Of a Kind

     Normally when it comes to my work an idea enters my thought only to lead to sketches and ultimately a piece. It is one all its own and even though it may be a print with my hand alteration it is highly unlikely it is 100% identical to its counterpart. These works though come from me and my passion. They are entirely my own. However sometimes it is nice to venture outside the box and have a counterpart. Sometimes it's nice to have a request for a custom piece  and that  I see that individual as my counterpart in these projects.
     I think some people remove themselves from the possibility of doing custom work. It may stem from a resistance the loosen the reins or share control. It may be fear of working with a tyrant. It may be that their box is quiet homey so they figure why step out. However I look to it as opportunity. A chance to expand and try something that was unlikely to be part of your work prior. It builds diversity in style, content and connections. From what I've found the counterparts are excited and not vying for control. I'm sure there's some who'd prove this statement wrong but all the one's I've work with are entirely congenial. In the end it's an opportunity to be a person of the people, an artist of the array and it is an incredibly one of a kind piece.
     Recently I just finished a custom piece for a friend and loyal customer. The request : a pre-revolutionary war style barn with a few chickens outside. Look at my work. In the same realm but not spot on to my stereotypical work however I jumped at the opportunity. We exchanged conversation and photos narrowing down the perfect image. Sketches came about and alterations were perfected. Then came the print and touch ups. It was matted, framed and for the holiday season wrapped in cheer. It made me expand and it had a phenomenal result. Thank you for the chance.
     I guess it's important to expand. You don't know where it will take you or what opportunities will present themselves. Don't forget to go the extra mile for your supporters. I love something new so not trying to plug here but remember I can always whip up something special with you as my counterpart.

Lights. Camera. Action!

     You walk down the clean, crisp halls delicatly lit. Highlighting the work of artists in the most pleasing manner. Guests muse and marvel at the images before them. Modern and literal works of dance before their eyes. There is a hum of chatter as artists, gallery types and viewers exchange contacts, ideas and abundent banter. There's hour'derves to sample and the band to listen to. All in all it is a marvelous evening of culture and class but have you given it much thought as to the time or effort put into everything you just saw? Do you understand the inner workings? I do.

     To put on a succesful art show there are many things to consider and steps that could easily go overlooked. First is the concept. One which must be specific enough to be cohesive in theme while yet broad enough to include a variety of artists, styles and perspectives. After an idea has formed it is required to created a formulated prospective for the show including timelines, fees, locations and forms. Clearly it must be coherent, stark and concise. It's a tediously technical side many don't think of because along with it's creation is the distribution. Endless time of posting and sharing because what good is a show if you have no entries. Living in a big city is great. More people to spread the word to but oh what a double edge sword as you must cleverly find ways to reach all these individuals  through various resources and social media. The come the entries. Sometime a trickle one by one and then what else to expect but then a flood all at once. Though I will never be one to complain about ample entries. More options is never a negative. Spend some time and sift, sift, sift. Decidedly choices are made and notifications are sent out to the chosen ones. Of course these notifications are drafted, reviewed, critiqued and revised into sublime perfection... and then sent. The gallery types gather all the critical information such as titles, prices, dimensions, medium and that ever so important artist statement. All of this is to be made into tags and kept for records. A time consuming and yet vitally important task. The work must of course arrive to the gallery. In some cases you can ship work in but in most you must drop it off. If an individual can make the original drop off time we are incredibly grateful of your commitment and flexibility. For those who schedule with us another time, we are equally as grateful since you went out of your way for the show. Others.... well lets move on. We of course put up the work ourselves. It may be grunt work but it is some of the most valuable knowledge you will ever gain. So break out your level, hammer, nails and measuring tape and get things in order. A show must have a natural flow and balance. A mix between style and matter so as to keep movement through the space. It is a talent of it's own to logistically put a show together like Tetris while not compromising the aesthetic integrity. Show is hung and labels are placed but lets not forget the wine and food. We provide that from the gallery's pocket for you and your enjoyment. The music you love listening to in the background; it's our job to find these musicians and set them up appropriately in the space. The final step is promotion which may in fact be the hardest because everyone uses social media but it seems like no one is on the same one and no one wants to commit or they simply forget. It takes repetition and constant exposure and even then it's a challenge. The people behind the scene in an art gallery takes a lot of work that lasts long hours but it's the most incredible job in the world when it's all complete and yo can look at it in one fluid track.

