art process

Built, Not Bought: A Vintage Hanger Turned Studio Tool

Art workshops, Artist, ArtTravel, illustration

17 years of art experience and a pile of degrees, yet here I am at London Art College, sitting like a total freshman. (Honestly, that’s a ready-made punchline.)

It’s a generational engineering trauma: my family is physically incapable of simply buying a ready-made product. Fellow cheapskate artists will appreciate this 10/10.

Welcome to my mini-series, where I’m transforming a heavy oak hanger into a custom studio storyboard panel. Armed with an engineering degree, an illustrator’s eye, and a few everyday items, I’m building a creative workspace from scratch—one detail, texture, and sketch at a time.

Skipping boring, ready-made store options to flex my own designer storyboard…

So, it’s an old coat rack instead of the big online retail giants, turned into a storyboard that works like a puppet theater where you can slide frames up and down.

Creating StoryBoard Panel

I was not sure how to name this old-fashioned hanger, forgotten part of previous owners of my apartment. Maybe the Brief Hanger? Or the Draft Board? Finally the name was chosen as StoryBoard Panel because I am going to create new stories about my friends, characters and maybe animals…

Welcome – StoryBoard Panel

And to wrap it up: who’s with me on this crazy ride? Who else feels that urgent, genetic need to look at a piece of useless junk laying around the house and think: “Yeah, I can definitely build something out of that”? What about you?

Well, I do have a Vintage coat rack / Wooden base. Then what do I need else?

Handwritten list of art supplies and a sketch of a vintage coat rack with notes about placement of wine corks, sketchbooks, magnets, and wooden pegs
My plan

Spiral sketchbook: This is where the magic (and the chaos) starts before I tear it apart.

Structural engineering, but make it wine.

Three wine corks on a textured fabric surface with the word Diamante printed on two of them

3-color sketchbook & black paper: For when regular white paper is just too mainstream and boring.

Fluorescent paints: To make my ideas literally glow in the dark and pop off the page.

Wooden pegs: My tiny wooden assistants doing the heavy lifting of holding the story together.

A clear container filled with small wooden clothespins on a textured fabric surface with two larger clothespins beside it

Linen strings: The tightropes my characters walk on while I figure out the plot twist.

Super magnets: For snaps, rapid changes, and maximum satisfying clicks.

Transparent elements:** Now you see it, now you don’t—pure layout wizardry.

The real joke: Designer storyboard

Picture a professional designer with fancy degrees hanging out in a store, aggressively clicking tiny magnets together to test their power. Right after that, I was stress-testing a roll of linen string to see if it would survive being wrapped around an old coat rack, while the staff slowly backed away.

What about you, fellow artists and illustrators? What do you use to keep your storyboards and ideas organized? Share your favorite studio hacks below!

All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.

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Creative Tips for Unique Art Frames.

Art workshops

Some tips for making an original frame for art.Creating #goodmood paintings.

Recently there are some questions came from my colleagues artists.

How you are presenting your art to the clients, with or without frame?

Adding a mat to a watercolor painting or not?

Are you buying a frame before presenting it to a client? It’s crucial to consider the overall aesthetic appeal and how the frame complements the artwork or photograph it will house. Investing in a quality frame not only enhances the visual impact but also conveys professionalism and attention to detail. This first impression is vital in establishing trust. It showcases the value of your work. Thus, it is essential to select a frame that aligns with your client’s expectations and the piece being showcased.

Standard inexpensive or hand made from a baguette store?

Frames at Target are often priced below $25. This makes it an appealing choice for those decorating on a budget. Shoppers have a variety of styles, sizes, and colors to choose from. This makes it easy to find something that fits their aesthetic. They can do so without breaking the bank. But, with custom framing, prices can significantly increase. The process involves more personalized options and high-quality materials. It also includes professional craftsmanship that caters to individual tastes and specific artwork requirements.

This can result in an investment far exceeding the cost of ready-made frames. This is something to consider when planning your interior decor.

Frame is always an architectural feature plus preserving an art and integrating it into a design of room. There many questions about framing and artists are looking for the best solution in every situation.

Which ones?

Let’s explore together. This will guarantee that painting a picture frame at home becomes an ongoing creative process.

I am completely immersing myself in this interesting and creative activity. Well.. various techniques and secrets can be used to update the frame. I am going to share my experience of modernizing a standard frame for art

Please share your experience in comments. Let’s exchange :)

All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission

Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)

You are welcome to visit my personal website pages. There, you can find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings. You can buy canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.

All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.

 

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Blue Elephant Theme , the magic of imagination. Watercolor Clausura technique.

Art workshops, Artist, ArtTravel

For my artist colleagues. Workshops. Holidays spirit for creative community. Find your flow: Discover intuitive art.

Blindfolded, two brushes, two paints, and a whole lot of happy accidents! My baby elephant with a dreamy look was created from my memory in Rome. This happened when I looked at Bernini’s statue Elephant and Obelisk( Obelisco della Minerva).

Side-by-side comparison of a watercolor painting process, showcasing the 'before' abstract blue strokes and the 'after' result revealing a detailed depiction of a baby elephant.
A comparison of the watercolor technique showcasing the transformation of abstract blue strokes into a charming baby elephant portrait.

I looked at my “art” that I did with closed eyes, 2 brushes technique. My imagination helped to find that this is a baby elephant with dreamy eyes:). I looked at photos of African wildlife. I explored some surrealist art and cartoons for inspiration. This is my tip, the key is to have fun and let your creativity flow. The clausura technique with closed eyes is already a playful approach. Embrace the unexpected results. Let them guide your artistic journey. Don’t worry about creating perfect representations; focus on capturing the essence and personality of each animal in your unique style.

