feel right. My world is upside down today. On Easter Day.

Here is a link with missing pieces in progress. The finished art looks similar. The green painting has a word "Learn" in it, and the red painting has a word "Imagine" in it. If you know anything about whereabouts of this art, please call West Des Moines police.

Link: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=320948&id=62182248814

Emotional side of art

2011-04-22T16:26:00.001-07:00

The longer I work with the artists, the more I am realizing how sensitive artists can be. I've became better to be nice and gentle to the creative soul, but you still never know when you're going to offend... Sometimes I think that my lesson in this life is to learn how to work with that sensitivity in myself and others.

Perhaps I am mistaken, but I think artists are terrible business people and that is what explains much about the struggles of art business. Every human emotion seems to be amplified with creative people. If they are mad, they are really mad to the bone... if they are grateful and happy, they hug you... if they believe you, they listen to what you have to say... if they are jealous, they try to sabotage you... if they are insecure, they need reinforcement.... if they are opinionated, they put their nose places... if they are feeling inferior, they ignore you.

The human intrigue of art is just as interesting and entertaining as anything I end up selling in the gallery. I forgive, I forget, I get over things quickly... Most artists don't...

If I can offer one piece of advice to artists, it is to learn to let go of their emotions... cut them off like the helium balloon and let that balloon float into the universe. Then go back to your studio and create something new. Be persistent. Be reliable. Show up on time. Do as you say. Return messages. The good working ethic sells more art than anything else.

We are meeting a rare and unusual need in humans: a need for beauty, wonder, a need for unusual, different, challenging, provocative, inspiring. We are helping people make a distinction with their art, we are helping them be more important and feel better. And all that is much easier to do if we don't keep our head in the clouds.

Beautiful People

2011-04-16T20:24:00.000-07:00

From a spiritual viewpoint my life is taking a big u turn where the focus is much more turning from myself to focus on other people. I've been working really hard this month. The entire store setup didn't leave too much time for me to create new things and that is not the best situation. Tomorrow is my day of painting. I can't wait to wake up and go into the studio to be working on my commissioned piece.

Today I came to a realization that my purpose is somehow connected with artbymagic.

I am still unsure what will come out of it, but have confidence that something really good will emerge. I am blessed to see art from different artists and just being around all that energy and creativity is making me very happy.

I've spent the entire day meeting some really nice people as well as setting everything up including installation of the signage. I was too tired to go to an art show that was on my calendar. But, there is something really good that happened: as I was installing the sign, more people stopped by to ask when we are opening. There is definitely growing interest and my West Glen neighbors are really supportive.

So, less than 2 weeks until opening & can't wait to see how it is going to look like on opening day!

Oh, how sweet

2011-04-08T21:57:00.000-07:00

Lately it's been really sweet. I've started a new job that is really nice. What is the most surprising is that I work at a very small company but everything works really well. Perhaps it was my assumption that things at a small place should be disorganized but they proved me wrong. As a matter of fact, it is impressive! So, the career side of things is on the upswing.

Also, I am having great fun developing an art venue. It is exciting to be in one of the best neighborhoods around - West Glen. Well, it is double super for me because 1. West Glen Rocks, and 2. I live right by it! Fridays and Saturdays are filled with people dating and having drinks at the many bars and entertainment venues around me. There is so much energy there... the people are dating, going out, having their dinners, doing some luxury shopping.

I visited most of my neighbors there and they were super nice. Although I didn't go out for a long time, visiting places like Tonic and Gino's is exciting and makes me desire going out again. I don't have time for that, but I am surely liking my neighborhood.

Perhaps I've lived too long on the all too common recipe: house in the suburbs, daily 45 minute commute to a corporate office downtown and ride back just to be too tired for anything creative. After mowing the lawn and tending to my garden I was too tired and the cycle was going on and on.

The recession did several good things for me: for one, it allowed me the opportunity to downsize my lifestyle in a way where I can afford to be more creative. The house lifestyle is pretty much a thing of the past. With growing kids we are out more and home less. There is always something: sports, birthdays, art to keep us out of the house. I love living in my condo. There is no more lawn, snow, or major time spent cleaning like we did with the house. We no longer think that we should finish the basement, instead we imagine where to go and what to do next. I have also reduced my commute where it takes me 5 minutes to gallery, 10 minutes to my workplace, everything is somehow more handy. Even Trader Joes and Big Walmart are just steps away. Starbucks on the corner of 64th is a red cherry on the cake.

Second good thing that came out of it, is that I became somewhat more independent than I used to be. I've gained a lot of skills that I didn't have. It is great to try and fail, and then you try again and maybe fly? I see the world with different eyes. I am much less dependent on people who many times think they have a hold on me in some way. In essence, I just became really good at making peace with things and moving on. Things are really sweet right now and I have a feeling they will get even better.

Gallery Opening

2011-04-01T18:07:00.000-07:00

Making a web site

2011-03-05T23:16:00.001-08:00

I spent today making a new web site. It is not that hard now when I know how. Check it out --- > click here

It's a good day

2011-03-04T18:40:00.000-08:00

Today was an interesting day. It started with my beautiful sunshine shining on me with his two brown eyes and a set of cute teeth. There is something beautiful in waking a child in the morning.

After taking my son to school, I received the keys to a wonderful studio that is a dream come true for any artist. It meets all my criteria: ample space, clean and simple, good daylight, access to sink, possibility of retail sales. The biggest hurdle any artist faces is how to show their art and this location will combine my need to make things, the self-expression through arts that is life changing, and I can organize shows and events and help other artists showcase their art as well. I don't believe that significant income is possible in arts. But it is certainly something I enjoy a great deal.

Following this, I had a lunch with a friend who is an inspiration. I know that I've had many hardships in life, but sometimes when I look at what other people have to go through I recognize how lucky I am.

After lunch I introduced myself to the West Glen neighbors. They already knew I was snooping around for a studio but yeah, having all spots filled up helps everybody. I personally feel that it is enough of recession, people need to force themselves to become more giving and more optimistic. There is no reason to continue with negativity and scarcity. I am ready to share my optimism with others.

