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The cultural scene in Hong Kong is thriving at the moment. That is in no small part due to the likes of the West Kowloon Cultural District. One of their latest museums to open is arguably its finest: Hong Kong Palace Museum. They house over 900 invaluable artefacts from The Palace Museum in Beijing. Many priceless pieces have never left the capital city or even been shown to the public. They have seven thematic galleries focusing on these items, general Chinese art and modern reinterpretation of Palace Museum culture. There are two galleries with temporary exhibitions showcasing art and treasures from other parts of the world. Currently, they have the blockbuster, Cartier and Women exhibition as well as Radiance: Ancient Gold from the Hong Kong Palace Museum Collection and the Mengdiexuan Collection.

The state-of-the-art building has been designed by Rocco Design Architects Associates Limited. With an exhibition space of 7,800 square metres, it has been designed to offer abundant rest areas both inside and outside the galleries. The facilities are barrier-free and particularly spacious, capable of handling substantial crowds during the holidays periods. You can observe throughout the building, they’ve used contemporary interpretations of traditional aesthetics. They’ve taken inspiration from the architecture of the Forbidden City but also taken care to blend in with Hong Kong’s urban skyline.

The themes of galleries are very well construed. For example, in gallery two, they have “From Dawn to Dusk: life in the Forbidden City”. You can follow the noteworthy events in the daily life of an emperor and other staff members in the palace. You will encounter what the emperor might be wearing on different occasions.

They don’t shy away from using modern technology in portraying the historical details of the period. Expect to see state-of-the-art video walls that will transport you back to the time of the Qing Dynasty. In gallery four, you’ll encounter very impressive portraits of Qing Emperors and Empresses. They’ve also created helpful timelines, where you can follow the imperial lineage. Even the main thematic galleries from one to seven are not expected to be permanent exhibitions and they will likely be rotated out after being on display for over a year.

Hong Kong locals will be particularly fascinated by gallery six, which explores “Private to Public: the history of Chinese art collecting in Hong Kong”. It explores the philanthropy of Hong Kong donors who have chosen to donate artwork they’ve privately collected, so the public can enjoy the beauty of these pieces. Often this has been to help promote Chinese culture at home and abroad. With each display, there is a handy note explaining the original owner of the artwork. For example, there is a wonderful oil on canvas painting of The Matilde moored in Hong Kong Harbour from the Anthony Hardy Collection.

Despite the historical nature of most of the artefacts, the museum is a very forward-thinking and progressive institution. This is very much in evidence in gallery seven “No boundaries: reinterpreting Palace Museum culture”. In this gallery space, they’ve asked six Hong Kong-based multimedia and interdisciplinary artists to create fresh and bespoke pieces of art installations for the museum which takes a fresh interpretation of the art and culture of the Forbidden City. The most impressive installation is without a doubt “A grandiose fanfare” by GayBird. The artwork fuses the atmosphere of Qing court music with modern festive performances through 31 audio channels and kinetic installations. It even includes a special sound installation performance every half an hour.

No modern-day museum is complete these days without world-class dining options and a well-stocked gift shop. Hong Kong Palace Museum has numerous options from the high-end King Lung Heen offering fine dining Cantonese cuisine to the very accessible Chinese teahouse, Xia. Their gift shop, ART EXPRESS by The Commercial Press is a treasure trove of Chinese cultural gift ideas from ornamental trinkets to coffee table books.

https://www.hkpm.org.hk/en/home

Renowned for its vibrant festival scene, California caters for every genre. Whether you’re a music lover, food enthusiast, or art aficionado, there’s something for everyone in the Golden State. Here’s our guide to some of the best festivals happening this summer.

Wine Lovers Rejoice

Taking place on 18 -21 May 2023, the annual Paso Wine Fest is the marquee event of the year for the renowned Paso Robles wine region in SLO CAL. The weekend is a celebration of over 115 winemakers from the Paso Robles region, combining wine with live music, entertainment, artisanal foods and distilled spirits for a weekend of appreciation for the vast array of exceptional producers from San Luis Obispo county. The festival kicks off with a Winemakers Dinner, followed by sparkling wine pairing event at Sparkling Paso, leading into the climax of the weekend with a Grand Tasting on Saturday 20 May. The region’s ideal growing conditions and passionate producers join forces to create its distinguished wines, and its appeal extends beyond the glass with events such as the Paso Wine Fest.

California's Best Festivals

Beer and Taco Festival

San Luis Obispo County’s annual beer and taco festival, Viva La Cerveza takes place on 27 May 2023 will see a culmination of food trucks, music performances, beers and games bring together visitors to SLO CAL for a truly enjoyable celebration for the county’s biggest beer weekend. Throughout the day there will be taco-eating contests, a competition to find the best tacos, giant beer pong, live music and so much more to enjoy across a fun-filled festival which epitomises the jovial and laid-back attitude of SLO CAL’s people.

Celebrate with Fireworks at The Port of San Diego Big Bay Boom

The 4th July Fireworks Show is back this year promising another spectacular display over San Diego Bay. Fireworks will be discharged simultaneously from barges placed strategically around the Bay off Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Embarcadero North, Marina District and Coronado Ferry Landing. The impeccably choreographed display will last approximately 18 minutes, starting at 9 p.m.

