May 13, 2024

5 Practical Tips to Push Your Art Career Forward

Are you an aspiring artist eager to turn your passion into a successful career? Starting your journey of establishing yourself in the art world can be thrilling yet scary most of the time. Here are five practical tips to help you navigate the path towards a flourishing art career.

1. Practice makes progress. Like any skill, painting requires consistent practice to master. Set aside a dedicated time each day to hone your craft. Whether it’s sketching, painting, or experimenting with new techniques, make practice a non-negotiable part of your routine. Don’t be afraid to push yourself out of your comfort zone and explore different mediums and styles. Remember, the more you practice, the more your skills will improve, and the closer you’ll get to achieving your artistic vision.

2. Build your online presence. Having a strong online presence is essential for artists looking to gain exposure and connect with potential buyers and collaborators. Create a professional website or online portfolio showcasing your best work. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to share your art, engage with your audience, and network with other artists and industry professionals.

According to the article, The Impact of Social Media on the Commercialization and Market Value of Visual Art:

“Social media has shifted the dynamics of buying, selling and communication away from gallery managers to direct contact between artists and their fans, further promoting the commercialization of artworks.”

Don’t underestimate the power of social media in building your brand and expanding your reach globally.

Read 8 Effective Ways to Promote Your Paintings on Social Media for more tips.

3. Network, network, network. Building relationships within the art community is crucial for advancing your career. Attend art exhibitions, gallery openings, and networking events to meet fellow artists, collectors, gallery owners, and art enthusiasts. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations and introduce yourself.

Building a strong network can open doors to opportunities such as exhibitions, collaborations, and representation by galleries or agents. Remember, networking isn’t just about what others can do for you but also about how you can contribute to the community and support your fellow artists.

4. Invest in self-promotion and marketing. As an artist, you are not only a creator but also a marketer of your own work. Invest time and effort into promoting yourself and your art. Create compelling artist statements, bios, and press releases that effectively communicate your artistic vision and unique selling points.

Explore various marketing channels such as email newsletters, art fairs, and print advertisements to reach potential buyers and collectors. Also consider partnering with local businesses or galleries to host exhibitions or pop-up shows showcasing your work. Remember, effective self-promotion is about authentically sharing your passion and connecting with your audience.

5. Stay persistent and embrace rejection. Building a successful art career takes time, patience, and resilience. Rejection is an inevitable part of the journey, but it’s important not to let it discourage you. Use rejection as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Seek feedback from mentors, peers, and industry professionals to identify areas for improvement. Stay persistent in pursuing your goals and believe in the value of your work. Remember, every successful artist has faced setbacks along the way. It’s how you respond to challenges that ultimately determines your success.

Pursuing a career in art requires a combination of talent, hard work, and strategic planning. Use these tips to push your art career forward. Go ahead, unleash your creativity, and dare to dream big!

May 10, 2024

A Guide to Creating a Series as a Professional Artist

Embarking on the journey of becoming a professional artist involves more than just mastering your craft—it requires thoughtful curation and strategic planning to develop a cohesive body of work that resonates with viewers and establishes your artistic voice. One way to showcase your talent and vision is through the creation of a series—a collection of artworks that share a common theme, concept, or visual style.

In this blog, we’ll explore the process of creating a series as a professional artist, offering practical tips and insights to help you craft a compelling narrative through your art.

1. Define Your Concept.

The foundation of any successful series lies in a clear and compelling concept. Begin by brainstorming ideas and exploring themes that resonate with you on a personal or emotional level. Consider what message or story you want to convey through your series and how you can express it visually. Whether it’s exploring a specific subject matter, delving into a particular emotion, or investigating a conceptual idea, your concept should serve as the guiding force behind your series.

2. Establish Visual Cohesion.

Visual cohesion is essential for creating a series that feels unified and tells a story. Choose elements such as color palettes, composition styles, and artistic techniques that tie your artworks together visually. Consistency in these visual aspects helps create a sense of harmony and continuity throughout your series.