The evening was great as I visited two art shows: 1st at the Hoyt Sherman place where I had a painting and have met several artists I know. Following this, I went to another art show that is more of an underground type art show with very good art by three local artists: Vanja, Hasan and Luke. It was great to see all the artistic diversity tonight.

All in all, I feel very happy. Next week we are going on a spring brake vacation. The time away will put everything into perspective and I have so much to do when I return. New opportunities are just abounding right now and I am in awe that so much good can happen to a person, at the same time. I am starting a new job when I return from vacation and a big project that is going to be my biggest work to date. I imagine myself sitting on the California beach somewhere, looking at the ocean, keeping my kids in the corner of the eye, and dreaming up of all the wonderful things that I get to do in the future. The next door neighbor to my studio gallery sells shirts affirming what I already know: Life is Good! Check out Jake's Jurney and get your own Life is Good shirt when shopping West Glen.

Practicing

2011-02-28T16:03:00.000-08:00

Here are some samples of the works that use glass nuggets in its creation. Unlike traditional mixed media, mine is clean and the aim is to capture light that subtly can touch artwork from any angle. I find that paintings if not under proper lights can be dead objects. With the use of glass, texture and light colors I can capitalize on even the faint light from another room that is just touching the art for a stunning effect. Let me know how do you like my practice run. I think it is promising.

New Postcard Designs

2011-02-22T16:57:00.000-08:00

I've been making postcards using images of my fine art and images of some beautiful photographs by S. Agic, my better half. I think postcards are a wonderful thing and since I am romantic soul, I like sending them and receiving them! There is nothing better than a surprise postcard in the mail from a dear friend or relative.

To see the entire selection of postcards, please visit my online store.

New way to reproduce some cool art

2011-02-20T09:37:00.000-08:00

I invented this - totally take the credit.... I just think it is so cool to mount the photographic prints on wooden blocks. I am sure it has been done before, but I did come up with this idea on my own. The blocks rock! It makes an otherwise expensive piece of art affordable in a smaller but equally fun and interesting form. Well, I am keeping the original forever but you can have "Contrasts" reproductions on wooden blocks. Let me know if you like them!

Sorry, this item is sold. Please let me know if you would like me to make one just like this for you.

My child beat me in sales this weekend

2011-02-14T01:48:00.001-08:00

I was at a HeartFest, an art show this weekend. I was not impressed being in the Mall for the art show, but it is the only event we have in Iowa during winter, so showing and selling artwork during February winter is a nice opportunity for artists.

At the same time, my 9 year old entrepreneur was setting up a shop. Right in front of the fireplace in the living room, he arranged a counter desk, a price list and opened something like a snack shack. His previous business was to give massages to mom and dad for $1 per minute which was very cute, but after we started complaining that the back hurts more after his treatments, he decided that business needs to fold and opened a snack shack.

In this new business you can have a variety pack of snacks in the zip-lock bag for 4.99 and water bottles for 1.99. Extra snacks are available at .99 a piece. Eddie would wake up, open his store at 8 AM and sit there all day waiting for his best customers: mom, dad and brother. We have also informed aunt and other family to come visit his snack shack to support his local business.

The first sale of the day was of course mom before going to the art show. I blew $10 on a snack pack, couple of bottles of water and 1 extra snack. After I left to the show, Eddie was getting new sales. We will not discuss the issue who paid for his inventory, but I should just say that a diligent work over the weekend earned Eddie $80.

At the same time I was trying to beat my booth fee at the art show. Sales were slow and people were very price sensitive. I felt the only way they would get something if I offered it to them for free. Luckily there were supporters showing up, mostly my friends picking up something for $20, $30, and some prior contacts who liked my body of work.

I was able to sell enough art to cover all the expenses of this show and the expenses of making art, but the profit was only around $50 for two days of entertaining people in the booth at the Mall. These last couple of years are so tough on artists that we consider it successful when we cover the expenses.

So, in the end, Eddie made better profit with his snack shack with only 3 good customers than I did as an artist for 18 hours working on the art show. Perhaps I should start a new business, a snack shack partnership with my young entrepreneur would be wonderful!

How discrimination helped me become a better artist

2011-02-07T08:17:00.000-08:00

If you know me, you'll know that I am educated, well-traveled and intelligent. I have worked 13 years in various financial services positions until the big economic collapse that left me without a job. Loosing a job is not the biggest tragedy, but loosing income, medical and dental benefits is!

Since the big fallout I've tried finding a job, albeit unsuccessfully. My job search ended in one disappointment after the next. I've got to be rejected in the most brutal senseless ways one can imagine, largely because of who I am. In the beginning I was giving them a benefit of a doubt, but time after time again, observing reactions and comments directed at me, I conclude: if it feels like discrimination and if it looks like discrimination, than it must be discrimination.

The pain of rejection was easy to overcome. Most people who reject me are less advanced than I am both intellectually and spiritually. But the pain of loss of income is not easy to overcome. Luckily there were unemployment benefits that helped me launch my artistic career, that although successful is not a money maker.

In the process of 2 years, I've got to create 300+ pieces of art and have sold a big chunk of it. I continuously work on creating new art and contrary to popular belief, being an artist is real work, and not the easiest work out there. One can do it only out of passion and desire for self-expression, and not because of motivation to earn money.

During my job search I did land some jobs but they were either not a great fit, or they were paid very low. I was told that I need to start all over again, start at entry level. My question is why? If a person already has a lot under their belt, they really shouldn't have to start all over again. My life is not starting all over again, my children are not being born all over again, so why should I start a career all over again. This makes no sense!

I figure until economy changes and people become kinder and more fair to job applicants, I could just as well build artbymagic brand, which may have some future if I continue to focus my effort on expanding and exploiting my artistic ability. At least it is something where I have control, a brand and ability that nobody controls but me. All the rudeness and discrimination that was directed at me just helps me become a better artist each day.

What is a screening interview? It is an opportunity for HR to discriminate legally. If they don't like you on the phone interview, you are definitely not a go. Now imagine a heavy accent on the other side of the line and you get the picture. I am the one with the accent, the one that gets passed without explanation. I am never able to pass the phone interview although well qualified for the jobs they call me about.

