The Messy Studio with Rebecca Crowell
The podcast at the intersection of art, travel, business, philosophy, and life in general.
Displaying 10 items of The Messy Studio with Rebecca Crowell with the tag "style".
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Episode 264: Interpreting Experience: Abstract Approaches
October 18th, 2023 | 35 mins 1 sec
abstraction, art, creativity, essence, interpreting work, rebecca crowell, style, visual ideas
We may think of abstract painting as exploring the visual elements and the process of painting strictly for their own sakes, but that’s only one kind of abstract work. Many abstract artists have a more personal approach, in which aspects of their lives, memories and experiences fuel their work. They want to feel a direct connection between their inner lives and what they create. But finding ways to interpret these personal sources in abstract terms is a big challenge. Without obvious subject matter, how can you express an experience, tell a personal story, or evoke a memory? Today we’ll talk about some approaches to abstraction when very personal expression is the goal.
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Episode 257: More Than One Direction
July 1st, 2023 | 38 mins 24 secs
abstraction, art, brand, creativity, exhibits, realism, rebecca crowell, social media, style, voice
In the interest of having a consistent style, artists are generally advised to stick to one type of work --both in the studio and when exhibiting. But many artists are experimental, curious, and explore more than one direction—so this advice can seem too restrictive. In our last episode, we touched briefly on the idea that a range of the same artist’s work CAN be promoted effectively if done with consideration. If you have more than one direction you may have questions about how you can best present your work when exhibiting or in other situations, and today we will address those concerns.
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Episode 252: Personal or Formal?
May 15th, 2023 | 31 mins 43 secs
art, creativity, formal, personal, rebecca crowell, structure, style
We tend to think of artistic expression as being very personal, as coming from the artist’s experiences, emotions, memories, and responses. But there are also many works of art that are not focused on personal expression. Instead, the artist is motivated to explore a more impersonal realm of ideas, patterns, and more universal concepts. For most artists, there is a balance between sources that are more and less personal, a balance in working between the heart and the mind. That individual balance is basic to the artist’s voice and unique expression. Today we’re going to talk about these two different approaches to making art and the balance in your own art practice.
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Episode 242: The Challenges of Consistency
February 25th, 2023 | 34 mins 5 secs
art, brand, consistency, creativity, development, galleries, personal voice, rebecca crowell, style
As artists we know it’s good to be open to new ideas and changes—but for marketing purposes we’re also expected to have an identifiable style that is consistent and recognizable. This basic dilemma is frustrating when you have wide-ranging interests and like to explore new ideas or media. Your work can appear to be “all over the place” and seem to lack focus. At the other extreme, being overly concerned that your work is consistent can inhibit your growth as an artist.
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Episode 234: A Deeper Look, Step by Step
December 18th, 2022 | 33 mins 58 secs
analysis, art, communication, creativity, going deeper, growth, meaning, personal voice, rebecca crowell, style
In the process of making a work of art, the artist deals with many questions and decisions. There is a constant evaluation of asking if the piece is on the right track, and considering what is needed for the next move. What will best convey the artist’s ideas and intentions? Many of these decisions are quick and intuitive, but sometimes a more reflective and conscious process is called for.
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Episode 169: Overworking It
March 13th, 2021 | 29 mins 11 secs
art, creativity, education, rebecca crowell, style, technique
Artists are often cautioned not to overwork their pieces, especially when the medium is drawing or painting. This advice is meant to prevent work that is too fussy or refined, or otherwise lacking energy. But many artists place importance on fine-tuning their work, and on paying close attention to detail. The art-world advice against overworking may not apply to everyone’s approach. Today we’ll take a closer look at how this advice can sometimes get in the way of creating your best work.
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Episode 137: Roughing It: All About Texture
August 8th, 2020 | 29 mins 48 secs
art, creativity, fundamentals, rebecca crowell, style, texture
Along with color, texture is one of the most evocative visual elements, engaging not only our eyes but our sense of touch—as well as our memories and associations. Many artists seek out ways of creating texture and consider it one of the most important aspects of their work. Yet because it is such a powerful element it needs to be used thoughtfully, and often with restraint. How can we use texture most effectively in our work, allowing it to take its place with other visual elements without overpowering them? What are the special qualities of texture that can be used to enhance our work?
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Episode 135: Are You Curious?
July 25th, 2020 | 35 mins 20 secs
art, art researching, creativity, curiosity, growth, rebecca crowell, style, technique
We were all curious as children and many artists retain that trait as vital to dynamic art practice. Yet curiosity can be fragile, disappearing in the face of information overload or the desire to seem knowledgeable and in control. To be curious, to wonder, to explore –all are aspects of ourselves that keep us young, with room to grow. Today we will look at how to nurture curiosity in your art practice and the importance of exploring and wondering, in art and in life.
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Episode 110: Balancing Acts
February 8th, 2020 | 27 mins 39 secs
art, balancing acts, rebecca crowell, style, teaching, technique
We often talk about finding balance with aspects of the creative process that seem to be opposites. For example, finding the balance between working intuitively and working with control and intention. The way each of us finds this balance between different approaches helps to develop the unique character of our individual work and process.
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Episode 20: Finding Personal Voice
May 5th, 2018 | 32 mins 51 secs
art, brand, painting, personal voice, rebecca crowell, style
Rebecca and Ross discuss personal voice in painting, what it is and how to find it.