ReCOLLections Art Blog: January 2010

Perspective is quite a complex subject so Ill try to not confuse you with too much information.

It’s important to get perspective right when paintings or drawing as an.....click on image for more

Uncover the iconic New Zealand paintings that have left a lasting impact. From humour to heritage, explore the diverse artistic landscape of my country

There are two common designs for easels, tripod and H-frame but it doesnt end there. Which one will suit you best and why?

When I get artist’s block, I put my brushes down and do something entirely different for a while. Taking the focus off my art takes away the stress even with........

Think candyfloss and cupcakes, Barbie, Flamingos' and well lets not get carried away here. Pink can be a serious colour too. Read on to learn more about this fascinating colour.

Are you confused as to what type of paint you should be working with? Read my blog on artist paints and see if I can answer some of those burning questions........

Some of the most famous paintings in the world have been made by the greatest painters of all times. I acknowledge their mastery and skill and admire all these works, from the Mona Lisa to the melting clocks of Dali...

I don’t buy into the secret smile stuff, though, in fact, I can't even see what the fuss is about, so why you ask, do I like the Mona Lisa so much

Along with many other artists I know, I get emails by the dozen from both vanity galleries and book publishers wanting to exhibit or publish my work. Most of these vanity galleries and publishers.....click on image for more

Some artists have a clear idea of what price they want for their work, some are realistic, some are insanely greedy and the rest end up under-pricing their artwork

I found this article http://www.stuff.co.nz/s/QPRe on the net yesterday and have to admit I was highly surprised that it’s still going on, all this ripping off of innocent people, and in my own city

Ask any artist what they consider is Teal and you will get different answers, just like when you ask them about what they think constitutes beige.

Trying to find that perfect topic, size or colour fro hey your art to sell is like hunting for a needle in a haystack but this may help a little

This is Boozehag, from its bar origins to a beloved artistic icon. Uncover the challenges, misconceptions, and continued demand for this whimsical character

When you send work around the country or overseas, it pays to wrap it well as no matter how careful you may be with your art, not all couriers have the same respect or care for it......click on image for more

I often teach a night school class for students who may wish to learn more about the use of paint mediums. So here are a few tips on mediums...

The type of canvas you use will depend on the type of paint you use.....cotton duck is used for acrylic painting, while linen and cotton duck is used for oil. ......

In 2009 a pile of Rubbish won the National Contemporary Art Awards here in Hamilton New Zealand. It created a furore like no other. We are used to the outrage and shock from the public each year over the winning pieces and that’s exactly what the people who run it want…controversy and people talking about it. Well this time I somehow got embroiled in it....click on image for more

Yes I know that figures and money matters are boring for us artists but when you're a working artist you need to look at keeping accurate records and making sure you are taking care of your tax obligations. Here are some of my tips and advice for organising your records......

Today’s artwork is smooth and shiny. I used the Golden Clear Tar Gel for this effect, its simple to use; you pour it on where you want it to be and wait for it to set. The effect is like that of a bubble, with a raised glassy surface.However Im not going to talk so much about the .....

A basic understanding of colour theory and the colour wheel is like having a secret toolkit for every artist, unlocking endless possibilities in your work.

Red is my favourite colour, both in my life generally as well as in my art. It’s a colour that can have two distinctly different meanings

Some say that it isn’t a realistic career choice, yet the myth of the “starving artist” stereotype is still very much alive and kicking

When I teach an art class or mentor any other artists, I always advocate that they read this book. I usually also ask my art students to do the artists pages at the beginning of class if we have enough.....

NZ artist Collette shares brush selection & care tips for your art. Expert insights for all artists

Yellow is not merely a standalone hue; it's a versatile collaborator in the world of colour alchemy. Lets look at what yellow is as a colour for painting

Research is important to me as I like to know the history behind things, why they are what they are and their significance to the project I might be working on.......

An artwork must possess an essential characteristic of being 'original,' meaning that it originates from the artist and is not derived from another individual's work

Mistress of Dots, Yayoi Kusama has an exhibition “Mirrored Years’ on at The City Art Gallery in Wellington, so with this project in mind, I set off on the overlander train both to enjoy the scenic tour on the way and to see the exhibition.

Things I think you should know about dealing with art galleries as an artist and a gallery worker.......

The day has come where I have to dig deep and become disciplined with my writing and painting for the next 365 days.