Almost Real at the National Portrait Gallery
Almost Real at the National Portrait Gallery
Almost Real at the National Portrait Gallery — I still find it strange to write these words.
This summer, my painting Almost Real will be shown at the National Portrait Gallery in London as part of the Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award 2026.
I have been sitting with this news for a while before sharing it. Not because I was not excited. I was completely overwhelmed. But there is a kind of silence that comes after news like this — a silence where the event feels too large to touch directly.
I wanted to feel it fully before I let it out.
Almost Real at the National Portrait Gallery
Almost Real was selected for the Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award 2026, one of the most important portrait competitions in the world.
This year, the Award received 1,474 entries from artists across 63 countries. A total of 52 portraits were chosen for the final exhibition. The show opens at the National Portrait Gallery in London on 25 June 2026 and runs until 7 October 2026.
Since its beginning, the competition has attracted more than 40,000 entries from over 100 countries and has been seen by over 6 million people.
And somewhere inside that vast field of images, Almost Real found its place.
That sentence still feels almost unreal to me.
You can see more of my recent works in the Artworks section of my website.
The beginning of the painting
The painting began with a real encounter.
Connor, a friend from Australia, came into my life through a small café in Portugal. Later, he visited my studio many times and sat for me.
At first, I was looking at him in the usual way a painter looks at a sitter — the structure of the head, the temperature of the skin, the weight of the body in space, the small shifts of expression that happen before language catches them.
Then something changed.
At some point, I noticed how completely he disappeared into his phone.
His body was still there, close to me, present in the studio. But his gaze had moved elsewhere. Not absent exactly — more suspended. Held by another space.
The face remained, but the attention had crossed a threshold.
That moment stayed with me.
A portrait of divided attention
A portrait is usually built around presence.
But in Almost Real, presence is unstable.
The body is near. The mind is somewhere else. The sitter is physically close, but his attention has moved into another field — private, digital, unreachable.
I was interested in this quiet split.
Not a dramatic gesture.
Not a theatrical emotion.
Just a person absorbed into a private digital world.
It is such a familiar contemporary state: intimate, ordinary, slightly disturbing.
We are together, and not together. We look at each other, and through each other. We sit in the same room while part of us disappears into the screen.
I did not want to judge that moment. I wanted to hold it.
Painting allows that kind of attention. It does not need to explain too quickly. It can stay with the almost invisible shift — the gaze turning inward, the body becoming still, the person becoming both present and distant.
Why the title is Almost Real
The title Almost Real came from this instability.
The painting is not only about Connor. It is about the condition of looking at someone who is already looking elsewhere. It is about the strange tenderness and distance of our time — how a face can be close enough to paint, yet unreachable in another way.
I wanted the image to hover between portrait and apparition.
The sitter is real.
The encounter is real.
The painted surface is physical, slow, handmade.
And still, something in the image refuses to settle fully into reality.
It feels caught between the body and the screen, between touch and distance, between attention and disappearance.
That tension is where the painting lives.
Oil painting on OSB panel
Almost Real is an oil painting on OSB panel, 40 × 40 cm.
OSB is not a noble surface. It is rough, industrial, unromantic — almost unattractive before paint touches it.
I was drawn to that.
I did not want a perfect, elegant support. I wanted a surface that resisted me a little.
The texture of the panel interrupts the illusion. It keeps the portrait from becoming too smooth, too polished, too complete. The roughness remains visible underneath the paint, like a reminder that every image is constructed from imperfect material.
For me, that imperfection matters.
It carries something human. It prevents the painting from becoming only an image of a person and turns it into a record of friction — between surface and skin, observation and memory, the real body and the mediated one.
Painting on OSB means accepting resistance.
The material does not disappear politely. It speaks back.
More about my wider portrait practice and exhibitions can be found on my artist biography page.
A small painting in a larger conversation
To have Almost Real at the National Portrait Gallery means more to me than I can easily explain.
The National Portrait Gallery is not just a building filled with faces. It is a place where portraiture is treated as memory, history, psychology, power, vulnerability, and time.