One woman who interviewed me blamed me for being unemployed. She told me how could I accept unemployment benefits from the government. If it was her, she said, she would take any job just so she doesn't get unemployment (Interview at American Equity). I am sure you'll have no problem figuring out this woman's political affiliation.

Another person who interviewed me told me that my hair is not symmetrical and that my shirt is too casual. There is a definite look they are after, she said, and even though I am very smart, I don't look the part. (Interview at Merrill Lynch).

I've also had to face job offers when they won't tell you what the job is about. This is usually the case when you need to do the dirty job (for example collections), the companies say that it is a call center and the only job description is that "you have to be able to hold a crucial conversation".

Then, there are all the jobs where you're supposed to work hard for free, and if you sell a lot of something you'll get some commission. In one of my last interviews I was told that if I sell $1,000,000 of new premium, I'd get $1000 commission. Now, let me please ask you how easy it is to have someone hand you over $1 mil, and if you can do that you'll get $1k. Generous!

I was also lucky to interview for a job with Government. This job would be a perfect fit for both my education and desires. I had a great interview but was not selected. The only problem with this interview is that I was interviewed on Wednesday for a start day of next Monday. You tell me, if there are only few days left, wouldn't that make one suspicious that there was already a hire in line. Sometimes organizations have to interview x number of candidates just to be politically correct.

During this horrid employment market, people in charge of employing others have shown their worst human side. I love seeing all those self-righteous people extending judgement only until something equally devastating happens to them. I am a big believer in what goes around, comes around. All the while, I keep creating and perhaps I'll actually make a living with it someday. It sounds utopic to think that I can succeed with art alone, but for the time being it is my only sensible option.

I have also discovered that self-employment helped me develop a whole array of skills and abilities that I didn't have while I was employee. The opportunity to lead 30+ artists and organize a coop style gallery and everything that goes with it, the discovery of how to market a business from the ground up, the web development, blogging, social media. If someone would hire me today, they'd get a much more well-rounded person than the one that was couple of years ago. By the time this happens, I may be in a position where I neither want or need the job. Maybe I'll be the one giving jobs to other people.

Commission Project

2011-02-06T17:49:00.001-08:00

I love doing commissions. Especially when a client gives me a little creative freedom. This last client gave me a lot of freedom in creation of collection of heart paintings for her office. I am currently working on painting no 5 of 6. For this one I decided to follow an anatomic idea of heart, just to make it even more dramatic with blues and reds. The painting is not completed yet, but I though to perhaps share the progress pictures. I am pretty happy with this one. Let me know what you think!

Progress - step 1

Progress - step 2

Gallery closed - 15 month perspective

2011-01-31T10:48:00.000-08:00

We recognize things in hindsight really easy, right? But going into a project, especially one that you don't know much about is a different story. Every new project as well as any new relationship starts with a lot of enthusiasm and that's what I had for the CIAC gallery.

Although we were stationed in a declining Mall with not the ideal demographics for art sales, I took up the challenge because I really wanted to learn how retail galleries work, and I had a genuine interest in helping other artists. Overall, I've accomplished my goal and the project neither exceeded or fell short of my expectations.

The positive is that I have advanced my art career somewhat through CIAC membership and the negative is all the work that was invested into it, and was not worth it financially speaking.

The other positive for me is that I have learned what artists go through and how they work with galleries. Artists are generally excited when they think you'll successfully sell their product, but they cool down considerably and rapidly when you don't sell their items.

One disappointment that I have experienced is that general consumer is really not that knowledgeable about art and the art doesn't have to be exceptional to sell. This explains why artists have to compete with all kinds of manufactured decor: the consumer doesn't care who/how was the item made. The entire concept of supporting local is a ridiculous utopistic idea supported by a few.

As somebody who worked really hard to advance the artistic community I have also learned that there is no teamwork possible with artists. A typical artist wants to leave their stuff and you pretty much never hear back unless you have a check. Artists not picking up and exchanging their artwork is a really big problem for a gallery owner. Some artists do make a faint attempt at promoting the venue where they are exhibiting but the thinking is this: you take the commission, you do the promoting!

In all reality no business can succeed if artists receives a lion share of each sale. The volume of sales would have to be so big in order for a gallery to survive, or the items must be exceptionally selected and priced very high. This is a primary reason why original artworks belong to the world of elite who have some fine art exposure and means to pay for it. This will continue to be the case. CIAC gallery was a naive idea that was just so self-indulgent for me because I love art, and the gallery was my baby.

The things are now much more clear: I understand better all the people and friends who came through the gallery buying nothing from me; I understand why art is generally not a good business; and lastly, I understand why art shows are the most prevalent and most successful method for artists to sell their works.

I would like to develop another store in the future, but it would have to be different.

Unfortunately, I fully understand all the retailers who once had original art but have fully transition to buying and reselling posters and fake paintings manufactured in Asian factories.

Transitioning to Etsy

2011-01-05T01:00:00.000-08:00

In the past couple of years, I've used blogs to list my art and insert paypal buttons for convenience of on-line purchases. Although majority of my sales does not happen on-line, I am a big believer that it is where we are headed in the future.

I have occasionally listed items on-line and have had some unexpected sales in bigger dollar amounts. This tells me that on-line market is there, and I would like to open up my products to a potentially larger audience that can be found on-line.

Therefore, I've opted to list my available art on Etsy for the ease of price management. This site is also very easy to create coupons should I decide to run any promotions.

I will be phasing out paypal buttons from the blog and direct all on-line purchasers to my Etsy store. This transition will happen over the next couple of months as I get a better grasp on taking quality photos and better on-line presentation.

If you read this blog, here is a coupon that can be redeemed in my Etsy store - 20% off anything through January 12: At checkout, simply use code BLOG20 (expired)

Creative silence

2010-12-23T11:12:00.001-08:00

I enjoy silence. As a matter of fact as much as I enjoy visual/auditory stimulation, I am also drawn to the emptiness and silence. In those quiet moments I can hear the fizzling noise from my 7up, or I can hear the faint sound of a passing car through the closed window. One habit I kicked for good three years ago is to stop watching television. Today I can't even recognize some of those "famous" people names that everyone talks about. The noise of television and unnecessary information is being replaced with more purposeful search for meditation and silence.