Abstract watercolor painting featuring shades of blue with soft brush strokes, suggesting a dreamy composition.
Before. What is it? It looks like an elephant for me:)
A black and white watercolor painting of a baby elephant with a dreamy expression, showcasing an abstract and whimsical style.

Painting a blue elephant with the clausura technique (blind contour painting with two brushes and closed eyes) is inherently funny. It sets a great tone for a wildlife series. Let’s brainstorm some ideas to build on this together:)

This little blue elephant with dreamy eyes channels my inner Bernini. It has less Baroque drama and more goofy charm. It is the first in a series exploring the unexpected – African wildlife! Who knew closed eyes and clausura could lead to a safari adventure? Is this a dream? Maybe it’s just the beginning of a wild ride! Usually I do not limit myself to realistic backgrounds. I am using abstract shapes, bold colors, or even incorporate found objects into the paintings.

Another tip, be brave and experiment with color palettes and different color combinations. Unexpected colors are fun!:) bright pink giraffe, a lime green lion, or an orange zebra, why not?:)

How about a “surreal safari” – animals in unexpected colors or situations. A pink giraffe in a polka-dot landscape, a lime-green lion lounging on a rainbow, etc. The clausura technique will add to the whimsical nature. As an artists we might give each animal a distinct personality. Use posture and expression to achieve this. Even with closed eyes, you can convey personality through brushstrokes.

This little baby elephant has a dreamy look. It is painted with watercolor clausura techniques. This artwork captures the quiet magic of the predawn light.

One of my rules is not to be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes may add to the humor and charm of your work. This blue baby elephant maybe a fantastic starting point for a truly unique and memorable artistic journey , who knows?;)

A watercolor painting of a blue baby elephant with dreamy eyes, displayed in a modern living room with a brick wall, a couch, and a lamp.
A whimsical watercolor painting of a baby elephant, showcasing dreamy blues and playful brushstrokes, perfect for inspiring creativity in art.

Thank you for reading the post. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe. These actions will bring you more captivating content about the history of art and architecture.

#watercolorpainting #watercolorelephant #babyelephant #predawn #clausura #watercolorart #animalpainting #peaceful #artistsoninstagram #artisticclausura #painting #art #instaart #risovatmogutvse #clausura #watercolor #painting #blueelephant #bernini #africanwildlife #wildlifeart #unexpectedart #funnyart #artistsoninstagram #newseries

The magic of the holidays is in the making! ✨ Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure

All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.

You are welcome to visit my personal website pages. There, you can find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings. You can buy canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.

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Thank you for your response. ✨

Golden hour magic and wildlife art imagination. Watercolor Clausura technique.

Art workshops, Artist, ArtTravel

For my artist colleagues. Workshops. Holidays spirit for creative community.


Feeling stuck? Try a 2-brush, 2-paint challenge! You might surprise yourself with the beauty you uncover. and please share your creations!

Let’s continue to learn about clausura: where creativity meets tradition

Clausura: A History of Creativity.  In the 16th century, the first academies of architecture and art in Europe set the groundwork for student evaluations. They assessed true knowledge and skills in a rather unusual way.

At the end of the semester, students entered separate rooms where they were locked up. This process, known as clausura, tested their creativity and abilities in drawing, painting, and sculpture. This system led to the creation of graphic images and layouts known as clauses. These clauses became the visual representation of a student’s creativity and talents. Today, clausura legacy continues through practical assessments. It also persists in creative evaluations in art and architecture schools globally.

Before and after images of a watercolor painting showcasing vibrant colors and palm trees, with the words 'Before' and 'After' labeled.
Before and After. Wildlife, sunset and palms.
Transformation of a watercolor painting, showcasing the evolution from ‘Before’ to ‘After’ with vibrant colors and artistic techniques.

Let your imagination run wild! What creatures do you see in this piece? Tell me in the comments:)

This is what I see: Golden hour magic. Two cheeky monkeys are totally captivated by the evening twilight! Painted with watercolor and the *clausura* technique, this piece captures the serenity and vibrancy of the sunset. What’s your favorite part of the day? What’s your favorite thing about sunsets? Mine is definitely the way they paint the sky! This palm tree art perfectly captures that feeling.

This painting just *happened*. It is a spontaneous explosion of color and emotion. The artwork captures more than just a scene. It conveys the pure, awe-inspiring feeling of being there.

Bringing the wild to life, one brushstroke at a time. The process of creating this piece is truly inspiring me.

The clausura history highlights how important practical assessments are. Hands-on evaluations are crucial to accurately gauge a student’s skills and abilities.

The next time you see a stunning painting, remember that it might be the result of a tradition. A breathtaking sculpture or an awe-inspiring building might also have origins in tradition. This tradition dates back to the 16th century.

A vibrant watercolor painting featuring a sunset scene with palm trees, displayed in a modern interior setting.
Relaxing place in a home with sunset and wildlife painting

Thank you for reading the post. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe. These actions will bring you more captivating content about the history of art and architecture.

#watercolorpainting #sunset #monkeys #wildlifeart #clausura #watercolor #painting #goldenhour #animalart #artisticclausura #painting #art #instaart #risovatmogutvse

The magic of the holidays is in the making! ✨ Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure

All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.

You are welcome to visit my personal website pages. There, you can find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings. You can buy canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