     Along with the note of promotion let me say a word for a great little gallery on Coronado Island. The Undiscovered Gallery works incredibly hard and even though it does not appear to be a conventional gallery it has just as much credit and spirit. They are hosting a show titled "Not The Only Dreamer". It lasts until the end of January but the opening night is tomorrow night, November 30th from 5pm-8pm. It is on the 3rd floor of Coronado Plaza(1330 Orange Ave Coronado CA)-just take the elevator. I urge you to show your support and stop by if you're in the area.

Publications

     I previously mentioned that CAGO had accepted my work  for gallery representation. Well this situation just gets better. Within days of one another I was notified that not only did they want to have a Q&A on their website about me but I also had the opportunity to talk part in the Radio Talk Show Blog. Oh and I found out that my work was accepted into the 365 Tribute show.


     Needless to say I was elated for this opportunity. I think it means the most when your piers value you  for they know the standard of which to hold you against. CAGO sent me interview questions for readers. My answers will be put along side my portfolio on their website as well as be featured. The radio interview was a unique experience and something I'd love to do again. It went beyond basic questions, as the host was knowledgable in general but also knew my work. I think the concept really came across quiet well. First it will be aired on their show. Then a couple days later it will be able to be found on Amazon and iTunes. And finally a link will be attached to my portfolio on their website

     The 365 Tribute show has accepted my work. Along with that they also sent questions my way. These questions are a part of a  series called "Artists" with real answers from real artists. Well I am now one of those artists. I will be notified when my specific answers appear to share with ya'll and for my own reference.

     All in all this isn't too shabby of chain of events. In fact I'm quiet pleased. By no means will I stop or consider this the ultimate success but I am very happy with the outcome of my efforts. Artists have to put forth so much grunt work to gain any sort of traction it's always nice to get a little notice. Thank you CAGO & 365 Tribute for having faith in me and loving my work.

A Pick Up

     So earlier this month there was a pleasant surprise. I had intended to mention it sooner but between a crazy schedule and to many to-dos  to shake a list at it somehow slipped between the cracks and has yet to be mentioned to you...until now.
     I constantly, borderline obsessively submit my work to any and everything it is applicable to. I never want to miss that chance  as I am a true believer in the concept that it only takes 1 exposure and the right passerby . So as a method to never miss that fated moment I press on. Well it's paid off a bit here and there. One such instance is an online gallery by the title of CAGO(Contemporary Art Gallery Online) reviewed my work after my submission and pursued me as an artist further. It was then I submitted my resume, artist statement and more images that they accepted me into their gallery as a permenant member. Indeed after much hard work my art has found a cyber home on  the web walls of this gallery.It things like that that encourage me to continue to chip away at success because I feel like each little bit is a footing. I'm not at the summit. I can't even see the summit. But I know I'm going in it's direction and each accomplishment towards that is a footing that gives me a better grasp and is taking me closer.
     For those of you interested in seeing the work housed by CAGO you can check it out at http://www.contemporaryartgalleryonline.com/AshleyPeters'sArtwork . It much of the same work you may have seen before along with a few new pieces. Thank you again for all you support as I journey forward on a seldom traveled road.

A Year In Review

     Yesterday my birthday and at approx 3:20 pm I turned 24. Every birthday I always think about all the things that happened in that past year and potentially all the things to come . I like to think there's be some sense of accomplishment and growth, not just a stagnant turning of one's wheels gaining no traction. Overall 23 was quite a success and here's a bit of the details in review. 

     I focused my printmaking and redesigned my artist statement. All of which encouraged me to launch my own shop on Etsy under the title of Ardent Prints and the artist AP tying in with my body ink and my name as I had always hoped. We went to Santa Barbra. We celebrated our first Thanksgiving and Christmas together as our own little nuclear family. We may New Years Resolutions some of which have been kept( getting back into running) and some of which have been petering allow( re-learning Italian). I increased the amount of shows I took part in and sales made. My work was scouted and picked up by an art organization (RAW) which has lead to other opportunities. We saw many good friends leave the ship to new adventures but we've welcomed new friends too. We've gone to Sea World, Lego Land and the Safari Park.In June we celebrated our 1 year wedding anniversary. We went on a Ghost Hunt at one of the oldest and most haunted homes of America. My work was selected for a spot at the San Diego Spirits Festival. I was hired by a corporate coffee giant and after seeing their drone-ish ways left "the man". We've dealt with the constant ins and outs of the Navy. We saw Hawaii and what it had to offer from hidden waterfall hikes to surfing; windy weather and strange food. We've felt like real grown ups in a good way. There was a trip to the Grand Canyon and we were memorized on our 16+ mile hike. With Bently in tow we saw an unforgettable landmark. People have called me hippie dippy and an activist and a bit green and I take it as a good thing. Hiking became a new passion along with ocean water kayaking. There was an incredible night camping in the Mojave Preserve literally 13 miles from anyone. I was accepted into Graduate School at the Academy of Art for a Masters in Illustration. We fell in love with the idea of a winery after a visit and think of it's practical applications to our future lives. I was hired as a Gallery Manager- what I trained to do. We've cherished all of our moments together and made so many incredible memories. To say the least it has been a fantastic year full of milestones.

