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Greg Cartmell

Fine Art, Custom Knives & Jewelry, Art Lessons and more!

Life Is Strange

Monday Morning Link Roundup

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Good morning, I hope you had a great weekend. I spent some time in the field this weekend and I’ve been a little backed up with things. That’s part of the reason why I haven’t been in touch via email that much. The good news is…

I’m back and it’s a beautiful Monday!

I wanted to do something different today. I usually share a nice write up on some of the paintings that I’ve recently created. I’m taking a new approach today and I’m instead going to hit you with something I call the roundup.

The roundup is a simple link list of paintings that are just being released for the first time today. In addition to new releases, it includes links to some of the most popular posts that I’ve written in the past.

I know it’s Monday morning and your time is limited so I’ll start with the product roundup. I’ll keep this short and sweet…

Summer Light

Spanish Moss

Number 11

Number 10

Next up, the content roundup. These are some of the most popular posts that I’ve created in the past. Actually, before I share them, I want to make a promise to you. I promise that I’m going to be putting forth lots of effort over the next few months to create even better content than what’s shown below. It’s a new focus of mine that I’m really excited about doing.

Friday Wrap Up & No Guarantees

More Painting Original Artwork And Less Politics

How I Create Original Abstract Non-Representational Art

Bachelor Pad Wall Art: Why You Need It

Respecting The Process, New Art And New Group

Original Cigar Art And Why It’s So Popular

If you come across a piece that’s been sold and you’d like something similar, all you need to do is email me and I can make that happen.

Lastly, if you just want to shoot the breeze and talk shop, feel free to reach out to me. I’m always up for a cup of coffee and a phone call or a sit down.

Have a great week.

Friday Wrap Up & No Guarantees

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I’ve been busy with various paint brushes in my hand this week. I’ve spent more of my week focusing on creating abstract oil paintings. There’s something that happens in my head when I paint these abstracts. It’s a sense of freedom and relief that I get in a way. If you’ve ever been an avid gym guy or girl then you know the feeling that you get once you’ve just worked out. It’s a sense of joy, relieve and accomplishment (assuming the workout was good). Well, the same goes for when I create an abstract painting.

It’s an outlet without boundaries. A place where I can do as I please at that very moment without having to worry about what’s next. We spend so much time worrying about what’s next and I hate to say it but there are no guarantees in life. Instead of focusing far into the future, we need to be present. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy for myself or others to be present. Sure, we are physically in a place but that’s not going “all in.”

The process of creating an abstract allows me to be in the present and just flow. Sure, my mood and temperament may change from abstract to abstract but that is what I truly enjoy about creating these. I’m able to paint how I feel and it’s great for the mind.

I spoke with my nephew this week and unfortunately he had a long time friend of his pass away. Knowing how he feels, I spoke to him about it. We had a nice discussion even though it was on an unhappy subject. There was something that we both agreed upon during our discussion. We both agreed and have come to terms with the fact that there are no guarantees in life. We all have our ups and downs. However, instead of focusing too far into the future, take a moment to be thankful for today and some of the good (more recent) days that you’ve had.

Before I go, I want to share some new pieces with you that I’ve created. These are all 100% authentic original oil paintings that are exclusive with no current printings in plan.

This first piece is titled “August 25th” and I really like this piece. It’s got so many different colors in it and the different colors in thick paint remind me of different memories that I have. Each part of the painting reminds me of something different that happened at some point in my life up to this point. I titled it August 25th because that’s the day that I took the brush away from the canvas. Here’s the product link: https://gregcartmell.com/product/august-25/

August 25 Abstract Oil on Canvas

This next piece is called, “Lost City” and I just listened to the canvas and let things flow. This piece took roughly nine hours to create and it reminded me of a lost city. Here’s a link to the product: https://gregcartmell.com/product/lost-city/

lost city abstract oil painting

This last piece is called “Wake Up Call” and it’s the by-product of a medical procedure that I had done. The lack of focus and blurry vision that I had this week really made me want to create this piece. I hope you like it. Here’s the product page link: https://gregcartmell.com/product/wake-up-call/

wake up call abstract oil painting

I hope you enjoy Labor Day weekend and that you take the time to focus on the present. After all, it’s all that we truly have. Stay safe this weekend!

How I Create Original Abstract Non-Representational Art

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The term abstract means to deconstruct. When painting an abstract non-representational piece, you often need to deconstruct a landscape, still life, person or figure etc. It’s necessary because it can be influential or inspirational. The new painting you’re trying to create will display qualities one may or may not be able to reference within the painting.

Another approach that I might take comes directly from feeling. In other words, I may paint more what I feel rather than what I see or know. This is a very refreshing way to paint. And it is a very self-indulged approach of pure visual pleasure. I really enjoy this approach and it often results in a great finished product.