3. Plan Your Series Structure.

Consider the structure and scope of your series, including the number of canvas paintings you plan to create and the order in which they will be presented. Think about how each piece contributes to the narrative of the series and how they can be arranged to create a cohesive flow of ideas. Whether you’re creating a small series of interconnected pieces or a larger, more expansive collection, having a clear plan in place can help guide your creative process and ensure coherence in your final presentation.

4. Embrace Iteration and Exploration.

Creating a series is an iterative process that often involves experimentation, refinement, and revision. Allow yourself the freedom to explore different ideas, techniques, and approaches as you develop your series. Don’t be afraid to push boundaries, take risks, and challenge yourself creatively.

5. AskFeedback and Critique.

A fresh set of eyes is a valuable part when creating a series. Asking feedback from peers, mentors, or trusted colleagues can provide valuable insights and perspectives on your work. Share your progress regularly and invite constructive criticism to help identify areas for improvement and refinement. Consider joining artist critique groups, participating in portfolio reviews, or seeking mentorship from established artists to gain valuable feedback and guidance throughout the development of your series.

6. Refine and Polish.

As you near completion of your series, take the time to review each canvas painting with a critical eye and fine-tune any details or elements that may detract from the overall cohesion and impact of your series. Pay attention to composition, color balance, and narrative coherence, ensuring that each piece contributes meaningfully to the series.

7. Document and Present Your Series.

Once your series is complete, take the time to document each artwork professionally through high-quality photography or digital scanning. Consider creating a dedicated portfolio or online gallery to showcase your series, accompanied by an artist’s statement that provides insight into the conceptual framework and vision behind your work. Explore opportunities to exhibit your series in galleries, art fairs, or online platforms to share your talent and connect with audiences who resonate with your artistic vision.

8. Reflect and Iterate.

After completing your series, reflect on your creative process and the outcomes achieved. Consider what worked well and what challenges you encountered along the way. Use this reflection as an opportunity for growth and learning, identifying lessons learned and areas for improvement that you can apply to future artistic endeavors. Remember that creating a series is not just about the finished artworks but also about the journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration it affords.

Creating a series as a professional artist is a multifaceted process that requires careful planning, creative vision, and dedication to craft. Through thoughtful execution and presentation, a well-crafted series has the power to captivate audiences, evoke emotion, and leave a lasting impression that transcends the boundaries of the canvas.

May 8, 2024

Expert Canvas Care Tips: Keeping Your Artworks in Tip-top Shape

A canvas requires proper care and maintenance to ensure your paintings stand the test of time. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or an avid collector, understanding how to protect and preserve your canvases is important.

In this article, we’ll list essential canvas care tips, covering storage, cleaning, and protection against environmental factors.

1. Storage Solutions:

When not displaying your canvas paintings, store them vertically in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid stacking canvases to prevent pressure marks and warping. Consider storing them in acid-free boxes or wrapping them in acid-free paper to shield against dust and environmental pollutants.

2. Humidity Control:

Maintaining consistent humidity levels is crucial for canvas preservation. Fluctuations in humidity can cause canvases to expand and contract, leading to warping and cracking. Invest in a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels in your storage space, aiming for a range between 40% and 60%. The ideal temperature for storing art is around 70 °F to 75 °F during summer and 65 °F to 70 °F during winter.

3. Cleaning Techniques:

Regular dusting is key to preventing buildup and preserving the integrity of your canvas paintings. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a clean, dry paintbrush to gently remove surface dust. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions unless absolutely necessary, as they can damage the canvas and alter the paint.

4. Handling Precautions:

When handling canvases, always use clean hands or wear cotton gloves to prevent transferring oils and dirt onto the surface. Support the canvas from the back when moving it to avoid putting pressure on the stretched fabric. Be cautious of sharp objects and rough surfaces that could puncture or scratch the canvas.

5. UV Protection:

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can cause fading and deterioration of canvas paintings over time. Display your pieces away from direct sunlight or install UV-filtering glass or acrylic panels on frames to mitigate UV damage. Consider rotating your displayed artworks periodically to ensure even light exposure.

