Economic Intel: Visual Arts Foster GNP Growth 

Written by: Jammin Jane

Chart Data is sourced from Hill Strategies: Statistical Insights on the Arts in Canada (Kelly Hill)

Subscribe to their newsletter here

The Canadian arts and culture sector plays a significant role in the economy. Below are some key statistics regarding its contributions to the Gross National Product (GNP): Its hard to know what is going on in our local arts community let alone the rest of Canada.  Very rarely does the economic impact of the arts in real dollars reach the general public. It is doubtful that these numbers are discussed in economic class and the information seems to be buried in the Statistics Canada data base. This newlsetter has some excellent insight and analysis on what artists might want to know about their worth as a professional artist.  

Canadian art contributes significantly to the economy, with the arts and culture sector representing about 3% of Canada’s GDP. In 2019, the total economic impact of the arts was estimated at approximately $53 billion. Additionally, the sector supports around 700,000 jobs nationwide. These contributions highlight the importance of the arts in driving economic growth and fostering community development.

Here is a broad view minimum measurement sample of our visual Arts Economy:

$14 billion in revenues were contributed by visual arts in Canada 2023 (Visual Arts account for 41% of the total arts & culture contribution)

In 2023--4%  was the `Original' Visual Arts portion of the pie, worth $ .5 billion dollars to the Canadian economy.(One billion is a thousand millions.One billion is a 1 with nine zeros after it, denoted by 1,000,000,000).  $500 million dollars is generated for the economy by original visual art sales in Canada. 

 Screen shot from Hill Strategies Newsletter Oct 15, 2024. 

1. Economic Contribution: The arts and culture sector contributed approximately CAD 53 billion to the Canadian economy in recent years.

2. Employment: The sector employs around 700,000 individuals across various fields, including visual arts, performing arts, and cultural industries.

3. Growth Rate: The cultural sector has seen growth rates that often outpace other industries, highlighting its increasing significance in the economy.

4. Investment: Government investment in the arts is substantial, with federal and provincial funding supporting various programs, organizations, and initiatives.

5. Tourism Impact: Cultural tourism, which includes visits to museums, galleries, and cultural events, generates significant revenue, contributing to both local economies and overall GNP.

Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and seek recommendations from other sources to gauge the accuracy and reliability of specific data models. 

Art Framing Intel

Impact Art Value With A Quality Frame

Written by: Jammin Jane

By paying attention to these tips, you can ensure that your artwork is not only well-protected but also beautifully presented, enhancing its impact and longevity. 

Frames can be made from a variety of materials, each offering different aesthetics and levels of protection for the artwork.Choosing the right combination of materials depends on factors like the artwork's value, size, style, and intended display environment. For valuable or sentimental pieces, archival-quality materials should be used to ensure the artwork's long-term preservation.

Sourcing wood framing materials can be done through several channels, depending on whether you're looking for standard sizes or custom options. 

 Here are some common materials and terms used in art framing:

WOOD:

Hardwoods (e.g., oak, walnut, cherry): These are durable and offer a classic, elegant look. They can be stained or painted to match different decor styles.

Softwoods (e.g., pine, cedar): These are lighter and more affordable than hardwoods, often used for simpler or rustic frames.

METAL:

Aluminum: Lightweight, durable, and available in various finishes (e.g., matte, polished). Aluminum frames are popular for modern and minimalist styles.

Steel: Stronger and heavier than aluminum, steel frames can provide a sleek industrial look.

COMPOSITE:

MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): Engineered wood product that is cost-effective and can be finished to resemble various wood grains.

Polystyrene: Lightweight and affordable plastic that can mimic the appearance of wood or metal frames.

FRAME ASSEMBLY HARDWARE:  Includes screws, clips, staples, nails, glue, brackets, etc.

FLOAT FRAME:  Artwork is visible from all sides, "floating" within the frame, often used for canvases and artworks with visible edges.

RABBET FRAME: Artwork is enclosed within the frame, with edges covered by matting and other framing materials, suitable for a wide range of flat artworks.

Here is a modern, simple, float frame sourced from Amazon:

Order this 16" x 20" Float frame with next day delivery in natural engingeered wood for a reasonable price.  Easy. Fast. Decent.

Great for 3/4" profile canvas.

STRETCHER BARS: These are straight-edged bars commonly used for regular canvases with 3/4" profile.  If the canvas is large additional bars that can be inserted into the back of larger frames to provide extra stability and prevent warping.

GALLERY WRAP DEPTH: These have a deeper profile (typically 1.5 inches or more) to accommodate canvases that will be wrapped around the edges, allowing for a frameless presentation.

BOARD DEPTH: Common painting boards are made of masonite or wood and are 1/4" profile. This is most often framed in a rabbet frame. 

CRADLE DEPTH: Common wood panels are often cradled with a profile of 3/4" to 2". This can be left unframed or framed in a float frame.

