Snitterdog

Mr. Chicken Wants to Get Hurt!!!

2011-12-12T09:11:00.004-05:00

um, sometimes... ;) Naturally, this one was inspired by the classic 80's movie, "Say Anything."...I mean, hey-- ya gotta love Lloyd Dobbler. That guy was SOOOOO in love with Dianne Courte...It makes me happy that this kind of love still kind of exists in the world :)

Simple Together

2011-10-28T23:06:00.007-04:00

this one just kills me. seriously-- it's one of my all time You Tube favorites....it's so lovely and melancholy at the same time. I think it touches on human emotions we all feel, but perhaps cannot always express...I've been watching this one for a few years now...makes me wonder...hmm....don't forget those you love, even if it hurts :) Even if it doesn't work, it doesn't mean you didn't grow...

The Notorious Alpha Chicken...

2011-10-14T00:03:00.002-04:00

Some time back I had an idea for a "B" series...you know, something along the lines of "Miss Chicken." ...and then I was thinking perhaps there should be an "adult" series!...something along the lines of Kama Sutra chicken or something...maybe this fits into the category of B.5?....It's based on a sketch I did of Betty Page on a coffee bag...way back in WI when I was working at this coffee shop in Madison called Cuppa Jo...I randomly started sketching Betty Page because there was a cool photo of her in the paper-- and an empty coffee bag was the nearest paper like substance...I then made a chicken out of it, as this decorated coffee bag was the first thing I came across while in search of chicken ideas...so there ya have it! :)

Mr. Chicken Opens up a Can of Whoop Ass!!!

2011-08-15T22:08:00.005-04:00

...'Cause sometimes that's what ya gotta doo!!! (and sometimes its fun to take things literally :) ...I came up with the idea for this guy a year or two ago-- glad I finally finished it! This is an original gouache painting measuring 2.5 by 3.5 inches-- it's an artist's trading card!!!! (but I framed it in an 8 by 10 frame-- couldn't help myself :)http://youtu.be/8QJiAK-s5a0

It's Not a chicken, it's a Crow!

2011-07-23T09:57:00.003-04:00

At least for the day...thought I would pay an homage to one of my favorite movies-- The Crow :) I enjoy how darkly romantic it is...I mean, if someone comes back to evenge your death, like after death, and then wants to be with you for all eternity, even when you are both dead-- it's kinda hot!!!Hope you like the drawing! It was done in pen and ink

The Lovely Bones

2011-05-28T00:46:00.001-04:00

I saw this movie last year. I must admit it tugged on my heartstrings in a certain way...and this song kills me. There is something about the mixture of imagery and music that can get ya every time! (makes ya wanna paint or draw)! ...or something...

The Moment I Held You Here Was the Best of All

2011-05-04T07:47:00.005-04:00

Here's the latest chicken!!!! This one was created using graphite, and was based on a dream I had. In the dream I was standing on someone's porch. I'm not sure who it belonged to, but it was a white, wooden house, with a gray wooden floor. It was very nostalgic, slightly worn, but oddly charming and beautiful. In front of me was an empty boat, and above it was a sign that read, "The moment I held you here was the best moment of all." And then there was an arrow, pointing to a little sign of the boat. In the dream the boat was empty. For the picture I created, I added the chickens :) The whole thing kind of reminded me of the movie, "The Notebook."

La Venus de Pollo!!!

2011-04-22T02:50:00.004-04:00

Here's the latest! It's an original gouache painting...I think it's about 4.5 by 7 or 8 inches...I will need to go back and measure ;)

Lately I've been into putting the chicken into classic paintings, so the Venus definitely seemed appropriate! I matted it up and framed it in a lovely 9 by 12 inch black frame. The original is in my studio, and up for grabs currently. I need to list the prints on Etsy! :)

Mr. Chicken is now on t-shirts! :D

2011-04-08T08:52:00.005-04:00

Yup, the chicken is spreading his wings!!! Right now is the "experiment" phase to see what kind of chicken merchandise people are interested in. (And also which images). Here are a few t-shirts I now have available via my etsy shop, mrchicken.etsy.com. I recently acquired more shirts with a wider variety of images, as well-- (Mona Lisa Chicken, The Scream, Blue Guitar Player, Vitruvian, etc...), but I still need to photograph them! I plan on doing a photoshoot this weekend if all goes according to plan, so those should be available soon as well! (they can currently be purchased in my studio). On a side note-- taking these pics was a blast!

Mr. Chicken Has a Blue Period...

2011-03-29T13:01:00.003-04:00

I decided on this title because it works on many levels! (if ya think about it :) Prints are available on my Etsy sight, as well as in my studio

New Merchandise at Mr. Chicken!

2011-02-28T09:57:00.004-05:00

The chicken is now on keychains and t-shirts!!! The keychains in the pic here are currently listed in my etsy store, and there will be more arriving this week. (think Mona Lisa Chicken and Karate chicken keychains)! In addition, I will at some point be listing the t-shirts-- I just need to hunt down some of my friends to help model them-- it's hard to take pictures of yourself! The shirts are currently in my studio though :) And if you want those keychains-- just look on the right side of the screen for the Mr. Chicken Etsy link!

The Death of Me

2011-02-07T19:49:00.005-05:00

That's what I am calling this latest surreal piece! It was created with watercolor, gouache, and also irridescent medium. I'll spare ya the details on this one, but it's basically about how you can lose yourself in relationships, or potential relationships. As humans we sometimes get so wrapped up in others, and trying to please others, that we forget about our own needs, and part of us dies. Interesting how that happens...reproduction prints are available in my Etsy shop!

Now You See Them

2011-02-03T06:41:00.003-05:00

I just love this band! They're home base is Asheville, NC, but I saw them at the Sentinent Bean in Savannah, GA. I hope they come back! Otherwise I might have to go to Asheville for another concert. What wonderful, happy music!

Coming to a t-shirt near you!

2011-01-31T10:34:00.004-05:00

The time has come-- Mr. Chicken is now on t-shirts! (courtesy of zazzle.com :) I am starting with a few images, but will definitely add more! I'm thinking baby onesies as well, and perhaps some doggie clothes!

make custom gifts at Zazzle

That Which Keeps me Afloat Prevents Me From Learning To Swim

2011-01-17T08:21:00.001-05:00

Originally uploaded by mjohnso

So lately I've been a major phase of transformation...Making various changes and coming to certain realizations. I had a rather symbolic dream relating to this, and am considering creating a work of art based on it.

In the dream I was in a contraption similar to the kid in this picture. I had both an inner tube and waterwings, and was trying to swim forward. Progress was slow though, and it occured to me I might be able to swim a bit more freely and naturally, and successfully if I didn't have the "extra help" of the floatation devices.

When I woke up it seemed pretty obvious-- I need to "learn to swim" on my own...we will see how it goes...

Things That Changed Other Things: Molly :)

2011-01-09T19:43:00.004-05:00

This is another image I created for The Sketchbook Project. It's an homage to Molly, my former dog :) She is still alive and well, but lives with my former roommate as she belonged to him first. Anyway...having a dog definitely changed things, and for the better. People often say having a dog is like having a kid. I have no kids, so I have no idea if this is true, but I enjoyed caring for her...Also, it did up the level of responsibility a bit, which I didn't mind at all-- and in fact, kind of liked. I think the best thing about having a dog is/was unconditional love. She is a sweet and, loving girl, and always happy to see people. It's too bad humans aren't more like that...