6. Framing Considerations:

Proper framing not only enhances the presentation of your canvas paintings, but also provides added protection. Choose frames made from archival-quality materials to prevent acid migration and deterioration. Ensure the frame fits the artwork snugly without applying excessive pressure on the canvas.

7. Pest Prevention:

Protect your canvases from potential pest infestations by keeping storage areas clean and free of food debris. Consider using pest deterrents such as lavender sachets or cedar blocks to repel insects. Regularly inspect your artworks for signs of pests, such as holes or droppings, and take appropriate measures if infestation occurs.

8. Professional Consultation:

For valuable or delicate canvas paintings, consider consulting a professional conservator for expert advice on preservation and restoration. Conservators can assess the condition of your artworks, recommend specialized treatments, and provide guidance on long-term care strategies to ensure their longevity.

Proper canvas care is essential for preserving the beauty and integrity of your artworks for future generations to enjoy. By implementing these tips, you can safeguard your canvas paintings and maintain their beauty for years. Remember, a little proactive care goes a long way in ensuring the longevity of your cherished artworks.

Get Your Canvas from CanvasLot

CanvasLot provides high-quality canvases for painting. Our canvases are already pre-primed with acid-free acrylic gesso and is ready to be painted on. You can get canvases in standard sizes, or if you need a specific size, we’re ready to custom-size it for you.

May 6, 2024

Creating Beautiful Compositions for Small Paintings

Small paintings, with their intimate charm and intricate details, have captivated artists and collectors alike for centuries. However, painting on a small scale comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to composition.

In this blog, we’ll explore the techniques and strategies for creating successful compositions for small paintings, along with an inspiring story of a famous artist who mastered the art of small.

1. Embrace the Power of Simplicity.

When working with limited space, simplicity is your best friend. Focus on creating compositions that are clear, concise, and uncluttered. Keep your subject matter minimal, and avoid overcrowding the canvas with unnecessary details. Remember, less is often more when it comes to small paintings.

2. Consider Scale and Proportion.

While working on a small scale, it’s important to pay attention to scale and proportion. Ensure that the elements within your composition are appropriately sized relative to the size of the canvas. Experiment with different arrangements and placements to achieve visual balance and harmony.

3. Use a Limited Color Palette.

Small paintings can benefit from a limited color palette, as it helps create cohesion and unity within the composition. Choose a few key colors that complement each other and stick to them throughout your painting. By keeping your palette simple, you can create a harmonious and visually pleasing composition.

4. Pay Attention to Depth and Perspective.

Despite their small size, petite paintings can still convey a sense of depth and perspective. Experiment with techniques such as overlapping, atmospheric perspective, and varying brushstrokes to create the illusion of space within your composition. By adding depth, you can enhance the visual interest and realism of your small paintings.

5. Tell a Story.

Small paintings have the unique ability to evoke emotion and tell a compelling story in a compact space. Consider the narrative or message you want to convey through your composition and incorporate elements that support your theme. Whether it’s a quiet still life or a bustling street scene, let your imagination guide you in crafting a captivating story within your painting.

An Inspiring Story:

One artist who exemplified mastery in painting small artwork was the renowned Dutch painter, Johannes Vermeer. Despite his relatively small body of work, Vermeer’s paintings are celebrated for their exquisite detail, luminous colors, and compelling compositions.

One of his works, “Girl with a Pearl Earring,” is famous for creating intimate and evocative portraits on a small scale. Vermeer’s ability to capture the essence of his subjects in small, meticulously crafted paintings continues to inspire artists and art lovers around the world.

Creating successful compositions for small paintings requires a thoughtful approach and attention to detail. Keep these tips in mind so you can bring your small paintings to life with beauty and impact. Pick up your brushes, unleash your creativity, and discover the magic of painting on a small scale.