In those moments when the loudest sound is the fizzling 7up in my cup, the creative thoughts and ideas come like never before. We really can't think of anything new if we are always filling our mind with what already is, or with someone else's words and thoughts. To start anything creatively, a pause is welcomed and absolutely necessary.

I am constantly being asked why I created a certain peace of art.... how do I get ideas....

I think that everyone can create and have ideas if they stop thinking about them... the art for me is more a matter of happening than thinking. The best creations are not intellectual but rather intuitive. The intuition is something that at least in my case was not nurtured very much until my adulthood.

The creative energy works the best when allowed to reign in its own unexplored direction of happenings... Once in this zone, I start loosing time. If I loose time, I am certain that I'll create something of value. It is an interesting experience that only happens in certain occasions. Little children loose time while playing, and many creative people loose time when immersed into their activity. What I mean by loosing time is that you have no idea how much time has passed since you started something. The energy draws you to finish no matter what.

I remember once I was helping with my children's school project. Even after everyone fell asleep, I continued on the project until finished. Once I finished, I was very surprised to find out that it was 5:30 AM. It felt like a blink of an eye and I was not tired one bit. It was a three-dimensional art project that involved building a model house.

For me, making art is like that three-dimensional project. I make art when I receive a surge of creative energy and it mostly happens out of a creative silence. To have a general direction is good, but to over-analyze everything is bad. Creativity is born out of silence.

Holiday Greeting

2010-12-17T07:57:00.000-08:00

front

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Two year retrospective

2010-12-12T15:52:00.001-08:00

It has been almost 2 years that I have actively promoted my art products with pretty good results. In retrospective, I really appreciate all the people who helped me along the way. While reflecting on all the rejection and success I have experienced, I am drawing some conclusions. One of those conclusions is that I have art that sells well. It is modern, occasionally amusing and childish and sometimes pretty crazy. The market for my product is there, and I am slowly learning how to capture that market. In two years, my paintings ended up in some of the most beautiful modern office spaces in Des Moines: Wellmark building overlooking the multi-million dollar Pappajohn sculpture garden, and Davis Brown Tower downtown. I could not be happier about that!

Being an artist is a tall order since we make product, and most product available today is made in other countries where labor is inexpensive. The American companies send really great designers to China and other countries to design fantastic products that are manufactured abroad at low cost and then imported to USA. Some of these items are pretty artsy and well made, and that makes it harder for US artists to create something that can compete, and win the consumer. A lot of imports are still poor quality and that is where handmade and US made can win the game.

I talked to more experienced artists - ones that have been full time artists for 20+ years. There was a time in America when an artist was able to make a living with their art. Today, it is very hard, for many impossible.

We also have a bunch of artists and creative people who are trying to motivate our shoppers to buy local. In my experience supporting local model is not working, and it is a very poor business plan. Since the consumer is the one ultimately deciding, prices play a big role on what is being chosen and purchased in every area, including fine art. Those artists who kid themselves with keeping the prices of 2005, find that the work is harder to sell then ever. The ones that negotiate and reduce costs a bit, do better.

When I run into obstacles, I don't blame any one reason for my problems. The obstacles are only there to teach us to become better at whatever we are doing. Therefore I try to always think how can I create better art, be more engaging and original, how can I offer better, safer value to the art consumers.

It is entirely possible that we overspend our time and resources on marketing to the wrong audience. While operating an art gallery in a declining mall, I have learned that who you market to is even more important than how much energy you spend in doing so. It takes some time to find that target audience, and I think that art audience will grow on-line.

My buyers range from a teenager to a retiree; it is a very broad range. Usually people who choose my art are pretty sophisticated and have quite a bit of cultural exposure. My first collector is a retired man from New York, where he spent most of his adult life. He gave me a lot of confidence to continue without changing what I think my art should be about. These individuals that supported me in the past two years are invaluable for my growth and future success. These art buyers have laid a foundation where I'll build my artistic brand for many years, or as long as the creativity muse sits on my shoulders and whispers in my ear.

Types of galleries - how is fine art financed

2010-11-12T07:50:00.000-08:00

I always loved the world of human expression and that explains why am I an artist today. Everything from live performances, concerts to stand-up comedy, architecture, design, literary and fine art, I enjoyed all the genres to a different degree during my life.

One very interesting thing that I didn't know is how fine art events are financed. It turns out art shows are mainly financed from the fees artists pay to 1. have their art looked at to be accepted or rejected from a particular event, and 2. booth fees that can cost hundreds, sometimes thousands of dollars to merely show your art to the world. Even though there are costs involved, art shows can be profitable to artists if they are accepted to right kind of shows. Not all art shows are created equal, and prudent research by the artist is necessary before paying fees to have their art merely looked at. In my opinion this is unfair to charge people to look at their art, but that's how the art world works. Organizing these art events takes a lot of skill, so artists benefit from all the marketing that goes on resulting in more focused audience.

Since bringing art to the market is expensive for an artist, many local businesses like to support arts and provide free gallery space in their restaurants and coffee bars. Not only they get free changing decor, but they truly are helpful to artists who are starting out. Even though it is unlikely to sell a lot of art from a coffee shop wall, you need to exhibit any time you get a chance because you never know where you will find that next art collector that wants your art!

I always had a hard time understanding how fine art galleries work and here is what I concluded. Art gallery is basically a store that sells art. Since art is an intangible product of sorts, the more established the gallery - the higher are the prices it can achieve for the art. More contacts on mailing lists, and more collectors visiting ultimately means higher prices. Higher prices often means better art, and that is a natural result of being an art business and carefully selecting art for your gallery. The audience is often more affluent and those people don't really care that there is cheaper, equally great art somewhere else. They just buy what they like. This business is not for a faint of heart and it takes a lot of years and focused effort to be successful.