Chicken Impaled With a Pearl Earring...

2010-12-19T20:55:00.003-05:00

I've always liked this masterwork by Vermeer...thought the chicken should give him props! :) I just love the starkness of it, and the gaze...there's something to be said about a certain type of gaze. Perhaps this is why artist's like portraits so much ;)

Dirty Chickens!!!!!

2010-12-14T22:04:00.006-05:00

Rumor has it not only did she carry a watermelon, she is also a fowl dancer... ;) Here is the latest chicken painting! This one was done in gouache and measures 5 by 7 inches. I've always been very fond of "Dirty Dancing," so making a chicken painting of a scene from the movie seemed appropriate. In fact, I may do more than one...we will see!

Another Page from The Sketchbook Project :)

2010-12-11T08:02:00.005-05:00

OH man, I just realized I have to put this sketchbook in the mail in less than a month! Uh oh...I think I need to make less detailed sketches at this point so I can actually finish it on time. Wait, have I done one about procrastination yet?!?! I think I need to...

Anyway, back to the theme of the sketchbook: "things that change other things"...this sketch is about moving into my own apartment. I haven't really had my own place in 3.5 years, so getting a "room of my own" so to speak has definitely changed things....I wasn't sure how it would work out, what I would find-- hence the question mark, keys, clouds, etc....but my gut instinct told me it was the right thing to do :)

And sure enough it has changed other things-- doing more art, reading more, I started swimming again (I'm only 5 minutes from the YMCA)!, and generally focusing on what I need to do. I think moving out of the city has really helped with that. It is peaceful out here with lots of trees! It's interesting how a geographic switch can make all the difference.

The Latest in Surrealism...

2010-12-05T13:13:00.004-05:00

I have not yet decided on a title for this one. I'm thinking either "The Talk" or "The Embrace." It's a little painting, around 5 by 8 inches, but will be put in a 9 by 12 inch frame. For this piece I used watercolor, gouache, and a fine point pen. I think I might do a larger version too...I'm considering doing more with the background-- more itty bitty details and such, 'cause I like to do that kinda thing! We will see :)

I'm Having a Cyber Monday Sale!!! :D

2010-11-27T23:01:00.002-05:00

It started with Black Friday, and goes through Monday night :).The sale is through 2 of my Etsy shops!!! ...All items will be reduced by 25%. At checkout, the coupon code is blackfriday1

At checkout, just type in the coupon code (don't forget this part, it's important :)!...and Etsy will calculate it for ya-- then you just check out-- nice and easy!!!

Items on sale include matted prints, holiday cards, and handmade recycled paper. Feel free to check it out!

http://mrchicken.etsy.com
http://thegreenefairy.etsy.com

Breaking Out of the Box...

2010-11-10T23:41:00.004-05:00

Or at least attempting too...This is page 6 in my sketchbook, for "The Sketchbook Project."

I'm kind of a perfectionist (to say the least)...let us just say it holds me back. If I can't do it perfectly, or in the very least-- exceptionally well-- I might not want to do it at all...or I procrastinate...this has effected me in most aspects of my life, especially artistically. I put off projects, I take FOREVER on them...etc...you get the picture :) There have been times though when I had "happy little mistakes," and had to try something else...times where I played, experimented, and created something cool...these times when I broke out of the box changed things, and changed things for the better...

In this post I have also included a mixed media piece called "strength," which is based on the tarot card Strength. This is really the first REALLY mixed media piece I did. And how did it happen? I tore the darn painting! There was a 3 inch tear near the top of the painting so I had to collage over it to cover it up. And what happened? It turned out cooler than it probably would have in the first place! And then after this I started doing a bit more mixed media, as opposed to strictly watercolor, etc...breaking out of the box can be very, very good!!! I need to keep reminding myself of that :)

Mona Lisa Chicken!

2010-11-06T09:32:00.004-04:00

Here is the latest ACEO in my chicken series! :) (For anyone out there who doesn't know what an ACEO is, it's a baseball card size piece of art)...I've veered a bit from my normal path lately with the chickens. In the past I would do an ACEO, number it and write a story, turn it into a print, and make an occasional larger version in oil. Now sometimes I do the painting without the story, or a larger version initially, or with no ACEO sized work at all...I've decided to break outside of that box a bit, as the protocol was slowing me down. (Mainly the story-- I need to be in the right mood to write :) ...the story shall continue though, never fear! I've had numerous people tell me the chicken series would make a great children's book, so I am thinking about doing different versions of the story. The current one has more of an adult tone...then there is the "B" series-- 'cause he meets a hot chick :) And uh, the "C" series, which is a bit, uh...naughty....Perhaps the "D" series can be for children...I want to do a coloring book as well! All the possibilities...What can I say, the chicken is inspired by DaVinci....

The Sketchbook Project-- Page 10

2010-11-01T09:46:00.003-04:00

Wow-- I just realized I have a lot more pages to fill by January! As the title of this post so astutely explains, this is page 10...with the theme being "Things that Changed Other things."...words are powerful (pretty common knowledge)...and what I'm trying to get at here (probably pretty obvious huh)? is that the words not spoken, are sometimes even more powerful-- shutting doors, opening others, etc....Not speaking what's on your mind can just as powerfully influence the future as not doing so. I can think of way to many examples of this in my own life! (so it seemed to be appropriate to include it in the project :) It was done in mixed media-- collage, pencil, watercolor, and gouache.

New Handmade Recycled Paper!!!

2010-10-09T09:12:00.003-04:00

Yup! I was back in the lab :) Here are some new creations!

A Lovely Performance!!! Sara Bareilles "Gravity" :)

2010-09-18T00:44:00.002-04:00

Wow...I wish I could have been there :) This song/performance is so amazing!!!! I am from Madison where this show took place, but am now in GA...one of my childhood friends posted this performance on facebook. Ejoy!!! (and on a side note, I keep coming back to it...:)

The Sketchbook Project: Page 6...

2010-08-27T10:44:00.004-04:00

On the theme "things that changed other things"...I have not yet decided whether or not I will call this one "Peasant Girl" or "The Talk"...I know I will do a larger version later, so perhaps each one will have it's own name...

It was created in pen and ink and was done on watercolor paper. (I'm going to adhere it to page 6 in my sketchbook :)

The Sketchbook Project...Theme: Things That Changed Other Things...

2010-08-23T20:52:00.004-04:00

This is the first page in my sketchbook, for the Sketchbook Project in Brooklyn NY. (I just love creating art based on themes)!

It's appropriate that the "moving away page" be the first page. Moving from WI to Savannah, GA really did change everything. I began to focus on my art, and began to let go of the expectations of others. I joined Etsy, I started a blog, I got a studio, etc...(this instead of working crappy jobs that robbed me of my soul)...When I moved to Savannah I really became the starving artist, instead of the starving group home worker or floral desinger...fine, honest livings, but not very fulfilling to an oddball such as myself...