May 3, 2024

8 Useful Tips to Organize your Art Studio

Painting is a wonderfully fulfilling endeavor, but it often comes with its own set of challenges, one of which is maintaining an organized art studio. A cluttered and chaotic workspace can hinder creativity and productivity, making it difficult to focus on your artistic pursuits. However, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can transform your art studio into a well-organized space that inspires creativity and productivity. Here are some valuable tips for keeping your art studio organized:

1. Designate areas. Start by dividing your art studio into different zones based on the type of activities you engage in. For example, create a painting zone, a drawing zone, a storage zone for art supplies, and a relaxation zone for taking breaks. This helps create a sense of order and makes it easier to find what you need when you need it.

2. Invest in storage solutions. Use storage solutions such as movable racks, shelves, cabinets, drawers, and storage bins to keep your art supplies neatly organized and easily accessible. Consider using clear containers or labeled bins to store smaller items like brushes, pencils, and tubes of paint, making it easier to locate them when you need them.

3. Keep your workspace clutter-free. Make it a habit to clean and declutter your workspace regularly. Clear off your work surface at the end of each day and put away any supplies or tools that are not in use. This not only creates a more inviting and organized workspace but also helps prevent accidents and damage to your artwork.

4. Create a system for organizing tools and materials. Develop a system for organizing your tools and materials based on frequency of use or type of medium. Keep frequently used items within arm’s reach and less frequently used items stored away in designated areas. This will streamline your workflow and make it easier to find what you need when inspiration strikes.

5. Label everything. Labeling is your best friend when it comes to keeping your art studio organized. It’s a tedious process, but very valuable in the long run. Use labels to identify the contents of storage bins, drawers, and cabinets, making it easy to locate specific items quickly. Consider using a color-coded system for even greater organization and efficiency.

6. Utilize vertical space. Most artists don’t have the luxury of having a big studio. Make the most of your studio space by utilizing vertical storage solutions such as wall-mounted shelves, pegboards, and hooks. These space-saving options allow you to maximize storage capacity without taking up valuable floor space, keeping your studio tidy and clutter-free.

7. Establish a cleaning routine. Set aside time each week to clean and organize your art studio. Wipe down surfaces, sweep or vacuum the floors, and put away any stray supplies or tools. A regular cleaning routine not only keeps your studio looking its best but also helps maintain a healthy and productive work environment.

8. Embrace digital organization. In addition to physical organization, consider utilizing digital tools and software to keep track of your artwork, reference materials, and inspiration. Use apps or software programs to catalog your artwork, organize reference images, and jot down ideas and notes. This digital organization system can help streamline your creative process and keep your studio clutter-free.

By implementing these tips and establishing good habits, you can create an art studio that is not only organized and efficient but also conducive to creativity and inspiration. With a well-organized workspace, you can focus more fully on your artistic pursuits and bring your creative visions to life with ease.

May 1, 2024

Cheap Canvas vs Expensive Canvas

When it comes to the world of art, the canvas serves as a foundation upon which artists bring their visions to life. Whether it’s a masterpiece destined for a museum or a personal creation meant to adorn a living room wall, the choice of canvas can significantly impact the final outcome of a painting. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between using a cheap canvas versus an expensive one and how each choice influences the artistic process and the resulting artwork.

First, the quality of the materials used in the construction of a canvas can vary greatly between cheap and expensive options. Cheap canvases are often made with lower-grade materials, such as synthetic fibers or thinly stretched cotton, which may lack durability and stability over time.

On the other hand, expensive canvases are typically crafted from high-quality materials, such as linen or heavyweight cotton, which offer superior strength and longevity. Stretcher bars, or the frame that holds the canvas, in expensive canvases are made from sturdy, solid wood that will not break easily. This ensures that the fabric remains intact and will not sag in the future. All of CanvasLot canvases are made from high quality and heavy duty materials from the fabric to the wood frame.

This difference in material quality can have significant consequences for the longevity of the artwork. Paintings on cheap canvases are more prone to warping, sagging, and deterioration over time.

