http://christikraftphotography.com

When did you first become interested in art, in general?

I performed in my very first musical, Oliver!, in the first grade. Story has it that I was so excited to participate that I ran down the hall to sign up before the announcement was even finished. I consistently sang in one vocal ensemble or another for the next 17 years. I also became a writer at a very young age, authoring both poetry and prose. I can draw a bit, but only for myself.

When did you first become interested in photography, specifically?
I come from a family of camera carriers, so I caught the photo bug very early on. It was not uncommon for me to turn in 10 to 12 rolls of film at a time for processing, a very expensive hobby for a young person. I’m still a fairly prolific photographer, and digital has made that so much nicer.

In what other forms of art do you also work, if any?

I still write; these days, my work revolves around blog posts and personal insights. I have not sung in public (except for car rides, of course) or performed any theatre in a very long time.

On which style(s) of photography do you specialize?

My photography focuses on details in the world around us, those bits of humor, interest, and beauty that we might otherwise overlook. Nature and travel photography have been fantastic outlets for this. I love to find interesting doors and windows just as much as I enjoy photographing waterscapes and floral close-ups.

Has your style changed from when you first began? If so, why?

I’ve always been very detail-oriented in general; that started very early. As I have grown artistically and professionally, I have been able to fine-tune my style with constant practice and better tools.

What kind of equipment do you use?

My film cameras are old, heavy Canon models, AL-1 and FT. The lenses that I have those include a couple of 50mm lenses, a 200mm telephoto, and a 35-105mm macro. My digital SLR cameras are Nikon; my favorite lenses are my 55-200mm VR (great for shots from the air!), the very versatile 50mm walkabout lens, and my 60mm macro, which I adore. My digital darkroom is comprised of Lightroom 3 and Photoshop CS5.

What made you choose that equipment?

I grew up in a Canon family, and I can’t bear to part with my old film cameras, but when it came time to purchase my first dSLR, I flipped to Nikon for two main reasons: lens interchangeability, and the feel in my hand. Everyone’s got to find their own perfect fit. I initially purchased Lightroom 3 because of its noise reduction capabilities; while it had a steep learning curve, the program quickly became one of my favorites. 95% of my processing is done with LR3.

How do you choose what you’re going to photograph?

I capture whatever grabs my attention. Occasionally, I’ll set out with a goal in mind (“try to find orange wherever you can”) for inspiration, but more often than not, I’m shooting for my own pleasure and to thoroughly enjoy the finer points of the world around me.

What kind of editing do you perform on your photographs, if any?

I shoot RAW, so all of my images require at least a small amount of post-processing. I love colors, and I’m not afraid to let them shine through as vibrantly as they can. While I have spent a great deal of time in the traditional darkroom creating black and white photographs, they are a bit of a rarity in my digital portfolio. It’s always a special treat to put out a black and white image.

How much time (on average) does it take to complete a work?

I’m very meticulous and certainly a perfectionist, so it definitely takes me longer than it should. Fortunately, I find photo processing very relaxing; I can easily spend hours working on a piece or two. A lot of love and care goes into each image, so I’m happy to take whatever time is necessary.

How do you know when a piece is finished? Is it easy to walk away?

Some photographs come straight out of the camera with very few adjustments needed; others need more attention. The most complicated are inevitably the ones where I didn’t hit the mark with my in-camera settings, always a good reminder to slow down and get the ducks in a row before shooting. Most of the time, I can walk away once I’ve declared I’m done with a photograph, but occasionally, I’ll go back to a specific image or set because I’ve learned a new trick or really feel like something important is missing.

What do you do to overcome a ‘block’?

I take one of two approaches when I’m blocked: I walk away and focus my energies on anything but photography, or I pick up my camera and give myself an arbitrary challenge, a theme or pattern that will get me photographing something, anything, regardless of interest or outcome. When I’m tired of the photo folder I’m processing, I’ll frequently hop back to older collections to see what’s there to play around with.

How well do you take criticism and how do you make use of it?

I have studied with some very talented and very blunt photographers, so I’ve definitely learned to find the value in constructive criticism and channel it back to my work. I consider myself a lifelong learner, and I want to continually grow as a photographer, so I do take others’ input, positive or otherwise, into consideration.

Who is your favourite photographer?

Edward Weston is one of my favorites. From an eggplant to a toilet, he could show the beauty in anything.

Which one of your photographs is your favourite?

“Green Windows”, a photograph I took in London in 2008, is my all-time favorite.

Have you exhibited any of your work in galleries?

At the moment, I have five pieces available exclusively through the 1stAngel Arts Gallery.

Will your work be included at any upcoming contests or galleries? If so, where and when?

My work has recently been selected for the 1stAngel Arts Gallery, an online gallery based in the United Kingdom. The gallery will also feature painters, sculptors, and digital artists, each chosen personally by the founder of 1stAngel Arts Magazine.

What are your plans for the future?

I am excited for upcoming travel to the east coast as well as a return trip to the United Kingdom. Beyond that, I look forward to taking some additional courses as I am able, adding select pieces of equipment to my collection, and stretching the existing limits of my capabilities. I’m a teacher at heart, so I would also like to continue to share what I have learned with others around me, however that works out.

What advice do you have for budding photographers?

Jump in, and practice! It’s easier than ever to shoot hundreds and thousands of images (and much, much cheaper than film); there’s no reason not to grab the camera and just play for a while, to see what the camera can do, to see what you can do. Shoot what you love because you love it. Have fun with photography–it is hard work, but it’s so rewarding, especially if you allow yourself to occasionally break “the rules”. Find other photographers’ work that you love, and study it. Ask yourself why you love it, and try to infuse that into your own pieces. Become part of the photo community. There are so many friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, and TALENTED folks out there; learn from them.

Have you done any courses to help you?

I have had some formal training, but I also believe in continual learning and growth. I read a lot of great photo books, take courses on topics such as post-processing, and also participate in some peer groups with other photographers.

What do you do to market your work?

My photographs are sold online, so the majority of my marketing involves the Internet and social media. I do have a blog, which is in the midst of some changes, and I also attend a lot of networking events for artists and small business owners, both virtual and in-person.

Do you use social networking in your day to day life?