Faces gather there not as decoration, but as evidence of lives lived and looked at.
To place this small painting inside that context feels deeply meaningful.
A studio encounter in Portugal.
A friend’s distant gaze.
The stubborn texture of an OSB panel.
A square painting, 40 × 40 cm.
A moment of attention slipping away.
Now it enters a larger conversation about what portraiture can be today.
And perhaps that is what moves me most.
Portraiture is no longer only about likeness. Maybe it never was. It is about attention. About what remains visible when someone is slipping away. About the fragile pressure of another person’s presence.
Almost Real tries to hold that pressure.
Not to explain it.
Not to solve it.
Just to keep looking.
Exhibition details
Almost Real will be displayed at the National Portrait Gallery in London as part of the Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award 2026.
The exhibition opens on 25 June 2026 and runs until 7 October 2026.
You can find the official exhibition information on the National Portrait Gallery website. You can also read the official HSF Kramer announcement.
I am honoured, overwhelmed, and quietly grateful to be part of it.
See you in London this summer.
For enquiries about available works, commissions, or collaborations, please use the contact page.
One week. One island. Around a hundred people. Quarantine 2025
Quarantine 2025
Tania Rivilis
One week.
One island.
Around a hundred people.
Quarantine
No phones, no Wi-Fi, no doom-scrolling, nothing to hide behind. Just raw space — creative, messy, unpredictable — where everyone had permission to experiment wildly.
Seven mentors, including me. A strange, beautiful tribe of artists, designers, weirdos, and visionaries. By the end of that week, something shifted — in the work, in the eyes, in the energy. You could literally feel people shedding their old skins.
On that island, I gave a talk — part therapy session, part manifesto — that unexpectedly hit deep. Afterwards, dozens of participants came up asking for the notes, the slides, the reading list. So I promised to share a trimmed-down version with anyone who might need a jolt of that same clarity, courage, and creative fire. This post is my way of keeping that promise.
You can download the presentation Tania Rivilis – Born under Saturn in PDF format here.
Tania Rivilis Solo Art Exhibition Debuts in Madrid
Tania Rivilis Solo Art Exhibition Debuts in Madrid
Tania Rivilis has landed in Madrid, and her solo art exhibition, 585 Nanometrs, at Espacio75 Gallery is already making waves. Unveiled on a rainy carnival evening, this Spanish debut marks a bold new chapter for an artist whose journey—from Ukraine to Germany, Portugal, and now the global stage—reads like a painterly odyssey. If you’re an art lover, a curious traveler, or just someone who vibes with color and soul, this exhibition is your ticket to a radiant experience.
A Whirlwind Prelude to the Tania Rivilis Solo Art Exhibition
Imagine this: after a six-hour drive from Portugal, Tania Rivilis rolls into Madrid, bleary-eyed but buzzing. She doesn’t crash at a hotel or sip a cortado—no, she heads straight to the Prado Museum. Why? Because, by some cosmic stroke of luck, Jerry Saltz, the art world’s sharp-tongued oracle, is giving a lecture that very day. For Rivilis, this isn’t just a coincidence; it’s fate.
What unfolds is pure art-world magic: a 10-minute chat with Saltz, complete with critique, mentorship, a signed book, a killer quote, and—yes—a hug. It’s the kind of encounter that could fuel an artist for years. The next day, she stumbles into an exhibition on color—another serendipitous nod to her own work—where she meets Paul Smith, a professor and writer who gifts her a Cézanne quote that feels like it was written for her.
“Obaladet!”—Tania Rivilis, on hugging Jerry Saltz
Expert Tip: If you’re an artist prepping for a big show, lean into the chaos. Museums, mentors, and moments of awe aren’t distractions—they’re fuel.
The Opening Night: Chaos, Color, and Community
Fast forward to the main event: the Tania Rivilis solo art exhibition kicks off at Espacio75 Gallery on a stormy Madrid evening. It’s carnival season, the rain is relentless, and Rivilis admits to a gnawing fear: What if no one shows up? But at 6 p.m., the doors open—and the tide turns.