It seems to be more like “get it out” rather than “get it right.” This does not mean abandoning composition color and proper construction of the painting. There are so many weak abstract painters out there today. They think because they can sell a few of their paintings to their friends that automatically makes them successful abstract painters. Nothing could be further from the truth!

The specific number of paintings that one sells has nothing to do with the quality of the work. I repeat, quantity sold has zero to do with the quality of work. To be honest, It has more to do with the ability of the collectors to purchase a piece that appeals to them. That being said, there is no shortage of collectors with terrible taste. Many of which give many mediocre artists a false sense of accomplishment.

Please forgive me for what you may think, “Oh what a self-righteous pompous ass,” but having painted for 64 years has left me with a few opinions. I seem to share these opinions with other artists that have been painting for many years and paid their dues. Whether an artist paints nonrepresentational abstracts or very tight photographic traditional paintings, it’s all irrelevant. The only thing that matters is that we all continue to work hard every single day. As professional artists, we must perfect our craft and become better at what we do. What you might not understand is that it just doesn’t happen in a couple of years. This is a lifelong journey that we take as an artist. It’s a calling that we are proud to publicize and it’s a way of life that allows us to open our hearts and imagination further than most dream of.

By now you should have a clear idea of how what makes me tick when it comes to abstract non-representational painting. I pour my heart and soul into every original piece of artwork. I like to think anything bearing my signature does so with nothing but my acknowledgement. If an artist can’t stand behind their own work then they’ve got nothing.

Here are a few new pieces that I stand behind. They are 100% original and are available for purchase.

This first piece is titled “24 Hours” and focuses on a number of different colors. The piece is 24″ x 30″ and has been done in oil paint on panel. I’ll let you make your own interpretation of the piece.

24 hours abstract oil painting

The next piece is titled, “Nonrepresentational” and it is a 16″ x 20″ oil on panel piece. It has short brush strokes with a number of different colors worked into the piece.

colorful abstract oil painting

This abstract piece is a 4″ x 4″ piece that has thick impasto paint. It’s one of the smaller pieces that’s included in a run of smaller pieces that I’ve decided to release. It’s titled, “Saturday Morning” and is available for purchase. It will look great with the addition of a custom frame and some matting in almost any room.

saturday morning small abstract painting

This last piece is a 16″ x 20″ oil on panel abstract that I’ve included in the numbered abstract run that I recently created. Once again, I’ll leave the interpretation up to you. “Number 15” is available for purchase and can be claimed by simply ordering via online.

abstract number 15

Respecting The Process, New Art And New Group

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There’s something I really enjoy about Wednesday. No, it’s not that the week is coming to an end. It’s something much deeper than that. I don’t look at my day or days as being cyclical. That’s mindset can put me in somewhat of a rut.

Instead, I look at every single day as if it’s just part of the process. See, we all have aspirations in life. There are things that we all want to achieve in order to live a fulfilling life in the short amount of time that we have on this earth.

Some people want to build a large family. Some may want to build their own business. Others may wish to excel at something sports related and some may want to become the best artist they can.

The good news is, regardless of what your aspirations may be or what you really want to accomplish, you likely have what it takes to succeed. If you don’t think then I encourage you to do this. Simply try to work towards your goals with just 1% self-improvement on a daily basis.

There’s one thing that you must do that’s related to the journey.

You must respect the process and where you are at today.

Lots of aspiring artists want to bypass the entire system and process. What they don’t realize is that there is no magic formula for becoming a great oil painter. The same goes for business or anything else in life. It’s about putting in the hard work and doing it as smart and efficiently as possible.

So, I like to look at things midweek and see what it is that I need to improve on to make the rest of the week really count. That typically means evaluating new artwork that I’ve created and hopping on the phone (after my morning coffee) with my nephew to strategize our next business move. It’s all part of the process and there is no getting around it.

Respect the process and strive to achieve things in life. Take today to think about this.

Now, for those that live in the Livingston, MS area. I’ve been placed in charge of putting together a new art group to support the local arts community. If you’re interested in receiving more information on this group feel free to read more by clicking here. This group is for artists of all kinds as well as art lovers in general. It’s a broad spectrum group that we’re putting together and I think you’re going to love it! The more the merrier! Information will be sent to those that wish to join the group. It’s completely free so come join us!

Now, as for some new art that I’ve recently released. I’ve got a few different types of pieces to share with you today…

This first piece is called Hotel Fire and it’s a popular abstract style approach that seems to be gaining popularity in Boston, Miami, and New York City. I think it’s perfect for any abstract art fan and would look fantastic in an apartment in the city or a young couple’s home. Sure, it’s different but it’s an angle I’m enjoying on partaking in. This piece comes ready to hang in a 22 karat custom frame.

hotel fire abstract painting

Next up is my latest landscape. This piece is titled Peach Meadow and it’s a fresh piece that any original landscape art fan might enjoy. This too comes in a gold leaf frame ready for hanging! The sky was perfect and I had to capture it. Check it out below!

peach meadow landscape oil painting

Last but not least, this is one of the latest in the abstract sketch series that I’ve been doing. This piece is lucky number 13. It’s titled Number 13 and it’s for the blue abstract lovers.

blue abstract number 13

Thanks for your time today and I hope you have a great day.