I am an extroverted sole-proprietor, so social networking is one of my favorite parts of my job. Please stop by and say hi!

http://www.facebook.com/ChristiKraftPhotography
http://www.twitter.com/CKPFineArt
http://gplus.to/christikraft
http://www.linkedin.com/in/christikraft

Are you available for work (commissions)?

It’s rare that I do project or commission work; however, I’m always open to hearing new ideas.

Have you got hobbies?

When I’m not working, I love to read, write, travel, and spend time with my wonderful family. I have also been known to scrapbook and crochet an afghan or two.

Where are you based?

I live in beautiful Madison, Wisconsin.

Author, podcaster, own 3 parrots, a wife, and some kids

Outside of my day job, I presently have three audio fiction podcasts, The Hell Hole Tavern, (a 3 bk dark fantasy trilogy), Mercy Bend, (dark stories, some physical and psychological horror), and Traitor at podiobooks, (a slipstream sci/fi). Have had over twenty short stories published in various places, most recently in Anon Literary Magazine. My first two books, Traitor and Betrayed, can be found on most major outlets. Traitor is free.

As you can tell from my education section, I’ve been to several colleges, one for my trade and two others because I enjoyed taking classes for fun until I became more interested in classes that were a higher level than they would allow me to attend, at which point I quit college and just read and studied on my own, except when college looked fun again, at which time I went back for a class or two.

She returned his frown. “Maybe you don’t know what you want, because I see you avoiding responsibility when it leans your way. Being bored is of your own making. A person with your resources and potential should have no problem coming up with a fulfilling routine. I’m sorry, but there’s nothing I can do to help you there. I handle the business and lawyering part of this arrangement. You need to run your own life. Now, I have a lot of work to do so I need you to leave.”
~~~Betrayed, book two of The Turner Chronicles

When did you first become interested in writing?
In my youngest years I hated reading. Then, in fourth grade, I discovered a book titled, heck, I don’t remember, but it was about a baby horse who lost its mum. About forty pages long. It was my first complete book and I fell in love. By fifth grade I was in the advanced reading class. By sixth grade I wanted to be a writer. In fact, I started writing my first book about then. I spent almost two entire hours working on it before coming to the conclusion writing was hard work. In seventh or eighth grade I wrote several fiction papers for my twelfth grade sister’s English class. She got B’s on all, but I sometimes wonder what her teacher thought about stories concerning baby beavers and Irish Setters lost in the wilderness.

What style of writing do you use most?

I can’t really say I consistently use any one style. I write to the story. Some stories require one approach, some require another. It isn’t something I think about beforehand. The story sets the tone. Not me.

Has your style changed from when you first began as an author?

Oh lord. HOW IT HAS CHANGED! When I started out I had problems with sentence structure, voice, commas, POV, plot, pacing, and just about everything else you can think of. Mind you, I didn’t know most of this. I thought I was freaking fantastic. Family told me I was good. Friends told me I was great. In the short run, their ego stroking did me good. In the long run, the stroking caused me harm. I didn’t struggle to learn my craft and eventually became discouraged when nothing sold. Three years after completing my first book, still in my young twenties, I quit writing altogether and lost my work. More than ten years passed before I took it up again, doing things right this time. I joined crit groups and studied how people I admired managed things.

I now understand a bunch more about the craft than I did then. I understand that I still have problems with structure and voice and commas and POV and everything else so I better write and rewrite and rewrite again. I also understand that a good editor is my most favorite person in the entire world. Mine catches almost everything I miss. Because I’m too close and too familiar with the story, my eyes have a tendency to gloss over flaws.

In what way do you usually put down your ideas first?

Oh very much Microsoft Word, or Mac’s Pages or anything not requiring me to hold a pencil or pen.

When her strength finally gave out, she would fall to the ground and remain there until she died. Gerda might live for an hour, or a day, or even two. Before the end she would be delirious and delusional. No one would care for her needs because Aaron Turner, her friend, had to be someplace else.
Aaron walked away while Gerda tried pulling one last weed with a shaking hand. He walked away and then turned back to face her, pulled free his revolver–
And shot Gerda in the back of the head.
~~~Betrayed, book two of The Turner Chronicles

What made you choose that medium?

I possess the amazing hand-eye coordination of an arthritic earthworm. My handwriting is so bad that I printed everything all through high school. It helped, but only a little because even my printing was nearly indecipherable. I once wrote an entire book in longhand during breaks at work, back before portable computers existed. When finished, I was couldn’t translate even the first chapter. So, to answer the question, if my words don’t show up on a computer screen, they don’t show up.

Do your ideas come from life or imagination?

Both. I live about half my life creating fantasies and plots inside my head, most of which dribble out my right ear and drift away. However, I’ve never written anything that hasn’t had part of me in it. The part might be a gesture, a thought, or an experience. Often the part is grabbed from some inner emotional piece that keeps nagging from the background. For example, until ten years ago I had very little experience with horror. I seldom read or watched it. I knew very little about the genre, which made things a bit confusing when several people contacted me requesting a horror author interview. After looking at where four or five of my shorts landed, I realized the interviewers were correct. I did write horror, but only because those stories happened shortly after I went through a divorce. Much of my hurt and anger appeared in my writing, creating some very good stuff I had no qualifications to write.

How do you choose your characters?

I create characters I like to like and characters I love to hate. To get them I study people. I read newspapers and magazines and observe online behavior. When those tactics fail, I invent characters from whole cloth. Hero or villain or something in between, I love my characters to have physical, emotional, psychological, moral, or some other flaw. I hate characters who are big and strong and confident and never do anything wrong.

Who is your favourite author?

Michael Stackpole, but not just for the obvious answer of loving his work. Michael is an incredibly talented author in my chosen genre who goes out of his way to pass on knowledge. I spent over a year attending weekly hour-long online sessions where he taught all comers about writing, publishing, promoting, and anything else we could think to ask. A change in my work schedule made me stop attending, but he’s still online and still teaching for free.

What is your favourite piece of work by yourself?