Dance Yourself Clean at Bleached Festival, San Diego’s Newest Waterfront Festival

A collaboration between San Diego’s newest alternative and indie-pop curator Tight Knit and established dance team FNGRS CRSSD, is coming to San Diego’s Waterfront Park on 5-6 August. The two-day event will connect indie-pop and new-wave R&B for fans with a diverse line-up that is topped by Neo-soul singer-songwriter Leon Bridges and Japanese icon and R&B artist Joji. Other performers include Omar Apollo, PinkPantheress, Lizzy McAlpine, Stephen Sanchez, Ethel Cain, BADBADNOTGOOD and more.

Party with Movie Legends at Monterey Jazz Festival

The Monterey Jazz Festival is the longest continuously-running jazz festival in the world. It started in 1958 and has been held ever since at the 20-acre Monterey County Fairgrounds. Each year the three-day festival that runs 22-24 September, showcases world-class talent that’s included the likes of Miles Davis, Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong all the way to Ravi Coltrane and Jamie Cullum. Listen to the very best in classic jazz while witnessing its evolution in today’s music scene with a line-up of emerging talent. You might even spot Clint Eastwood strolling around, he’s been a festival supporter for years and filmed scenes for his movie Play Misty for Me here in the 70s. The festival is also a non-profit organisation and has donated its proceeds to musical education ever since it began.

Big Sur Food & Wine Festival

Best known for being the crowning jewel of the iconic Highway 1 drive, Big Sur turns its gaze from the ocean to the land for the annual Big Sur Food & Wine Festival. From 2-4 November, local and visiting restauranteurs and wineries team up for a series of pop-up dinners, events and tastings at unique locations along the coastline. It’s an à la carte festival so each event is ticketed separately be it a wine walkabout in the redwoods, a chefs table at one of the area’s prestigious restaurants or a pop up somewhere spectacular.

Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance (20 August 2023)

Said to be the world’s premier celebration of the automobile, the Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance has been going since 1950. Participating is a dream for worldwide car collectors as the event is a competition, not of speed but of elegance. Running this year on 20th August, the action takes place on the famed 18th hole of the Pebble Beach Golf Links and cars are judged for their style and technical merit, as well as their history and the accuracy of their restoration or preservation. In 2022 the Best of Show winner was a 1932 Duesenberg J Figoni Sports Torpedo whose chassis and coachwork had finally been reunited by the owner after decades apart.

Sonoma County Pride

This year’s 38th annual Sonoma County Pride Celebration spans three days of events and activities from its base in downtown Santa Rosa. Exploring the theme ‘Community’, the event is all about being together in the spirit of diversity and belonging. The festivities kick off on 3rd June in Courthouse Square with a PRIDE happy hour and are followed by a variety of events including PRIDE Parade, ‘Gaydar’s Reunion’ dance party, Wigs and Waffles Drag Brunch, and an Aqua Boogie Pool Party.

Bodega Seafood Art & Wine Festival

Held 26-27 August, on a rural ranch, a mile inland from the Sonoma County coast, the Seafood, Art & Wine Festival is hosted in Bodega Bay, the village made famous as the filming location for the classic thriller, The Birds. If you love seafood, this one is for you with everything from calamari to crab Louie, oysters to ahi and more than 30 seafood dishes offered up by a dozen different vendors. The food is complemented by wine, microbrew and cider tasting with more than 40 companies pouring everything from well-known brands to small-batch products. There’s also a collection of artisans and three entertainment stages.

The Landscape Lovers Festival

Running from May through October 2022, Yerba Buena Gardens Festival in San Francisco invites visitors to experience a fascinating landscape of performances from different cultures, ethnicities and artistic genres. With over 100 free outdoor concerts as well as theatre, circus shows, dance, poetry and kids’ programs, there is certainly something for all to enjoy! Amongst its most popular performances last year, the gardens hosted the world premiere of the Marcus Shelby New Orchestra’s Blues in the City.

Opera in the Park

The San Francisco Opera returns for its opening weekend on 10 September, offering free, al fresco performances on the Robin Williams Meadow in Golden Gate Park. With performances beginning at 1:30 pm, opera enthusiasts are invited to enjoy a delightful afternoon of arias and melodic duets, conducted by renowned music Director, Eun Sun Kim.

In this interview, we have the pleasure of speaking with Ilaria Ratti Salvioni, a full-time artist with a passion for creating abstract and energetically charged paintings.

Ilaria shares with us the journey that led her to pursue her passion for art, her inspiration and style, and her aspirations for the future of her brand. She also offers advice for aspiring artists and gives us a glimpse into her daily routine. So, let’s dive in and learn more about the artist behind the colourful and captivating paintings.

Ilaria Ratti Salvioni

Can you tell us the journey that led you to becoming a full-time artist?

I have always loved art since my childhood and have been inspired by great artists such as Kandinsky, Klee, Miro, and Rothko. After working for several years in my family business, I felt an urgent inner call to pursue my passion for art, colors, and energy. My journey started with my first trip to India, where I traveled from the Himalayan mountains to the southern coasts, met great sages and gurus, and learned everything possible through yoga and meditation. The colors and powerful energy that I felt were easy to translate onto canvas, and nowadays, my intuitive paintings are energetically “charged” and have a powerful impact on people. Collectors tell me how soothing, balancing, and magical they find my art, and each person sees different images and shapes inside the abstract artwork.

How would you describe your style in three words?

Abstract, colorful, energetic.

How do you want people to feel when they look at your artwork?