My Advice To All Aspiring Artists Today…

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Many times over the years I have been asked by younger students to provide them with advice on becoming a professional artist. I believe they are somewhat taken back when I give my advice. I can firmly state that it’s not quite what they wanted to hear.

The idea of the romantic artist in a loft, drinking wine with naked models…I’m sorry to say, it is not the norm and quite an exaggeration (to say the least). I would love to give into that notion myself but 60 years of trying to make a living in painting taught me otherwise.

My advice to the young students is rather simple. I strongly suggest that they go to business school and study marketing. Learn serious Internet and tech-related skills. Learn how to use the Internet to your advantage and network with as many people as possible while doing so. Next, get with a teacher who you like and study painting. The artist’s that seem to make it in this world today are 90% marketing and business people and 10% artist.

I realize I am tipping over golden calf with this advice. However, an artist with a good business sense can be a terribly mediocre artist and make a fantastic living. Truth be told, the quality of work is never in direct relationship with how successful the artist is.

The Internet has changed the gallery business, and in this political climate, the artist must take their business dealings and place it in the hands of someone that knows what they’re doing.

I am fortunate enough to have a best buddy/nephew that runs my website and is constantly schooling me on what I need to know in today’s market. Just looking at the market in a different way can open many new doors.

My nephew graduated from Northeastern University with honors (he’s got an MBA too) and I only wish he had this talk with me 30 years ago.

While I’m not as computer and marketing savvy as I wish, us old men still have some great stuff and wisdom to share with the world. You simply need to have a cup of coffee with me or catch me in front of an easel to find out (not that difficult to do either). That said, here is a brand new wise old man painting that I just finished. It’s an original, signed and is available for purchase  (click the piece for details).

Old Man Wisdom
Original Old Man Painting 16 x 20 (Click the piece for pricing info)

There is a beautiful landscape I would like to complete this morning with a blank canvas on my easel. However, I need to take my own advice and I will spend a good portion of the day touching base with several galleries and having lunch with the private collector. I hope this is been helpful and have a great day!

More Painting Original Artwork And Less Politics

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Good morning to you! 2016 has been one heck of a year. I’ll be completely honest with you. There have been LOTS of ups and downs for me.

Not to single myself out, there has been much of the same for others that I know.

With the election going on, it’s been even crazier…

I’ve witnessed and even taken part in some of the political “prying” that has taken place.

What you need to understand is that I’m putting myself out there to make a change today…

I’m choosing to focus on painting versus politics from this point forward.

Reason being, painting an original piece for a collector is difficult as is. It takes concentration, positive mindset, as well as a strong mind and hand.

Added noise and inaccurate focus can literally destroy a piece with hundreds of hours into it. It’s true. A piece can go from gold to garbage if I’m not careful and precise enough.

So instead of focusing on the political banter and small talk, I’m choosing to focus on perfecting my painting styles, helping my students prosper and creating the best original works possible for my clients.

I encourage you to shift you focus as well. Work on making personal progress versus participating in political prying and banter. It’s incredible what simply focusing on you and the things that you have personal control over can mean for your life and well-being.

Trust me, your day, week, year and life will change for the better.

All that energy and power can be put to good use with a simple shift of focus and action.

Before I go, I want to share two new pieces that I’ve recently released. The first piece is not named as of yet. I’m open to suggestions (click the piece to see the product details).

The second piece is titled Harmony In Purple, Orange, and Green.

Both are available for purchase.

noname original artwork

purple abstract painting

Last but not least, if you are new to collecting and you are just starting to connect with collectors, feel free to click the image below to find out more about me as an artist and what I’ve done.

About Me

My Typical Day Working As A Professional Artist

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I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been asked what it’s like to live as a full-time artist. Having spent a good amount of time discussing my daily rituals with students and collectors, I felt it was appropriate to share my routine with you. It’s tough to get things done in a distracted world but I do my best to make every single day count. Want to find out what my typical day is like? Then keep on reading!

typical day of artist

My Typical Day (These Days) As A Full-Time Oil Painting Artist

I won’t waste a second more of your time than necessary. Take a look at below and step in the shoes of an older man working as an artist today.

Here goes nothing…

It’s no longer jumping out of bed, grabbing a shower, shave, and hitting the bricks. It’s more like 10 minutes in bed having a motivational talk with myself and convincing myself to start getting out of bed. Then it’s 15 minutes to wait for my feet and legs to operate properly, and then making it to the coffee pot as soon as possible. It’s imperative that I fuel my body with coffee!

