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MAB Ventures Inc.-An Arts & Entertainment Agency, 1335 Pemberton Avenue, North Vancouver BC
It’s the hype that can be troublesome while dealing with pieces of art. Treat each art piece as an asset and nothing more. It’s an investment, and a subjective opinion shouldn’t be coming into play just like it wouldn’t with any other form of investment.
Art appreciation is something that can lead one down the wrong path and make it hard to produce the returns hoped for financially. Investors can start to assume they’re dealing with a great piece but it will not lead to quality gains. This is why it is essential to focus on what works rather than what may work. A lot of this occurs when an investor begins to bet on a future artist that may become popular or well-received down the road. This is never the right way to go and is inherently risky.
If you invest in art you need to remember it is similar to investing in venture capitalism. The idea is to look at the core details and how the art is produced. You don’t want to think about going with too many start-ups as the market may leave them in tatters.
Subjectivity is going to matter when it comes to collections because there is a personalized interpretation involved with artwork. This can make it seem like art cannot be deemed as an asset nor can it be viewed as something to add to one’s portfolio of investments.
However, there is a way to determine the market value of an art piece. The best way to get started is by speaking to a proven art advisor with years of expertise in dictating sales figures based on previous entries. It could be something sold at an auction or at an art gallery. These related sales can offer insight.
Another avenue is to start dissecting what the artist may have sold in the past. This information is ideal for setting a price point and knowing what one is working with. For example, an artist renowned for his/her work will receive awards or fellowships, and this can be a sign of good things to come. It can even be the academic position they may have held in the field of art because that indicates the potential value of the asset itself.
Resale value is the wrong way to look at an art piece. This only applies to the biggest of names in the world of art. You have to focus on this as a long-term asset and one that is going to act as a collectible (according to the IRS), and you will be taxed nearly 28% on all gains. This is a part of the expense you are going to pay on a sale, which means you are not going to net as much as you think you will.
This is why you have to think about the returns coming in and how they will play out in the long-term. You want to think about the non-financial advantages before anything else. The financial gain is nice, but that is a real bonus. If you keep it as an investment, you need to go to a proper art advisor to get a gist of what you’re working with.
If you are getting a collection, you need to think of it as a set of pieces rather than a complete sum of artwork. It is all about looking at the quality of the collection based on each piece and then assessing its value in general.
The artwork is often seen being listed in estates after valuation begins post-death. This is why a proper estate plan is an excellent strategic move. This is something you have to factor in as you are dealing with it as an asset. Will it be sold? Will it be transferred to your children/grandchildren?
This is a significant investment, but you have to think about it with a good understanding of your cash flows, additional assets, and other collections in hand. This is how you will be able to get more out of this asset.
You should always look to benefit from the art market but do it the right way, so you get more out of it.
By Monika Blichar
I always love meeting new artists and sharing them in our network. This time, I catch up with Lindsay who has a daring sense of adventure in her art and life!
Lindsay graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in Television Film and New Media then proceeded to get her MAED at University of Phoenix. Lindsay is from the Hollywood area where she worked at DreamWorks as well as other film companies and eventually took on her own clients. Some clients include Marriott, US Hanger Company, Hilton, San Diego Rescue Mission, Pussers and many more!
“My work is shows the compliments of coastal living and the carefree lifestyle of surfing. I like to do work with passion that shows the beauty of the sport of surfing becoming one with nature. I like to show how creative nature’s beauty can be. I live outside of the DC area and was born and raised in southern California which I am constantly coming back to. I create ocean art, accessories and jewelry. www.BlueFusionSurfArt.com Paradise Found is a favorite spot in Kauai.”
By Monika Blichar
When it comes to daydreaming and thinking up creative ideas, most artists can say that deep down, that’s all they ever really want to do. Being an artist is often like being a pirate and a gypsy; searching for that golden idea while striving to keep it secret until it is time to unveil.
