life changing moments

It’s easy to overlook the everyday miracles of the natural world, but art has the power to rekindle that sense of awe. This drawing invites you to reconnect with nature and see the animal kingdom with fresh eyes, offering more than just a beautiful image—it can be a transformative experience. Art has the unique ability to shift perspectives, lift your spirits, and inspire new ways of seeing the world. Bringing special art into your home can spark joy, provide moments of calm, and even be a catalyst for change in your life.

What happens next is yours to discover.

Layer upon layer

Basically for me, painting in layers is just what it sounds like.

I paint a section of a painting, then after it's dry, paint on it again, and again. It's a classical approach that has been done for a long time and taught by many schools of art (or at least it used to be). Famous painters, like Rembrandt, Titian and Rubens painted this way.

It's a different approach than painting "alla prima" (basically one layer, painted in one sitting). For me, painting in layers is a more leisurely paced technique that allows me to slowly build up the painting, without being rushed. This way I can build up colors and textures, creating a rich painting (and every brush stroke doesn't have to be "perfect.")

On the other hand, alla prima is much more about speed. I do this when I paint outdoors, en plein air, where how fast you paint is important. - the approaches are very different.

How many layers? (Actually, that's not really the right question to ask.) I also see some who declare there's a specific number of layers if you're painting in layers. (That would not be my answer.)

My answer? There's no set rule for how many layers you should paint. It's really more about how many you NEED.

For me, the first layer is important and helps me to build a cohesive and luminous painting. That's the imprimatura/bistre layer. After that, I might paint an area in one or two layers, but other areas may need many more to get the result I'm after. By layering, I can build up beautifully rich colors and nuanced details with different types of soft textures or glazed layers. (I'm certainly not keeping count of how many layers I'm painting!)

The Art of Selecting Art for Your Apartment

This post is from Ryan Castillo

About The Author

Ryan Castillo is a Marketing Manager at Redfin and has been working at the company for the last four years. He is based in New York City and enjoys attending Broadway shows, playing pickleball, and collecting vinyl records. His dream home would be a large cape cod-style house by the beach.

Choosing artwork for your apartment is an exciting opportunity to express your personal style and create a visually appealing living space. Whether you're drawn to modern abstract pieces, timeless classics, or handcrafted creations, selecting the right artwork can transform your apartment into an inspiring environment. In this ApartmentGuide article, we'll explore various tips to help you curate a collection that reflects your personality, enhances your decor, and brings joy to your everyday life. So whether you a renting an apartment in Newark, NJ, or buying a house in Philadelphia, PA, get ready to bring life into your apartment through these stunning pieces.

Why should I decorate your apartment with artwork?

Art has a profound way of resonating with the soul, evoking emotions and thoughts that words alone cannot express. 

“A unique piece of art in your home reflects personal taste and individuality, creating a deeper connection with your living space. This personal touch transforms a house into a home, imbuing it with warmth and character. Guests are often drawn to these distinct pieces, making them feel welcomed and intrigued by the stories behind the art,” states Camille Barnes Studio.

“I look for unique pieces of art that capture a moment that I want to take home with me. Sometimes it acts as a portal to a place where I spent precious time with loved ones I wish could be near. Other times, it's like having windows to fleeting moments of beauty you can keep coming back to,” adds Sarah Heitmeyer Ceramics.

Install a floating shelf to display trinkets 

Installing floating shelf units in your apartment provides a stylish and space-saving solution for displaying trinkets and artwork that hold meaning. These shelves add a modern touch to your decor while keeping your favorite items organized.

"A clever way to incorporate a unique piece of art in your apartment without losing space is to hang an antique floating shelf unit. Whether it's shabby-chic, primitive, or Victorian, they offer perfect display or storage for coffee mugs, photos, or small plants. You can take it one step further by adding a wallpaper accent to the inside for a more personal look,” shares Jeffcoat Art.

Decorate with metal wall art

Decorating with metal artwork in your apartment adds a contemporary and sophisticated touch to your decor. The durability of metal pieces creates striking visual interest that can bring a unique aesthetic to your home.

"SOA Arts states, “A contemporary metal wall art, with its sleek and unconventional geometric shapes, is ideal for enhancing the modern aesthetic of apartments. Crafted from metal and finished with a clear gloss lacque for shine and protection, a unique piece is perfect for adding a sophisticated touch to any home decor.” 