     Like I said I look to what's to come and perhaps some expectations. This year Bently will get to see Ohio for the first time and I truly hope snow. I want more sales and notice on etsy, as any artist would. I am excited for the work with the gallery. It is nice to do what I was designed for(jeeze I sound like a espresso machine). More shows of course! Continue running and hopefully a half marathon before the next birthday. Really brush up on some languages just not sure whether to focus on German or Italian, ( I remember more German). Really enforce my natural ONLY product rule. Get some scholarships and such for school. See San Francisco and the redwoods. Teach Bently some novelty tricks, (in progress). Continue with the Naval ebb and flow but more importantly a little more flow and little less ebb. Time with family and friends and cherishing every opportunity.

     Every birthday is a landmark. People hate growing old and I think of it as just growing, (maybe because I'm not old yet). I truly think though when you take it in stride, in review, it is far more enjoyable and satisfying than for those who think of it as a countdown or a timer. This yet has been jam packed full of events and I can only assume this next year will be as well. I don't know what's coming my way but that's half the fun. I looking forward to a little adventure- as life should be. 

Gallery Manager

     Merit is worth its weight in gold but as are connections and timing. I avidly believe in some  circumstances you are intended to be at a specific location at a certain moment and by doing so it change change your course. Some things are not coincidence, such as my husband's and my initial interactions. It is not fate which I condone but perhaps an unseen nudge.
     I mention this because thanks to such an unseen nudge and coincidental timing I have recently acquired a wonderful opportunity. As I had wrote prior my work was accepted into the Colour Show at the Undiscovered Gallery on Coronado. End of September there was the final reception of which I was to attend. To be honest I was tired and Danny was on duty so if it wasn't for professionalism and nudge from him I'd most likely had been in the wardroom instead. I arrived and socialized and genuinely had a good time. Business cards were distributed and chatting up gallery goers completed. As the evening drew to a close I was speaking with the Gallery Director, Nicole, and her friend. It was then that she mention because of a recent move she needed help with the gallery and was looking to share the reins. At the sound of this my ears perked to attention and next thing you know it was as if I was making a pitch in the boardroom.
     Hoping to have not came on too strongly I sent along my resume. Shortly then Nicole responded and after we work out some details you can say hello to Undiscovered Gallery's new Gallery Manager! The gallery may be small but I'd rather be there from the start and build a foundation. It's unpaid but this is an incredible opportunity. This is what my degree what designed to do. And one day it could become paid. Most importantly it is a foot in the door.
      I am so glad to have gone that night. To have engaged in that conversation. To have been there in that moment and to have take a chance for such an opportunity. This is just the beginning but it's put my course in the correct direction.

RAW Awards

     A few months ago a lady sought me out from an organization called RAW. She found my work via Etsy and said she'd like me to be part of their showcase. RAW is a non profit organization designed to promoted and expose undiscovered artists who they believe have talent and potential. AfterI got over my skepticism thinking it was far too good to be true I participated in the showcase and since then it has opened doors. Due to the chance I took I have since then taken part in opportunities to show at the Spirit Festival and The Colour Show at the Undiscovered Gallery. So to say the least I am thankful. Now another opportunity has arose but I need your help.

The Button Will Look Like This

     Every year RAW host this thing called RAW Awards where they award the Best RAW artist in each of their categories, (Film, Visual Art, Fashion, Music, Hairstylist, Makeup, Performance, Accessories, Photography). First it starts on the local level of course and gets narrowed down from there. The winners of each level not only get recognition and promotion but prizes at higher levels. The title and exposure is simply enough. Like I said though I need your help because these individuals are chosen based on votes. The voting period is from October 1st-October 15th. Follow this link, ( http://www.rawartists.org/ardentprints ) to my profile. As of October 1st there will be a RAW Awards button to click and vote. It will ask for your email just to keep track of votes, they promise not to bug you.  You can vote EVERY day during the voting period, so please do.  The goal: get votes and send me to the semi-finals!

     For more info on the how to or the process you can watch a nifty video here : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3tjVOTzPzs&feature=player_embedded&utm_source=MailingList&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=RAWards+VOTING+BEGINS+MONDAY+October+1st%21 .
As I said before I would love to move on to the semi finals and you can make that possible. Thank you all for your support throughout the years. Wish me luck & fingers crossed!