A year ago I would have said Traitor, the first book in The Turner Chronicles. Today, after editing and publishing Betrayed and Pawn, and presently editing Crusade in preparation for publication, I really don’t know. I love each book the best while I’m working on it. When I move on, I keep thinking the new book is better than the last. If pressed, right now I would have to say my favorite is Pawn, but only because I just finished editing and publishing it so it remains freshest in my mind.

Aaron remembered the shotgun’s trigger against his finger. He remembered the silence as his shotgun refused to fire. Unlike Emus, fear had ruled him. He had not thought, had not acted. Instead, he did nothing. Aaron could no longer deny the truth. Very little of the man he had once been remained. The hero Missy remembered was gone, washed away in idleness and an alcoholic fog.
Gods, he wished he had his Talent Stone. He needed to run away from himself.
~~Pawn, book three of The Turner Chronicles

How much time (on average) does it take to complete a work?

If you want speed you’re looking at the wrong person. I wrote Traitor ten years ago, Crusade five years ago, and the others somewhere between the two. Each of the four Turner books took about six months to write, and an additional year to get to where I thought the work worthwhile. Long fiction or short, I like to set things aside for a good while after the last period is typed. A few weeks later, or months, or sometimes years, I take it back out again to look at it with new eyes for a new edit. During the editing process, I try to be cruel, and I want my editor to be equally cruel. I’d rather my work is the best I can make it than believe my first efforts are perfect. After the editing is complete, I’ll sit on the work for a few more weeks before firing up my computer and opening Audacity to record the thing. I read every single word aloud in hopes of catching any problem we missed during editing. Only when the recording is complete do I send in my work for publication.

How well do you take criticism?

Like everybody else, I have an ego. It likes being stroked. Praise is nice. Honest praise is greatly appreciated. However, solid criticism is appreciated even more. The best way for my work to improve is to discover what I’m doing wrong. If I don’t own a thick skin and a willingness to listen to sincere input I’ve no business throwing my stories out there for people to read.

What do you do to overcome a ‘block’?

I’ll let you know when it happens. If something isn’t flowing, I move on to the next project while the first one percolates. However, please remember that I’m not writing all the time. Writing is just one of my hobbies. I also podcast my fiction, and have done internet radio hosting. At times, months pass before I get struck with a desire to write something new.

How do you know something is ‘finished’? Is it easy to walk away?

Knowing when a book is finished is the easiest thing in the world. When my editor no longer says things like ‘move this chapter…is this character needed…or…did you really intend to fire eight bullets out of that six shooter’ I know the book is ready.

Have you been published?

Yep. I’ve had a lot of short fiction show up on ‘for the love of it’ sites like Bewildering Stories and Demonminds. AnonLiterary Magazine paid for about seven of my Mercy Bend horror stories after the editor heard me doing a live reading online. Scared Naked Magazine bought one of my Mercy Bend Stories. Planet Relish bought a short piece titled Singing the Arvid Blues. There have been a few others, but I think Bewildering Stories is the only site left where my work is still archived.

As for novels, I’ve three presently published. Traitor originally came out as a print book published by Swimming Kangaroo Press. Dindy and the rest were an amazing group to work with. After Swimming closed their doors, I moved on to White Wolf Press, publishing Traitor as an e-book only. My editor at Swimming Kangaroo, Larriane Wills, offered to edit the remaining Turner Chronicles books for free because she liked them so much. Not being stupid, I accepted with much gratitude. With her help, I have since published Betrayed and Pawn. Crusade will likely be released within three or four months. The books can be found on Amazon, Smashwords, and at Barnes and Nobel. Traitor, the first book, is a free download. It can be found most easily at http://www.whitewolfpress.com/authors//mark-eller/

“No,” Missy agreed and cupped the side of his face with one palm. “For you it wouldn’t be right. For you, making love to me without your wife knowing would be a horrid, horrible thing to do. It would tear you up inside. The thing is, I was just sort of wondering. How is what happened here so very much different from what Melna did? The only difference I can see is she’s too young to have thought out all the consequences.”
~~Pawn, book three of The Turner Chronicles

Have you any publications planned for the future?

I wrote God Wars, a dark fantasy trilogy, with a partner, Liz VanZandt. We podcasted it under the title The Hell Hole Tavern, and had a heck of a good time. We now want to clean up the stories and release the three books. On top of that, My Tales of Mercy Bend horror novel needs about twenty-five thousand new words before I can even think of releasing it. I’ve another fantasy book, Expendable, that has sat idle for about three years. It’s time to dust it off and do a rewrite. Then there is book five of The Turner Chronicles waiting to be started. Even though I wrote The Turner Chronicles to be complete in four books, I always knew I would write another if I found an audience. Since people are buying the things, and because many fans have contacted me, book five will happen.

What are your plans for the future?

Get old. Retire. Keep on writing and podcasting. I’m also considering reviving my blogtalk author interview show and maybe getting serious about Convince Me!, an interview show where guests convince me their views are correct. I only did a few of those before life and work got in the way, but they were fun. I interviewed psychics, a believer in the 2012 Mayan prophesy, and a young man who is big time into body modification, skin pulls, and body suspension. A fun interview, but I left unconvinced.

What advice would you give new authors?

Write because you love it. You don’t have to write for publication, but if you do, take time to learn the craft. Join crit groups, writing groups, study writers you admire, and don’t be afraid to take a few classes. Most of all, have a thick skin and love your editor. When we write something we become too close to the work. Because of this, our minds skip over logic flaws which capture an editor’s attention immediately. Oh yeah, be sure to cut down on wordiness. Sometimes a good sentence can become great by shifting things around and knocking out three or four filler words.

Have you done any courses to help you?

Yep, with long stretches in between. I took a creative fiction writing class in high school. Over the next three decades I took a couple other fiction writing classes. Because a writer needs something to write about, I also took a bunch of history, philosophy, psychology, and English classes. I also attended anything else that caught my attention, but like with my writing, I didn’t go to school continuously. Sometimes years passed before the urge hit again. Still, I keep going back. At almost fifty-four, I finished a creative non-fiction class only a few months ago, and why not. Going to school is fun.

What do you do to market your work?