First, a trickle of guests. Then a flood. Within minutes, the gallery is packed—so packed that people are spilling onto the street. Gema and Pablo, the gallerists, nail the details: yellow-themed drinks and snacks, a DJ who cranks the vibe from chill to euphoric. Soon, people are dancing. At an art opening!
- Yellow walls glowing against the dreary weather.
- Curated menu—citrusy cocktails and saffron bites.
- Friends from afar, flying in to support her.
- Social buzz—Instagram tags she’s still catching up on.
Real-World Example: Think Basquiat’s early NYC shows—raw, chaotic, alive. Rivilis channels that same unruly spirit.
Exploring ‘585 Nanometrs’: What’s on Display
585 Nanometrs isn’t just a title—it’s the wavelength of yellow light, a metaphor for Rivilis’ obsession with color as emotion. The works span her evolving style, from classical portraiture to impressionist bursts.
| Title | Medium | Themes | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Oil on wood | Renewal, nostalgia | Soft, hopeful |
| Summer | Oil on canvas | Joy, warmth | Bright, unrestrained |
| You Can’t Wake Up... | Mixed media | Dreams, existentialism | Haunting, introspective |
Expert Tip: Linger on the brushstrokes—Rivilis’ bold swipes paired with delicate details reveal a restless, precise mind.
Tania Rivilis’ Artistic Journey: From Novice to Madrid
Born in Ukraine in 1986, Rivilis didn’t start painting until 27, after moving to Germany in 2012. That late start? Her superpower. Unburdened by formal training, she copied Old Masters before evolving into her audacious style.
- 2012: Starts painting in Germany.
- 2015: First international shows.
- 2022: Wins the William Lock Prize.
- 2025: Lands in Madrid with 585 Nanometrs.
Case Study: Like Frida Kahlo, Rivilis bloomed late, turning detours into gold.
Why Espacio75 Gallery Shines for This Exhibition
Espacio75 Gallery isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a co-star. Its yellow walls mirror Rivilis’ chromatic soul, while gallerists Gema and Pablo build an experience with curated details.
Madrid’s Art Scene Welcomes Rivilis
Madrid—home to Prado and Reina Sofía—loves passion and color. The Tania Rivilis solo art exhibition fits right in, especially with ARCOmadrid looming.
FAQ About Tania Rivilis’ Solo Art Exhibition
- What’s the Tania Rivilis solo art exhibition about?
- 585 Nanometrs explores yellow as a lens for emotion, blending classical and modern styles.
- Where and when can I see it?
- At Espacio75 Gallery, Madrid, for a month from early 2025.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss This Radiant Show
The Tania Rivilis solo art exhibition is a moment—vibrant, soulful, unapologetic. Head to Espacio75 now—art and a good time await.
More than an art Workshop in a sunny Portugal!
6 days of knowledge, art, painting and fun!
Introduction
This November, me (Tania Rivilis), Art Syndicate and some other incredible specialists will join forces for a 6-day art workation in Portugal (7 days of leisure activities), and I’d love for you to be a part of it!
The Setting: Setubal downtown, Portugal
Setúbal was inhabited in ancient times by the Phoenicians, and by the Romans who settled on the south bank of the River Sado (in Tróia, opposite the present town), who called it Cetobriga, from which the name Setúbal is derived. The city was the birthplace of outstanding Portuguese cultural figures, particularly Bocage (a 19th century poet, famous for the ironic tone and social criticism that he put into everything he wrote), and Luísa Todi (an important lyric singer). The Convent of Jesus, which houses the Municipal Museum, is in the Gothic-Manueline style, and the Fort of São Filipe, now converted into a "Pousada" (country-house hotel) from which one can enjoy a fantastic view of the city, the River Sado, Tróia and the Arrábida mountain range, also deserve special mention.