This is a fun project-- I'll keep posting pics on the theme "things that changed other things"

Thee Latest...

2010-08-12T08:46:00.004-04:00

I call this one "Fragility"...I think it is done now, but I am not sure. (Let us just say I was feeling, uh, slightly "vulnerable" when I began this piece...I set it aside a few months ago, frustrated and undecided as to what more to do with it. I've been looking at it for a while now, and think it may be complete...I may do another version as well, but with more snow flakes, and a different color scheme. This painting was created using watercolor and mixed media...I even used some gold leaf! (sweeet)...first time I ever used that stuff-- I like the effect :)

The Sketchbook Project!!!

2010-08-04T12:28:00.003-04:00

Has anyone out there heard of this? This is WAY cool!!! (and I decided to participate :)

Anyway-- here's a brief synopsis:

It's like a concert tour but with sketchbooks.

Thousands of sketchbooks will be exhibited at galleries and museums as they make their way on tour across the country. After the tour, all sketchbooks will enter into the permanent collection of The Brooklyn Art Library, where they will be barcoded and available for the public to view. Anyone - from anywhere in the world - can be a part of the project. To participate and have us send you a sketchbook that will go on tour, pick a theme..

http://www.arthousecoop.com/projects/sketchbookproject

(ok, I totally copied and pasted most of that, but I am ocassionally lazy -sorry! :) ...No really, it's just that I have sketching to do!!! I think I will periodically post sketches I am doing for this project...the theme I chose is "things that changed other things"-- here's one I am working on now, I haven't decided weather or not it is done :)

the Hills are Alive...With the Sound of Psychadelic Chickens!!! :)

2010-07-27T10:07:00.006-04:00

I veered from the norm with this one (as if there really is a norm in my world)! and created a larger painting, without doing a small one first. And I used acrylics, normally I do large paintings in oil, and the small ones with gouache. Anyhoo, just thought I'd include a fun little video-- my dog loves this one!!! (seriously, she's a freak :)-- but that's why we love her! (Freuline Maria, and my dog)! :D

On a side note- I am digging the musical commentary by the people who did the video--hehehe!!! :D

Additional Additions to the Online Sale!

2010-07-18T10:30:00.003-04:00

Yes, I did just say additional additions :) I've decided to expand my Christmas in July sale! Now I am also offering free shipping on ACEO's and my handmade recycled paper. In addition many prints in my various etsy shops are currently half off or at a reduced rates. Here are some pictures of an assortment of goodies included in the sale, which runs through Sunday, July 25th...

The surreal art and doggies can be found at snitterdog.etsy.com
My crazy little chickens live at mrchicken.etsy.com

Enjoy! :)

It's a Christmas in July Sale!!!

2010-07-15T09:55:00.005-04:00

Yes, it's that time of year!!! For all you online shoppers who love nature inspired art, as well as abstracts, I am offering my prints from The Greene Fairy at half price! The prints are created on premium, glossy photo paper using vibrant inks which have a fade resistance for over 80 years-- very vibrant and pretty! So if you are looking for a special treat for the nature lover, gardner, or botanist in your life (or something for yourself)-- why not think about some lovely art? This sale runs today through Sunday, July 25th. Please see the sidebar to the right for my nature inspired art...or you could shoot me an email-- enjoy!!!

It's Papermaking Time!!! :D

2010-06-23T13:15:00.003-04:00

It suddenly dawned on me that I had not made any handmade recycled paper in about a year. How did that happen?!?! I don't know, I suppose I got distracted...Anyhow, I'm back at it, and restocking my wares at The Greene Fairy! Here is some paper I listed recently-- Enjoy!...Oh yes, I have also got some "plantable" paper available as well! Sweet...

Mr. Chicken Scores a Hole in One!!!!

2010-06-15T07:30:00.005-04:00

So I've been breaking from format a bit as of late...(the past couple of months)...it started with the chicken collages incorporating photos and my chicken art....now I'm also collaging my "other art" with my chicken art! (and that's how this piece came about!)

Previously each chicken was part of a series, each being and artist's trading card with an accompanying story. This is the "A" series. I will continue to do that, but my wild and crazy brain is forcing me to expand beyond that! (Hence the collages, and soon to be other sized chicken paintings :) Just can't help myself! (I hope ya all enjoy the freakiness)! :D

Tyson Chicken!!!

2010-05-20T22:42:00.003-04:00

It's not just what's for dinner :)...and it works on many levels...

The Maculay Conception!!!

2010-05-05T01:04:00.003-04:00

He just doesn't know how this happened...Mac swears that Michael didn't lay a finger on him...

The New Studio!

2010-04-28T23:02:00.002-04:00

It's bigger, better, and with gigantoid windows--yeah!!! :D ...It needed a lot of work, and I'm still working on it. When I first moved in this winter it was bright red and yellow. Kinda looked like Ronald McDonald had some kinda s&^%$@ disaster in there! :O ...Luckily Matt was gracious enough to once again help me paint yet another studio. Now it's kinda light and dark blue :) Work still needs to be done on it, but it's getting there. I am undecided about the dark blue/purple...It might need to be repainted white, so it's more spacious and peaceful. (Interesting how color affects mood-- color psychology :) Once my roomie helps me get my lights up I'll know if the colors are right...all shall be revealed!

Moving Shop!

2010-04-18T23:26:00.003-04:00

Not to far away though! (Just another Etsy click away)... Yup, that's right-- Mr. Chicken is getting his own Etsy shop!!! (your place for all things chicken)...

The Chicken seems to be my top seller, in terms of my art, so I thought he deserved his own little corner of the internet. And they frequently say on Etsy, that having a "cohesive" look helps...so I'm going for a "cohesive chicken" look. Here's the banner! Should make for an interesting adventure...

And here's the link! :) http://mrchicken.etsy.com

Going Home...(At least for a visit)

2010-04-07T23:01:00.002-04:00

Stoughton fireworks 2
Originally uploaded by Nikonman

So I have been "home" for the past week or so. And I've got to say, I've really enjoyed it. I come from a little town called Stoughton, which is in southern WI, and it is really rather charming. I think as a child I did not appreciate this fact, as I was a child, and most likely pre-occupied with other things-- such as school, basketball, drawing pictures, and whichever boy I happened to have an unrequited crush on at that time... And also worth noting, the community has become rather artsy in the last decade, so that is extra cool!

I have also spent a lot of time in Madison, where I went to college, and also spent a decade. It has been fun catching up with family and friends, and seeing how things have changed, and what has remained the same. I think being "away" from what you consider home really helps cultivate an appreciation for your loved ones, and also the experiences that have made you who you are.

With all this said I am still looking forward to going back to Savannah and my art studio-- in certain ways I am inspired to go forth and create-- Yeah!! But I am also looking forward (in advance) to my summer, return visit to WI :)

Ice Cream!!! :)

2010-03-21T01:59:00.002-04:00

And new beginnings...'cause both are great and wonderful! I have always been a fan of improving one's life, and also this song-- so I hope you enjoy it too! (ya can't really go wrong with ice cream, now can ya)????

First Breath After a Coma...