It's a piece of art with high-quality craftsmanship, handmade with a focus on abstract and geometric artwork.

Welcome in the classics

Bringing in classic works of art to your apartment infuses your space with timeless elegance and cultural depth.

“Consider enhancing your apartment with a framed mosaic of Johannes Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl Earring,” recommends Mosaic Natural. “This handcrafted masterpiece brings art history's charm and elegance to your space without the commitment of permanent installation. It's ideal for renters seeking to personalize their space with timeless beauty, transforming their apartment into a personalized sanctuary effortlessly.”

Install stunning wall tapestries

Installing beautiful wall tapestries in your apartment brings warmth and texture to your space. These versatile pieces of art can easily transform a blank wall into an eye-catching, colorful focal point.

“I make hand-woven brocaded wall tapestries with subjects diverse subjects ranging from landscapes to architecture to giant cargo ships. I also design some textiles for use — blankets, ribbons, rugs, and upholstery, and these are either commercially produced or hand made for special clients,” shares Laura Foster Nicholson.

Make your own string art

Creating your own string art offers a unique opportunity to personalize your space in a way that perfectly complements your home decor. 

“Instead of opting for generic pieces from home goods stores, crafting your own string art allows you to display exactly what you envision, reflecting your individual taste and style,” says String of the Art. “Not only does this add a personal touch to your home, but it also provides a great story to share with your guests.”

Support small artists through original artwork

Supporting local artists for your apartment art enhances your decor with unique, original pieces while contributing to the local creative community. It also allows you to connect with the artist's story, adding depth and personal meaning to the artwork displayed in your home.

Fine artist, instructor, and art advocate Bev Goldie states, “Beyond the college art posters or big box ‘cheapie’ paintings, invest in yourself by getting some original art. Even if you start small and work your way up to a ‘statement’ piece, you will always remember the spark of joy and wonder you experienced when you first set eyes on it. You’ll remember the artist, the place, the fun purchasing it, and the story behind it that you can relive and tell others. You’ll also support and uplift an artist.”

More info here: https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/selecting-art-for-your-apartment/

Revealing the Depths: Embracing the Language of Facial Expressions

Within each of us lies a masterpiece waiting to be unveiled – the intricate canvas of the human face. It's a living tableau that captures the essence of our innermost selves, painting a vibrant picture of the emotions coursing through our veins. From the gentle curve of a smile to the tender gleam in our eyes, every contour tells a tale of joy, sorrow, love, and longing.

Our faces are more than mere features; they are portals into our souls, windows through which our emotions dance freely. With a single glance, we can convey volumes – the furrowed brow of concern, the twinkling eyes of mirth, or the quivering lips of anguish. These subtle nuances, these silent whispers of emotion, bridge the chasm between us, transcending barriers of language and culture.

From the moment we enter this world, we are wired to read the language of facial expressions. It's a universal dialect, understood by all, that binds us together in a tapestry of shared experiences. Our ability to recognize and interpret these signals not only enriches our relationships but also deepens our understanding of ourselves.

In the mirror of our own faces, we discover a treasure trove of insights into our emotional landscape. By tuning into the subtle cues that play across our features, we gain a greater awareness of our inner world, unlocking the door to self-discovery and personal growth.

The human face is a marvel of complexity and beauty, a testament to the kaleidoscope of emotions that define our humanity. It reminds us that we are not islands unto ourselves but interconnected beings, bound by the threads of emotion that weave through our lives.

So, let us embrace the power of our faces – these exquisite instruments of expression – and celebrate the rich tapestry of emotions they reveal. For in doing so, we not only honor our own humanity but also forge deeper connections with those around us, weaving a web of empathy and understanding that spans the breadth of our shared existence.

to H*LL and back - part 2

reference: Part 1:

https://www.camillebarnesstudio.com/studio-blog/2022/9/3/to-hell-and-back

The fire had raged through our home and my art studio. In its wake, it left behind a landscape of charred memories and broken dreams. My husband and I stood amidst the ashes, our hearts heavy with sorrow, we stood shocked in disbelief as the firefighters worked hard to put out the fire. My eyes clouded with tears. It was a devastating day one that would forever be etched in our souls.

The first days after the fire were a blur of shock and disbelief. We sifted through the rubble, searching for any salvageable fragments of their former life. Each discovery, no matter how small, felt like a lifeline to the past. A melted brush, a scorched canvas, a singed photograph—these were the relics of a life once vibrant and full of promise.