I caught up with Paula Godden owner and designer at The Pirate and the Gypsy and asked her to give us a few insights into her world of wonder.
1-A lot of your inspiration to create a company came from your travels as a young girl. Do you have a favourite place that you have visited?
Jerusalem, a place so rich in history and culture. As a young girl, I was wide eyed with wonder walking through the streets of the old city, visiting historic churches and sites, places I had heard about in stories and later read about in books. The lush greenery of the Mount of Olives, the beautiful beaches, floating on the Dead Sea, touching the spot where the Star of Bethlehem landed when it fell from the sky. The market places were always so filled with color and the hustle of merchants with their beautiful art work and jewelry. It was magical, like fantasy had come to life, especially after watching movies like Indiana Jones which romanticized the Middle East with all its natural treasures and mysteries. My imagination ran wild and it was at that time my writings and drawings really began to develop.
2-Is anyone else in your family creative?
Yes, I have a lot of creative family members but the person that stands out the most for me is my Father, he was an amazing artist. I remember when I was little I would watch him, I was mesmerized by his drawings. I would constantly be bugging him to draw things for me and then as I got older he was the one I would go to when I wasn’t sure on how to draw something. He really helped me develop and hone my artistic skills.
3-Your work is made from many natural materials and stones. What is your favourite material to work with?
I love working with all metals and stones but if I had to choose one of each I would have to say that copper and Larimar are my favourites. Some think of copper as a “poor man’s” metal, a dirty metal, but its not. Copper is such a wonderful easy metal to work with and has amazing healing and conductive properties. It has the ability enhance the properties of all other metals and stones that are in contact with it. Copper also has such a rich, vibrant colour it reminds me of the sun setting on the water; those deep reddy orange hues shimmering on the waves of the ocean. Turquoise is usually the favourite for natural blue stones, but Larimar has my heart. It reminds me of horizon where the ocean meets the sky, blue seas and white pillowy clouds. As you can probably tell I have my head in the clouds and my heart at the ocean.
4-What’s the most memorable design you have created?
I’d have to choose the custom engagement/wedding ring remake I recently did. Working with a customer to bring their vision, their story to life was an amazing experience for me. This was definitely a challenging piece for me to do. I took on the project not just because of the story behind it, but for the opportunity to push my boundaries of creativity and increase my skill level. This customer hadn’t worn her wedding ring set for 15 years, saying the setting was too high and that it would get caught on things and scratch her children when carrying them. She gave me her vision and trusted me to take it and put my own creative twist on it and after 15 years she is now able to wear the expression of love and her family on her finger once again. The joy I experienced when I saw her face as she put her new ring on for the first time was overwhelming and I was even more moved but the testimonial she posted on my website. The process I went through on this custom piece brought my skill set to a whole new level and confirmed my love for the process of discovery, design and creation, this is why I hand pick all of my materials. My husband and I believe that in every piece of wood, glass, metal and stone there is a story and it is our joy to translate that story into the unique piece of art it becomes.
5-Where would you like to see your business and collection be in 5 years?
I see my husband and I doing this full time. The Pirate & The Gypsy will have moved out of our home studio into a small local store front in New Westminster on Front Street with personal studio space for the two of us. Our online store will have expanded and flourished, going from a largely local audience to more expanded national audience. I see us growing and evolving. As the business grows so will our skills and possibly our creative direction. The Pirate & The Gypsy has grown so much in the past year with the addition of my husband’s woodworking and stained glass art. I am blessed to have him with me along for the ride, to be able to share our ideas, methods, and dreams for the future. I see some stained glass pendant collaborations in the future and maybe even some wood and metal pieces. In 5 years we will still be sailing the seas of our imaginations and creating form the heart. We want to create a culture where people come to us from all over the world when they want unique custom designed pieces that tell a story or that celebrate their life and their journey.
6-Will you have any specials for Art World Expo attendees this year?