2010-02-17T02:58:00.003-05:00

The title should say it all. For the impatient among us ( Occasionally me included) - go to 2:20 minutes!...I would really recommend the whole video for full effect though..wow.. :) There's something really inspirational about this one-- wake's you up I guess? :)

Chicken in a Hot Pocket!!!

2010-01-13T22:00:00.001-05:00

...but I don't wanna be in a hot pocket...

Mr. Chicken Goes to Disney Land!!!

2009-12-30T23:05:00.002-05:00

Little does Mickey know, the Mouseketeers (cleverly disguised as lambs), were only the appetizer... Hannibal Chicken also has an insatiable hunger for all barn yard animals, including big-eared vermin in fanciful costumery...

RIP Cubby, Annette, and Mickey... :(

Mr. Chicken takes a scenic drive in lovely Savannah GA, accompanied by thee Lars Ulrich.

2009-12-25T15:18:00.003-05:00

They argue over which album, is in fact, thee best Metallica album of all -- Master of Puppets, And Justice For All, or The Black Album... Ultimately they cannot decide, and find themselves pursuing the shadow people who live in Bonaventure cemetary. They repeatedly listen to ¨Hero of the Day¨ as they smoke 3 packs a piece during their ghost hunting adventures. Lars then attempts to convince Mr. chicken that he should dismember himself, learn morse code, and join the act. However, Mr. Chicken cannot himself earn any money off of this venture-- otherwise he will most likely be sued by the other members of the band ....

Mr. Chicken Watches NASCAR With The Two Coreys! :D

2009-12-18T10:39:00.003-05:00

Mr. Chicken Has a Fan Page on Facebook!!! :D

2009-12-15T00:12:00.004-05:00

Hannibal Chicken prepares for a fine dining experience....mmm...LUNCH!!!! :D

yes that's right-- yeah!!!! It should be fun-- some new stuff too -- like "Mr. Chicken Sightings"...I think I might just have to go full out and have fun with this-- think random sketches and web comics, we shall see :)...If you like Mr. Chicken and want to be a fan, just follow the link! (feel the chicken love people)...

http://www.facebook.com/#/pages/Mr-Chicken/204753230418?ref=share

Random Video of the Day!!!-- "Smoke" by Ben Folds Five

2009-12-11T22:26:00.004-05:00

I've been listening to this one over and over the past couple of days...mostly in my studio as I paint, but also on You Tube. It is the right song for right now...I think it's the tune and tone of it all...Hope you like it!

Aerobic Chicken...#17A

2009-12-08T21:57:00.002-05:00

After escaping the dank confines of his Baltimore cell, Mr. Chicken has the urge to partake in fun-filled calisthenics to regain his girlish figure. To re-establish such bodily glory, he brings back the fro, puts on his cutest striped shorts, and starts sweating to the oldies... Yes, even his perspiration radiates the most fabulous camp and flamboyance! That's right ladies, get that body going-- oh yeah!!!

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36359688

Chickens for Sale!!!

2009-11-26T10:45:00.004-05:00

In honor of Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and of course-- chickens-- I am holding a sale on Mr. Chicken Prints. The Supersized Chickens are being offered at a reduced price, and the little trading cards will have free shipping--yippie!!! The Supersized prints are normally $17.50 plus shipping, but for the holidays will be sold for only $10-- yes it's true!...Get that poulty while you can!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Snitterdog?section_id=5889306

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Snitterdog?section_id=5307797

Mr. Chicken Gets a Day Job...#15A

2009-11-02T22:17:00.005-05:00

After the cancellation of his highly acclaimed PBS series, Mr. Chicken is distraught to the extent of wanting to hack off his ear. Instead of resorting to such drastic measures, he puts down the palette and opts to get a day job in a quaint little Pennsylvania town. Here he becomes a top salesman of paper goods, all the while donning the most dashing of trends in office wear...Naturally, as a result he becomes quite the lady killer-- the spectacles say it all of course...just don't ask what else is in the beet pie....

(It's another freaky little painting in my Mr. Chicken series! :) http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=32599861

Back to Surrealism!

2009-10-22T12:06:00.005-04:00

(And watercolors)...It's been a while since I've worked in watercolors, and as a result of the recent sales of two of my surrealistic watercolor pieces, I thought it would be a good choice to do something of the same genre....

I'm calling this piece Fragility-- and as usual, take from it what you will :)...Her skin is meant to look like broken glass, and she is holding an egg...This photo was taken about a week ago, so it already looks a little different, as I've introduced more browns in the piece...(I'm still not sure if that is the right call!) :O ...we'll see-- I have a feeling this piece will evolve over time.

Howard Jones!!! It's not just a Hotel....

2009-10-17T01:28:00.003-04:00

I completely forgot about this song until I stumbled across it accidentally...I loved this song when I was a wee little thing...we had it on our family juke box when I was in elementary school and such...WAY long time ago, but the feeling the songs gets at is still the same...further proof that young ones are in touch with adult emotions...it's interesting how melody effects emotions, and those related parts of the brain...anyway-- enjoy!!!!...and oldy but goody you could say :)

Adios Little Ones!!!! :)

2009-10-07T09:46:00.004-04:00

The last 2 weeks have been rather fruitful-- 2 large paintings and one little one out the door, into the homes of 2 very cool people. Thanks Nila and Gary!!! :)...time to work on some more surrealism! I've started a new sketch...should be kind of freaky and beautiful at the same time :)...Here are my babies that flew the coop!

Mr. Chicken Paints Happy LIttle Trees...#14A

2009-09-21T10:25:00.003-04:00

Upon discovering his newfound love of trees, Mr. Chicken decides to pay an homage. He therefore pulls out the paints, does his hair in the style of lush shrubbery, and airs a highly successful painting show which obtains a cult-like status...In the artful world of Mr. Chicken there are no accidents-- only happy little mistakes, excitable perms, and happy little trees. Paint tree Chicken san, wash brush..

Where is My Mind?...the Pixies...

2009-09-11T23:42:00.006-04:00

More good painting music!...or creative endeavor music ;)...and of course, you can't go wrong with cute doggies, so this is all around good! (for lack of a better adjective :)...I was listening to this in my car, then while drawing...and then while making handmade recycled paper....it's just GOOD!!! Hope you like it too :)

PS: the fact that the Pixies influenced Nirvana is pretty f%$$#@!!! cool too! ;)...Yeah!! :) ....

Hey Man, You Can Be Girly and Badass at the Same Time...

2009-09-02T06:43:00.003-04:00

Think skulls and butterflies...this is what I have been working on lately. It was a drawing originally intended for a t-shirt design, but I'm not sure exactly where it will end up...It almost looks like a tattoo design at this point...either way, it was fun to work in ink again for a while. Nothing like a good old Bic pen. It's amazing what you can create artistically with inexpensive materials! :D

Here it is!!!

2009-08-20T19:22:00.004-04:00

The gigantic oil painting I worked on for about 5 months is now finished! Well, I actually finished it about a month ago, but I wasn't able to post it until now due to some camera issues...I had a basic vision of this one, but it definitely evolved over the months into a whole new creature...I've packed it with personal symbolism, but take from it what you will people! I love it when people find their own meaning in my whacky, crazy artwork...

Free Shipping Sale!!!