A traditional art gallery focuses on select artists: the ones that have some proven track record of sales, the ones that have good personalities to work with, and then they market this specific artist to their contacts. Participating in a traditional gallery can catapult the artist prices and assign a lot more worth than what the artist could ordinarily sell his/her work. The gallery typically retains 50% of sales, in some areas even more. The artists in a traditional gallery system have exclusive contracts which usually spell out what is the geographic region the gallery covers, and they can't sell the works outside of this gallery that will be promoting the works.

If you are an artist outside of this traditional system don't fret. If your art is good, you'll find plenty of buyers. Galleries are very helpful to an artist career, but there are other options. Artists can sell their art on consignment and this is basically placing artwork in different retail stores that carry art: furniture stores, design centers etc.. The benefit of this system is that it doesn't limit you geographically but you still need to be courteous of the geographic boundary. If you have art in one art gallery in a geographic neighborhood, that should be the only gallery you are working with in that specific neighborhood. Otherwise, the owners get antsy and think you are difficult to work with if you give your product to the guy down the street to sell it for you. These relationships are intricate and important. If you mess up, as I frequently have in the past, you ruin your chances with that business owner.

The cooperative type of gallery is the one I was trying to run for the last year. The reasons why these types of galleries don't work are many. In a cooperative gallery setting, the ownership belongs to multiple individuals, frequently other artists. Typically participating artists pay fees to exhibit the work. In New York for example, participating artists pay per linear inch of the wall space, and there are usually annual fees involved. The cooperative type of a gallery is very difficult from a business perspective because everybody has an opinion about it, very few people really want engaged into these types of organizations, and there is very little investment.

Finally there are vanity galleries. This is the newest kind on the market and it is basically a normally looking gallery that nobody in their wildest dreams would suspect is any different from a traditional gallery. Basically a vanity gallery is just so you can say you exhibited in a specific city. These galleries charge artists to show art tremendous fees upwards of thousands of dollars. They usually do a press release, have an opening for you, and give you couple of walls to exhibit. You may look really good to those who know nothing about art, but it can affect your reputation with those who know what those galleries do. Vanity galleries basically don't sell art successfully and their major source of income consists of fees charged to gullible artists.

Alternative/ underground galleries are less structured places that carry more rebelious type of art. These galleries are usually run by artists who want to do whatever interests them artistically, even if that is not very mainstream. If you are an artist that belongs to one of these places you will quickly connect with them. It can be argued that art is meant to provoke and challenge the status quo, so these galleries are very important to the revolution of art and everything else. However, I wouldn't base my business on this type of art as it still has very limited, frequently younger and less financially capable audience.

I think that going forward, the Internet is leveling the playing field for artists. If you can create a good online presentation with excellent images, easy shopping process, and have some investment in promoting yourself, you could become successful in the on-line world. You can either sign up with some established on-line gallery or create your own. The benefit of going with one of the many on-line galleries is that they are already doing the promotion for you, but you'll pay them percent in commission if anything sells on their web site. In turn, having your own site takes a lot more investment and effort, but in the long run you keep more from each sale. I don't think too highly of sites like eBay and Etsy as these are mega-sites where nobody will find your art unless you extend some effort to market it. And these sites charge you listing fees. That makes no sense to me. Regardless, some artists have success with these sites that don't do any promotion for you but charge both listing fees and retain the profits if something sells.

I believe that people need art and there is a huge unmet need in the market. Many people I know have big sprawling houses with really ridiculous art gathered from chain stores. It is simply gross to have a house like that, and art that is not even real. With some education and cultural growth people will realize and want to own more originals. This will open a new era when everyone will own something original. My motto: have less, have better, live better. You don't need to have a lot of art to make your residence or business a standout.

The matter of experience - message to artists

2010-11-09T20:29:00.000-08:00

I run a cooperative style gallery that features local artists for a little over a year. During this time, we experienced ups and downs, successes and disappointments. I consider this gallery to be a training ground for the one I want to accomplish in the future. If somebody gave me good start-up capital to do this the way I though it needs to happen, I would miserably fail. Learning how art galleries work is complex and it takes time, lots of time. Sometimes more time than I have.

During my tenure I have dealt with everything from a hobbyist artist to a professional with 30 years of experience under their belt. All these artists allowed me to learn from them and pick up bits and pieces of what it takes to make it in art. Also, they helped me define my own success in this field.

Since art is not something people necessarily need (like a toothpaste or food), it is difficult to sell. Art is a discretionary purchase that many people are not accustomed to. Especially here in Midwest, it is viewed as frivolous and there isn't much culture of art consumption. Therefore we are really catering to a very small percent of population, the sophisticated crowd. These people are difficult to reach. Even if you can paint a Mona Lisa per day, if you don't have access to a buyer it won't matter how good is your art.

Instead of catering only to those rich folks who don't ask how much is something they truly like, most artists produce art that is accessible and in low price ranges. Many nice pieces of art are available for less than $100 in today's economy. The people who buy inexpensive art are very price sensitive, and they show difference in purchasing behavior for as little as five dollars. For this group, which is the greater majority, the trick is to price art to the market. This is the main point where artists fail. Most artists tend to overprice their work and therefore don't sell anything.

If you receive consistent compliments about your art, organize art openings and shows, if your art is made well, there should be no reason that you can't sell it. The major reason we don't is because it is too expensive to the people who have all kinds of bills and worries.

There is something very valuable I have learned from art veterans. They have made tons and tons of art that nobody wanted to buy. As time went along, those veterans have specialized to make a line of artwork that is proven to sell at a given low price point. This lower priced line artists call their "bread and butter". Anything that you can sell a lot of is beneficial. The other group of items is upscale, expensive kind and artists don't sell a lot of these more expensive items but occasionally they do. The good combination of products seems to be the most successful.

The best advice I would give to any artist starting out is to 1. make a lot of art because not all art will sell, 2. learn what is their artistic niche and 3. price reasonably. The most common mistake is pricing your art as much as you see in some established art gallery. Those art galleries have access to buyers that you don't. Artists who enter the gallery system receive a glorified status, and their art may not be any better than yours.