In short, not enough. When Traitor first came out I started my own blogtalk show, podcasted the book, appeared as a guest on over twenty internet shows, cross promoted with other fiction podcasts, got involved in a now defunct reality writing show as both a production assistant and judge, and did a few other things. Then I got sick for a while due to a mountain climb and a bug bite. I had to quit it all for a couple years. Now that I’m publishing again, I’ve done the twitter/facebook thing, a couple interviews, and have podcasted Betrayed as a free podiobook. Truthfully, self-promotion outside of podcasting is my least favorite part of this publication game because I’m an introvert by nature, but it’s time for me to get back into gear.

“Helmet Klein is no longer emperor,” Seeker said gently. “He passed the burden on to another.”
Seeker’s free hand reached out to touch her father’s brow. Aaron’s head jerked back, almost as if he had been struck. His knees sagged.
Seeker’s voice became gentler, filled with compassion. “All solace to the new emperor.”
“No,” Aaron whispered, and his arm fell away from Autumn. “No.”
“My friend, I am so sorry. As I told you before your tasks for Him are not finished.”

Do you use social networking in your day to day life?

Social Networking is pretty much a requirement. Without it I wouldn’t have found my present publisher. I would have missed out on several short fiction publishing opportunities and missed out on doing voice readings on other podcasts. I’ve made some good friends through facebook, and met some good people on twitter. If you want to look me up my facebook is: https://www.facebook.com/MarkEller
.

On twitter I am: https://twitter.com/#!/Mark_Eller

Are you interested in collaborating with artists?

Truthfully, I had not thought of it before now. I was once married to an artist. I helped her study for art history tests, went to art museums, and sat in on art classes, but I’ve no talent or eye for the stuff. I seriously cannot draw a stick figure(see hand-eye coordination references). If an artist is interested I suppose we could collaborate on my Mercy Bend stories, but I would have to know the artist’s expectations beforehand.

Have you got hobbies?

Sure, most of which I have already mentioned with the blogtalk and podcasting/writing thing. I also enjoy shotgun sports because I’m too creaky for racquet-ball anymore. I’ve also played with longbows and pistols, but shotguns are my love. After more than ten years of trying, about forty thousand shells fired, and several tons of money, I’ve become an okay B-class shooter. Mostly these days, on the physical side, I spend at least an hour a day, six days a week, in the gym. After a lifetime avoiding treadmills, I’m hooked because extra pounds are dropping.

Where are you based?

I’m a Michigan boy in the United States, from the city of Flint, home of the coney island hotdog. Coney’s are nothing like a chilly dog so don’t use it as a comparison. If you stop by Flint, grab a coney at Angello’s. The original owner with his original sauce is back. If somebody offers you the Detroit sauce, ignore them. Only Flint has the real stuff. Everything else is pretend.

When did you first become interested in art?

It all started when I was 10 years old and was spending my summer break at my grandmother’s isolated house in a country I visit only once a year. I am not complaining but spending a little over 30 days with only one person to talk to, nowhere to go and nobody my age to play with, things can be a little too stressful to handle. So I did what any kid would do when the only thing he has in abundance is pens and paper, I drew!

From then on, every time I was bored, may it be the waiting in a line or a boring chemistry lecture at school, I always turned to drawing.

What style of art do you use most?

My style of art is tribal. I have always had an obsession with patterns, and have enjoyed working on patterns for as long as I can remember. I guess there would be no other way to describe it anyway.

Has your style changed from when you first began as an artist?

My original style has not changed since I perfected it at 7^th grade. However I have added a few new styles to my collection of art I have done over time.

What medium do you use?

I use ink on paper.

What made you choose that medium?

As I mentioned earlier, I started of with pens and paper. And I find it very convenient, as items required are available anywhere I go. This is why I have never struggled with packing and travelling with my art equipment, all I have with me are my skills.

Do your ideas come from life or imagination?

To be honest it depends on what I am in a mood to draw. I have worked on art projects where the idea has come from the social life of a foreigner and I have worked on art projects purely from my imagination when I made illustration for my favorite poems or short stories.

How do you choose your images and colours?

I start off by making color combinations on a rough paper and use it while working on my artwork. But what I have enjoyed the most is working with just one color, which is the black ink. I have found it very interesting, the challenged I face while working with just one color, I end up making patterns I never thought I could make before! I later use a graph book to make those patterns again and practice until I have perfected it for later use.

Do you work in a studio? Tell us something about it, photo if possible but not necessary

No, I do not have a studio. I work from the comforts of my own bedroom. My parents haven’t really liked me working on my art either, so finding space at home other than my room can be a bit of a problem.

Who is your favorite artist?

Vincent Van Gogh. I think he had a unique style and someday, I too want to be known for mine.

What is your favorite piece of work by yourself?

I wouldn’t say it is the best piece done by me, but I guess my favorite piece is the James Bond Tribute I did. That character has been my role model. Not only that, while announcing my name as a winner at the Indian are festival, I got nick named James Bond by the jury! It is a little funny but yes, James bond tribute I did was my favorite piece of artwork.

How much time (on average) does it take to complete a work?

It can take me a couple of dedicated hours to a week. Depending on the size of the project and how passionate I am about that theme of project.

How well do you take criticism?

I don’t complain when I am criticized. In fact, I have to thank all the critics and feedback I got from people over the years that actually helped me come up with fresh new ideas.

What do you do to overcome a ‘block’?

Obsession and practice!! Doesn’t matter what others say but practice with passion and have an obsession or a drive to do something. That’s what elping me right now.

How do you know something is ‘finished’? Is it easy to walk away?

An artwork is over when I think the picture looks perfect. Doesn’t matter how it ends, but when I think a picture is perfect, that’s when I stop.

Have you had exhibits in galleries?

I have never exhibited in a gallery but I have had 2 art exhibitions in an Indian art festival in Jeddah. That’s where I won the special jury award and got invited to join the Dammam exhibition.

Have you any exhibits in galleries planned for the future? (details if possible)

Yes, I have been invited to do two more exhibitions at Soul of India art festival (one in Jeddah and one in the capital city of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh). Which is why my preparation is in full swing these days.

What are you currently working on?

I am only working small projects to add variety to my art profile. But i hope i have time to work on large size projects again.

What are your plans for the future?