The studio, once a sanctuary of creativity, now stood as a skeletal frame, a haunting reminder of what once was. Thankfully not everything was destroyed. The Hammond Fire Department did an amazing job at trying to protect everything they could from the fire, smoke and water. They were definitely our heroes that day.

But amidst the devastation, a flicker of hope began to emerge. Friends and neighbors rallied around them, offering support and comfort. in spite of many physical possessions being gone, the bonds of humanity and community remained intact. We were safe, and our little doggie, Snuggles. He has since passed away. On the day of the fire, he was mostly blind and very scared. I was able to get him out of the house and into a safe area. For a little white we sat in the backyard and just sat and watched and the workers continued to do their jobs. Someone brought use cold water to drink and tried to comfort us with kind words and the usually small talk that has a way of making you fell like you’re not alone through this.

Our son Ben, and his lovely wife Angel brought us into their home to stay with a few bare essentials. We didn’t know where to start, where to live, how to deal with insurance matters of this magnitude.

As the days turned into weeks, me and my sweet hubby began the arduous process of rebuilding our lives. I had a dear and special friend belle money into my bank account, and someone ordered some artwork, which was very helpful. Weeks later we found a temporary place to live, a rented space that lacked the familiarity of our old home but provided a sense of shelter. The best part about it was we were living close to some of our family again. Now we faced the daunting task of navigating insurance claims, paperwork, and finding a contractor and the logistics of rebuilding. The process was exhausting, frustrating, and often disheartening. Sorting through the personal property loss information took much longer than expected. Between the demands of everyday life, working, painting, hospitalizations/health issues, a close brush with death, and broken foot, the betrayal of someone I loved dearly, social commitments, finding time for family and friends, (and a new grand baby WoooHooo!) all while making decisions about the house repairs....I have to say it has been quite challenging.  I feel like I've been burning the candle at both ends and in the middle.

But even in the face of adversity, they found strength in their determination to rise from the ashes. I started creating anew, their work infused with a depth of emotion that could only come from the crucible of loss. Each brushstroke was a testament to resilience and the enduring power of the human spirit…it can also be an escape from reality at times. I get into my mental “zone” of creating and I am so totally focused on it that I can not think about the horrific stuff surrounding me.

And as time passed, the emotional scars of the fire began to heal. Deep inside I sense that the new creations were born from the ashes of their old life. I have grown in wisdom with experience and understand with more clarity the fragility of existence. There was so much loss, but it also hope—a reminder that beauty could emerge from the darkest of moments.

Through it all, we found solace in the support of their loved ones and the knowledge that they were not alone in their journey. The fire had taken so much from them, but it had also revealed the depth of their resilience and the strength of their human connections. In the process of rebuilding their lives, they discovered that while the flames had consumed their past, they had forged a new future, one built on the enduring pillars of love, community, and the indomitable human spirit.

Happy Dance Time : )

I am thrilled to announce that my artwork, "Sun-Kissed Morning" has been selected by the jury for the International Guild of Realism's Fall Salon International Online Exhibition. It is a great honor to be included among such talented artists from around the world. I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to the jury for this incredible opportunity. I would also like to congratulate all the other finalists on their outstanding achievements.

https://www.realismguild.com

The Art of Seeing

Unveiling the Masterpiece through an Artist's Eyes

In the realm of artistic creation, there exists a profound and intricate process that transcends the mere act of putting paint on canvas. This process, often referred to as "the art of seeing," is a fundamental skill for any artist. It is the ability to observe with a critical eye and analyze it. An understanding is needed for understanding forms, colors, textures, and compositions. It is through this lens that artists transform their thoughts, emotions, and perceptions into captivating visual narratives that resonate with viewers across time and space.

Developing these skills takes practice and discipline. One must learn to be patient through the process. A keen attention to detail is needed for the realism artist. By actively engaging with the visual world around them, the artist can train their eyes to see more deeply and develop a greater understanding of visual concepts.

Composition: Crafting the Visual Symphony

At the heart of every impactful artwork lies a carefully orchestrated composition. The arrangement of elements within the frame determines the flow of the viewer's gaze and sets the stage for the story being told. Artists employ techniques like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and balance to guide the eye and evoke a harmonious visual experience. Through the art of seeing, an artist perceives not just individual objects, but the relationships and interplay that give rise to a dynamic whole.