ACRYLIC: Used instead of traditional glass for its lightweight, shatter-resistant properties, and UV protection capabilities. It's commonly used in frames for valuable or large artworks.

GLAZING: Traditional framing glass provides clear and non glare versions but can be heavy and prone to breaking.

MAT BOARD:  Made from paper-based materials (e.g., cotton or alpha-cellulose), matboards are used to surround the artwork within the frame. They come in various colors and textures and serve to enhance the presentation of the artwork while providing space between the artwork and the glass/acrylic.

BACKING BOARD: Provides support and protection to the artwork from behind the frame. It can be made from materials like cardboard, foam board, or acid-free archival materials for conservation framing.

HANGING HARDWARE: Includes hanging wire, D-rings, and screws for attaching the artwork securely to the frame and facilitating hanging on walls.

Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and seek recommendations from other artists to gauge the performance and durability of specific brush models. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases .Personal experiences from fellow artists can provide valuable insights into the suitability of any kind of brush for your artistic needs. 

Legal Intel: Savvy Artist Recognition

Arts Professions Recognition Act

Bill 75 Statutes of Alberta  2021

Get a copy here

To be a professional artist requires a juxtaposition of artistic talent, dedication, adaptability, business savvy, networking and serendipity.

`Artists are valuable and professional members of society'  

                                                     --Bill 75 Government of Alberta

Seven Steps for Consideration:

1. Develop Your Skills: Dedicate time to honing your craft. Practice regularly, experiment with different techniques and styles, and seek feedback from peers or mentors.

2. Build a Presence Online: Establish a strong online presence through a website or portfolio platform, social media, and online art communities. Share your work regularly, engage with your audience, and network with other artists and potential clients.

3. Attend Art Events and Exhibitions: Participate in art exhibitions, fairs, and events to showcase your work and connect with fellow artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts. Networking can lead to valuable opportunities and collaborations.

4. Market Yourself: Develop a marketing strategy to promote your work effectively. This may include creating a brand identity, utilizing social media advertising, collaborating with influencers, or reaching out to galleries and art dealers. Actively pursue opportunities to exhibit your work, collaborate with other artists or organizations, and participate in residencies, competitions, and grants.

5. Learn the Business Side: Familiarize yourself with the business aspects of being an artist, including pricing your work, negotiating contracts, managing finances, and understanding copyright and licensing agreements. Consider taking workshops or courses on art business and entrepreneurship.

6. Persist and Adapt: Building a career as a professional artist can be challenging and may require perseverance and resilience. Be prepared to face rejection and setbacks along the way, but also be willing to adapt, learn from experiences, and evolve as an artist.

7. Stay Inspired and Creative: Nurture your creativity and passion for art. Stay curious, continue learning, and draw inspiration from your surroundings, experiences, and other artists. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for sustained artistic growth and fulfillment.

Here are some great observations on how art gets made --Sourced from Amazon:  

A short and easy read with a simple message-- 

Don't be afraid to put yourself out there.

Artist Intel

4 Favorite Easels that will get you in the vibe outside and inside.

Written by: Jammin Jane

 Painting from life allows artists to directly observe the subject matter, capturing nuances of color, light, and atmosphere that may be difficult to replicate from photographs or imagination alone. This firsthand experience can lead to more authentic and dynamic paintings.

The sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors can stimulate artistic inspiration and encourage experimentation with different techniques and approaches

Painting en plein air requires artists to work quickly and decisively, honing their observational and technical skills. It encourages artists to focus on essential elements of composition, color mixing, and brushwork, leading to growth and development as painters.

Painting outdoors allows artists to immerse themselves in nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the natural world. This connection to the environment can be spiritually and emotionally rewarding, influencing both the artist's work and personal well-being.

The immediacy of painting on location can imbue the artwork with a sense of vitality and energy that may be lacking in studio work.

Lets take a look at four classic easels for plein air painting sourced from Amazon:

French Easel

This classic wood design combines a sketchbox, easel, and canvas carrier in one. It's versatile and sturdy, suitable for various mediums. Look for ones with adjustable legs for stability on uneven terrain.

                             

Tripod Easel

Lightweight and easy to set up, tripod easels are great for quick outdoor painting sessions. They come in various materials like aluminum or wood.

Pochade Box

These compact boxes hold your canvas or panel while providing space for supplies. They're excellent for smaller works and travel-friendly. Some models come with tripod mounts for added stability.

Studio Easel

If you don't mind sacrificing some portability for stability and versatility, a studio easel might be ideal. They can accommodate large canvases and offer adjustable angles for comfortable painting. Look for features like tilting mechanisms and sturdy construction.

Consider factors like weight, size, setup time, and your painting style when making your decision. If possible, try out different easels in person or read reviews from other plein air artists to find the best fit for your needs.

Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and seek recommendations from other artists to gauge the performance and durability of specific brush models..Personal experiences from fellow artists can provide valuable insights into the suitability of any kind of easel  for your artistic needs. 

Artist Intel

Fast 5 Favorites:  Brush Basics-Synthetic vs Natural Bristles

Written by: Jammin Jane

Passionate about painting?  Me too.  In my opinion, there is no such thing as too many artist paint brushes! Getting a good variety of bristles in your kit is essential.  Developing a brush stroke can be an important part of a  style. Knowing what kind of brush to use will impact the end result of your piece. 

Lets breakdown the basics for investing in some great art brushes:

Synthetic Bristle : Look for brushes made from high-quality synthetic fibers designed to mimic the characteristics of natural bristles. These fibers should be soft, yet resilient, with good spring and shape retention.  

• Versatility: Synthetic brushes can be used with both oil-based and water-based paints. Choose brushes that are suitable for a variety of mediums and techniques. A versatile brush can handle different viscosities of paint and various surfaces, making it a valuable tool in your art kit. 
• Durability: They tend to last longer than natural bristle brushes, especially when used with water-based paints, as they don't swell or lose shape; opt for brushes with sturdy construction including securely fastened bristles and a well-designed ferrule (the metal part that holds the bristles). A brush with a durable handle that provides a comfortable grip is also essential for longevity. Poor quality brushes often lose their hairs.
• Ease of Cleaning: Synthetic brushes are easier to clean since they don't absorb paint as much as natural bristle brushes do. They can often be cleaned with just soap and water in the kitchen sink and typically require less effort to clean compared to natural bristle brushes. Synthetic bristles hold less water or paint within the bristles are often easier to rinse thoroughly.
• Odor: Plain water is used to keep the brush fresh while painting so no odor

Fast 5 Synthetic Bristles:

Sourced from Amazon-Who doesn't like free shipping!

1. Artist Professional Brush Set with 25 pieces
2. Flat Wash 1" Brush
   
3. Round synthetic blend brush
4. Filbert edge short handle in various sizes or long wood handle
5. Paddle Brush in 3 sizes

Natural Bristle : Look for brushes made from premium natural bristles, such as hog, ox, or sable hair, depending on your painting needs. The bristles should be well-selected for their uniformity in length and thickness, ensuring consistent performance. Natural bristle brushes should strike a balance between softness and resilience. They should feel smooth on the canvas or surface while maintaining enough stiffness to provide control and precision in your strokes.

• Ideal Versatility : Natural bristle brushes are traditionally preferred for oil and water based paint because the bristles are porous and can hold more paint, allowing for smoother application.

  Natural bristle brushes should have good paint retention capabilities, allowing you to load the brush with paint for extended periods without frequent reloading. This quality is particularly essential for oil painting, where large amounts of paint are often used. Natural bristle brushes are more absorbent than synthetic ones, which can be beneficial for some painting styles but can also lead to more paint wastage.
• Texture and Finish: They tend to have a greater variety in textured finish and are more flexible than synthetic ones, which can be desirable for certain painting techniques or styles.
• Durability: Most often natural bristles are designed to withstand harsh chemicals. Choose brushes with sturdy construction, including securely fastened bristles and a well-designed ferrule (the metal part that holds the bristles). A brush with a durable handle made from quality wood.
• Ease of Cleaning: When using oil based paints the brush will require a two step cleaning. First with a solvent wash in a container containing mineral spirits or turpentine to remove most of the paint absorbed in the bristles. The dirty solvent should not be poured down the sink. Follow with a lathered soap and water wash to remove odor. An occasional drop of conditioner can then be used to keep the hairs from becoming brittle over time. Next shape the bristles by hand into the original shape and then allow the brush to air dry in a flat position.
• Odor: Brushes with oil paint can be sitting in a solvent which can give off a strong odor.

Fast 5 Natural Bristles:

Sourced from Amazon-Who doesn't like free shipping!

1. Professional Artist Animal Hair 35 piece set
2. 5" wide Flat large area Goat for water color only
3. Short Handle Sable Sword Liner
4. Natural Hog Bristle

Other considerations:

Performance: Look for synthetic brushes that offer good paint pickup and release, allowing for smooth and consistent application. Brushes with a fine tip or edge are particularly useful for detailed work.

Texture and Finish: Consider the type of texture and finish you want to achieve in your artwork. Different natural bristle brushes can create various textures, from smooth to textured finishes, depending on the length, thickness, and shape of the bristles.

Brand Reputation: Choose brushes from reputable brands known for their commitment to quality craftsmanship and materials. Established brands often have a long history of producing reliable art supplies and may offer a range of  bristle brushes tailored to different painting techniques and preferences

 that meet the needs of artists across different skill levels.

Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and seek recommendations from other artists to gauge the performance and durability of specific brush models. Personal experiences from fellow artists can provide valuable insights into the suitability of any kind of brush for your artistic needs.