I have a few surprises up my sleeve for Expo attendees. I will be debuting a new limited edition collection at a special Art World Expo pricing. We will be giving away a complementary gift to the first 25 customers who visit our booth and while they are there they can enter our draw to win one of our necklaces.
For more information, be sure to visit The Pirate & The Gypsy Facebook Page
Did you know that one of the biggest struggles that artists face is making their art an actual career?
Gary Weston’s Exhibit 2014
When we meet artists, immediately one of the first things that we think of is, really? How can this person really be making a living off of their art? For the majority of artists, their biggest challenge is to be creative and be a business person.
One of the ways that we like to help artists make a living is to help them sell art. When you visit our show or follow our social media, you’ll see that we love to share and post art for sale from our vendors. At the event itself, we also have a silent auction and when you bid on the art from the auction, the artist receives 50% of the sale. Some sales are big, some smaller, but each sale of art in the auction supports the artisans in our event.
Art World Expo Auction 2015
Hajni beside two of her pieces at the auction in 2014. Both pieces sold.
Sabrina from Coastal Storm Gallery helping out at the Art World Expo Toronto Auction
If you know an artist who would like to be involved in our event, please share this post. Additionally, if you have a product or service that you would like to donate to our event auction, please register by filling out our donation form which can be found on our website! DONATE TO THE AUCTION HERE
See you at the show!
Sincerely,
Monika Blichar, Show Producer & Founder
Art World Expo TM http://www.theartworldexpo.com
MAB Ventures Inc.-An Arts & Entertainment Agency
You heard right! There are only three days left for early bird tickets! Early bird tickets end February 29, 2016-secure your tickets now!
Fashion Show by Nancy Perreault
We always love this event and each year strive to make it more interesting and amazing for the artists involved as well as the guests who attend. This year we will have an array of art for sale from over 100 artists from Canada, USA and Europe; we are very exited that once again, we have artists exhibiting from out of country. We will also continue with live painting, stage demonstrations, live music, a fashion show, silent and live auctions, food vendors, drinks and of course, the always popular body painting competition.
Little Monsters Studio returns! Photo: Gaby Saliba
Our theme this year is “Glamour Noir” as our event date falls on Friday, May 13. Guests are encouraged to adhere to the dress code and wear only red, white and black to the show.
Please continue to support this fabulous event and all the imagination and possibility that lies within it. It’s more than just a show, it’s the Art World-a place you can truly experience everything and anything creative.
Stump Artist is back-maybe even live chainsaw carving!
Michael Griffin Fine Art is back-be sure to chrck him out!
Lisa Austin, The MT Canvas, and Deanna Fligg setting up a few years ago!
A feature from the 24HR -thanks Sarah Rowland!
Producer and owner of Art World Expo, Monika Blichar is creating #GlamourNoir50 , a collection of 50 new paintings to be unveilled at this year’s event.
Gary Weston’s art is a crowd favorite!
Guests enjoying an array of stage performances all night!
Gypsy Jean and her walking art-ask us about hownto get a walking ad for your business at the show his year!
Open Door Gallery in 2015 -amazing!
Purchase your tickets before the 29th of February and enjoy early bird discounts. Order your tickets HERE.
Consider purchasing a VIP ticket including a limited edition Coastal Imagination Glamour Noir mask by Coastal Storm Gallery. Created specifically for this event in support of Make and Break Arts Foundation who annually support kids and adult arts programs, artist exhibitions, and creative professional development both locally and internationally. A VIP ticket also comes with a fast track line up, a special swag bag, and a drink ticket.
Thank you Twin Peaks Construction for your ongoing sponsorship for our annual event. Be sure to visit their website for all your home and commercial renovation and new build needs!
By Alyssa Laube
About: For Transylvanian painter and poet, Hajni Yosifov, art is all about self-discovery. Her paintings (“painted diaries/journals”, or “dreamscapes”, as she calls them) use bold colours and heavy texture to evoke emotions of love, wonder, and struggle. Despite starting out her artistic career as a jewellery designer, Hajni has found her true passion in painting, and will be exhibiting at this year’s Expo.