I want to complete my mechanical engineering and then get into any field related to art. I have been raised in an Indian family, and the mentality of my parents is that boys are supposed to either engineering, medical or business. Nothing else exists on their radar. And the reason I chose mechanical engineering is for my love for math and physics.

What was the best advice given to you as an artist?

“God let you feel emotions Raiyan, use them.” My art critic gave this.

Have you done any courses to help you?

On and off, but nothing that helped me in the style or medium I use to work, i think i developed my skills on my own.

What do you do to market your work?

Nothing at the moment.

Do you use social networking in your day to day life?†(If so please add a couple of your addresses for people to follow you on)

Yes, I use facebook and fineartamerica.com to help me connect with other artists and get their insights.

Are you available for work (commissions)?

Only if I get to work from the comfort of my own home as I hate travelling.

Have you got hobbies?

I love reading books!! I once spent an entire summer reading 14 novels!! (Yes! I was at my grand mother’s house)

Where are you based?

I am an Indian currently staying in Saudi Arabia. But I intend to go to Malaysia this July to start my mechanical engineering course.

You can contact Raiyan Talkhani on ryn.artist@gmail.com

See Also Raiyan Talkhani – A 1stAngel Review

When did you first become interested in art?

I first became interested in art in 1996.  The walls were white and really needed colorful artwork to liven it up.  I wanted original artwork but knew I couldn’t afford original artwork so instead I started created my own art.

What style of art do you use most?

The art style I use most is abstract expressionist.  I love allowing whatever medium I choose to flow and become something unique and beautiful.

Has your style changed from when you first began as an artist?

My style has changed slightly but only if I use paint instead of colored pencils.  When I use paint the style is different and abstract in a different way.  I look forward to incorporating drawing more into painting and am excited to see how that changes my paintings.

What medium do you use?

I use colored pencils and pastel chalk on paper.  I also use acrylic paint on canvas.

What made you choose that medium?

When I started creating artwork I chose colored pencil because of how inexpensive it was.  I then incorporated pastel chalk with colored pencils and it created very unique artwork.  So initially it was cost but now I continue to use it because I really love the art.

Do your ideas come from life or imagination?

My artwork is created using my imagination but would love to someday use life as more of an inspiration.  I love nature, in my view there is no better artwork than nature.  Nature is beautiful and inspiring.  I am inspired by nature and I think that comes out in my artwork.

Painted Fabric ©Melinda Firestone-White - copying from this site is illegal

How do you choose your images and colors?

When I start creating I allow the medium to flow and the colors blend and come together in a way to create the art.  When I choose the colors I like a mixture of dark and light colors.  I like the balance that it gives.  The light brings out the dark.  I look at the piece and it has to flow and have a balance.

Do you work in a studio?

I create artwork in my living room.  I like painting where the family hangs out the most.  Where there is more life, light and love that is where I feel more comfortable to create art.

Who is your favourite artist?

Salvador Dali is my favorite artist.  I love his imagination and the way he painted was just beautiful.  His paintings say so much when you look at them that you cannot look away.

What is your favorite piece of work by yourself?

I have a few favorites of mine.  One of them is a piece titled Splendid Vine.  This was one of the first pieces I created with colored pencil and pastel chalk.  It is also one of six pieces signed with a pseudonym.  My mindset was a little strange back then.

Dancing Birds ©Melinda Firestone-White - copying from this site is illegal

How much time (on average) does it take to complete a work?

Depending on the medium and size I choose it can take one hour to a couple of days.

How well do you take criticism?

I can take criticism, but I also know that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.  Everyone has an opinion on art and some people love, others with dislike.

What do you do to overcome a ‘block’?

When I feel a block or stressed that’s when I have to step back and quit over thinking things.  Art for me has to be fun and it has to flow otherwise it will never work out.  I have to relax and not try so hard, when there is a block, just allow the lines flow and allow the medium to guide the direction.

Colorful Forest ©Melinda Firestone-White - copying from this site is illegal

How do you know something is ‘finished’? Is it easy to walk away?

I know I have finished a piece when I no longer want to touch it, when I can look at it and say I no longer want to do anything more to this piece.

Have you had exhibits in galleries?

About 10 years ago I had a gallery interested in my artwork and gave him 7 pieces to exhibit in his gallery.  He sold two of the pieces and then told me afterward that they were sold.  Instead of being happy I was crushed, they were my babies and I never got to talk to the people who bought my art.  I wanted to ask them why they liked the art and what they could see in the art.  I was very interested in their thoughts but never got that chance.  My artwork is a part of who I am.  I am now more ready to sell and would love for a gallery to be interested.

Have you any exhibits in galleries planned for the future?

I am now in the process of looking for a gallery to exhibit my artwork but am finding it difficult.  There are a lot of great artists out there but I feel like I have the passion and eventually, with hard work it will happen.

What are you currently working on?

I am currently working on acrylic on canvas using an abstract expressionist style.  I will use the same technique I use with colored pencil but apply it to canvas using acrylic paint.  I want to make a series of canvas pieces to sell at a gallery.

What are your plans for the future?

My plan is to get into the licensing business.  For a long time I have always looked at my artwork and really wanted to do more things with it than just hang on a wall.  Putting my artwork on products such as t-shirts, bedding etc. would be ideal.

Splendid Vine ©Melinda Firestone-White - copying from this site is illegal

What was the best advice given to you as an artist?

The best advice I would say is to never give up on your dream and be persistent.  Nothing happens if you do nothing.  Keep working and make it happen.

What advice would you give new artists?

The advice I would give new artists is just to keep doing what makes you feel good.  Art is a part of who you are, it’s in your heart and soul.  Just bring that out in your artwork.  Have fun with art, everything else will fall into place.

Have you done any courses to help you?

I have not taken any art courses but plan on taking a few in spring term.  I would love to take a drawing class.

What do you do to market your work?

I have my own website which helps to market my artwork.  I am also on a few art sites such as Fineartamerica.com and artistrising.com.  I also have a twitter account which has my website as a link.  I need to do more and plan on it.  For example, I plan on getting flyers with my artwork displayed and sending them to businesses.

Do you use social networking in your day to day life?