Rejuvenating Travels

     Everyone needs a break and a bit of an escape. It actually seems essential when living in the center of a bustling metropolis as we do. Just recently we followed this call and indulged in a bit of remote peace and quiet.  Off to the Mojave National Preserve and the Grand Canyon!

     We set out for the Grand Canyon. On the way our trip was split and we spent the first night in the Mojave National Preserve. To say the least its not traditional camping in the sense of a campground. We were a minimum of 10 miles from any form of civilization.It was just us, our supplies, the mountains and the desert. Time stood still without any interruption.

     At the Grand Canyon we stayed at Mather Campground in the outermost loop backing to the wilderness. As remote as you can be in a traditional set up. The area was teeming with natural life as our first night there we saw five elk sauntering through the sites including a bull. We could here their calls and one morning a mule deer was just outside our tent. The canyon itself is spectacular! As cliche as it may be it truly does take your breath away and no pictures do not do it justice. There are so many tiers, layers and levels. It goes on forever. Its vastness almost overwhelms your senses as you eyes attempt to simultaneously absorb both the details and the whole picture. You spend hours just looking at the same timeless, pristine spot.



     We engulfed every experience. From eating lunch overlooking the ledge to hiking point to point of the South Rim. We drank from the spring water and watched the canyon disappear into sunset. It was an incredible experience, a check on our bucket list and a rejuvenating trip both personally and artistically. I think I can foresee future visits as we travel through.

Upcycle

     I am an avid subscriber to the art of upcycling. For those of you who don't know upcycling is much like recycling but the concept is that instead of just re-using something you are improving upon it. Often the item is even transformed in it's purpose. Currently one of the most popular scenes for upcyling is in refurbished furniture thanks to common popularity of the rustic look in todays world. I however have been experiment with the use of it in my artwork.

     While perusing the cubicle spaces of some beach front antique stores I came across some interesting items I thought to be useful. First off I found four old photos that suited my needs. There were so many photos which amazed me that people so easily get rid of little tangible pieces of evidence eluding to memories. I for one couldn't but ultimately their loss is my gain. The other item I stumbled upon was a small apothecary vase. A little dingy but nothing a good scrub couldn't fix.

     After some careful planning I transformed these photos into my image. I placed my classic linear shapes into the scene. My mother nature creation made a couple appearances. In one the stars came out to shine. It was interesting deciding the method at which to apply the imagery. In the end pen and acrylic worked best. As for the apothecary vase I wanted it become a "looking glass". By this I mean the image upon the back side so when you look at the vase it looks as if the image is trapped inside. I was thrilled with how this turned out. Inside lies my distraughtly demoralized mother earth. To see these images individually in more detail visit http://ardentprints.vpweb.com/default.html .

A Little Professionalism

     Now I would consider myself to be a professional. Went to school and received a degree. Held solo and group shows. I've even been published. I run my own shop. Seems pretty professional to me. However for some there's even more.

      As I've been entering more shows, contests and publications I have quickly realized that many do not want a CD, or attachments as they did in days of old. Instead they ask for your website and they specifically ask primarily for your website not your blog or your online shop. Even though I may feel a blog is a perfectly valid account and my shop displays my work just fine I don't want to be at a disadvantage. So I therefore created a verified, professional website. It includes everything my resume, exhibition record, artist statement, portfolio, contact, etc. This way all my bases are covered and I figure it can only be more professional on my part.

     If you are interested the url is http://ardentprints.vpweb.com/default.html . Any updates will be posted on here as well but if you'd like a look at Ardent Prints all suited up take a peak.

San Diego Spirits Festival

     August 25th & 26th I was fortunate to be part of the San Diego Spirits Festival. The San Diego Spirits Festival is exactly that of which it sounds, a festival for all things liqure, bartending and mixology. Now I was not in and amoungst the drinking aspect, however in front of Broadway Pier(the event location), they held an outdoor arts and crafts festivals. This is what I was able to be a part.

     It was interesting to say the least. Even though it may not have been as centrally focused upon art as one could hope it still was an opportunity for exposure and networking. It was a chance to have your work out there for the general public and the financially sound in attendence of the festival. And in that aspect it was a great success. By the end of the time I spent there I made multiple connections with customers,viewers, curators and fellow vendors. I made a couple of sales. I beefed up the resume. And I learned a little more abut setting up for a booth space.