I want people to feel good and get into a positive state of mind. Awake, balanced, and connected.

What advice would you offer any aspiring artists who are struggling to get started?

Keep focusing on your work, follow your inner guidance, do not be distracted by the trends of the moment, ignore haters in every shape and form, and never, never, never give up!

Can you talk us through an average day in your life?

I start my day with meditation, Sadhana, and yoga. After that, I follow up on emails and phone calls, then I spend time painting or meeting with customers. Later, I go for a beach walk and feed stray cats.

Who is involved in the brand, and what are their roles?

I am the only one involved in the painting process. As part of my B2B job, I work with interiors and architects for projects in retail, boutique hotels, and villas. For my digital NFT’s collection, I have a selected freelance IT team.

Looking back since launching the business, is there anything that you would do differently?

I wish I had been brave enough to start my artistic career earlier.

Our readers love to travel. What destination is at the top of your bucket list?

Bali, Thailand, and India.

Running a business can be non-stop. What do you do to switch off?

I practice yoga and meditation, and whenever possible, I travel.

In five years from now, where do you see the brand?

I see myself continuing to grow my audience and happily living with my art.

Where can people find out more?

People can find out more about me and my art at www.ilariaratti.com and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/ilariarattisalvioni.

Why You Should Outsource Game Art To A Professional Studio

Do you want to take your gaming experience to the next level? Outsourcing game art to a professional studio is one of the best ways to do just that. With their expertise and creativity, these studios can help bring an extraordinary level of quality and detail to your game content.

Not only will it increase the realism of your game, but outsourcing game art also saves time and money in production costs – giving you more power over how you spend resources. Here’s why you should outsource game art to a professional studio.

The experienced artists at these studios know exactly what it takes to create captivating visuals for games. They understand the importance of small details like shading, texturing, an lighting – all of which add depth and character to any scene or character design.

In addition, they have access to state-of-the-art tools and technologies that enable them to produce intricate images with maximum efficiency. This means that not only are their services cost effective; they’re also able to deliver projects quickly and accurately.

You’ll be able to get back into the action faster with stunning artwork!

Benefits Of Outsourcing Game Art

Outsourcing game art to a game art outsourcing studio can be a smart choice for developers who want to save both time and money. These specialized studios are equipped to handle the workload and provide quality art within a shorter time frame than traditional in-house production.

By outsourcing game art, developers can also enjoy significant cost savings while still obtaining higher quality art assets without exceeding their budget. This allows them to focus on other aspects of game development while leaving the art creation to the experts.

Cost Savings

When you outsource game art to a professional studio, you can enjoy significant cost savings. By reducing overhead and improving quality at the same time,you’re able to optimize your budget and maximize returns on investment in the long run.

Outsourcing will also free up valuable internal resources so that your team can focus their efforts on other important aspects of development. Furthermore, outsourcing allows for access to experienced artists who have specialized skills and knowledge that may not be available with an in-house team.

This means you get expert assistance while maintaining tight control over costs. All in all, outsourcing game art is a great way to ensure maximum efficiency without sacrificing quality or breaking the bank.

Time Savings

Time savings is another great advantage of outsourcing game art. By working with a professional studio, you can get faster turnaround times on projects than if you had done them in-house.

This means that your game will be released quicker and you’ll enjoy the cost optimization benefits from increased efficiency as well. Plus, being able to access experienced artists who have specialized skills leads to higher quality results in less time.
So, by outsourcing game art, you’ll be able to keep up with the competition while maintaining tight control over costs. In short, it’s an effective way for businesses to stay competitive and maximize returns on investment.

Challenges Of Outsourcing Game Art

When considering outsourcing game art, it’s important to factor in the cost of outsourcing and the assurance of quality.

Managing both of these can be tricky, but necessary to get the best results.

Cost Of Outsourcing

Outsourcing game art can be a great cost-saving measure, but there are some challenges to consider.

One of the biggest is the expense associated with outsourcing. When you outsource your game art needs to a professional studio, you may have to pay them an hourly rate or even a flat fee for each project.

However, it’s important to remember that this time and money spent on quality control and oversight could save you time in the long run by ensuring that outsourced artwork meets the highest standards.

Not only does outsourcing give you access to experienced professionals who can create unique visuals for your games more quickly than if done in-house, but it also allows you to focus on other aspects of development while someone else handles the tedious details.

The time saved from outsourcing means greater efficiency overall and potentially higher profits at launch day – so don’t forget about this key factor when considering whether or not to outsource your game art!

Quality Assurance

Another challenge to consider when outsourcing game art is quality assurance. Quality control and oversight can be expensive, but it’s worth the cost in order to get high-quality visuals for your games.

You want those visuals to look great not only on launch day, but also during development so that you don’t have any surprises at the end of the process. It’s important to ensure that outsourced artwork meets all standards and expectations before being released.

The time saved from delegating this task means greater efficiency overall with a faster turnaround time and improved cost efficiency. This will ultimately lead to more successful launch days with higher profits – making sure your game art is up to standard should always be top priority!

Finding The Right Professional Studio

Finding the right professional studio to outsource game art to can seem like a daunting task – especially when considering how much time, effort, and money are involved. The best way to start is by approaching this endeavor with an eye for detail and a plan of action that includes building trust, budgeting costs, and tracking progress along the way.

Think of it as assembling a puzzle; you wouldn’t want to put together pieces from different sets!