Angels: Shaping Perspective and Dimension

Angles, or perspectives, define how objects relate to one another within a two-dimensional space. The art of seeing entails the ability to translate the three-dimensional world onto a canvas, creating the illusion of depth and volume. Artists experiment with various angles to convey different emotions and to emphasize the significance of certain elements. Whether it's a dramatic foreshortening or a sweeping panoramic view, the chosen angle contributes to the visual language that communicates the artist's intent.

Color Values and Complementary Hues: Painting with Emotion

Colors are not only aesthetically pleasing; they are vessels of emotion and meaning. The art of seeing involves understanding the intricate relationships between different hues and their varying values. Artists deftly use contrasts between light and dark, warm and cool tones, and complementary colors to create visual impact and evoke specific moods. Through a deep understanding of color theory, artists masterfully infuse their work with feelings that resonate with the viewer's soul.

Depth and Perception: Breathing Life into Flat Surfaces

Transforming a flat canvas into a multi-dimensional realm is a hallmark of artistic mastery. Through the art of seeing, artists manipulate scale, overlapping forms, and atmospheric perspective to simulate depth. This technique tricks the eye into perceiving distant objects as smaller and less distinct, mimicking the way our eyes perceive the world in real life. As a result, the viewer is drawn into the artwork, exploring its layers and experiencing its nuances.

The Story Being Told: A Visual Narrative

Art is a powerful medium for storytelling, and every brushstroke contributes to the narrative being woven. The art of seeing involves not just observing objects, but recognizing the stories they carry. Artists infuse their work with symbolism, metaphors, and emotions, inviting viewers to engage in a dialogue with the piece. The artist's perspective becomes a bridge between their inner world and the outer reality, giving birth to stories that transcend time and cultural boundaries.

The Meditative Act of Creation

Engaging in the art of seeing requires a meditative state of mind. Artists immerse themselves in the world around them, shedding preconceived notions and embracing the present moment. This mindfulness enables them to capture fleeting details and subtle nuances that might otherwise go unnoticed. As artists connect with their subjects on a deep level, they are able to translate their observations into a visual language that speaks to the hearts of others.

In conclusion, the art of seeing is an intricate dance between perception, emotion, and expression. Through mastery of composition, angles, color values, complementary hues, depth, and storytelling, artists transform blank canvases into windows into their souls. Each stroke of the brush becomes a brushstroke of consciousness, inviting viewers to witness the world through an artist's eyes. So, the next time you gaze upon a captivating masterpiece, remember that it is not just a visual representation—it is a testament to the artist's ability to see beyond the ordinary and to capture the extraordinary.

The art of seeing is also important for anyone who wants to appreciate and understand the visual world. By holding the skill, individuals can develop a greater appreciation for art and design, as well as a deeper understanding of the world around them. This is a skill that can be continually refined and developed throughout one's lifetime.

Magazine Feature

"Handmade Sellers" Magazine

I had to honor to be featured in the "Handmade Sellers" Magazine. WoooHooo!

Forgot to mention this to anyone (it's a winter issue from back in January- #77).

You can subscribe for free: https://handmadeseller.com/subscribe/

Thank you for taking the time to look over this article. If you’d like to learn more about my story go to: https://www.camillebarnesstudio.com/studio-blog/camilles-story

Conquering Fear for Personal Growth

Fear of trying new things or taking the first step can be a significant roadblock to personal growth. In this blog post, we will explore how the fear of the unknown can hinder our progress and discuss the importance of overcoming it to unlock our full potential.

1. Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone: Growth occurs outside our comfort zone. When we let fear hold us back from trying new things, we miss out on valuable opportunities for learning, development, and self-discovery.

2. Embracing Vulnerability: Taking the first step requires vulnerability as it involves putting ourselves out there, potentially facing failure or judgment. However, it is through vulnerability that we learn, grow, and build resilience.

3. Expanding Horizons: Trying new things broadens our horizons and opens doors to new experiences, perspectives, and skills. By overcoming fear and embracing the unknown, we expand our knowledge, capabilities, and personal growth.

4. Building Confidence: Each step we take outside our comfort zone strengthens our confidence. Over time, we realize that we are capable of more than we initially believed, empowering us to take on bigger challenges and achieve greater heights.

5. Cultivating Adaptability: Embracing new experiences and challenges fosters adaptability, a valuable trait in today's ever-changing world. By being open to trying new things, we develop the ability to adapt, adjust, and thrive in different situations.