Next task  is spending the next 20 minutes medicating. That means checking my blood sugar, taking my shots, taking pills for blood pressure etc. You know, all those things that keep me ticking. I then take time to think for 15 minutes while drinking coffee as to whether or not to stroll into the shower for the day.

Decision number three, should I dress for comfort, for looks, for weather, or at all? It’s a fashion struggle that we all hate to deal with but the daily gods demand it.

I the drive to the coffee shop and meet my cronies. That’s how we  start the day in “the office.” Sure, we try and save the world with a bit of political rhetoric and a cathartic amount of time bitching about any number of things, as well as some motivational optimistic thoughts. This is my therapy for the day and it’s a must have for me.

Go to my studio and feed my two cats Mr. Kitty, and baby kitty. They’re not shy when it comes to telling me “who runs things” around the studio. They’re hungry and get on the schtick. Clean the litter boxes for the first time of the day. It’s all part of the glam of being an artist.

Next, I create a to-do list while having second coffee. I do some Morning meditation and have another self-motivational speech as to the meaning of life and hanging in there. LOL, it works and I recommend trying it some time.

Decide whether or not it’s going to be a day of making custom knives or creating something fresh and new at the easel, reminding myself I am as good as my last painting.

Decide whether to spend the morning doing schlep stuff. You know, like running errands, taking care of the car, picking up and dropping off stuff, a trip to Lowes, order supplies, blah blah blah. All that exciting stuff.

I then prepare the studio and set up tables / easels for my oil painting class that evening. Supplies need to be replenished so I make sure paper towels and supplies ready for the students, and think of something interesting to paint that evening in class that may appeal to everyone.

The next step is a tough one. I must face a blank canvas on the easel and try to imagine what to pull out of the canvas for my next creation. It seems the longer I paint (which is been 63 years), it seems to get more difficult as time goes on. Reason being, you expect more from yourself as an artist and the only unforgivable sin for an artist is to remain stagnant. Artists cannot remain in the same place doing the same paintings over and over.

By this time, I’m finally awake enough to start things like taking inventory, paying bills, and doing anything that requires semi-clear creative thinking.

I can’t forget to check my blood levels and take my second shot of the day. All before thinking about grabbing a lunch. Glancing in the mirror, and trying to convince myself lunch must be healthy and I need to lose 30 pounds. My nephew and I talk about working out a lot. While we both admit we need to get in better shape, we love a nice piece of cake. Must be hereditary.

After lunch I tidy the studio up for the occasional 1 o’clock appointment with a client. I try to look and act professional as possible. Easier said than done.

I spend some time as they say “putting out fires” and taking care of various business obligations, as well as talking myself into a better mood, and telling myself “You can do this, hell you’re only 69 years old!”

Next up, I teach a class which typically consists of about 8 or 10 students of all different levels. I put great effort into tuning into each student and their individual needs and wants. This is a part of the day that I am thankful for, and truly enjoy.

Well, that about sums up the typical day in the life. If you have any interest in painting, purchasing artwork or simply grabbing a cup of coffee to shoot the breeze, email me. We’ll set something up. In the meantime, check out some of the newest abstracts I’ve created. If that’s not your thing, then you might like the Livingston Collection which is more traditional.

A Day In The Life Of An Artist: Vacation Day

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Hi there, it’s your buddy Greg here on this fine Thursday afternoon…Don’t worry, this will only take 30-60 seconds…

Most people think I’m on a permanent vacation. Not because they think I’m mentally insane, but because they think I spend all day in the fields chasing flowers. Well, I am on vacation all right and this time, it’s a real one. Not one of those 20-minute vacations I take with my dog in the afternoon.

I’m still up in Massachusetts having one hell of a time.

Oh, and guess what…I slept in yesterday! A few extra hours of beauty rest does me good. Lord knows I needed it.

Went out with my buddy Wayne and his buddy who’s a lobster fisherman. Grabbed a dozen off the boat and we had a feast with my sister, cousins, and niece.

Best lobsters I’ve had in years…It never gets old.

A day filled with lots of forgotten stories and scenarios reminisced about growing up in Plymouth. At my age, I’m just glad I was able to remember them. It was a great vacation day up north. I rolled myself to sleep and couldn’t ask for more. Now it’s back to the easel while I’m still up here. I’ve got to get a few in on location.

Speaking of which, here’s a new release to add some spice to your day…

This original painting reminds me of when I was in really good shape in my younger years. No comparison to this model seeing as though she’s female. Still a perfect choice for throwback Thursday. I’ll give you a hint, young bachelors may like this one. It’s edgy, contemporary and simple all at once. Click here to check it out or take a look below. I’ll let you be the judge.

abstract nude black and white