Research every potential studio thoroughly before settling on one – use online reviews and references from past clients if available.

Once you find the perfect fit for your project, establish good communication with them upfront so both parties have clear expectations. Make sure they understand your goals and vision while also paying attention to their budget requirements.

Additionally, be sure to track progress regularly during development – stay in close contact throughout the entire process. You’ll feel more at ease knowing everything is going according to plan and you’re getting closer towards achieving your desired end results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Cost Of Outsourcing Game Art To A Professional Studio?

When it comes to outsourcing game art, the cost is an important factor.

Professional studios have a wealth of experience and can offer benefits that individual freelancers cannot match.

With portfolio reviews, resource allocation and other cost-saving measures, you’ll find yourself saving money in the long run by investing in a professional studio for your game art needs.

While there may be some upfront costs associated with these services, you will see a return on investment over time as well as improved quality assurance.

Are There Any Risks Involved In Outsourcing Game Art?

When deciding to outsource game art to a professional studio, it’s important to consider the potential risks involved.

Time savings and quality assurance are key factors in contract negotiations as they can determine how quickly your project is completed and the overall performance of the work.

However, there are other aspects that must be taken into account when outsourcing this type of job; such as ensuring security protocols are up-to-date and having an understanding of any copyright implications – both for you and the hired professionals.

Achieving the right balance between cost efficiency and quality assurance may take some effort but will be worth it in the end.

How Long Does It Take To Outsource Game Art?

Outsourcing game art to a professional studio can be an effective way of managing timelines, understanding specs, and evaluating portfolios – but how long does it take?

The truth is that the timeline for outsourcing game art varies depending on your project’s complexity. Generally speaking though, you can expect turnaround times from two weeks up to several months.

Experienced studios will have processes in place that help speed up the process by breaking down tasks into manageable chunks. This enables them to understand their clients’ specs more quickly while also allowing time to evaluate multiple portfolio options before making a final decision.

Is There Any Way To Reduce The Cost Of Outsourcing Game Art?

When considering how to outsource game art, cost is an important factor. Fortunately, there are various strategies you can employ in order to reduce the overall expenditure of the project.

One such strategy is negotiating contracted rates with the professional studio. This way, both parties will have a clear understanding of what’s expected from each other and no surprises when it comes time for payment.

Additionally, effective project management could also help keep costs down by controlling any unnecessary expenses or delays that may occur due to miscommunication or technical difficulties.

By taking advantage of these cost saving strategies, outsourcing game art doesn’t have to be as expensive as people think!

What Type Of Art Can Be Outsourced To A Professional Studio?

Professional game art studios, including 3D modeling studio, possess the expertise to create top-notch assets that will set your game apart from the rest. This includes cutting-edge modeling techniques, a vast library of assets, and top-of-the-line concept art.

Outsourcing this type of work to a professional studio can save both time and money, while also allowing for a higher level of customization compared to using pre-existing asset libraries or generic model packs.

With their specialized tools and skills, these studios can bring your vision to life through custom visuals, giving your game a distinct advantage over the competition.

Conclusion

Outsourcing game art to a professional studio can be an efficient and cost-effective way of creating stunning visuals for your project. With the right studio, you’ll get high-quality artwork without having to worry about breaking the bank or risking any potential issues.

Plus, you’ll save time since it’s faster than completing all the artwork yourself. Remember: when outsourcing game art, make sure you do your research so that you’re getting the best value for your money!

By making smart choices and understanding what is involved in outsourcing, you can create amazing visuals while still staying within budget. So don’t hesitate – if you want to take your game to the next level with beautiful graphics, outsource today and see why doing so will pay off big time!

There is nothing that quite says “Hong Kong is back” like the flurry of international exhibitions that has been hitting the town in recent months. The biggest of which is Art Central, a key cornerstone of Hong Kong Art Week that is happening at the end of March. This showcase event is in its eighth year and on display are the next generation of artists from the brightest and the best of Asia. It is also their largest gallery lineup since 2019.

Art Central

Discover the Unparalleled Artistic Offerings at Art Central

There will be 37 cutting-edge galleries from Hong Kong including the likes of Contemporary by Angela Li and Square Street Gallery, 60 renowned galleries from Asia such as 021gallery (Daegu) and K Gallery (Chendu), and 12 galleries handpicked from the rest of the world including MARC STRAUS (New York), VETA by Fer Francés (Madrid), and Guns & Rain (Johannesburg).

There are large-scale, immersive installations like Glows in the Night by Yang Yongliang. It will be a video artwork to be presented on an eye-catching scaled LED installation of 18 metres. Yang has a background in Chinese paintings, so he will use his knowledge to reconstruct and recompose urban images in the style of historic Chinese paintings. Ecological issues caused by urbanisation, commercialisation and consumerism are raised in a thought-provoking manner.

There is a ground-breaking group exhibition, Blue Throat – Start the Churning. It places the spotlight on sixteen Hong Kong artists. They articulate through their work the relationship between the individual and the collective, self and the modern world through the lens of art in the contemporary society of Hong Kong.

Exploring Themes of Displacement, Discovery, and Survival

A significant portion of Art Central is devoted to performance art. Three performance artists will deliver a series of intimate flows of movement that focuses on the themes of displacement, personal discovery, and survival. For example, Kensa Hung and Kiwi Chan will be exploring the theme of homelessness with their piece, Pack/Unpack. They will play out a contrasting performance of opposing actions in a journey of what it means to pack and unpack. Particularly poignant is the work of Natasha Cheung who draws from her overseas background living as part of the Chinese diaspora in She Taut. She highlights key elements of her identity that have built up over the years in her survival as a queer, Chinese woman. Themes that are touched on in the recent Oscar-winning film, Everything Everywhere all at once.