2009-08-14T12:20:00.005-04:00

I don't know about you, but I love a good sale! (I'm guessing lots of us do-- yeah!!!) Anyway, I noticed there's some big world-wide free shipping sale going on this weekend on Etsy, so I thought I would participate. I've decided to offer free shipping on all my Surreal prints and hand-cut ACEO mats-- here are a few of them!

http://snitterdog.etsy.com

Mr. Chicken is a Tree Huggin Hippie...#13A

2009-07-16T01:08:00.003-04:00

After his recent aquisition of a bonzai tree, Mr. Chicken feels inspired to commune with nature. As a result, he decides to head to the nearest rainbow gathering, where he consumes mass quantities of granola, digs holes in which to deficate, and also does not bathe for over a week. In addition, he forms a special bond with a tree he now refers to as "Momma."

Almost Done...

2009-07-08T00:26:00.005-04:00

OK, This is Just FUNNY!!!!

2009-07-03T00:03:00.001-04:00

Here's a Good One! :D

2009-06-25T00:43:00.005-04:00

Let this blog not be strictly about visual art, cyberspace people!!!....I am a BIG fan of music...as are most people I am guessing. I love music. I love the way it makes me think, and the way it makes me feel. The way a song can "grab" you, you know? And not just the lyrics, but the melody as well. The whole package really...I actually find it necessary to listen to music when I am painting. It makes me "feel" more. I like to "feel" when I paint. It's all about picking the right song, for the right mood, for the right painting...(usually)...

I had to listen to this song tonight. It felt right. It is the right song for right now. For this exact moment in time, this is the right song. You know what I mean? A certain song that you can relate to at a certain point in your life? Music is a good thing.

Painting Update...

2009-06-07T10:01:00.003-04:00

The Painting gets greener!...nice and creepy... :D

Dude-- I am MOVING!!!! :D

2009-06-03T20:56:00.003-04:00

Not to a new city or anything, but to another place here in Savannah. The coolest part is that I will be living with a dog!!!! Her name is Molly and she is completely adorable :) I think she's some kind of chocolate lab mix with maybe a little bit of pit pull in her. She is such a sweetie. She loves belly rubs and following me and my soon-to-be roomate around. Nothing I like more than a dog that is a glutton for attention-- yeah!!! :) And she is a rescue dog too!

Needless to say I haven't been able to do much artistically for a couple of days, but that's OK. First things first...then more painting...and then more petting the dog...and then more painting...and then maybe a bacon cheeseburger...

Thee Painting Evolves....

2009-05-23T23:42:00.004-04:00

This is actually a recreation of the last watercolor painting I created in college. It was a response to a car accident I was in shortly before September 11, 2001. As a result I created this piece, called "Comfort." (When you're in freakish pain you need comfort, you know?)...Unfortunately the original watercolor painting was stolen off a gallery wall while I was in a group show in Madison WI, circa 2003...or was it 2004?.... As of that date, it was my most cherished piece, so I was very upset when it was suddenly gone. I had one crappy photo of it, and from this photo I began recreating it in oils this February, and with more color. It was originally monochromatic and in Payne's Gray.

It is evolving into something slightly different now. It is still about feeling pain--the emotion is similar, but the cause is different. It is not about physical pain now as much. The tear drops are new. They were not in the original. Not sure how this one will end up, it keeps changing...I'll have to keep posting new pics until it is complete.

Keeping on keeping on...

2009-05-08T21:33:00.003-04:00

I started oil painting in February. This is something I hadn't done in years...I completed a few chickens and told myself I woudl go back to the same old, same old (watercolor/mixed media) etc...

But suddenly I am enjoying this oil painting thing..I am loving the exploration of a new medium...something "clicked" in a good way. For some reason, oil paintin is freeing...(I'm not as much of a perfectionist in this media perhaps)...

If anyone out there in cyberspace is contemplating trying an new artistic medium I would highly recommend it! It can be both rewarding, freeing...and lead to new ideas..and stuff....

Olivia was Adopted-- Yeah!!!!! :)

2009-05-02T22:10:00.005-04:00

I am so happy for her. What a sweet, gentle little dog-- I am so glad she found a great home!!! :) I spoke to one of her vet techs this morning and apparently Olivia's condition was genetic. It was not contagious to either humans or dogs, but she will need monthly treatment for the rest of her life. I am so glad someone has taken her in-- she's a lovely dog and deserves great life! :)

Here's another little cutie I have spent time with at the Savannah Human Society :) His name is Pokie! (he's a shepard/husky mix :)

http://www.humanesocietysav.org/animal_view.asp?PhotosPage=2&PhotoID=1261

I've taken this guy on a walk and also spent time brushing him and hugging him. He is a lovable dog who seemed to want petting and hugs even more than the brushing!-- what a sweetie!!! At one point this morning he had both his arms on my shoulders while I petted him :)-- what a cute doggie!!!! He will be at the doggie carnival in Forsyth Park tomorrow too it looks like-- I hope someone gives him a great home!

I Started Volunteering at the Humane Society!!!

2009-04-28T20:47:00.003-04:00

If there is one thing I may love even more than art, it is dogs!!! Seriously, if I had any skills in science I would have become a veterinarian or something. I just love doggies!!!!

To get my dog fix, I decided to start volunteering at the local humane society here in Savannah, GA. So far I walk the dogs, and pet and hug them :) They are so sweet and need lots of love. (so if anyone in Savannah needs a dog, they have a lot of sweeties)!!!

I am particularly fond of "underdogs"...you know, the ugly and or disabled dogs...I just can't help myself. This photo is a stock photo, but I thought it was appropriate. I am especially fond of this dog at the Savannah Humane Society named Olivia. She is a sweet little dog that once had a severe case of mange. She has been there a few months and no one yet has adopted her :(...I know she had mange because at one point on her cage was a photo of how she looked-- like a burn victim. Natually my heart went out to her. She is now cured of the mange, but has a bit of the scarring and may not be as cute as other dogs. She is so sweet though, and needs a good home.

I currently live in an apt where I can't have pets, but I would love to adopt her!! I hope someone does-- she's such a sweetie!!!

Damn that's a good sweater...

2009-04-10T03:49:00.005-04:00

I love this video :)

Mr. Chicken Has His Beer...

2009-04-03T00:23:00.003-04:00

I really like this one! :D...Here is the finished version in oils, measuring 12 by 16 inches...nothing like a drunken chicken...

A Recent Watercolor Style...

2009-03-26T21:49:00.006-04:00

I have a tendency to work in a variety of styles...surrealism, realism..CHICKENS...and also-- abstracted nature? This is the best way I can describe this type of art I have been doing, (on and off), for the last year or two. I find it relaxing because it starts out with the wet into wet technique (with watercolors), and ends with a lot of fun detail! (and I love detail :)-- here I find the best of both worlds in terms of creation. I used both watercolor and gouache in this painting.

Mr. Chicken is now Supersized...and in Oils...

2009-03-10T23:41:00.005-04:00

Yup, that's right-- Mr. Chicken is now being offered up in a "supersized" format-- thanks McDonalds! :O.....

Uh, anyway. The Mr. Chicken series originally began as a bunch of artist's trading cards-- (you know, baseball card size art). I had a number of people ask, "do you have that in a larger version?" Alas, at the time I did not. Now I do-- yeah!!! I am selling the prints now in a larger format-- 5 by 7 with an 8 by 10 mat.