If I look over my portfolio, almost every painting had a buyer at some point but many buyers have passed them because of the price. And that is OK. We don't have to make our art affordable to everybody. There are pieces that I am emotionally attached to, and to me they are worth more. Every artist knows when a piece turns out exceptionally well, and those pieces will be your premium product.

I hope this helps a bit, and don't hesitate to ask questions (if you have any). Good night!

Desk Calendar 2011

2010-10-30T13:21:00.000-07:00

I have created this exceptionally fun calendar with a different mini-painting featured each month. The calendar sits on the desk, and a new card flips over for each month. Made on high quality glossy paper.

Skills required to be an artist

2010-10-19T08:55:00.000-07:00

Our society doesn't value all professions fairly and equally. We can blame it on economic laws or try to justify the reasons, but the reality is that not every career pays equally for your skills or efforts. Let's examine the case of a fine artist.

First of all, a fine artist (e.g. painter) must be a person capable of creating something that is appealing or intriguing enough that somebody wants to own. For this, some people have a lot of talent and many pursue art education. Creating works of art that other people want to own is not an easy task. The art creation requires the following:

Knowledge of a particular medium, and learning how to effectively manipulate it;
Experimenting with different techniques until finding your niche;
Strong conceptual and technical skills to achieve intended results; Etc..

However, once this one-of-a-kind product is created, the fine artist goes to market the work in order to find the buyer for it. Here is where all the other skills come into play. While I was just painting and didn't market my art, I had far less skills.

What are some of the new skills I have developed since I started marketing and selling art?

Learned how to take good photographs of my art, how to crop the image and present it in high quality on-line;
Learned how to write on-line content, including blogging and social media;
Developed my own web site, learned how to insert paypal buttons;
Learned how to use widgets and set up syndicated content;
Learned how to launch advertising campaigns and how important it is to market your work daily;
Discovered how expensive it is to bring your art to the market, especially to apply and participate in art shows;
PR skills via participation in media interviews to include newspaper and television;
Held educational classes and participated in public speaking presenting the work;
Participated in art grants jury that effectively convinced me that grant writing should be a major in college;
Learned how to write effective proposals and win commissions;
Learned how to negotiate and price products;
Learned how to merchandise and display products in an appealing fashion;
Learned how to design and launch marketing campaigns;
Learned to deal with daily rejection but to keep going;
Learned how to do my own sales tax and keep track of expenses;
Learned how to package and ship artwork;
Learned that outdoor art shows are not that much fun;
Learned to be harassed by requests for donations;
Learned to network, collaborate and support other artists;
Learned to live with very little money.

This is, in a nutshell what it takes to be an artist. Did I forget something?

Farm

2010-10-18T15:40:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there was a little farm. If you never visited Iowa, this is how it approximately looks like :) While I don't think Iowa is all that interesting, many people here love these minimalist landscapes. Perhaps if I was a smarter artist, I'd dedicate myself to landscapes instead of my completely crazy abstract body of work. At least I know that I am pretty versatile, but my artistic vision is to create things that are beautiful and interesting.

Should you negotiate art prices?

2010-10-14T04:50:00.001-07:00

Art negotiations, are they appropriate? Well, yes, anything can be negotiated down - even art.

However, there is a proper way to do this, and here is how.

Today, art is sold in many different ways: direct from artist, art shows, artist web page, physical galleries, on-line galleries, e-bay, etsy, auctions etc. To negotiate a piece is fine, although it can feel uncomfortable for someone to ask, artists are already used to people haggling prices.

Keep in mind that most artists have some kind of method of pricing their art, and what they price it is a clear reflection of time, materials and investment that they dedicated to the piece. Just because you think artist should get a certain price for something, it doesn't mean the artist will sell it at the price that you think is fair. Usually, artists accumulate a lot of work, and once time has passed and they have a piece for too long, they may be willing to negotiate.

Let's say the painting is priced at $800. And, let's say you can only pay $650. Here are some scenarios that I have experienced and what works the best:

* You buy art outright without negotiation. You swallow the $150 you thought the item is overpriced, but didn't want to offend the artist. This is when you are entering Artist's Hall of Fame Collector status, and that is great. Thank you!

* You tell the artist that the price is more than you can afford at this time. The artist can't do anything about that. Complaining that you can't afford something will not reduce your price. In all reality if you can't afford the tip, you shouldn't go to the restaurant. Same with art: save your money until you can afford it. This negotiation ended badly and you didn't receive any reduction in price.

* You tell the artist that you love their work and would like to eventually own something of theirs. The artist will be thrilled to hear that, and may even ask you what do you like most. You may want to say that you love a specific piece and that you are planning to purchase it. In this situation most artists will offer you a little discount on the spot to help you afford it. Artists motivation, believe it or not is not necessarily to make money. We want to make enough money to keep going. But, primary motivation is to create beauty that is shared with other people. When you love something, you deserve to have it.

* You decide to enter straight negotiations. Since you want to pay $150 less for the piece in question, you start bidding with the artist. So, for a piece that is $800 you ask if the artist would take $500? Well, now that is called low balling. Remember, the artist knows best how much the piece is worth. You will most likely be turned down here because you not only treat art like it is a used car, but you are offending this artist by not respecting their product and their prices. Remember the last article where we talked about artist income.

* You like the piece, look at the tag and you ask the artist what would be a discount on the piece if you purchased it today. Now, this is possibly the best way to negotiate art because now the artist is motivated to move the piece and will offer you a discount. If what they offer is not enough you walk away from the piece. That is a classy way to do it. At this point, don't ask for an even deeper discount. Just walk away. If you received a satisfactory discount, go through with your purchase. Just remember, the piece may not be there the next time.

So, there you have it. Art negotiations in a nutshell. Hope it helps you acquire your valuable art collection. Happy art shopping!

Educating Public - Artist's Income

2010-10-13T09:27:00.000-07:00

Everyone has heard of the phrase "starving artist", yes? Well, I am glad we are on the same page. Is the phrase true or false? Make a guess! I will try to shed some light on what is it like to be an artist, and why is it hard to make money with art.

