Each picture, whether a photo, painting or sketch has a story but I’ve been struggling to find the words for all I’m experiencing these days. It’s been hard. I think of myself as a writer, a storyteller, but what happens when we don’t have a voice, the words? I don’t have an answer for that. Instead I have paintings and photos. That’s all I’ve been sharing for months now, maybe even years…

For those who follow me on Instagram etc I have a question or two for you. Or rather something to think about.

Finding unique original artwork – something that resonates with you and your own personal style – can be intimidating. There are so many of us artists out there, offering our paintings and prints in a wide range of styles and formats. For me, on the various places I post my paintings, you’ll see a combination of watercolors, acrylics, and ink to each piece. They are done mostly while living in Baja California, Mexico over winter and in New Mexico in summers, both are landscapes full of bright blue skies, mountains or seas, birds and critters (mostly dogs in my case). These are the influences you’ll find in the bright blue skies, golds and reds of the earth in the landscapes sketches, as well as the life and joy of a vibrant palette and relaxed lifestyle. First question then is what kind of artwork do you like to live with?

Next question I’m curious about, what makes you buy original paintings or photographs to live with?

Investing in artwork is something to consider when on platforms like Etsy or whatever. What if you don’t want to live with it for more than a month or so? What if you tire of it? These are the kind of things the Youtube gurus tell me to think about, to focus on potential supporters and buyers. To consider your needs. With that in mind, I have made my work into digital downloadable prints. This way you can sit with a framed hand-painted scene yet without too much risk.

This summer, I have been selling the physical original watercolors at markets, by word of mouth, on my website and on commission. It’s slow selling but I get great conversations with those shopping and wandering around there which makes it worthwhile, for me anyway. It’s all about connection, isn’t it?

My last question is when you sit with a painting or photo at a market, how do you know if you really want it? Are you pulled in? Do you linger? Do you notice more details each time you see? Can you create a story behind the image that fires your imagination? Or does it give you a sense of relief like a great piece of music? Do you want more time with it?

https://sleamsartwork.etsy.com

With my own work, I hope that you smile, are drawn into it, and relax.

Writer’s Block forced me to find new ways to explore, create and share. You can find more at https://sleamsartwork.etsy.com and hopefully at some point, I can combine these images with stories.

I miss writing.

I am sharing a novel on Substack, one chapter a week. It’s good to pass it along. Enjoy. Thanks.

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