The surface texture of the canvas can greatly impact the painting process and the final appearance of the artwork. Cheap canvases often have a rough, uneven texture that can interfere with brush strokes and impede the artist’s ability to achieve fine details and smooth transitions.

In contrast, expensive canvases typically feature a smoother, more finely woven surface that provides greater control and precision for the artist. This difference in texture can result in paintings with more refined and polished finishes, making them visually more appealing and aesthetically pleasing.

In addition to material quality and surface texture, the stretching and priming of the canvas also play a crucial role in determining its suitability for painting. Cheap canvases are often poorly stretched, with loose or uneven tension, which can create distortions and irregularities in the finished artwork. Also, cheap canvases may be inadequately primed or primed with low-quality gesso, resulting in poor paint adhesion and color saturation.

Meanwhile, expensive canvases are meticulously stretched to achieve optimal tension and primed with high-quality gesso, providing a smooth and stable surface for painting. This superior stretching and priming process ensures that the canvas remains taut and durable throughout the painting process, allowing the artist to work with confidence and precision.

Finally, the cost of a canvas can also reflect the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into its production. Cheap canvases are typically mass-produced using automated processes, resulting in inconsistencies and flaws that can lower the overall quality of the artwork.

Expensive canvases are often handcrafted by skilled artisans who take pride in their workmanship and strive to create a superior product. While expensive canvases may come with a higher price tag, they offer greater value in terms of durability, performance, and aesthetic appeal.

Which canvas to choose?

The choice between using a cheap canvas and an expensive one can have a significant impact on the artistic process and the final outcome of a painting. Cheap canvases may offer a more affordable option, but they often sacrifice quality, durability, and performance.

On the other hand, expensive canvases provide superior materials, surface texture, stretching, priming, and craftsmanship, resulting in paintings of higher quality and longevity. Ultimately, investing in an expensive canvas is not just a matter of price, but a commitment to the integrity and longevity of the artwork.

April 29, 2024

Should I Stretch My Own Canvas?

Embarking on a painting journey is an adventure filled with boundless creativity and artistic exploration. Yet, before we can unleash our brushes upon the canvas, an important decision must be made—do we purchase a pre-stretched canvas or stretch the canvas ourselves?

There are pros and cons to stretching your own canvas and buying a pre-stretched canvas.

Stretching your own canvas

Pros

1. Cost-effective. Artists stretch their own canvas for the savings they will incur in the long run. You remove the cost paid for professional services, but keep in mind that you have to buy in bulk in the beginning (canvas rolls, stretcher bars, tools, etc.).

2. Personalization. Stretching your own canvas gives you the freedom to customize the canvas according to your preferences and artistic vision. You have complete control over the materials that will be used in your canvas.

3. Additional learning. Most artists can learn how to stretch a canvas. It will be challenging at first, but it’s a valuable learning experience.

Cons

1. Time consuming. As with other DIY projects, stretching a canvas can be time-consuming, especially for beginners. Think about whether the savings is worth the time you’ll spend in the stretching process.

2. Skill. It’s a learned skill to stretch a canvas. An Internet search on tutorials on how to stretch a canvas may help you, but it’s better to have proper guidance from an experienced artist or craftsman.

3. Space. You need to have ample space to stretch a canvas.

Buying Pre-stretched Canvas

Pros

1. Time-saving. Buying a pre-stretched canvas frees you from the laborious task of stretching and priming, allowing you to devote more time to the creative process itself.

2. Convenient. A pre-stretched canvas gives you the simplicity of a ready-to-use surface. Whether you’re painting in the comfort of your studio or amidst the hustle and bustle of a plein air adventure, a pre-stretched canvas is a portable, hassle-free companion that empowers you to create wherever inspiration strikes.

3. High quality. Pre-stretched canvases are crafted with care and precision, ensuring a professional-quality surface. They provide a stable foundation that resists warping and sagging, preserving your artwork for generations to come.

Cons

1. Limited sizes. Off-the-shelf canvases may be limited in size and you might not find the right canvas that you need. But, there are shops like CanvasLot that offers custom-sized canvases from 6 inches up to 12 feet.