I am on twitter.com.  You can find me at www.twitter.com/glowingbird.  I also have a website www.glowingbird.com

Space Collision ©Melinda Firestone-White - copying from this site is illegal

Are you available for work (commissions)?

I do not do commissions.  Maybe that will change in the future.

Have you got hobbies?

My hobby is creating art and finding the many ways I can use my artwork to create a business.  I love art and would love to be able to create artwork as a full time occupation. That would be my dream.

Where are you based?

I am located in Portland, OR.

www.anneklar.com

When did you first become interested in art?

I clearly remember at a very young age my mother returning home from a community art class. When she showed me her completed project, I was intensely intrigued with what she had made. While examining it I felt very alive with a new sense of excitement. It was undoubtedly a watershed moment.

I instinctively knew that I too wanted to create and work with my hands. As a child sitting in the classroom, I remember wishing I could work with my hands rather then sitting at a desk. It took decades before that dream was realized.

What style of art do you use most?

I refer to myself as a 3D Sculptural Painter. I have innovated my own medium. In 2008 the greeting card company Pierre Belvedere selected me as Canadian Artist for their Canadian Collection. This is how they described my artwork on the greeting cards that were marketed: Anne Klar’s Vibrant Imagination Coupled With The Ingenuity Of Her Two Hands Come Together To Create 3D Works Of Art That Reach Out Off The Canvas And Touch The Heart. Working Primarily In Clay, Anne Klar Magically Breathes Life Into Her Creations. Creating Texture Upon Texture, Her Innovative Medium Creates a Fine Art Print That Is Truly Unique. I think that describes my style quite well.

Has your style changed from when you first began as an artist?

Yes my style has certainly evolved. Every time I begin a new piece I am always striving to do something different from the piece before. The determination to try new things is what helps an artist’s style to evolve.

That is one of the wonderful things about being involved in an artistic process, you never stand still. You also never know where It will take you.

What medium do you use?

I work primarily in Clay. My artwork it is a combination of clay & painting which I refer to as 3D Sculptural Painting. I find the medium very exciting and I very much want to communicate that to the viewer. People often remark on how they feel the 3D medium draws them in and allows them to get lost. I often hear, “I feel as though I am there”, or “I feel as though I am in the print”. As an artist it is very satisfying to hear that because I then know I’ve accomplished what I’ve set out to do.

Clay allows me to give the illusion of so many different textures. It is a very forgiving medium. I like its flexibility and the sheer wonder of seeing a ball of clay turn into something that feels almost alive. With every new piece, I continue to discover more about what I can do with clay.

Many of my pieces have laundry hanging on clothes lines. I very much enjoy creating the illusion of cloth and the sensation of wind blowing. In “Laundry” I have embossed on top of the clay to create different patterns and add another layer of texture.

Pink Linen ©Anne Klar - Copying from this site is illegal

Clay allows you to create something from nothing. It all rests on one’s imagination and the ingenuity of your two hands. I will study a ball of clay and often will see the form before I’ve created it, as though it is talking to me. I’m still dazzled by the wonder of it all.

What made you choose this medium?

I think it chose me. When my daughter Lyn was eight years-old I would work with her on various art projects. We soon began exploring plasticine and it was then that I realized I could sculpt. That was a big surprise to me as I had never known that before, or had ever considered that medium. I was actively involved in Photography from the age of sixteen and that was my sole passion.

At the time we were experimenting in plasticine, I was exploring papier mache on my own. I was constructing these large bowls; my template was a beach ball. Instead of just painting them, I decided to try and sculpt around the bowl as though it was a circular canvas. As the bowl would rotate, the story would unfold. I ultimately changed to the format you see now, and this is a perfect example how an artist’s work evolves.

Do your ideas come from life or imagination?

My ideas come from how I often imagine I would like life to be. My artwork reflects a world less frenetic and more innocent then the one I find myself living in. I try and evoke a sense of stillness and calm.

A Moment ©Anne Klar - Copying from this site is illegal

My imagination is constantly working on how to transfer the visual images that catch my attention into my 3D medium. Ideas originate from all aspects of life. Ideas often can dance around in my head for months before I even attempt to execute them. The mystery of it all is infinite.

How do you choose your images and colors?

My mind is constantly filled with images. I don’t think that is uncommon for a visual artist. I’m always looking for new concepts to explore artistically. I may see an ad in a magazine or on TV, and perhaps just a small part of that image will trigger a completely different image. I then work on how that image would transfer to my medium. I spend a lot of time with images in front of me just studying them from hours to months. Color has always felt very natural to me, almost like a seventh sense. It is part of the creative process that comes to me the easiest. I want my pieces to have a sense of harmony and that often dictates what colors I’ll use.

Do you work in a Studio?

After many years of working in the furnace room in the basement of our home, then graduating to the kitchen and then the laundry room, six years ago I made a dramatic change. I decided to convert our detached two-car garage which sits at the back of our house into a working studio.

It is a wonderful space with lots of skylights and a big bay window which looks into the garden. I designed it myself and spent quite a bit of time envisioning what it would look like. I wanted to have the feeling of working outside and the many windows create that exact effect. I love to see the four seasons pass as I’m working in my studio. During a winter storm I feel as though I’m inside a huge snowball. In fall I watch the trees over time lose their leaves, many landing on the skylights. It’s truly a magical feeling.

Russain painter Marie Bashkirtseff said about the studio: “In the studio all distinctions disappear. One has neither name nor family; one is no longer the daughter of one’s mother, one is oneself and individual, and one is before one’s art, and nothing else. One feels happy, so free, so proud!”

Worth ©Anne Klar - Copying from this site is illegal

Who is your favorite artist?

Canadian icon Alex Colville is certainly one of my favorite artists. I became extremely interested in art when I was first introduced to his work. He has a unique vision. His artwork concentrates on the “ordinary” in life. His work taught about the beauty, elegance and importance of the moment.

What is your favorite piece of work by yourself?

I would have to say “Subway – Lonely Travelers”. The concept took many many months to execute. It is my only multi-media piece. It was also technically quite challenging. But fore most it is the feeling that this piece evokes. It seems to resonate strongly with people. The piece speaks to a certain alienation we all experience living in an urban environment. I think everyone sees themselves in this piece, at least that is what I’ve been told. I feel my objectives were met with this piece and it has generated the reaction I had hoped for.