Conquering the fear of trying new things or taking the first step is essential for personal growth. By stepping out of our comfort zones, embracing vulnerability, and expanding our horizons, we unlock our true potential and embark on a journey of continuous learning, growth, and self-discovery. So, let go of fear, embrace the unknown, and watch your life transform as you embrace new opportunities and reach new heights.

As an artist, I've had to face my fair share of fears on this creative journey. Those nagging doubts of not being good enough have actually become a driving force for me. Instead of letting them hold me back, I've used them as a powerful tool to push myself even harder and grow my skills.

And you know what? I've also grappled with that fear of not measuring up to others' talents. But I've learned that comparing myself to others isn't the path I want to take. Instead, I've decided to set my own unique goals for self-achievement. It's all about my personal growth and progress, not trying to match up with someone else's path.

At the end of the day, these fears have taught me valuable lessons and have helped shape me into the artist I am today. Embracing challenges and using them to my advantage has been a real game-changer. And I'm excited to see where this journey will take me next! Keep on keeping on the track that you are on and conquering those fears too! 😊

Unforgettable Studio Shenanigans

I had probably one of the most unique studio experiences ever. It’s just a typical day in the studio, paperwork scattered across my desk. My sweet little grand-darling who was only about 6 months old at the time, was spending the afternoon with me. I had her on my hip while walking into my studio area to get some paperwork. Little did I know that this innocent visit would turn into one of the most amusing and heartwarming experiences in my art career.

As I sorted through the paperwork, my grand-darling began babbling away, completely captivated by something in the room. I turned to see her smiling and cooing at none other than CMS Sapp's portrait. I couldn't help but chuckle at the unexpected interaction. It was as if she was having the most animated conversation with the stoic figure on the canvas.

I couldn't resist mentioning this adorable encounter to CMS Sapp himself. His reply was , "Well, babies have always liked me."

A Touch of Magic: In that whimsical moment, I realized that art has the power to transcend boundaries. It can captivate the imaginations of the youngest souls and create a world where anything is possible. Who's to say that CMS Sapp's portrait didn't have a secret charm that caught the attention of my grand-darling? Perhaps she sensed his bravery and esteemed presence, even at such a tender age.

That day, my studio transformed into a realm of innocence, laughter, and unexpected connections. It reminded me of the joys that art brings, not only to the artist but to all those who encounter it. In the future, I will always remember the sight of my grand-darling smiling and babbling away, entranced by a portrait that seemed to possess a baby-friendly aura.

It’s become a studio memory I will always cherish. It’s a reminder of the magic that art can create. It's these delightful and humorous moments that make our artistic journeys all the more meaningful. So, here's to the joyous wonders that unfold when little ones and portraits have a lively chat—truly a tale for the ages.

A Privileged Journey: Painting for the Louisiana Department of Military

As an artist, there are certain opportunities that come along, that I cherish. One such opportunity presented itself to me when I was given the chance to paint a portrait of CMS Dennis Sapp for the Louisiana National Guard’s Hall of Fame. I consider it a humbling honor to capture the essence of any individual deserving of such a recognition.

From the moment I received the invitation to create this portrait, I knew I was embarking on a special endeavor. The Louisiana Department of Military's Hall of Fame is a place where the bravery, dedication, and achievements of remarkable individuals are commemorated. To be entrusted with the responsibility of immortalizing one such individual through art is a tremendous privilege.

Throughout the entire process, from initial discussions to the final brushstroke, I relished every moment. This opportunity allowed me to dive deep into the subject's story, gathering insights and understanding their unique essence, his character, his service to our country. My hope was to capture the spirit and nature of the person being honored.

As an artist, my goal is to always create a portrait that goes beyond mere technical replication. I’d like portray the character of each individual in a unique way. Every brushstroke was executed with utmost care. It was an endeavor that demanded attention to detail, thoughts were given to how bold a color’s hue and chroma should be, what areas should receive more dominance and what places should not.

As the portrait took shape, I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride in contributing to the well-deserved recognition of CMS Sapp. The Hall of Fame serves as a testament to the dedication and sacrifice of extraordinary individuals who have made a lasting impact on the military community. It is an honor to be part of this legacy, using my artistic skills to ensure that their stories are celebrated for generations to come.

As an artist, I am grateful for the trust bestowed upon me and for the chance to play a small role in preserving the stories of those who have dedicated their lives to the service of others.

To learn more about CMS Dennis Sapp

click here: CMS SAPP