Nurturing Future Artists

Central to the philosophy of Art Central is inspiring the artists of the future so they have a wide-ranging educational programme that engages all ages during the fair. There will be educational tours, talks and workshops that are free of charge to Art Central ticketholders. The activities vary from workshops that are suitable for children from 4 to in-depth one-hour talks from featured artists which are aimed at university students. Art Central’s Children’s Education Partner, Art Loop, will be offering a unique hour-long immersion course with an art workshop and guided tour aimed at children aged 4 to 12 years old. Whilst the fair’s talk programme, not only includes artists but also collectors, academia, and leaders at art institutions. Art Central will be running small guided tours of the fair twice daily on a first-come first served basis.

Explore Contemporary Art from Anywhere in the World

You can take part even if you are not visiting Hong Kong this month through their exclusive online partner, Artsy. It is the largest global online marketplace for buying, selling and discovering art by preeminent artists. The commercial digital platform will feature handpicked works from each exhibiting gallery, thus they can showcase their virtual booths to a global audience.

Since its inaugural edition in 2015, Art Central has been growing from strength to strength. It is constantly pushing the boundaries of contemporary art, especially for the Chinese market. It is universally recognised as the place to visit for collectors and curators representing private, corporate, and institutional collections worldwide.

Home

Crafting on a budget requires resourcefulness and creativity. By repurposing items found around the house or scouting thrift stores for inexpensive materials, one can unleash their artistic potential without breaking the bank. Embracing DIY techniques and exploring low-cost alternatives can turn ordinary objects into extraordinary creations. From simple paper crafts to upcycled home décor, the key lies in innovation and ingenuity. Additionally, leveraging online tutorials and community workshops can provide valuable insights and inspiration without costly investments. With a little imagination and a mindful approach to spending, crafting on a budget becomes not just a financial necessity, but a fulfilling and enriching artistic journey.zdsssssssSSSSar5

Why having the right tools for doing craft work is important

As someone interested in doing craft work, it is important to invest in some of the right tools instead of using alternative products. On top of purchasing the right products, it is also necessary to consider the innovative version of some of those products.

When someone is interested in doing craft work, the possibility of them causing accidents is high, as they are not professionals in those fields. Thus, to decrease their chances of causing accidents and harm to others or themself, it is important to invest in the right products.

To further illustrate, when dealing with craft work that requires cutting pieces with scissors or utility knives, it is suggested to invest in their innovative versions. For instance, as a craftsman, owning one of Slice Products’ utility knives can be really helpful in making the cutting process easier and smoother, as these utility knives have a perfectly designed exterior frame, which helps people gain control over the tool and reduces the risks of cutting themselves.

Thus, when thinking about doing craft work, investing in the right products is suggested.

How investing in innovative tools can help reduce accidents

As mentioned before, investing in innovative tools can be helpful for numerous types of projects. Especially nowadays, most innovative products are equipped with many features that enhance and make the experience easier for the user.

Lately, many companies have started to invest more money from their budgets in their research and development sector to make their products user-friendly. By doing so, most companies listened to their customers’ feedback and tried to integrate a solution for them. One example is the ambidextrous design that most innovative products have nowadays – so, by purchasing an innovative product, everyone can use the tool comfortably, regardless of their dominant hand. Another example can be that many companies have started to use better and recyclable materials to create their final products.

Many other advantages come with purchasing innovative tools; however, one thing that most of them have in common is that they are not costly – which means people can purchase them without having to spend a lot.

Necessary and Affordable Tools Needed for Craft Work

1- Utility knives and box cutters

One of the most commonly used tools for DIY-ers is a cutting tool. Owning a box cutter or a utility knife can be beneficial for numerous reasons. These tools are equipped with safety features, such as the lock feature, which helps people lock the sharp blade inside its frame whenever they are using the tool. This feature has become helpful in maintaining control over the tool and not letting it slip from the user’s hand while putting additional pressure on it.

Additionally, most of the blades of these tools are sharp enough to cut through any material. Alongside being sharp, these blades are also finger-friendly, making the tools more secure.

2- Tape measure

As a craftsman, owning a tape measure is a must. Tape measure becomes helpful when one needs to cut a precise surface length. However, owning a tape measure instead of a regular ruler is better since, with a tape measure, people have the ability to measure longer surfaces.

3- Duct tape

Duct tape is another commonly used tool when doing craft work. With duct tape, people can rip out the tape with their hands easily without needing assistance from a cutting tool – which quickens the completion time of their project.

Additionally, duct tape is also helpful for marking things on surfaces since they do not leave any residue after removing them.

4- Leveler

A leveller has become a trend for people doing craftwork using wood, hanging pictures, installing cabinets, and many other projects. So, by using a leveller, people will be ensured that the craftwork will be straight after completion.

5- Glue gun

Glueing things together is an inevitable step when it comes to doing craftwork. For this reason, invest in an innovative glue gun – that does not cause many injuries due to heating – to have melted glue ready at any moment.

6- Decorative scissors

Decorative scissors can be used for creating do-it-yourself (DIY) decorations. With these scissors, one can add decor to their decorations, making them more beautiful.