Even better, I am recreating some of my best sellers even LARGER and in oils. "Mr. Chicken Has His Beer" is the first one I finished. I am currently working on a larger, oil version of "Vitruvian Chicken," and also "Mr. Chicken Goes Scuba Diving." Good stuff...

I Love Irish People...

2009-03-02T01:28:00.007-05:00

And I'm not just saying this 'cause I'm part Irish! (but I am-- 25% mind you-- apparently my great-grandpa was a Finnian)...(Dad says Grandma was "shanty Irish"-- real PC)!!! ...anyway...

I just love Sinead Lohan. I don't listen to a lot of "new music." ie: anything current. Call me old school, but I listen to stuff from when I was young, as well as music when I was either in utero, or before I was born. I just love her stuff though. I saw her in concert in Madision, WI when I was in my early 20's and it was AWESOME!!!! I would love to see another performance! :) Here is a song I found via You Tube :)

I've Started Oil Painting Again!!!!!

2009-02-17T23:10:00.004-05:00

Yeah!!! To tell you the truth, it's been years since I have completed an oil painting, so this is a bit of an experiment, if you will...

For some reason, watercolor seems to click with me. I wanted to get back into oils though, as the color is so intense and saturated in comparison. They take so long to dry though! GRRR!!!!!!! The colors get all blendy and mushy and ....stuff...

Here is the start of my painting anyway. It will probably look much different when it is completed. It is a big one too-- 30 by 40 inches!

Here's Some November Rain for Ya!

2009-02-13T02:58:00.006-05:00

Another song/video I am rather fond of :) I really have absolutely no reason to post this video, other than the fact I really like this song-- it's good stuff!...yup, nothing like some good old G and R.... hope you like it! It makes me want to go and paint! It has a certain "mood" to it, that is condusive to artistic endeavors....

(Here's to the late 80's and early 90's...and hair bands?...)

So Long Decrepit Muse! :)

2009-02-07T10:54:00.005-05:00

I recently sold this original painting out of my studio--yeah!!!! Just in time to fix my car too-- excellent timing :) I think I will miss this painting. I'm definitely glad I sold it though. It's funny how we can get attached to our creations. I suppose now I will have to create one I like even more.

Karate Chicken...#12A

2009-02-06T00:55:00.003-05:00

Today Chicken-san travels back to 1984-- a special time in our nations history, featuring feathered bangs and spectacular bands like Bananarama...Here Chicken-san prepares to dethrone the testosterone driven Cobra Kai-- a quaint little group of martial artists with a fondness for pimple cream and showing no mercy. However, Chicken-san will not be squished like grape. Chicken-san is best around. BONZAI!!!!! (Paint fence Chicken-san...sand floor)....

Yuppers :) This is another artist's trading card, created using gouache on watercolor paper. Can ya tell I'm a child of the 80's? Go Ralph Macchio! :D

Back in Georgia....

2009-02-02T23:27:00.004-05:00

I though I would celebrate this by making more friendship bracelets for my 3rd Etsy shop, Pookietown. I did a Christmas sale that wiped out my inventory, so now it's time to restock! Here is one of my latest. These things are pretty cool because they are one size fits all, and you can actually use them as book marks too I suppose. Perhaps that would be a good marketing strategy...hhmmm...

I went to Dr. Sketchy's for my Birthday! :)

2009-01-26T10:14:00.001-05:00

July 2007 Sketchy's
Originally uploaded by Olive Talique

It was a fun time -- Think drinking, drawing, and debauchery!...this photo was actually taken at the last Dr. Sketchy's I went to before I moved to Georgia. (It's like Where's Waldo-- can you find me? :)

To make the evening even cooler I won two of the contests, which resulted in a new sketchbook and also a pack of soft pastels. yeah! I was really needing a new sketchbook too, so it worked out quite nicely!

I like this video :)

2009-01-17T01:12:00.001-05:00

To be specific, I really like this song...

Mr. Chicken Loves His Rubber Ducky...#11A

2009-01-07T23:01:00.004-05:00

After a long and adventurous weekend, it is time for Mr. Chicken to take a nice warm bubble bath with his special friend-- Rubber Ducky!!! Not only he is cute, yellow, and chubby... he makes bath time lots of fun! WAK WAk!...

This is the latest in my Mr. Chicken series :) They are artist trading cards painted on watercolor paper using gouache. The last 2 were custom orders involving excessive amounts of drunken revelry-- fun stuff!!!! ... after all the good times I figured he might need a bath... And you know a bath would not be complete without a rubber ducky! :)

Fun With Recycling! :)

2008-12-28T20:15:00.004-05:00

I first got into recycling back in Wisconsin, when we got those curbside bucket thingies :)...I eventually began recycling with my art. First with handmade recycled paper when I was a teenager, and most recently with my hand cut mats that I "screw up." Instead of throwing these mats away, I have been collaging them, to cover the imperfections, and to make them look cool. Here is the latest! I made this one using vintage papers I purchased on Etsy.

An Unconventional Christmas Eve...

2008-12-25T08:15:00.003-05:00

Being across the country from "home" I knew Christmas Eve was going to be a little different this year. I wasn't sure exactly how the day/evening would go, but it began with a little bit of artwork at my studio in the afternoon. Later I pulled a Mr. Chicken and went to a seedy bar, where I enjoyed cheep, cold beer with one of my artist friends. We also ate about 2 baskets full of peanuts. The fun part (other than the company and the beer), is that it's one of those bars where you can toss the peanut shells on the ground-- yeah!!! Now that's some Christmas merriment...

After this I went back to my studio and painted until midnight. I had a custom order I recently did, which "disappeared" from my studio before I could get it in the mail--AAHHHH!!! Now I am trying to recreate it as quickly, and as perfectlyl as possible. I will work on it again later today...

What a weird Christmas. The only major bummer is that I woke up with a stomach ache from all the peanuts...

Vitruvian Chicken...#8A

2008-12-14T22:54:00.005-05:00

After taking a wee sample of his magical time traveling elixir, Mr. Chicken finds himself in the the High Renaissance...Here he meets a curious fellow who insists on his close friends calling him "Leo," and can't help but notice Mr. Chicken's "ideal" proportions. After much cajoling and a few bottles of elderberry wine, Leo convinces Mr. Chicken to pose for his next drawing, which has now gone down in history as......Vitruvian Chicken....

Heheheheh!!! I hope you enjoy the video! :)

I am a Nostalgia Junkie...Here I go Again...

2008-12-04T00:12:00.007-05:00

So I have a tenendency to listen to this song over and OVER... a habit I've had since the late late 1990's...it is a good song, and it is a habit that I have not yet kicked...

It is a very GOOD song...you know...those songs that stick with you your whole life?...Well, this is one of those songs. It inspires me in many of those ways :)

I'm having a Black Friday Sale...Ooh! How exciting! :D

2008-11-27T22:16:00.003-05:00

Here's to American consumerism at it's worst...or best? :) Hell yeah!!!!