Even long before I became an artist outside of my basement room, I secretly admired other artists and loved to go to art shows. These events uplifted my soul, I loved looking at the art and occasionally buying a little something to add to my collection. Most art events are free, an extra reason to patronize arts and wanting to become successful at it.

It is true that we have to be careful what we wish for, since my wish definitely came true. I became quite successful, but not in the material sense. The success in arts is defined by being able to produce art that eventually sells. This is not such an easy task and here is why.

Most people hold a belief that they can't afford original art. Most people don't know how much the art is worth. Also, most people have no problem blowing their money on decor from chain stores, that in my personal opinion is pretty uninspiring and some of it is plain nasty. There is cheap art to be had that comes from Chinese factories, and American public is used to those, well, Chinese prices. So, how can you convince someone to buy your American-made piece instead?

Well, the truth of the matter is you can't convince anybody to buy your art. They have to absolutely love it, fall in love head over heels in order to make that purchase. And to impress others with your art is no small task. There is lots of it, it is everywhere, and you can't produce it as cheaply as people want. I have experimented with prices, and whatever I price the artwork, it is always too much. On the other hand, when somebody falls in love with a piece, they will find money to pay for it. Price definitely doesn't sell good art.

Well, let me put it this way. Let's assume that I create a painting every 3 days. For illustration purposes, let's make an assumptions that paintings sell on average for $500 a piece. After expenses to make and market your art, you perhaps earn $250-$300 for each painting, many times less. Do the math: If you create 100 pieces of work and are able to sell all 100 pieces directly, without gallery commission, you will be making between 25-30 thousand per year before tax. Now imagine creating 100 pieces of art and trying to find the buyer for it. Eventually, if you can't sell your art, you have to stop creating, because you have no money to buy all the expensive art supplies you need. The crucial people in any artist's career are those who are willing to take a bet on the artist, and make purchases. Those first supporters can make or brake an artist's career.

The naked truth is that yes, the above phrase "starving artist" is unfortunately true. Most artists have to supplement their art earnings with other jobs. Many artists won't admit that they are really not making it with their art. There are so few who can make it in art, and everybody is trying to figure out what those few did right. Like anything else, the hard work will take you far, so sticking to your studio hours and working diligently gets results.

So, next time you like something at the art fair, or see something created by a local artist, go for it. Don't haggle prices, it makes you look low class. When you buy, you're not making the artist rich, only yourself.

Village of Ponderosa Art Show

2010-10-11T05:17:00.000-07:00

Signing up for an October outdoor show in Iowa was risky. However, as unpredictable Iowa weather can be, we had 80 degree weather, and the ArtFest was enjoyable. I have met many great artist and these events, although being very hard work, can create some wonderful friendships.

I brought in a mixture of small and big art and a mix of two year worth creations.

The ProPanels worked really well and provided a wonderful backdrop for my magical booth.

The art is like fireworks: most people want to see it, but they don't really want to pay for it.

As an artist tending my booth I have heard all kinds of stories. One engineer explained to me why he decided to not become an artist although he had interest in music. Good for him! Another person asked me if I painted all those by myself, which was obvious. Many people made great comments, some of them made purchases that helped me justify all the effort.

Every new sale is a new thrill because it opens up a new opportunity to create something else in its place. I have worked long and hard to create all the artwork and have come to understand some things about art, artists and art consumption during this event. I realized that I am already wealthy since my focus in life is creating fun and beauty. Being successful in art means that I can succeed at anything.

The art buyers are those individuals who have a wealth mindset. They don't dwell on pettiness of trying to figure out if they are getting their money worth. No product made in America can compete with cheapness of imports. Fine Art belongs into that category and artists unfortunately can't charge Walmart prices. Therefore, people who buy original art are simply those who don't believe into scarcity, who don't have a "I can't afford that!" symptom that is so pervasive in this society.

Artists on the other hand finance the art shows by paying booth fees, and it is really tough if they don't sell enough to at least cover the expenses of the show. These events can be a mix of excitement and disappointment. Everybody puts their heart and soul into creating the work and hauling the merchandise to entertain the masses. Artists are really unpaid entertainers and I can't help but think that people should pay a nominal fee to see the art. Since they are not so eager to buy, $5 per person entry fee would at least help defray some of the cost. Everyone should have fun on these events, and that includes artists and exhibitors, don't you agree?

Color pigments

2010-07-31T15:08:00.001-07:00

As an artist, I love experimenting with specialty paint and intense pigments. Everybody knows that original art carries a truer, deeper, more luminescent pigment than any print or reproduction ever produced. The artist paint is expensive, made by having some kind of a medium immersed with variety of pigments. In the past artists have mixed their pigments that many times come in a powdery form and have risked their health and well-being. Today, we are lucky to have a wide range of availability of premixed paint.

Have you ever desired a specific color art and was wondering why is it so hard to find? For one, most artists having financial difficulties tend to compromise when buying their paint colors. Burgundy is for example 2-3 times cheaper than Maroon pigment. On the list of expensive ones are Teal, Deep Red, some interference and metal pigments like gold. Generally speaking the more toned down the color looks, the less expensive the paint. Whites and grays tend to be inexpensive as well as black. The more you move into cadmium based spectrum (intense yellow, orange, red), the more expensive the paint. The reason: different pigments are being used in producing different color paints. The higher the pigment price, the costlier the paint.

Therefore, when artist prices their work, they not only price in the work and canvas, but also what kinds of paints were used in the project. No two pigments are the same, and some paint costs a lot more than other. I've bought jars of paint that cost couple hundred dollars. Since I am very generous in my applications, the paint goes quickly, very quickly.

Did you know this? Different paint colors have vastly different price points. Find me a true teal piece of art, or a rich red piece, and I'll tell you that it must be expensive.

My old drawing

2010-05-10T19:47:00.000-07:00

I found my old drawing/painting of Lady Lara Croft. This was the time when we played this video game a lot - a time when I was really young. Here my drawing will be saved on the web, well, as long as this blog exists... I have no idea where this work ended up...