2. Changes in surface tension. Temperature changes, improper handling, vibrations are a few factors that affect the surface tension of a pre-stretched canvas.

Final word: Should you stretch your own canvas?

Whether you’re working with your own stretched canvas or a pre-stretched one, there are advantages to both options. If you’re working on large paintings regularly, stretching your canvas have its perks. But, if you paint once in a while, or you like to create small and medium artwork, then pre-stretched canvases are for you.

April 26, 2024

Which is the Best Canvas for Acrylic Painting?

Selecting the perfect canvas for your acrylic masterpiece can be likened to choosing the ideal brushstroke—each decision shapes the final outcome. With a lot of options available, from stretched to unprimed, finding the best quality canvas can feel like navigating a labyrinth of artistic choices.

To help you choose the best canvas for your acrylic painting, here are three factors to consider:

Fabric. Painting canvases are commonly made from two materials–linen and cotton. Artists agree that linen canvas is the better canvas compared to cotton because of its durability and archival quality.

Cotton, on the other hand, provides a softer and smoother surface than linen. It’s also more accessible and budget-friendly. All of CanvasLot’s canvases are made from 100% cotton.

To know more about the difference between a linen and cotton canvas, read the article: Painting on Linen vs Cotton Canvas

Prime or Umprimed. Priming a canvas gives you a smooth surface to paint on and helps prevent it from rotting. Most canvases are pre-primed with gesso to save you time and effort. Acrylic paint adheres better on a primed canvas and the paint will not sink into the canvas. All of CanvasLot’s canvas surfaces are double primed with acid-free acrylic gesso ready to be painted on.

If you enjoy preparing your canvas from scratch, you can choose an unprimed canvas and apply gesso yourself.

Types of Canvases. There are several types of canvases available in the market, each catering to different skill level, painting style, budget and desired outcome.

Stretched canvas – A stretched canvas is one of the most popular types of canvas for acrylic painting. The fabric (either linen or cotton) is stretched over and stapled on a wooden frame called stretcher bars.

Canvas panels – A more affordable alternative to stretched canvas, canvas panels are usually made from cotton that is mounted onto a rigid board. It is thinner, more portable and is a good choice for beginners.

Canvas papers – These are sheets of primed canvas that are bound together as a pad or book. Another budget-friendly option that’s ideal for students and novice artists.

Canvas rolls – A canvas roll is usually used used when creating large paintings. It is made from linen or cotton and comes in different weights, textures and fibers. You can get it primed or unprimed. Sold by yard, canvas rolls are on the expensive side of canvases. This option is ideal for an experienced painter.

In conclusion, the best canvas for acrylic painting depends on your personal preferences, skill level and budget. Whether you prefer the convenience of pre-primed canvases or the tactile allure of unprimed linen, selecting the perfect canvas is an important step in bringing your artistic vision to life.

Want to know more about canvases for painting? Contact us and we’ll gladly answer your questions.

April 24, 2024

Caring for your Artwork: 5 Simple Ways

Having an artwork is an investment both emotionally and financially. Whether you’re the painter or the art collector, making sure that your painting is in pristine condition should never be a difficult task.

Here are five simple ways on how to care, clean and store your artwork:

Dust regularly. Keep your paintings in tip-top shape by dusting them regularly. If the painting is on a wall, bring it down first and place it on the floor against a wall at an angle before dusting.

Use a soft, clean brush or a microfiber cloth to gently sweep away dust and dirt. Think of yourself as a painting detective, revealing the true beauty hidden beneath the grime! Avoid feather dusters since its fibers could latch on the canvas and edges of the paint itself.

Avoid direct sunlight. Sunlight—the painter’s best friend and worst enemy! While natural light can enhance the beauty of your artwork, prolonged exposure can cause colors to fade and canvas to deteriorate faster than last week’s leftovers.

Keep your paintings out of direct sunlight or consider using UV-filtering glass to protect them. It’s like giving your masterpiece its own pair of sunglasses!