More than a workshop
This isn’t an art retreat – I can’t stress it enough. It’s a chance to dive deep into your art, find your unique style, and get practical advice on navigating the art world. You’ll be living, painting, and learning alongside a group of passionate artists, study my technique and explore your own. We’ll also visit my studio, talk about art process, tackle the business side of things (but not like in a business school, so stay calm) and relax a-freaking-lot.
What is Art Syndicate - Creative Council?
At Creative Council, we aim to merge talent and real-world strategies by sharing artistic skills, market knowledge, expressive challenges, and connections. For 7 days, you live, paint, and learn alongside art fellows, explore your signature style, visit Tania’s studio, get professional guidance, and, of course, have a great time with Portuguese culture, nature, and lots of good talks.
Experimenting with artistic expression, not your career
FAQ
Q1: What is the price for the Workshop?
A1: Price for a Council Members is 2700€. Here is what included:
- 6 days of educational program: workshops, seminars
- personal mentoring sessions
- 7 days of leisure activities
- lodging
- art materials
- meals (breakfasts, lunches, and dinners)
- transfers within program schedule
A spot for a participating artist: you learn from the mentors, have masterclasses and personal sessions, and spend time like it’s a long-needed holiday. We got you covered: a private bedroom all for yourself, good food, art supplies for the classes, and breathtaking Portuguese views. All you need to do is get the ticket and come here already.
Q2: Can I take a friend/partner?
A2: Yes! Price for Council Guest is 1300€. Included:
- 7 days of leisure activities
- meals (breakfasts, lunches, and dinners)
- lodging
- transfers within program schedule
- lots of some quality rest
A spot for a non-participating partner who doesn’t share your desire for an art career, but also wants to ace the vacation with breathtaking Portuguese views. Your guest doesn’t participate in the educational program but has fun with the whole team and shares a bedroom with you in a beautiful historical place. And while artists study hard during classes, the guests can have all the fun they want (and we’ll help with that) – the sky is the limit.
Q3: How many spots are in the Workshop?
A3: Number of spots: 15
Q4: Is there a Waiting list?
A4: Join the team for an immersive experience that blends art masterclasses, insightful market seminars, one-on-one mentoring, and a vibrant community. Sign up for the waiting list and be first in line to get the spot when they become available.
Q5: What kind of accommodation do you have?
A5: We will live in a genuine Portuguese Quinta – a rural estate away from the noise but right in the center of all the necessary things to see and try in the country. The place is fully renovated for a comfortable stay but has preserved its cultural ambiance. The place belongs only to us throughout the Council, so it’s a perfect spot to learn, relax, and focus on what’s important – your art fellas around you.
Joining the Prestigious Nicholls Art Group
Joining the Prestigious Nicholls Art Group
I am thrilled to announce a significant milestone in my artistic career. As of today, I am officially represented by James Nicholls and his esteemed Nicholls Art Group. This is a tremendous honor for me, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of a group that includes some of the most renowned artists in the world.
About James Nicholls
James Nicholls is a distinguished figure in the art world, boasting over 30 years of global experience. He is the host of ‘The Art Review’ and serves as an Art Critic for London Live TV and an Art Presenter for British Airways inflight programming. His expertise and influence in the art community are widely recognized, as evidenced by his recent accolade from Spear’s 500 Magazine, which named him ‘Top Art Advisor Investment and Contemporary Art’ for 2023.
James has also made significant contributions to television, presenting acclaimed programs such as ‘The Queen’s Paintings’ from Buckingham Palace and ‘Royal Portraits.’ During the pandemic, he created and presented the ‘Next Big Thing’ TV series, which provided a platform for young emerging artists. His deep knowledge spans a diverse range of art, from Old Masters to Modern Contemporary.
Beyond his media presence, James is a patron of the Royal Academy of Arts, the National Portrait Gallery, and the Dulwich Picture Gallery in London. His leadership roles have included serving as the Co-Founder and Chairman of the Maddox Gallery Group and currently as the Chairman of Nicholls Art Group.
Nicholls Art Group
Nicholls Art Group is an independent art advisory and art programming firm that offers personalized guidance through the complexities of the art market. With their extensive experience, they provide a wide range of services, including procurement, curation, and management of artworks. Their passion for making art accessible is evident in their collaborations with museums, auction houses, galleries, and other art institutions.