Subway - Lonely Travellers ©Anne Klar - Copying from this site is illegal

How much time does it take to complete a work?

Oh that is something I often don’t like to think about. This medium is very slow as it is so detailed and layered. Two hands can only work so fast, there is no wiggle room for short-cuts. Depending on the piece it can run from three months to nine months. I try and work on a minimum of three pieces at a time.

How well do you take criticism?

I think one has to be open to criticism in order to improve. The work is so solitary that it is vital to have feedback. I will usually turn to my husband and children for constructive criticism. They have seen the progression of the work which is helpful in regard to criticism.

What do you do to overcome a “block”?

Blocks used to terrify me, but then overtime I learnt that they are inevitable. I try and mentally relax. I put faith in the creative process and understand this is part of the territory. It is not uncommon for me to put a piece aside when I may have a “block” and return to it several months later. I may start something new, or it may just mean washing brushes and cleaning my studio. It could as well be a time to look at other artist’s work or visit galleries. It’s important to stay involved and not flee.

Trust in yourself. Exercise patience. Knowing that the “block” will ultimately cease is important. I know now after many years, that when I do come out of the “block”, there is something really wonderful waiting for me on the other side. I’ve learnt that inspiration will come to those who work even when not inspired. That is the great challenge. Time is the best teacher.

Silent Canvas ©Anne Klar - Copying from this site is illegal

How do you know something is finished? Is it easy to walk away?

I start off with an initial concept so I have a strong idea of where I am going. Having said that, one can be surprised and land up in a completely different direction as well. It is very important to be flexible and to be able to change tracks. But I generally have a strong sense of what I want to see in my finished piece. I’ve often been referred to as a “story teller”, so when my story is told, then my piece is completed. Many authors say that the book writes itself, to a certain extent I can say the same for a painting.

I’m so eager to try my hand at a new concept that it is not hard to walk away.

Have you had exhibits in galleries?

I have not exhibited in an art gallery, but I was selected as one of eight Toronto artists for a city-wide tour. People were bussed to my studio to view my artwork.

Memories On Ice ©Anne Klar - Copying from this site is illegal

Have you any exhibits in galleries planned for the future?

I don’t have anything at the present.

What are you currently working on?

I’m working on three new pieces. A snow scene, a beach scene and a piece that expresses my love of music. Although all obviously different in subject matter, each piece has something new that I’ve yet to do before. This is what creates the excitement for me.

What are your plans for the future?

I intend to continue designing, creating and exploring new concepts. I have several marketing strategies which I intend to implement in 2012.
As well, I’d like to partner with a Fine Art Publisher in the distribution of my fine-art prints.

Finally Home ©Anne Klar - Copying from this site is illegal

Since 2010 Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto has been raising money through my artwork. I would like to continue seeing my artwork generate money for a worthwhile cause. This has always been a very strong goal of mine.

What advice did you get from an artist that was helpful?

The best advice I received was being told what can be imagined, can be achieved. I actually now have these words taped to my desk as they hold much meaning for me. It is all about believing that you can make things happen.

I was advised to put doubt aside as it truly inhibits creativity.

There are so many rough patches that it is critical to have this strong foundation of belief to fall back on. I was told to believe in myself and not get distracted by all that can negatively impact on your ability to create. Exercising self-discipline, having a vision, being determined and having the “will”, will ultimately take you were where you are supposed to be.

What advice would you give to new artist?

Push fear aside and replace it with courage. Risk failure as that it really how so many surprisingly wonderful things happen. Trust your intuition, it will guide you. Play as you did when you were a child.

I always remember the quote from Robert Schuller that said, “Build a dream and the dream will build you”. This is a journey and if you stay the course it will be a magical one. You will grow as a person in ways you could never have imagined. If you love what you do and persist, over time a confidence will grow within you that will not only help your development as an artist, but as a person.

On a more academic level, it is very important to continually look at other’s artist’s work. Go to shows, galleries, or just spend time surfing the net viewing artwork. Don’t be afraid to approach an artist whom you admire. I’ve found artists to be very willing to help.

How do you market?

Most of my marketing is done on the net.

Do you use social networking in your day to day life?

No I don’t.

A Snowy Night ©Anne Klar - Copying from this site is illegal

Have you done any courses to help you?

No I’m completely self-taught.

Are you available for work (commissions)?

No as that is not the way I work. I can’t create according to someone else’s plans.

Have you any hobbies?

I’m a passionate gardener and grow water lilies. I fell in love with the camera at the age of sixteen. I’ve worked in the industry prior to becoming a full-time artist and the camera remains an art form that I’m still engaged in. I love to sail, hike, cycle, play tennis take long walks, read good books, cook, snowshoe in the winter and see good theater. And lastly, play my tenor saxophone.

Where do you reside?

I live in Toronto, Canada.

http://coralie-mrsroadrunner.artistwebsites.com/

When did you first become interested in art, in general?

I really can not remember ever not being interested or directly involved in the arts. My earliest childhood memories is of something pertaining to the arts.

When did you first become interested in photography, specifically?

I remember as a child being handed a small film camera, that was the first time I started taking photographs. As a child I remember being in front of the cameras. I was not allowed to touch the camera or equipment and I wanted to so badly!! I thought it was so neat how my parents talked with the photographer, and how the photographer had so much power as to what I wore to how I sat under the hot lights. The thrill my parents got when they received the photographs , how my parents eyes lit up when someone asked about the large winning photo that hung in the living room of their little girl.

In what other forms of art do you also work, if any?

I have dabbled in many other forms of art, however at this time I just do not have the energy or frankly the time to dive into any other forms of the arts

On which style(s) of photography do you specialize?

Wildlife and Nature is my passion. Remote locations where I can capture whatever wildlife in their natural environment. I do happens to get fence lines etc. in my shots which is natural for the wildlife in our part of Oregon to use as perches. I like to be educating as well as visually captivating. Along with myself we travel with dogs who have gotten me out of jams with the coyotes, bears and the such. I like action, Rodeos I find to be thrilling to my senses and Floral and micro photography, local Cowboys working or Sheep Herders, wild horses to livestock who have been free roaming , Historical places and things…. I love it all!!