Check the temperature and humidity. Whether you’re hanging or storing your painting, it’s important to pay attention to the room’s temperature and humidity. Avoid extreme heat and cold temperatures since these will damage your artwork.

According to art experts, between 21-24 degree Celsius is the optimal temperature to keep paintings. Be mindful of ceiling lights which can deteriorate your painting in the long run. Also, keep your paintings away from air conditioning units, radiators, fireplaces, and air vents.

Store properly. When it’s time to tuck your paintings away for a little rest, give them the VIP treatment! Store them vertically in a cool, dry place away from damp basements and hot attics.

If you’re stacking them, make sure to place protective sheets between each painting to prevent scratches and smudges. The front of the canvas should be stacked against the front–and not the back, of another canvas. Make sure that the stretcher bars rest over stretcher bars so there are no sharp edges (corners) pushing into the canvas of another painting.

Tip: Put paintings on crates or other stable platform to prevent the them from touching the ground that exposes them to dirt. And, if you live in a flood-prone area, these crates will keep your paintings safe and dry.

Handle with care. Always handle your painting with care. Hold the artwork by the frame or edges and prevent touching the surface of the painting. The oil in your fingertips can damage the artwork.

Always have acid-free paper, bubble wrap, corner protectors, foam cushions, etc. on hand. These inexpensive items will protect your painting while in storage, and during moving or shipping.

Want to learn more about how to ship your painting? Check out How to Pack and Ship Canvas Art for more!

Keep in mind these simple tips so you can enjoy your painting for many years to come.

Remember, happy paintings make for happy art lovers!

If you’re looking for high-quality canvases, contact us! Whether you want a custom-sized or standard size canvas, our staff is ready to help you.

Featured image: Birmingham Museums Trust

April 22, 2024

6 Factors to Consider When Photographing Your Paintings

Creating a masterpiece on canvas takes time, skill, and passion. But what good is your stunning artwork if you can’t capture its brilliance on camera? As a proud creator of art, it’s natural for you to show it to the world.

Whether you’re photographing your paintings for personal satisfaction, art shows, or grants, here are some factors to consider to hopefully help you capture the beauty of your work like a pro!

1. Lighting. Like a painting itself, lighting can make or break your photograph. Indirect, natural light is your best friend, so position your artwork near a window or in a well-lit room. Beware of harsh sunlight though—it can cast unwelcome glares and distort colors.

If you’re pressed for time and the weather isn’t cooperating, you can use two artificial lights such as flashlights or table lamps. A simple triangle setup will be useful in reducing shadows on your photos. Place the lights between the canvas and the camera with the lights pointing at a 45-degree angle towards the painting. The camera should be behind the lights.

2. Position. Hang your painting on a neutral colored wall (black, white, gray). Make the center of the artwork parallel to the position of your camera. A tripod is useful to get good shots, especially if you’re photographing several paintings.

3. Composition. Tell a story with your photos. If you’re tired of taking 2-D images of your paintings, try including props (art materials), changing angles, or let someone else take a picture of you working on your artwork. Experiment and see which photos work for you.

4. Background. Your artwork is the star of the show, so don’t let a cluttered background steal its thunder. Clear the space around your painting of distractions—coffee cups, stray brushes, or that rogue sock—and let your canvas art shine in all its glory.

5. Camera settings. Ensure your camera’s focus is razor-sharp on every brushstroke and color gradient. Take your time to adjust the focus manually if needed, and don’t be afraid to zoom in for those intricate details. Your painting’s precision deserves nothing less than crystal-clear perfection.

6. Editing. Taking a photo of your painting doesn’t end once the photo is snapped. If you’re on a budget, there are free and inexpensive photo editing software that you can use to edit your photos. With these programs, you can do minor adjustments, crop the photo, adjust the color and contrast, and remove impurities.

Hope these will help you capture the beauty of your paintings and how you represent yourself professionally. Of course, there are other factors to consider when photographing your paintings, but these six are the basic and are a good starting point.