So I know this is supposedly the biggest shopping weekend of the year in this country...suposedly...So I went ahead and did it...I decided to have a sale. I am putting my 8 1/2 by 11 inch prints up for grabs at half price this weekend :) we'll see how it goes :O

Sorry for such a short post but it's Thanksgiving and I am feeling completely unmotivated..

I Finally listed the Wierdo Kinky Dog Picture...

2008-11-26T10:00:00.006-05:00

Here it is! Nice and strange ;) This is another one of my medium sized, originals I recently listed on Etsy. It is a gouache painting I created for a local erotica show here in Savannah. It measures roughly 8 by 10 inches....so it's not too big, but big enough! ;)

Of course I had to tag it as "mature" and make the first pic "child friendly"...(if that's really possible)....For the record, the little strap on atop the doggies head was not my idea-- you can thank my friend Brian for that one. He said something to the effect of, "well why don't you just go all out and put a strap on on the dogs head?" So I did, and named the piece "Brian's Boner"...Anyway, I think it's a strange and fun little work of art. Remember people, love your pets...but don't "love" you pets... :)

I'm Throwing Caution to the Wind...I've decided to list Originals..

2008-11-23T21:57:00.006-05:00

Yes it's true! I've decided to start listing some of my larger originals on Etsy. I was reluctant to do so for the longest time, as I was not sure if people would want to shell out that much money on the internet. I've come to the conclusion though, what do I have to loose, other than the listing fee?...So here I am listing larger originals :)-- and when I say larger originals, I mean anything over 4 by 6 inches :)

I listed this one tonight. It is called "In Separation of Continents" and was created on 140 lb. watercolor paper using watercolor and gouache. I was going for a beautiful yet melancholy feeling with this one :)....perhaps with a tad bit of nostalgia...

Well That's Cool! :D

2008-11-19T11:01:00.005-05:00

Life is funny. I think a lot of us artists have felt rather bummed out lately, with the economy affecting sales and all...but then when you least expect it-- something really cool happens! :)

So I checked my email this morning, mainly to see if my Dad was sending out one of his "Vero Beach Updates," (a humorous update on his adventures in Florida)...and I found something completely unexpected that made me feel a lot better about my artistic situation :)

I've been featured on the Art Channel of Talent Database! Yeah!!! :)

http://www.talentdatabase.com/channels/1-Art

It's not as if I have won the Pulitzer Prize or anything, but still, this really made my day! :) I guess this means that even if your art doesn't fit in at most artistic venues, it might be appreciated elsewhere :) This gives me hope. Here's to the freaky artists everywhere! :)

Meet the Patron Saints of My Art Studio...

2008-11-12T02:29:00.006-05:00

I bring you...trailer trash barbie and drag queen Ken! :D ...

I know, terribly politically correct isn't it?...Now, you can't really tell, but Barbie is actually sporting a "delicate" condition underneath the cross dressing Ken :)...*prego*....Don't worry people-- this is all in good cheer :) I'm mega liberal! :D

I used to embarass my older sister Kim terribly. I had a fondness for putting my barbies in the Christmas stockings that hung from our stairwell, and would also hang them in odd positions from the Christmas tree...OK, once in a while they would be naked. Heheheh!!!! (I always enjoyed getting a rise out of my sister-- she was so squeamish)!....and I did this of course when I was like 10 or 11 years old...yes, it's true-- I've always been one to push the envelope a bit! :O ...

Now that I'm on the subject, let me tell you about the time I gave Jem a facial. (For those of you who dont' recall, Jen was this gigantic barbie in the late 1980's who had earrings that actually lit up)...So I decided to give her a facial this one time by wrapping her entire head in a cast of wet toilet paper and baby powder...she kind of ended up permanently albino after that...she kinda had some kind of pre-Michael Jackson skin thingie...very strange.... :)

3 Custom Orders in the Same Week! Ahhh!!!

2008-11-07T11:01:00.005-05:00

Actually, it's a good thing :) I admit I was kind of stressed out for the first couple of days, but after order #1 was done I felt a lot better.

That was a pretty cool request. I made 3 friendship bracelets with hand embroidered astrological symbols. The colors represented the particular astrological signs :) And as I am a fan of astrology I thought this idea was pretty neat-- Ooh! I might have to make one for myself!...(I'm a wierdo Aquarian with a Capricorn rising and moon in Leo :)

In addition, I'm working on another custom order for a total of 5 friendship bracelets, and also a personalized Mr. Chicken painting.... (I am working this one into the series). Initially, Mr. Chicken was next going to get in touch with his inner Mr. Myaiagi (how spell)?)...but now he his taking a detour to Quebec for a weekend of personal enjoyment :)...don't worry-- he won't do anything illegal... :D

I love Halloween!

2008-10-28T13:44:00.004-04:00

I think it has got to be my all time favorite holiday! What other time of year can you dress up like a total freak and completely get away with it? :D..(I'm all for dressing up like a freak ;)-- normal office wear never really suited me...

Oh yes, it is also a really good excuse to eat lots and lots of candy...(which reminds me...I was doing well on my diet, but then slid back and gained a couple of pounds-- damn that tastey barbeque)!!!!!

Anyway, in honor of Halloween I have created a new/temporary shop banner! (nice and festive--yeah)!!!! I thought this was the least I could do, as I didn't make anything Halloween oriented to sell in my shop :O....oh well!

My Latest (Healthy) Addiction :)

2008-10-21T23:38:00.005-04:00

I can't stop listening to You Tube videos....

I'm very much a fan of music. Especially good music. (Or music that I think is good anyway:) I find myself listening to a variety of videos late at night because I am a total insomniac. Perhaps it would better serve me to paint during these little episodes, but my painting supplies are at my studio...(that's my current excuse anyway:)

I especially like music that sounds rather melancholy...It suits my brooding tendencies I think. Here is a nice and weepy one! :D ....This is called Verdi Cries, and is sung by Natalie Merchant. Natalie Merchant is one of my all time favorites. I've been listening to her a lot this week, for a variety of reasons...(I also tend to go through phases where I listen to the same artist over and over for a week or so, then switch to another musician for a week or two)...anyway, here it is-- and it's good painting music too! :) I usually save the rowdier stuff for my paper making adventures! :)

I Present to You..."Pickle Head"....

2008-10-16T00:07:00.003-04:00

Yeah!!! I actually finished it :)...and it only took me a month!

For the record, finishing a surreal piece, for me, usually takes MUCH longer. I have been known to work on surreal pieces for months, even years. Often because I get frustrated and set the piece aside (for months, or even years)...and I"m very much a perfectionst! I worked on this one for about a month straight though (minus a few days when I made paper)...and here it is! :)

Makes me wonder if I should rethink my artistic strategies...I often work on multiple pieces at once, and set aside works of art for extended periods of time. I don't know if I will change my strategy really, but I do wonder if I would be more productive if I just worked on one at a time...just thoughts I'm having currently :)....Knowing myself I probably won't change a $#@!!@# thing! :)... :O ...(we'll see though ;)

Dude! I broke my Toe! :O...

2008-10-10T03:57:00.004-04:00

Ow!!!!...I never realized V8 Splash Juice could be so volatile... :O...