When you mention the “idea of existing” as a key concept in your work, what do you mean?
My artistic journey is more than seeking; it’s a chance to go on, deeply and permanently, into the idea of existing. Art is how I record life.
The way that you’ve described your work on your page is quite poetic. Do you write poetry?
The dance between words and pictures is unlike anything else. Nothing compares with the discovery of your own verse, and some of my paintings gives my mind the power of words. “The Dreamer” is my self portrait in words.
Which artists inspire you?
There are many inspiring artists, but none touches my heart and soul like Emily Carr.
How did growing up in Transylvania (and then moving to Canada) influence you?
When I came in Canada in 1990, the course of my life changed. My first show happened to be at Hamilton Art Gallery, where I met the gallery Director, Ted Pietrzak. His encouragement and guidance led me to the most rewarding journey as an artist. That was the beginning.
How did you get started in jewellery design?
At the end of the high school I decided to become a jeweller. It was a fascinating process between melting gold and polishing the final piece. The finished piece always became someone’s treasure.
How did you discover that painting was your true passion?
Painting must be my true passion, because I paint after working at my job, even if I don’t have a showing or commissioned piece. I’m painting when I’m hopeful or hopeless.
Would you describe your work as abstract and why/why not?
I don’t consider my art abstract because abstract art seeks to achieve its effect using shapes, forms, colours and textures without representing an external reality. I call mine “dreamscapes”, because when I paint, my intention is to touch an emotional chord with such intensity that I can’t distinguish if it’s pain or happiness.
How do you like to use colour and texture in your art?
My inspiration comes from a thought, building textures and bright colours, and then balancing with soft pastel.
You’ve participated in over 190 exhibitions. Is there one, or a few, that stand out in your memory and why?
After over 240 exhibitions, each of them is important. I had so many amazing moments and met so many people that inspired me.
How do you think that your work reflects the “awakening of life”?
I’m collecting bits of nature, human forms, and sparkles of light and putting them back into my artwork romantically. The awakening of life is an endless wonder.
How have you found your “new self” through your art?
I’m an artist; this is what I do. My art is the bridge between me and the world.
Why is creating art important to you?
My art gives me the courage to be vulnerable, and to be myself.
What will you be showing at the Expo?
At the Art World Expo, I’m showing my recent work. As a collection, each painting orchestrates the mood and story behind it. The theme, ”Shades of Love”, echoes through each of them.
You can see or purchase Hajni’s work at this year’s Expo, or:
http://www.absolutearts.com/portfolios/h/hajni/.
You can also follow her on Facebook and Twitter!
Thank you to our Platinum Sponsor Twin Peaks Construction!
By Alyssa Laube
About: After her time working with Canadian Forces, Angela Ayre decided to take a very different route and pursue a career in art. She is attending New Image College of Fine Arts for makeup artistry and is currently working with everything from body paint to beauty products!
What is it about body painting that you enjoy? Do you have any favourite techniques?
I enjoy body painting because it’s challenging, I can work on my communication skills with the model, and have a lot of fun along the way. The body is beautiful and it’s amazing how body paint can transform someone.
What was it like to serve with the Canadian Forces, and what was your role?
It was an honour to serve as a medic and clerk with the Canadian Forces, which was both my career and my family. I’m sad to leave but excited for what the future holds.
Why did you choose to move to such a different profession as makeup artistry?
When I closed my eyes and was honest with myself about what I could see myself doing and loving, makeup and art came to mind.
How do you feel when you’re creating art?
I feel free and happy when creating art.
You also like to use high contrast colour. How come? Do you have any favourite colours to use, and why?
I’ve always enjoyed high contrast colour cause I like how things pop and stand out. My favourite colours are pink and anything bright because it brings the piece energy!
Why did you choose to attend New Image?