©Coralie - Copying from this site is illegal

Has your style changed from when you first began?

Not at all. My family and the folks who have known me since childhood are not surprised about the path I have taken. The only thing my mother has requested is I use my name Coralie. Thus this is the only name I use to sign my photography.

What kind of equipment do you use?

I use my Canon EOS 50D. My favorite lens is my 70mm 300mm that has manual settings and really this is all I need though I do have one other lens that collects dust. I do use my InfanView. I really do not feel I need to use any fancy program as of yet. I am very quirky about taking shots that should not need much of editing other then basic editing consisting of cropping and or light adjusting. I do like some things in black and white. I had had some training in the dark room and health wise just can not handle the chemicals involved, otherwise I might still be using a film camera and a dark room?

What made you choose that equipment?

Well, I actually was using point and shoot equipment when someone who told me I had talent took me into the city and told me to choose whatever I want. I looked over the equipment and always being a Canon person I kept wondering over to this 50D. As I was looking it over, checking out all the lenses for it and what it could do and not wanting to get the most expensive thing there, I chose this model. Been very happy with it!

How do you choose what you’re going to photograph?

Gosh, this is a hard question for me to answer. Most of the time what I photograph is a opportunity type thing. Other then the wildlife that I have been known to stalk through the brush to take their photograph, I see the photograph before I take it. Gosh, in my mind I see the photograph as it would look as a photograph I am holding in my hands.

©Coralie - Copying from this site is illegal

What kind of editing do you perform on your photographs, if any?

Just the basic stuff, cropping, light adjusting if needed.

How much time (on average) does it take to complete a work?

Well, there is the actual location we need to get too. We have drove for hours to get to a photo shoot, then if hiking is needed…. Sometimes just walking out my front door. Once uploaded to the computer it takes oh ten minutes? I rarely do just one, but the file from whatever day and this is if I am not to tired. I have many photographs to go through after we get home. If the photo in question does not meet my requirements I delete it and move on typically. Or keep it for another day when I have fresh eyes to look at it.

How do you know when a piece is finished? Is it easy to walk away?

How do I know, it just looks right. Easy to walk away, you betcha! I have a delete button and I am not afraid to use it.

What do you do to overcome a ‘block’?

I grab my camera and head on out the door. There is always something to photograph, always! I have been told my eyes light up even over a spider doing what a spider does. The wind blowing softly some leaves. The horses playing. The photographs do not even have to turn out or to be of any use, this is not the point. I photograph things for me, if others like them great!!

How well do you take criticism and how do you make use of it?

Criticism, it depends on what kind of day I am having as how I take criticism. Who is the one criticizing is very important. I am a chronic pain sufferer and on my bad days I may not be so willing to take any kind of criticism, on other days I will just laugh and walk on. No one can please everyone all the time and frankly I dont care to please everyone. That is beyond my control. I will ponder criticism over, if constructive, professional and not personal.

Who is your favorite photographer?

Ansel Adams hands down. In fact someone who knows me had just brought him up this morning. I even named one of my children after one of his pieces.

©Coralie - Copying from this site is illegal

Which one of your photographs is your favorite?

Wow, I have a lot of favorites. It is not only the photograph per say, it is the story, the memory behind the photograph that makes one my favorite. The bird who attacked me, the Antelope Buck who charged me, the dirty look I got when I interrupted a hawk eating. The look a wild rabbit gave me as he was curious as to what I was doing, and if I was a threat. The Eagle who was contemplating flying from me, only for me to learn that the eagle in question was not even it its own territory and got attacked by other eagles. The Mule Deer Doe who I came upon resting under a tree, who did not even get up as I photographed her. It is the look in a wild animals eyes that could make something a favorite.

Have you exhibited any of your work in galleries?

Yes actually some of my work is in a local gallery. I have some photographs in a market as well as selling other photographs to such places. I have done some work for businesses, as well as personal families. I am published and was featured in a exhibition last year in front of the medical community. In online newspapers, articles. Some of my work is found on front page of web sites. Featured in many online places. Of course my own web site / blog which has gotten more hits then all the residents in several towns around us. Knock on wood.

Will your work be included at any upcoming contests or galleries? If so, where and when?

I can not answer this at this moment. I may jinx something that frankly, things have been moving very quickly for me. I just want to ride the wave.

What are your plans for the future?

The future is not here yet. I plan on jumping on every opportunity that presents itself. Keep doing what I love to do, take photographs! I think I need to be more appreciative to those who have supported my efforts with their kind words, buying my photography and just being there through my bad days.

What advice do you have for budding photographers?

Do what you love. You have to sleep at night and life is way to short to please other people. Make the possessive over come the “negative”. Listen to that inner voice because this world is hard enough , have fun! If you are one for schooling, do it. Never be jealous of anyone else, strive to be the one whom others can learn from, to even copy. Dont allow anyone to tell you you can not do whatever it is you choose to do! Dont be one of those elderly people who have regrets and wished they did whatever……. Go out and make your mark!

Have you done any courses to help you?

No, I have never taken any courses. I have a attention span as long as a gnat is big!

©Coralie - Copying from this site is illegal

What do you do to market your work?

A easier question to answer is, what dont I do?? I have been very fortunate to run into, befriend very kind people who pass on information in which I act upon.

Do you use social networking in your day to day life?

Oh gosh yes! Have to keep up with the times!

Facebook is https://www.facebook.com/coralie.photography
Twitter is http://twitter.com/Mrs_Roadrunner

I try hard to keep up with all of them, and even try to get onto the ground floor of new social networking places as well as keep up with new concepts, way of doing things online.

©Coralie - Copying from this site is illegal

Are you available for work (commissions)?

We can talk, first step in communication.

Have you got hobbies?

I do, I am a horticulturist who spends a lot of time in my organic garden. In spring and summers we have veggie garden, flower garden. Many of the hybrid flowers, backyard birds, butterflies, frogs and other creatures are captured right here at the house. Some of the hawks, eagles are captured right here too! We have horses, dogs, a cat, my caged birds. We hike, take drives, all these things one can see in my photography.

Where are you based?

High Desert, Central Oregon USA