So here's what happened...It was a usual uneventful morning..I opened the fridge to get my energy drink...just like I have EVERY morning for the last 6 years...(a habit that started with my early morning employment in coffee shops many moons ago)...

So this HUGE bottle of tropical V8 Juice (in the door of my fridge) flies out of the fridge and lands on the middle toe of my right foot..OW!!! When it actually happened I screamed "OW"!!! out loud...(and for the record, this is one of those full jugs...like a gallon)...#@$$#!!!!

Not a good thing...I told Matt not to place top heavy beverages in the lower/outer door of the fridge ever again...*whimpering*...ow...

Let's just say I am bruised, stiff, and uncomfortable...GGRR...(ow)... :( ...

I Need to Get Crackin' With the Handmade Recycled Paper!

2008-10-01T23:40:00.010-04:00

And I mean soon! :) I managed to snag an ad in the November issue of Craft Magazine, as part of the Etsy Cooperative Advertising Program. (I still can't believe I actually was able to get one)!...Yup, fourth time was the charm...or it was luck perhaps, I don't know ;)

Anyway, the picture you see here is the one I will have in the magazine ad. I therefore have not added it to my shop yet :) I will do so on October 20th, because that is when the subscribers to the magazine get it in the mail. I need to get my shop fully stocked with paper...I'm quite sure just how much, but more than I have now. I hope the ad works! :)...If not, I'm sure it will be a fun experiment nonetheless! :)...I've never been in a nationally circulated puplication before..(I don't think so anyway?)...

In honor of this event, I bring you papermaking music! :) I couldn't stop listening to this album during my last papermaking marathon-- yeah Irish music! :) (This is Drunken Lullabies by Flogging Molly-- good stuff)!!! :D

I'm a Horrible Procrastinator... :O ...

2008-09-20T21:57:00.005-04:00

You know that sketch I blogged about a couple of posts back? Yeah, I haven't started that one yet... :) The main reason being is that I'm going to do it in oils, and I haven't worked in oils in years...I'm kind of a perfectionist, so I'm, uh...putting it off for a little while...(soon though, I swear)! :) ...

The painting shown here I am finally starting. I began this sketch a few years ago...(It's basically about losing your mind-- something many artists can relate to right?-- here's to you Van Gogh! :)...I think I'm going to call it "Pickle Head"... Get it? The head looks like a pickle, kinda...and also it's a refererence to your brain getting pickled :)...Yes, screwey but true :) It may look quite different by the time I finish it...I will most likely put a wallpaper background in it, like some of my other surreal paintings. I'm attempting to creat a "cohesive" body of work, or so they call it... :O (we'll see how it goes-- I have a bit of artistic ADD or something)...

In honor of my procrationation, and the many ideas I have in my head, I bring you this fun and quirky video by The Foo Fighters! :) I love this song/video. This song, called "Big Me," was big in my late teen years. I've decided to do a Mr. Chicken based on this video...Mr. Chicken Eat His Mentos (perhaps?)...I think Mr. Chicken might have to sport some Dave Grohl braids :)...(Remember those fun and dorky Mentos videos?) Of course though, since I procrastinate and am working on 10 differnt things at once, it may be a while :)
..sorry I had to post the link insted of the video-- I couldn't embed it for some reason! :O

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GhfWzCPRPtg

To Have a Sale...or Not to Have a Sale...

2008-09-15T18:29:00.005-04:00

Not to get all Shakespearian on ya or anything people! (Sorry, I couldn't resist, I'm kind of a dork :)...anyway, I am having a 2 week sale in my Snitterdog shop as part of the birthday bash for Etsy For Animals...(I'll get back to that later in the post).

Right now I would like to talk about the pro's and con's of having a sale on an ecommerce sight, in particular, Etsy. If anyone has anything to add, please feel free to comment! :)

I think some of the pro's (obviously) would be making some sales, particularly at a time when the economy is not in good shape, and sales are slow. I also wonder if it may draw in new buyers looking for a bargain....Once in a while I will do a search for "sale" to see what's out there...I wonder if others do this too :) Another benefit is the possibility of repeat business-- getting new buyers who maybe become repeat buyers, or previous buyers who may come back for more :)

Drawbacks-- will people just wait for "your next sale?"....This is something I wonder about...I had a new customer once tell me how much she liked my work and that she was happy it was on sale. This made me happy of course, I was thrilled she liked my work, and also happy with the purchase. It made me wonder though...do people wait to purchase sometimes, hoping for a sale?....particularly if you have sales a lot?...

I don't have sales a LOT...I do have a tendency to participate in group sales though...I did the Yart Sale (which was a great one)! and also a sale that a bunch of us in the ACEO Bounty Challenge participated in-- that was a good one too :)

Anyway, I thought I would do a post on the topic of "having a sale" because I'm trying to figure out the best way to do it-- how often, what kind of sale, etc...I was toying with having a sale at my other shop, The Greene Fairy, but I haven't decided yet...Will having sales too frequently reduce the value of my items?...I wish I would have taken some business classes in college :O...

As for the sale I am having: I'm part of the efa, also called Etsy for Animals. There are about 120 Etsy shops participating in this. We're animal loving types who often donate to animal charities :) The shops participating are doing a 20% off sale-- all you have to do is leave a message in "notes to seller" at checkout...my coupon code is SNITT (can ya guess where that comes from)? ... :) The code you can use at any of the participating shops is "MEOW"...The seller then refunds the 20% :) Here is a link to find all the participating shops! :)

http://efaartistshelpinganimals.org

Anyway, I may have to do some "research" about marketing and sales :)...I like to be informed...(I try anyway)! :)

Ah, Pricing Dilemmas...

2008-09-08T02:08:00.005-04:00

You know what I'm talking about right, my fellow ecommerce people?...Etsy people in particular?....Pricing an item is tricky, particulary when the price point on your particular sight may be lower than out in "the real world."...and when I say the "real world," I'm referring to a store, or gallery-- a place you can physically go to :) ...

Over the last few months I have been S-LO-W-L-Y raising my prices on Etsy because I have really been lowballing them. Also, I know I can get more for them in my studio, and in stores and galleries if I pursue that route...I feel my prices in my studio need to be comparable to those on my Etsy sight...(I would feel kind of icky if people bought something for $40 at my studio, then logged onto my Etsy sight, only to find they could get it there for $20 )...

So how do we deal with these pricing issues?...I'm still trying to figure that out...One thing I've thought of doing is offering larger pieces in my studio, to sell at a higher price point...(many of the other artists who have studios near me have prints in the $40- $50 range-- they are shocked that I sell my prices for such a low price-- $20)....I've also had customers who were shocked at the low price of my prints...which makes me wonder if I should raise the price in my studio, and at Etsy...ah...but the price point there is lower...so what to do?...hhmm....

For now, I think I will continue my current price for prints on Etsy, but also offer some larger versions at my studio. I may also yank some or all of my originals from Etsy, but I'm kind of wavering on that-- not quite sure...most of my ACEO's take 5 or 6 hours, so I'm not even paying myself minimum wage on those little guys...I really like having a full shop though! :) ....Maybe I could list the print, and note that the original is also available-- (for example say something like, if you're interested in the original, contact the seller :)

These decisions are kind of tough and kind of screwey! We'll see what happens! :)