          A shoppe must create an atmosphere for its customers as must a booth for a show. It is my hopes to create a mobile version of my studio space. Facilitate a scene of dessert, dilapidated beauty including everything from dusty accents and vintage furniture. This the home of my work in life an in my heart. They deserve such a stage. It is their setting.

Just a 1, 2, 3...

     My art is a process. For as much emotion, social commentary and passion it contains, the actually creation is rather calculated. A repetitive formula I apply to each piece. I would like to share the essential steps to the manifestation of a piece from my wilderness series, specifically one on the moleskin journals you can find in my etsy shop.

Step 1: Sketch: Thumbnails, thumbnails, thumbnails. Back in school we were often made to do 20+ thumbnails for one piece. I admit I no longer typically adhere to that quantity. Instead I do semi vague geometric layout of what I'd like to do. Everything can break down into shapes. I do this to find the image and scene that looks best, work out angles, edit potential added scenery, cropping etc.

Step 2:Decide & Refine: Of the plethora of sketches I do I pick one, (sometimes several if I'm still a little undecided) and I refine the details. I work it from geometric to fluid. Any questionable or problem areas I troubleshoot. I want to figure out exactly how things work and look in this stage as simple line drawings. Here I also lay the line work for the linear geometric smears of color found in my work.

Step 3: Color: In the stage decisions are made in terms of coloring. In this case since it's a fox and I am taking a natural approach Mother Earth has made some critical, preliminary decisions for me. However the first time around I chose the shade, tone, vibrancy, etc. It is also at this time I contemplate the colors of the linear geometric smears. It's important to think of the way they balance with the character and the paper of which they are upon. I can then see the "final" piece and make tweaks and notes to be transferred for the final work.

Step 4: Transfer: Here is the cover of the moleskin. The determined sketch is lightly drawn on in pencil. I still use the geometric framework as guidance. The beauty about using the geometric framework, though it may be basic is that it allows you to produce identical images by hand piece after piece. They disintegrate as whole characters and reduce to where the circle meets the square. Such dry, cold facts are simply easier  to reproduce than whole dimensional forms.

Step 5:The Character; Here I separate the character. I focus solely on him. Color, pen, everything. For me it's completing a small segmented task that shows measurable progress.

Step 6:Wash: The colors of the linear geometric smears must be filled in.Typically most are varying degrees of transparency where as 1, or an odd number are vibrantly opaque. I will not dive into the depth of it now but when you look at my work you may notice that numbers and balance play a large role. I repeat and prefer certain formulated and theorized set ups. Anyways, the colors are washes using pigments, water and multiple layers to create the preferred tone, opaqueness and flow. Undoubtedly I will need to redefine some lines post step 6.

Set 7: FIN: The finishing step. Here the lines of the character are refined to desired look and perfection. I lay down thin lines for the linear geometric smears because as whimsical as they may be they still require some guided containment. Sometime the width is varying to create a sense of depth. This brings into light my line work which I emphasize so heavily upon and attend with great care. Finishing touches include stylized linear shadows, leaflets of strategically placed grass and a signature upon the back .

     Thing can be dissected, separated, formulated, compartmentalized and systematically executed. In the end it does not deem them any less natural, organic or beautiful. As is my out look upon many things. As in my artistic process.

Success of a Sale

     When one goes on to pursue a degree in the arts stereotypically the amount of skepticism towards success is insurmountable. I have been fortunate by having a select few individuals who have been supportive in my own life. However it is never more sweet than when success seems to be in your favor no matter the size of such success.
     I have mentioned previously that I am in process towards attending graduate school and obtaining my masters. In the meantime I focus on my shop Ardent Prints on etsy. It was about 3 years ago that I stumbled upon etsy when finding items for our wedding. Now years later it is my top resource for sales and purchases. A community of creative minds all in one. I am by no means a big name in this grouping but still a fish in the same pond as the big wigs. My shop is simple, basic and frames the facts of my works. Soon I'd like to revamp it a bit. Add some polish and shine to that professional corner. I have had my shop for less than a year and yet I have made numerous sales, multiple favorites, various, "likes" and plentiful customer visits. Each blip on the radar is a success. Every favorite and every like a pat on the back. Any sale, a reassuring push in the right direction.
      My point in this piece is that every success stands for something no matter how minor. It should be a push forward or a boost onward. Take each little vamp in a positive light. Sometimes you have to be your wn biggest supporter, and the one to put n the most changeling pressure in hopes professional success. Remember this when the path seems befuddled, resistance is strong or skepticism is great. Each success is one more notch up the ladder. Don't let yourself slip.