7- Headlamp

A headlamp has become helpful for people doing craft work around their house in many situations. With a headlamp, people will have the ability to direct light to places that they would not have been able to without a headlamp.

So, by investing in a headlamp to wear during craft work, people will be able to see more clearly and reduce some mistakes.

Conclusion

To conclude, it is important to research and find the best and most affordable innovative products when doing craft work. These products will have the potential to decrease the risks of harming oneself and ensure people that they will be able to complete their projects easily and smoothly.

If you don’t believe in yourself and chase your dreams how can you ever know the outcome? That’s the mindset that Deb, founder of Gracein, lives by and it’s the reason why she is living out her dream as an artist. Here, we spent some time with her to find to more…

Can you tell us about the journey that led you to launch Gracein?

I could share the long version or the short one, but for your sake, I’ll keep it short and sweet. After attending art school, I found my passion in advertising, which I absolutely love. I think of print campaigns in my sleep, and creating and daydreaming is what it’s all about for me. I’ve met some brilliant creative minds who inspire me, even if they aren’t fine artists. I love learning, trying something new, and being an artist again. When people know me, talk to me, or experience my art, I hope they feel something – any emotion is acceptable. Emotions are necessary, and I think channeling them into art is one of the most humanly healthy ways to cope with the hard stuff.

Your motto is ‘let’s canvas the world in love.’ What does that look like to you?

It’s simple – heaven. I envision all the artists I’ve loved or been inspired by walking among the stars of the art world. Today, I’d love to chat with my mother for just a second and whisper, “thank you for believing in me always.” My parents are a huge inspiration for much of my work, and not a day goes by that I don’t feel inspired by them.

What has been your favorite moment since launching the brand?

Three big moments come to mind. Firstly, painting again for the first time in around 20 years and loving it. I’ve always been a designer and loved doing marker comps old-school style, but now I find it fun to paint what I feel, not what I see. Secondly, learning that art is not something you market like you do a product. There is a lot of rejection and failure with being an artist, especially an abstract artist. Not everyone gets it or appreciates it, and that’s more than okay. You have to move past the noise and just create for yourself. Lastly, my favorite moment is now – when the world was ready for my art. It’s like everything started to click.

How do you want people to feel when they see your artwork?

I want people to explore whatever feeling they have. Some of my artwork touches on hard subject matter, and I know it’s difficult. It was hard for me to paint. But when I finished, I wanted just one person to see it and know that tomorrow is a new day, they matter, and someone is waiting to meet them or thinking about them. Believe this because it is real and true. Don’t give up on yourself or others. You’ve got this, and you can do it. Face whatever it is with courage, love it (and love yourself) gently. Love truly and historically heals everything.

Who is your dream customer?

I would say all children, big and small, especially the ‘child inside’ who wants to play. I often talk about the sandbox and ask others if they can recall playing in one. Or a time when pure play happened for them. A time when all people were welcome. I tell them to go there, remember that moment and recall it often. I played with both dolls and random tools my father had, and I loved it. Ask yourself, what was your childhood sandbox like? Who was in it with you, and what were you all make-believing about?

Who is involved in the business, and what are their roles?

To be honest, it’s been mostly me, myself, and I in my career, with my husband alongside me as my biggest fan. However, I’m grateful for my lovely career and the experiences I’ve had. I also have a supportive circle of friends who feel like family, a close-knit family who are also my best friends, a board of advisors, and my sweet husband who encourages me to dream bigger and brighter. We both love daydreaming about things like Christmas decorations and family artifacts. It’s important to surround yourself with positive voices rather than those who bring you down by telling you that you’re not good at x, y, or z.

How do you balance your role as an artist and running a business?

It’s a delicate balance for sure. But, it’s one that I truly enjoy. I have a great love for both the creative process and the business side of things. It’s challenging to switch between the two mindsets, but I find that each informs the other in a really positive way.

As an artist, I’m constantly experimenting and trying new things. I’m always exploring new techniques and materials, and that curiosity and willingness to take risks is something that I bring to my business as well. On the business side, I’m always looking for new ways to grow and expand the brand, and that entrepreneurial spirit feeds back into my art.

Ultimately, I think that balance comes down to staying focused on what’s most important – creating art that I’m passionate about and building a brand that reflects that passion and connects with others. When I keep that at the forefront of everything I do, it helps to keep me grounded and centered, no matter what challenges come my way.

What can we expect from Gracein in the future?

I’m always working on new projects and exploring new creative avenues. In the future, I hope to continue to grow the brand and expand into new markets and collaborations. I’m also excited to continue to explore new materials and techniques in my art, and to continue to push myself creatively.

Ultimately, I want to continue to use my art to inspire and uplift others, and to create a community around creativity and self-expression. Whether that’s through new products, collaborations, or events, I’m excited to see where the journey takes me and to share that journey with others.

Follow Deb and her journey to stay up to date with her magical life.

Culture vultures looking for a splash of authentic Mallorcan art can check into the Kimpton Aysla Mallorca and immerse themselves in their very own art exhibition. Situated in the town of Santa Ponsa, only 14 km from Palma de Mallorca and 20 minutes from its airport, guests of Kimpton Aysla Mallorca can enjoy its incredible on-site facilities while soaking up a plethora of outstanding artwork.

