Wednesday 8th July

On Wednesday I looked at several different contemporary artists and we discussed what we thought about their work, we looked at composition, choice of colours and more. We went over to the studio and looked at how a palette is divided up into sections for different types of colours-warm, cool, translucent, opaque. We discussed how most artists will put a background colour on and build up gradually from dark to light. This was helpful as it made me look more closely at the pieces of art and think about how they were achieved. I then looked at my Blog and checked that it was updated. I then talked with another member of staff about the marketing techniques such as the Facebook account that although it was working, it was not an actual business account, the member of staff managed to fix this problem and I started to work on the content and composition of the page.

Tuesday 7th July

Firstly I showed my employer the work I had done at home, with the drawings in my sketchbook we discussed what I had learned and then was asked to start looking back at the marketing areas, I searched the internet for any hotel that were either in the process of being refurbished or perhaps being built. I found a few, yet in the current economic climate there was not as many as perhaps hoped. This was so that we might be able to offer them our services and commision some paintings for their new interiors. It was put upon me just how important it is to have a decent background knowledge of who you are calling, what they do and whether they would consider buying any painting. I learned how reading from a script as so many business call centers do, is very unappealing to potential buyers. However, some knowledge of their business or their position can go a long way. Later, some artists books and there pages separated, I was asked to sort them and place them back in chronological order. I enjoyed today and was taught much not only about marketing but also approach and attitude.

Monday 6th July

I really enjoyed Monday and learned some valuable techniques. I was firstly required to check up on the marketing side of the buisness-I made sure that the Facebook page was working correctly and that my blog was updated.- The next exercise was particularly enjoyable as I was able to increase my drawing knowledge and learn how to improve my skills.
I was asked to complete a tone drawing of a persons face, this at first seemed daunting as he sat there waiting for my pencil to conjure up a fairly accurate representation of him, but it was enjoyable and useful in that we analyzed it afterwards and I was asked to do the same again but this time without looking at the paper, unless I had completely lost my place, this was unfamiliar to me and it felt strange not being able to 'correct' your drawing with what you thought was more realistic.
Yet I discovered that when I did the second drawing, not only was it much more expressive but it also created the most beautiful lines and shapes that had a fluidity about it, I practiced at home and although I admit I found it frustrating when what I had drawn didn't look exactly like the subject I was beginning to understand that it didn't have to be an exact portrayal of the person but it could still have wonderful character and simplicity.