A Little Help From My Friends

     Last night was the opening reception of the "Colour Show" at the Undiscovered Gallery in Coronado. The only reason I had heard about this show was because of an inside tip thanks to another shown I had previously be a part of. If it wasn't exciting enough to be a rare member of this show the fact that it was on Coronado was a plus in my mind as well. Those of you know Coronado understand why and for those of you who don't think cute, quaint, and well to do. So last night my friend, (Rebecca) and I gussied ourselves up and made an appearance. With our husbands being out to sea we joked she was my date. Funny enough being an artist no one questions that- Ha ha! All joking aside it was a great evening and we both really enjoyed it.
     While we there meandering through all the art of my own and others Rebecca pointed out some of the outrageous prices others we asking for their work and wanted to know why. Materials? In this case no. I told her it was because 1) they we more well known and had a cliental and 2) they could because they've likely sold pieces at similar price. Call us cheap or plum "ig'nant" but neither one of us would pay $1.5 G's for a pretty cottage paintings (Thomas Kinkade doesn't even ask that and oh yea you know you he is). I explained that when you add in man hours(paying yourself minimum wages), cost of materials, accounting for commissions and a marginal profit the price can soar. As a modest artist as myself jamming my foot in the door I have to reel in that price and therefor it's not proportionate to what it maybe should be. For me to bring those numbers to where they really should be 2 things need to happen. 1) Exposure- I'm adamantly working on that and it consumes my cerebral. 2) Enthusiasts- you guys!

     It makes sense the more people who see your  work and like it the more you can value and expand it. That's where YOU come in! I'm not doing this for money, if that was the case I wouldn't have gone into this field. But it is a call for support and promotion to increase awareness and value. So I am asking this favor of you my friends. Pass the word and tell your friends about my etsy site, (http://www.etsy.com/shop/ArdentPrints ) or twitter, (@ArdentPrints) or this blog. And don't just read, though I thank you dearly. Follow! Follow here, follow twitter, and  favorite etsy. The more you do the stronger the Ardent Prints dot is on the radar. That is my hope and it is possible with a little help from my friends. Thank you for all your love and support. Thank you Rebecca for causing this to be written.

One for Another

     In life there are choices and opportunities some of which are hard and others of which are rare. After serious discussion I have been faced with a decision like such. I currently am, (or was) employed for a rather large coffee shop whom shall remain nameless but to give you an idea their green & white logo is on almost every corner. It's been fun and one heck of a learning experience but the nostalgia that was once there has most definitely been drained away. Well this corporate giant and I shall no longer be friends. That's correct, I did in fact put in my 2 weeks notice but for good reason or reasons rather really. Between my schedule, my husband's schedule, and management's lack of flexibility it made it a constant uphill battle to balance  but in my mind that wasn't a good enough reason.

      The reason came with an opportunity. A chance to further my education and obtain my Master's of Fine Art in Illustration at the Academy of Art University. A highly prestigious university that is well staffed, challenging, selective and has a variety of options for opportunities. This was a good enough reason because in my heart of hearts I knew that if I was to go this route that I would be cheating myself, my family and definitely my quality of work to attempt to balance all of it. Since family is first and art career is second that puts coffee last. So good bye to my caffeine source. Instead of thinking of this though as quitting a job I think of it as taking a chance. I'm betting on a race horse named AP and I really do think they can take the Triple Crown. My application has been sent in with my portfolio, resume, exhibition record, statement of intent, artist statement, letters of recommendation and a plethora more items to make me stand  out as the most undeniably desirable candidate. Here's hopin'!

      I looking forward to hearing from them soon, and in turn as will you. This is a chance to follow what I'm designed to do and what my amazing parents have set up the foundation for by supporting me, ( emotionally & financially) through my BA, which by the way thank you. From there I only feel it's fit to continue forward and so I leave one thing for another in hopes of rising to another tier.

Full Circle

    The life as a Navy spouse is a world all it's own and I would even venture to say we individuals are  a bit of a breed all our own. Your schedule is constantly at the will of someone above you. You move -a lot. Communication is spotty at best. And you're willing to travel ridiculous distances for a minuscule amount of time w/ your spouse. Please don't take this as bashing because it's not, it's a way of life and there are good things too.
     The spouses left on shore create a sort of bond and friendship. I for one was a little hesitant to all the Navy groups and clubs and social outings but after being pursued into going by a friend who shall remain nameless, (you know who you are), I went. After a few times though I saw their benefit. All of us spouses came together weirdly needing this and semi socially dependent upon it. In retrospect it makes me think of a misfit herd where the creatures would otherwise struggle but together they thrive as they perfectly fill in the needs of one another as a system of give and take. I say this in a beloved manner and genuinely claim myself as a member of this. I feel these individuals invest more in their friendships even though the length your paths may cross is questionable. Whereas normal friends perceive themselves as strong, independent and sometimes solely focused on their path these individuals see the benefits of symbiotic relationships like such. Others may make silly decisions that sever relationships or drift . These individuals attempt to foster this supportive network of friends.
     I would like to say thank you to all those friends who put in the effort. Thank you for the random wine tastings, coffee meet ups, potlucks and more. Thank you for being on the same wave length and thought process when the boys are gone. Thank you for taking the time to meet up when you're back in town even if it's only for a few days. This world is bizarre and borderline unexplainable to those not privy to it's membership but thank you to my co-citizens of it. I want to dedicate this post to those Navy friends who put in that effort for our friendship because our paths always come full circle. Love you all .