This stylish hotel, designed by architect Guillermo Reynés, opened its doors in October and is the backdrop to a Contemporary Art Collection commissioned by ABA ART LAB. The five-star property showcases 700 pieces of artwork from photography, sculptures, paintings and installations. Each piece has been created by a local artist and has been featured due to its Mediterranean, pure, timeless and cosmopolitan qualities. All the artists and designers stand out for their solid artistic career and their presence in various important collections of contemporary art.

Explore the hotel and you will stumble across stunning paintings, unique sculptures and installations that all weave organically into the fabric of the building. From the moment you enter the hotel your visual senses are stimulated as you are greeted by a showstopper piece, hanging behind the reception desk. Created by renowned Catalan artist, Regina Gimenez, ‘Door to light’, is a stunning textile mural using natural fibres, fabrics and wool from Mallorca transforming the space with neutral, white and toasted tones. With different textures, light layers and warm shades that create depth is easy to see why this takes pride of place in the lobby.

Throughout the hotel you will spot works from the likes of Mercedes Laguens, Antoni Pedraza and Bàrbara Juan. In each of the bedrooms the back wall displays a striking piece of art and the shelves are dotted with vases and sculptures bringing creativity to the heart of the property.

You’d imagine that so many pieces of artwork would bring chaos to the hotel aesthetic and design, but Reynes and ABA ART LAB have ensured that each work slots into the hotel design and is sympathetic to the space.

ABA ART LAB is an exhibition, curatorship and production of contemporary art company founded in September 2004, in Palma de Mallorca. They have their own exhibition and gallery space and curate, as well as produce some of the most important collections for private clients, companies and luxury brands.

This impressive property close to Palma, embraces the local art scene while combining the luxury and style that is synonymous with Kimpton, a must stay for design lovers.

To book a room visit Kimpton Aysla Mallorca prices start from €350 per night during winter and from €600 per night during summer season.

In our latest Artist Spotlight with Carmen Delprat, exploring the artwork she creates feels like stepping inside her incredible mind. It’s inspiring, insightful, and guaranteed to blow your mind.

We spent some time with her to find out more about where her creativity comes from, what the future holds and so much more…

Tell us the journey that led you to launch your career to become a full-time artist

Art has always been my number one passion in my life. My family are highly creative so naturally, I followed in their footsteps to explore my artistic expression. I graduated from the University of Newcastle with a Bachelor of Fine Art straight after high school. Continuing my studies I achieved a Diploma in Art, a Masters Degree in Fine Art and a Diploma in Art Education in the years that followed. My cousin Paul Delprat is the principal of the Julian Ashton Art School at The Rocks in Sydney, so I have been lucky enough to attend his academic fine art classes.

My formal experiences lead me interstate and overseas to work for an award-winning Production and Promotion company called “A Couple of Cowboys”. I was responsible for producing over one thousand illustrations for their international top-selling video board game called “Atmosfear, The Third Dimension” (1995). My passion for sharing artistic visions has lead me to teach full-time. You could say I am a high school teacher by day and an artist by night. Having given total commitment and effort to other businesses and teaching, I live by the mantra to work as hard for yourself as you do for others.

My full-time artistic career really has been a creative project lead by the notion that one day when I look back on my life, I know I have given my utmost attention to art.

You love fashion, how is that portrayed in your work?

Fashion is a fun way to show your creativity and flair with contemporary themes. Who doesn’t love to feel glamorous and special? Wrapping yourself up in a piece of delicate fabric is very pleasurable. My designer art scarf collection “The Art Becomes You”, was inspired by considering how I could pair art with luxury items. Since fashion is ever-changing one can simply dress up any outfit by wearing one of my exclusive scarves and make a bold statement in their own chic way.

Artist Spotlight with Carmen Delprat

How do you want people to feel when they look at your work?

Certain types of artwork can send you on a visual journey of escapism. I would like people to feel uplifted and enjoy the experience of engaging with my work. I am hoping my art makes people feel inspired and evokes a continual experience of pleasure that increases over time and adds elegance and new dimensions to any home.

Being an artist comes with its struggles, how have you overcome these?

Artists can be their own worst critic at times when striving for perfection when perfection doesn’t really exist. I have found that adopting a growth mindset has allowed me to reset how I view the art world and my role in it. Together all artists create a garden of inspiration for the world to see. That also makes me realise that there is enough success for everyone, including you and me. There is no need to be competitive or to compare. Opportunities can be sometimes hidden as hard work. Through persistent effort, I have overcome the many obstacles connected with creativity.

Talk us through an average day in your life…

Well, it may not be what you expect. Early mornings I check my emails, then off to work as a high school teacher encouraging students to find their own creativity in Visual Art and Visual Design. Once home, I catch up with my little cat Leo, and then I review my latest artworks and continue to develop my techniques. Sometimes I need to work on the business side with my website or prepare artwork for customers. I aim to work at least two hours every night sometimes more on my artwork.

What’s the process behind creating a new piece of art?

Since I specialise in illustration, oil painting and printmaking all these processes require different skill sets. For my illustrations, I sketch a few concept ideas as a starting point. My work is multi-layered with symbolism so using technology can be a great tool to arrange my creative compositions and work out ideas. Once I am happy with these concepts, I use the digital idea as a starting point and allow new dimensions to emerge with the physical practice of drawing or painting. If I have an idea in mind, say a particular landscape or a bird for example, I will go on a journey to take photos of my subject as research to get the details right. The rendering of detail takes the longest time. It isn’t that easy to always come up with new works of art, as one needs inspiration. So I seek to find beautiful things that can be reinterpreted in unique ways. I am hoping what I enjoy doing, others will love as much.

