An art journal is not a sketchbook, a diary, or a finished artwork though it can borrow a little from all three. At its simplest, an art journal is a private space where you explore ideas visually without pressure. It’s where paintings begin long before they ever reach a canvas.
For painters, an art journal is less about making “good” work and more about making honest work.
When you’re standing in front of a blank canvas, one of the first questions you’ll face is what paint should I use? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all but understanding the properties of the main paint types makes choosing easier whether you’re just starting or have years in the studio.
When it comes to turning your artwork or photos into finished wall pieces, canvas prints and acrylic prints are two of the most popular options today but they deliver very different looks and experiences. Understanding their strengths can help you choose the best way to present and reproduce your work. Below, let’s break down what makes each option unique and why one might suit your needs better than the other.
Whether you’re a beginner experimenting with acrylics or a pro juggling gallery work, rising art supply costs can feel like a real creative barrier. Many contemporary artists have seen and felt that pinch but with a bit of planning and creativity, you can keep painting even when the budget tightens. Here’s how.
If you’re holding a raw canvas in your hands and wondering whether you can just dive in and paint with acrylics—yes, technically you can. But skipping the primer is a gamble. You might get away with it for quick studies or casual experiments, but if you want your work to last, look good, and behave predictably, priming is almost always worth it.
Whether you’re just starting out or have framed a few gallery pieces, certain pitfalls keep tripping up painters again and again. Here are those common art mistakes and how fixing them can really improve your work.
If you’re a painter whether beginner, hobbyist, lecturer or pro, and you’ve mostly worked on canvas, considering a structured support like a wood panel for mixed media might open up fresh possibilities. Here’s a guide on combining mixed media with wood panels.
When people talk about “art styles,” sometimes it feels like they’re speaking another language. In practice, though, many works fall broadly into a few main categories or styles that help us see how artists think, not just what they paint. Here are four major art styles and how they show up in your work or studies.
If you love painting big, making walls come alive, and seeing work out in the public, then this is for you. Consistency in mural work isn’t a mystery. It’s a combination of smart prep, visible presence, professional habits, and relationships. Here’s how you, whether amateur or pro, can build a steady flow of mural jobs.
If you make mixed media art (paints, collage, wood, found objects, etc.), you’ve probably worried: “Will my piece arrive intact?” Shipping mixed media works brings special risks. Different materials behave differently. Joints can be fragile. Textures or protruding bits can get crushed or scratched. But you can ship safely, with care.