I was inspired by a friend to take the course at New Image. I saw how much fun she was having and the projects looked interesting!
What makes you happiest?
What makes me happiest are the little things in life that make me grateful to be alive. When someone else appreciates the work I have done it makes me feel proud of the effort I put in.
What will you be showcasing at the Expo? Do you have a theme in mind, and if so, why did you choose it?
I think I will be donating my framed chalk drawing of a jean jacket. This piece is one of my favourites because it took a lot of time and patience to complete.
For more of Angela’s work, visit:
By Alyssa Laube
About: Although Anita has a Degree in Communications, she is currently studying her true passion at New Image College of Fine Arts: makeup artistry! Her dream is to work in the entertainment and fashion industry, and to run her own company where she can apply all of her diverse skills. At this year’s Expo, Anita will be demonstrating her body painting skills for the AWE audience.
You’re a student in Makeup Artistry and Film/Fashion Design. What made you interested in these specific studies, especially film and fashion?
My love for the fine arts started with drawing lessons when I was little. My teacher taught me the fundamentals:drawing straight lines without a ruler, shading, working with different mediums, tracing, colouring, and sketching. Later, myGrade 6 art teacher, Ms. Kolaric, inspired me and taught me new techniques; I learned to create a swan wing out of tissue on construction paper, use a sponge to make a background look like papyrus, and work with paper maché!In the curriculum, Ms. Kolaricintroduced us to Mesopotamian, Greek, and Egyptian history– it was like a grand tour of world art history!
Later, when I worked at the Park (movie) Theatre, I was able to get hands-on experience with creatingsets for the lobby. I replicated scenes from the film that was showing at the time, and even got to recreate some of my favourites: Lord of the Rings and Apocalypse Now! After my cousin graduated from the Visual Arts program at Emily Carr and started working in the film industry, I realized that it’s a great place for me to express my creativity. With film, the sky’s the limit.
My official interest in makeup artistry started in 2008 when I became a volunteer with Anime Evolution. There, I was exposed to many talented cosplayers, photographers, and designers, who led me to pursue my passion as a makeup artist.
How do you think that social media is important for artists?
I have a love/hate relationship with social media. I manage seven social media channels for work and understandhow time consuming – yet important – it can be. It’s a great way to inspire, promote, and catalogue your work. You can use it to create a portfolio, help with your research, and mentor or connect with other artists. Still, one important thing to note is that one should always be careful of what they post. Always show respect and professionalism, as you are on displayall the time!It’s also important to remember that personalization is key; A catch phrase or a logo is what sets you apart from other artists.
Would you suggest your school, New Image College of Fine Arts, to other artists?
Absolutely! The small class sizes at New Image College are great. I’m in an evening class of 10, which I love because we really get to know, learn from, and inspire each other. I also receive more one-on-one time with teachers who provide constructive feedback, help the students realize their potential and turn their ideas into reality. As a whole, the school is responsive and adaptable in regards to problem resolution.When aconcern is raised, the president and teachers sit down with the class to discuss probable solutions. This opens communication between students and teachers, which fosters an inviting environment for all!
How has your education changed your work?
Key assets I learned in makeup school are to be flexible and open to new ideas. Each artist has their own unique style, some of which may extend beyond your comfort zone. When this happens, I embrace it and ask myself, “Why not?” At school, I also learned how to think analytically and ahead, which is critical in the fast-paced and ever-changing makeup industry. After all, you would not want a bride to become “Bridezilla” because you forgot to include extra eyelash glue in her take-away kit!
Where do you get the inspiration for your work?
I get my everyday inspiration mostly from the world of science fiction, fantasy, and Japanese anime, especially goth and punk. When it comes to techniques and mediums for communication, I draw on an art history course I took in university. In particular, the styles of Picasso, Lisa Steele, Yoko Ono, and Jackson Pollock inspire me.I also travel a lot and have been to different places in Europe, Asia, Australia, and North,Central and South America, which inspires my work both visually and expressively. Lastly, my grandfather taught me skills specific to the art of Chinese finger painting, which influences my work as well.