One piece of classic art "The Rivals"

2010-04-09T22:29:00.000-07:00

If there was one painting that I keep thinking about; well, there probably are plenty; yet, this particular one is beautifully interesting. I think what makes it so unique is intense red color, considering that during the Munkacsy's era, there were no strong synthetic paint colors.

Perhaps they just did a great job framing this one as gold and red are way classic combination. There is simply something unusual about this painting; perhaps the tropical palm was not common in households, or the fact that there is a painting within a painting, or, perhaps figuring out who the rivals are.

Me

2010-02-21T20:43:00.001-08:00

Self portrait!

Home Paint - A personal view

2010-02-21T07:57:00.001-08:00

As a fine art painter, I've been through experimenting with many brands of artist paints and there are huge differences between brands. Ultimately I've learned to only purchase my favorite brand, American-made GOLDEN paint, which comes with the high price tag as well.

As a painter I am happy with my choice after much experimentation with acrylics. There are other good brands but the one I like the most is Golden! It has brilliant pigment, many choices, applies beautifully and smells pleasant.

When it comes to home paint, the same principles apply. Over the years I've painted with many different types of home paint and after many painted walls in my two homes I found my favorite - Ralph Lauren home paint! Boy, was I excited when I found out how beautiful this paint works on my walls. It started with a paint chip from Home Depot and I decided to buy couple of gallons to paint a room. Since then I never looked back and only wanted to use RL paint.

In the past I have used other Home Depot brands. The one that is pushed on the consumer the most is Behr paint, that in my many experiences can be OK paint but nowhere close to the properties and behavior of RL. Comparatively speaking Behr cost more than RL once I account for things like quality of pigments, uniformity of coverage, dripping etc. I refuse to use Behr any longer. My standard has increased and my heart set on RL!

Last night I made a trip to Home Depot to choose some white shades in my favorite brand and was disappointed to find out that Home Depot is no longer carrying Ralph Lauren. Instead, RL is being replaced by Martha Stuart! Martha Stuart was selling her stuff at Kmart for years and now is going after one of the biggest home improvement chains. I have nothing to say about her paint, but I honestly doubt that I am willing to try it, especially because she pushed out my favorite.

I also found out that Behr is now a lot more costly because it is renamed to be ultra premium, and apparently now contains primer mixed inside the paint so that it covers better. Compared to approximately $22 per gallon that it used to be, Behr is now priced at around $32. Nice price increase! Home Depot also has some green paint that costs around $37 per gallon. I like the idea of this no VOC paint but again, I am not sure I want to try at my own expense.

So, now I am grieving the loss of RL availability and waiting for their customer service to call me back and tell me where can I now get it!

The point that I want to get across is that our consumerist society buys products without much scrutiny to their quality. Whomever has the biggest marketing budget and the glossiest label wins! It is not about what is inside the can, but what is being pushed at people.

If I fail at finding RL dealer locally, I'll explore Sherwin Williams, Benjamin Moore and other reputable home paint lines. I simply refuse to be forced into using Behr or trying Martha because my favorite is no longer there!

Truth about original art

2010-01-07T17:32:00.000-08:00

I am seeing time and time again, artwork with texture that looks as someone made it by hand. It looks convincingly original. Well, only to those who know nothing about art. And people who don't know much about art buy on price. Therefore this seemingly original, however mass-produced art is sold to those who buy art on price and not on originality, uniqueness, technique and quality. There are some of these reproductions that are pretty nice, and should I own a motel and have 150 rooms, I would likely pick those fakes. They are inexpensive, look good, and my guests would surely be happy to see some artwork on the walls.

But, what if I tell you that you owe to yourself to own something that is truly original? Only one piece in the world and nobody else has one like you: not in your city, not in Montreal, not in the whole wide world. The artist has spent the time to create something for you, it is somebody's work, something made with the essence of love, expensive artist paint and real canvas. Maybe this matters to you. You don't want your life to be like a hotel room for sure!

Most places that sell framing have some fake art for sale. I've also seen fake art at the furniture shops, decor places, and of course "starving artist sales" across the country. These paintings are something that is mass produced and resold by different retailers. Even though they have texture to make them look more convincing, here are some tips to recognize reproduction art:

*Is the art made on canvas? Ha! You would think it is but in most cases reproduction art is made on a canvas look-alike. Reproductions are printed on plastic-like canvas that is usually very thin. The real canvas is made of heavy cotton or linen fabric. So when you turn the canvas and don't see a very heavy cotton or linen fabric but a thin plastic-like fabric, you know that this is fake art.

*Are the edges neat? One characteristic of reproduction paintings is that they are first printed in neat rectangles and squares, and then stretched over some kind of a frame. When you turn the frame and see a neat edge that doesn't correspond to the corners of the frame, it is a sure sign the painting is not original! There are probably thousands just like that floating around the world.

*Back of the canvas inspection: Turn around and see if there are similar colors on the back of your painting. Many times when mass-produced art is made, they are stacked up and show a tale-tale signs of being on top of each other.

*Who is the artist? If the retailer can't tell you who is the artist (even when signed), if they can't provide artist's whereabouts and bio, this art is in most cases made somewhere in Asia. If you don't know who is artist, my advice is don't buy the art. Unless, of course you have just purchased a motel with 150 rooms and just need something on the wall.

A new radio show on Des Moines Local Live

2010-01-06T19:58:00.000-08:00

I'll be hosting a new Internet Radio Show

Art Experience, Sundays 7-8 P.M.

About Me

2009-11-22T17:36:00.001-08:00

Click on image to enlarge

Redesign - making it better

2009-11-19T19:53:00.000-08:00

This is a brand new blog with the same domain name. In the past I had the blog in this exact spot, but one day have decided that I can redesign it entirely, and here is where I start. Not only I am resorting to a different outlay and design, but the content will start all over again, from scratch. Instead on focusing on me and what matters to me, I'll try to be more generous in selecting the content for the blog so that people actually benefit from reading it. I hope you'll enjoy it. Please comment freely, and connect, I'd love to get to know you.