"I volunteer as tribute!"

"I volunteer as tribute!"

     Any ideas as to who I dressed as for Comic Con 2012( my first)? If you haven't deduced it thus far, well, I was Katniss from Hunger Games and I must say I portrayed her to a tee. From the outfit to the dutch braid, the Mockingjay pin and even a dark long bow, self made that could fully draw back. It was epic! People wanted to pose for pics together and I must say it all felt so [perfectly amazing. In that single day of glory I was able to see so many of my all star heroes. I sat in the same room as Stan Lee and Mark Hammon. I heard John Romita Jr speak. Not only did I meet the illustrator of the comic strip Luan but I obtained his signature. I sat a mere 30 rows away from Michael C. Hall( highlight of my day). It was an amazing day and I can't wait until next year.



     In retrospect I learned something during this day once I got past all geeked out moments. It was absolutely amazing seeing all these super stars and I literally mean, world famous-on tv-superstars. It wasn't until I met one illustrator in particular though that I valued the overall attitude of the stars I mentioned prior even more.Let me explain. I met an illustrator who has a few famous books. Since I'm in illustration as well all day I had been asking fellow illustrators(the famous ones) if they could give one piece of advice what would it be? I figure,why not pick the brains of the best. Greg Evans(Luan Illustrator) gave me an awesome answer:" Pursue it with every ounce of your being. Be a door-to-door salesmen of your work if you will". We chatted it up and had a nice conversation. I digress though. Later I met another illustrator and asked him the same question. This arrogant, narcissistic illustrator told me to stay out of the game because he didn't like competition.Really?! All I could think was what a jerk to be so full of yourself and so rudely answer a question like such to a person you don't even know. I went on with my day but it was during the panels of Mark Hammon, Stan Lee and especially Michael C Hall that I realized something. They were all incredibly humble. It was like they didn't realize the level of their fame. They were average joes and it was that which made me love them even more. It also made that other illustrator look like even more of a jerk in comparison since his so-called fame is impenitent in comparison to theirs.

     Thank you to those who are amazing at your craft and yet remain grounded when you could so easily drift away. It makes your character stand out and our admiration for you ever stronger. I think I will always remember this. Stay humble and down to earth both personally and if I'm lucky enough one day professionally as well. Thank you for a stellar first comic con.

Aloha

      It's been a while since I last wrote but there's good reason for that. In fact the reason was a nice little trip to visit my husband in port at the beautiful Waikiki, Oahu,  Hawaii! It was an amazingly, absolutely perfect visit. Rejuvenation, relaxation, adventure, inspiration, comradely and just plain fun!

     We stayed at this low-key little hotel, 2 blocks from the beach. Granted it was no high end resort but it safe, clean, pool, breakfast, a great view & only 2.5 blocks from the beach-what else could you ask for? Instead of going to all the tourist hot spots or taking exuberantly priced guides we set out on our own and had extremely memorable experience.

     Not only did we visit the beach by daylight but we sauntered down to the sandy shore after hours as well. The water was so incredibly clear with a multitude of aqua variances.At night the moon illuminated it's waves and there were no tourists to battle with as the water lapped over your feet. We ventured to Chinatown and ate a restaurant where NOTHING was in English. I'm not sure what we ate but it was delicious. The whole area was it's own little world: a world in a world if you will. Saw the oldest house in Honolulu; a cute little one story surrounded and dwarfed by the skyscrapers but thankfully preserved as a historical site. We saw a traditional Hawaiian Luau and partook in traditional Hawaiian cuisine. We stopped at oodles of notable restaurants and such like Hokoluni( cupcake shop featured on Cupcake Wars), Moose McGillicuddy's ( visited by Man v Food) and of course Hard Rock Cafe.