Who is involved in the brand and what are their roles?

Actually, I work solo with my brand. However, my sister (Carmel), is assigned to my Facebook art page (Carmen Delprat Art) with administration. We work as a great team together. My role in marketing and branding the CARMEN DELPRAT ART Collection involves everything from start to finish. This includes designing the brand logo, construction and designing my website. I manage all marketing, packaging customer care and relations. For example this year I have reached an international audience with my artwork featured in London’s House & Garden, The World of Interiors, Tatler, Vanity Fair, Vogue, London’s Life Magazine and Condé Nast Traveller.

Since launching to become an artist, is there anything you would do differently? 

Perhaps I could have launched my website earlier, it has only been open since 2020. I wish I had more confidence when I was younger to have entered more art competitions.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list?

Travelling is the best experience. I have been lucky enough to visit New York and the United Kingdom, Europe would be my next destination with Italy, Paris and Spain a main focus. The Salvador Dali Museum and La Sagrada Familia Cathedral are a must-see. For a destination focusing on relaxation, the Greek Islands or Costa Rica. If you can handle the 24-hour flight, Australia has many beautiful destinations to explore! I would love to learn more about our own indigenous art culture as we have much to learn from our oldest First Nation race here in Australia.

Five years from now, where do you see the brand?

This year I have been planting the seeds for international growth and in five years I am hoping to reach a larger audience of people to enjoy the experience of owning my artwork and maybe even having a collection of my art.

Where can people find out more?

To see my full collection you can visit www.carmendelpratart.com. Or if you like to see works in progress see more on my Instagram and Facebook page as carmendelpratart.

Lo Hennessey is an artist whose work will definitely get you talking. She is interested in incorporating human anatomy and biomechanics in her paintings, utilising her experience with human body dissection and postural analysis as the basis of her artwork. Intrigued? So were we!

We spent some time with her to find out more…

Lo Hennessey

Tell us about the journey that leads you to be an artist…

My journey as an artist began when the COVID-19 quarantine was announced in Boston. At the time, I had just moved in with 2 new roommates, one being a graphic designer/artist and a catalyst for my newfound passion. I had moved back to Massachusetts after leaving a toxic relationship and began therapy to rebuild myself and improve my mental health. After returning to Boston, I worked as a physical therapist with children in the Boston school system, but when the schools closed for COVID-19 precautions, I was then transferred to a nursing home in a lower-income area of Boston, working actively throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This is when I set up an art studio in my apartment, for a hobby and a mental health release, finding that I had quite a knack for painting.

How do you want people to feel when they admire your artwork?

Each piece is intended to evoke a unique feeling or mood, dictated by the events occurring in my life as it was created. Most pieces are vibrant in colour, which I believe will lead to an initial feeling of joy & chaos, but beyond first glance, I intended to provoke further meaning, whether it be intellectual or of a darker emotion.

You incorporate human anatomy and biomechanics into your paintings. Can you tell us more about this?

I studied human anatomy and biomechanics in my undergraduate & graduate work, this became an integral part of my artwork. My career as a physical therapist has been essential in my practice as an artist and has been the foundation of everything I have created.

What do you think makes you stand out from other artists?

My career/education as a physical therapist & deep understanding of the human form has given me the passion & knowledge to succeed as an artist. During graduate school, I had hands-on experience with human dissection, which in addition to postural and movement analysis has been pivotal in my ability to capture the human form.

What’s the process behind creating a new piece of art and who is involved in the process?

My process typically begins impulsively and is always evolving. Most works are imagined and created by only me, but for some works, I’ve had to involve models, which are usually my wonderful and enthusiastic friends.

What advice would you offer anyone who wants to become a full-time artist?

I’m still on my way to achieving this goal, so I guess it’s my go-to motto, ‘Where there’s a will, there’s a way.’ I tell myself this every day.

Looking back since you started, is there anything that you would do differently?

Absolutely not. I feel strongly that my success has happened this way for a reason and without the hardship and disappointments I would never have made it to this point.

Talk us through an average day in your life…

I wake up and give myself a pep talk (“I can do this!!!”). Then. I go to work all day, get home and paint, daydream about what I want to paint next, work out or do basic strength/stretching exercises to maintain back health. At some point in the day I find time for basic human needs like eating, sleeping, and general self-care. Some days are better than others.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is on your must-visit list?

I love national parks. I stayed at the Circle View Guest Ranch in Badlands National Park, which was an amazing experience. As for future destinations, I’m hoping to get to Banff National Park soon.

What does self-care mean to you?

Self-care is what I need to work on massively and an ongoing project. Ideally, self-care is maintaining an active, balanced lifestyle. On my good weeks, it’s boxing 2 times per week, eating healthy meals, staying hydrated, and having regular social connections with family and friends.

What’s your 5-year vision for the brand?

I believe hugely in lifelong learning and no matter where life takes me I hope that 5 years from now I am still taking classes and learning from mentors in different areas of art, science, and business. I hope my brand is ever-evolving and progressing with the times.

Where can people find out more?

You can see more of my art gallery at my website- www.lohennyart.com

I also post about my behind-the-scenes and life journey on my personal instagram @lohennessey and my art Instagram @LoHennyArt