lock & key

I've been pretty hush-hush about my intentions with my art. I have shared only a few pieces of my work on my blog, and few of my family members and closest friends have seen pieces in person. For several years I knew I wanted to make artwork that put a modern, cheerful spin on folk art, specifically flowers and  and playful vases. I didn't know how or what it would be. I had taped an old calendar page in my closet with a vase of flowers that were rather primitive looking. It was my inspiration piece- but I still lacked direction.  I finally gave myself permission to play and experiment and not worry about "where's this piece going to go?" (I felt like everything I made needed a purpose and a home.) I have spent the entire summer making sketches, coming up with a color palette, defining my style, researching to make sure my style was really mine and of course, making some really great art pieces that I am so proud of. I look at them and they make me smile. Oh my goodness, it would be a dream come true for my art to make other people smile, too.

I've designed my logo: amber engelh{art}, a business card, a label for the back of the artwork. I've re-designed my blog to represent my artwork. I've ordered a stamp with my logo on it. I have recieved an unbelievable amount of support from the family and friends that I shared my dream with. They were excited for me. They believed in me. So, it was time to believe in myself and start sharing my intentions with other people. Each time  did, I was supported and encouraged, which left me feeling even more inspired. My husband has been my biggest supporter and will be my sidekick as we venture into to the world of selling artwork.

I'm going to take a deep breath and open that lock...because I am ready to share with the world what I've been pouring my heart into these past 4 months.

Friends, meet amber engelh{art}! These canvases are 20"x16". I hope you love them as much as I do! I have a studio full of completed projects- just waiting for  the opening of my etsy shop, and about twenty blank canvases waiting to be transformed. Oh, the possiblities!

So, what do you think? Do these pieces make you smile?