     We set out on a hike that was further inland and many tourists didn't venture there. It required ropes and heavy traversing but after several hours, muddy shins and scrapped ankles we made it to the waterfall. It wasn't a trickle either; it was a gigantic, beautiful, surreal part of nature.Time paused when we came across it. We have came out a little battered but it was all worth it. At one point we stumbled upon a Buddhist temple the size of a small mall. We'd never seen anything like it in size or ornate detail. We'd walked to Queen's beach where the locals would hang out and surf.We visited the surf museum and saw not only the history but novelty as well. In this little hidden treasure there stood the real life creation of the Silver Surfer surf board certified by Stan Lee.  We hiked to the top of Diamondhead. From there you could see everything; to downtown to the east side beach. The crater looked otherworldly and prehistoric.








On our last day we embraced the essence of Hawaii and took to the surf. Proudly we each caught some waves and on the last day saw an abundant quantity of rainbows in what is known as the land of rainbows. Plumerias bloomed everywhere and Banja trees dotted the landscape.

     It's impossible to layout every detail of the trip even though that's the podium it deserves to be put on. I wish ya'll could know how it felt and feel those experiences but I hope this bridges that gap if even just by a smidgen. And the thing was we did it on a budget. We saw TRUE Hawaii and I truly, completely and wholly believe it was far better than had we drained the bank on tours been stuck amongst a crowded pack of tourists. It was genuine and I couldn't ask for more.

Unexpected Moments

Today was a day that set out to be normal and rather uneventful. In the end even though nothing was newsworthy by any means I come away with the feeling that my thoughts have been gathered and some real progress has been made.

Front of my Journal(Yes that's my print!)

It all started a dog friendly hike or rather "hike". It was less than      

3-miles hence the air quotes as I feel this is on the line of what truly qualifies for that word choice. I digress though. Upon this hike that was poorly timed during coastal desert heat I could hear the hum of bustling cars upon the road. As we went onward the hum became a drone interrupting any focus, perhaps made more obvious by awareness of their presence. The time I want to relax on my only day off from work is rudely encroached upon both visually and audibly by a road! I thought this to be ironic considering my art work is about the preservation and appreciation of nature as well as it's disruption and interruption by society. It was like a living print! The positive take away: I want to create the same level of disruption and uneasiness I felt in that moment in my work. It's there alright but this moment only reiterated my goal. 

My sketches

After a nice cool cup of iced coffee and some girly chit chat I retreated to my welcoming and serene apartment. When scanning the latest Netflix options I stumbled upon the documentary "A Day In The Life". It is as the title suggests; videos of a day (July 24th) in the life of regular individuals all over the world showing humanity in their normality as a collective group. OOOOoooooh that could be interesting! And boy was it! It was like a nitrous to my synapsis and ideas poured forth. Even ones loosely spawned forward from some far off corner. It was inspirational and raw. It emulated how I feel every moment I make my art or am enjoying a moment with my family and loved ones. It made me think of when you step back and take a moment to appreciate. When everything seems so connected.

More skteches

Needless to say I have gathered and constructed some ideas for future work. I guess the point I'm trying to make is that inspiration and ideas can come from anywhere, even the mundane or unexpected. So don't take these things for granted or let them pass by. To make sure of such I'm carrying a small sketchbook journal with me at all times. Whether it is just to jot a note or sketch an idea there will always be something to catch my thoughts.


P.S. Any thoughts on my sketches I'm more than happy to hear! LOVE feedback

Lets Get Aquainted

I am the artist AP, creator of Ardent Prints. Professionally I focus in printmaking. Mainly linocuts and woodcuts as my core with ink and pen alterations. My inspirations come from everything around me. This amazing place we call home and yet we can't seem to give it the appreciation or care it deserves. Even though my content may be a bit cynical and dark at times it has an illustrated satire and raw edge that make it relatable to viewers with ranges of personal views.

This however is not JUST about art or my self as an artist on a winding journey. No it's more. It's life, my life. My eco friendly, traveling, military wife, artistic, dog loving life. It's how it all these components are codependent upon one another and interlinked. It a matter of appreciation for the common day and mundane. It's not only surviving trials but thriving amongst challenges. It's loving every moment and promising to live ardently. It's my day to day journey as an artist, a wife, an evolving individual  and so much more.

I hope ya'll kind find this interesting enough to spark your curiosity to continue onward. I promise to deliver the most spectacular moments!

For those interested my twitter is @ardentprints . And if you love my art or simply want to poke around take a gander at my etsy page : http://www.etsy.com/shop/ArdentPrints?ref=search_shop_redirect

Thanks for your time. See Ya'll soon! Live Ardently Friends :)