Do you consider yourself to have a niche in the makeup artistry industry?
To quote my Makeup for High Fashion teacher, Tiana Tran, my style is very “avant-garde and colourful”.
Do you cosplay, or help others cosplay?
Yes, I’ve cosplayed as Minion Dave and turned my friend into Minion Kevin from Despicable Me. Other cosplays I’ve done before include Poison Ivy from Batman, Ryuk from Death Note, and Sailor Galaxia from Sailor Moon. In total, each cosplay took me about 48 hours to complete.
What advice would you give to future makeup artists?
Volunteering for events is a good way to network and meet mentors. Jump at the opportunity to work on a gig, even if you don’t feel like you meet the qualifications. Tag team with a classmate or friend so that you can support each other. Keeping a positive attitude also helps, as negativity can affect more than just you. Most importantly, show respect to everyone you work with.
What will you be showing at this year’s expo?
In line with the fairytale theme, I will create a look based on nymphs. In Greek and Latin mythology, a nymph is defined as a minor female deity typically associated with a particular location or landform; They are the spirits who make nature come to life.
How does your personality or interests show in your work?
I love colours, and my favourite is purple, so I use a lot of it in my work.As a person, I’m a happy-go-lucky girl and feel that my work proves that; they’re upbeat, funky, and fun! I also love adventures and experimenting with new things, so the process of creating my art is equally as important to me as the art itself.
Your long-term goal is to have your own company. Can you explain what this would look like, and how/when you plan to get there?
During the next 3 years, I hope to build my repertoire as a makeup artist, event planner and communications specialist. Overall, I want to incorporate all of my skills and provide a one-stop, home-based shop for my clients! I think that the toughest task to do is coming up with a business name and going through all of the administrative and legal procedures.My family owned a floral business for over 20 years, so once the setup is complete, coming up with a business plan will be fun and easy. In 10 years, I hope to have a thriving business and have both local and international clients.
By Alyssa Laube
About: Autumn Blake is a freelance makeup artist and married mother of two from the TriCity area. Her passion is creating unique and interesting characters with her skills, but she is currently dabbling in a little bit of everything, from fashion and beauty to film and body painting. She will be showcasing her work in this year’s body painting competition at the Art World Expo.
How would you describe your work as a makeup artist?
My enthusiasm in the industry works strongly with the creative side of makeup artistry. I strive to create something that captivates the eye. I apply that drive to my makeup; be it fashion on the runway, special effects (my favourite), or a full character makeup.
How were you trained in makeup?
I was professionally trained at Blanche Macdonald Centre in the Global Makeup Program (and graduated on January 16th of this year), so I learned everything from everyday makeup and bridal to special effects and character makeups.
Many of your pieces seem to have an alien-like look to them. Is this the look you aim for, and why do you like to create it?
Though I really do enjoy science fiction characters, I feel as if I just truly enjoy freedom in creativity. Creating without restriction can result in some amazing pieces. That freedom makes the art push past the limit of natural world ideas, which is why the characters sometimes come off as alien.
Where do you get inspiration for your pieces?
I get inspiration everywhere! One week it could be comic books and video games and the next it could be organics and nature.
How does your makeup style for yourself compare to the one you use on your work?
My makeup style for myself is the complete opposite! It’s usually very subtle and natural, whereas my work is generally more bold and colourful.
What’s your favourite makeup design trend, or even time period?
I am a huge fan of the art style in folklore and fantasy, though I am still a huge sucker for winged liner and red lips!
What are you hoping to accomplish at this year’s expo?
I’m hoping to push my abilities, create something new and different, and share my and other artist’s work.
To view more of Autumn’s work, visit: https://www.facebook.com/autumnsmakeupandhair?fref=ts&ref=br_tf
Art World Expo 