The firm is dedicated to delivering bespoke art assistance, whether you are a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector. Their approach combines in-depth industry knowledge with a commitment to excellence, ensuring that clients receive the highest caliber of service.
A Milestone in My Career
Being represented by James and the Nicholls Art Group marks a pivotal moment in my career. This partnership not only validates my work as an artist but also opens up new opportunities for growth and exposure. I am excited about the possibilities this collaboration brings and look forward to the future with great enthusiasm.
For my collectors, this is an equally important moment. With the support and guidance of such a prestigious group, I am confident that my work will reach new heights and continue to evolve in meaningful ways. I am committed to creating art that resonates with and inspires my audience, and this new chapter is a significant step towards that goal.
Thank you for your continued support and belief in my work. Together, we are embarking on an exciting journey, and I am eager to see where it leads.
Workshop in Italy. SOLD OUT: Join the Waiting list
Figurative Oil Painting - Capturing Character with Texture & Colour
Join us for an all-inclusive week of oil painting in the Tuscan countryside with Tania Rivilis.
This workshop is open to all levels of artists who would like to capture character, whilst playing with texture and colour in their paintings. During this workshop, Tania will demonstrate her process and approach to figurative painting, from how she photographs the model, to incorporating the use of oil pastel with oil paints, and transitioning from small to large painting sizes. Tania will demonstrate and discuss practical tips when working from reference photos, and techniques when using different painting surfaces, such as plywood, canvas and paper. She will also look closely at the importance of colour theory and composition. Students will spend 5 days painting and learning from Tania, with the intention of creating characterful and lifelike figurative oil paintings, and gaining valuable knowledge which will help students to continue to develop their skills, practicing what they have learnt back home. For those who are interested Tania will also demonstrate how artificial intelligence can be a used as a useful tool to help artists visualise backgrounds, fabrics, drapery and forms in their painitngs. Throughout the week Tania will give students one on one feedback, helping you to progess individually.
Art and more!
During this all-inclusive art retreat, meals will be home-cooked and eaten together in our large dining room, or outside when the weather is nice. In the evenings particiapants will have free use of the grounds to explore, including the swimming pool, woodland, lake and olive groves. There is also a volleyball net, and a games room with table tennis and table football. During the week we will host some evening entertainment which everyone is welcome to join, such as a wine tour, cooking class, and pizza night!
Location
This workshop will take place at Antico Borgo La Torre, a converted farmhouse and winery located in Chianti, 25km from Florence.
Originally a medieval tower, the structure dates back to the middle ages. Now an agriturismo, Antico Borgo La Torre produces it's own wine and olive oil. It is made up of 32 hectars of land, which include olive groves, vineyards, woodland, orchards, walnut trees, and a swimming pool.
What is included
22% VAT - 5 days tuition - 6 nights accommodation - Arrival & departure transfers - Breakfasts, lunches, dinners & snacks - Tea, coffee & soft drinks - Alcohol (wine grown & produced at the venue) - Wine tour & tasting - Extra activities - Laundry - Swimming Pool - Wifi - Easels & Solvents for painting
Prices
€1935 Shared Twin Bedroom with private bathroom (shared with one other participant of the same gender)
€2450 Private Bedroom with a double bed and private bathroom
€2650 Private Apartment with a double bedroom, bathroom and private living room/kitchen
€750 Non-Participating Partner to share a private bedroom or private apartment with you
All meals will be made up up of delicious, home-cooked Tuscan cuisine, and will take place in our beautiful dining hall or outside whenever the weather is nice. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options will be available, please let us know in advance if you have any dietary requirements (dietary needs rather than preferences)
See you in Italy!
Studio Lighting Setup for Windowless Spaces
Optimal Studio Lighting Setup for Windowless Spaces
Creating the right Studio Lighting Setup can be a challenging task, especially when you're confined to a windowless space. Many artists, photographers, and content creators face this issue, but it's solvable with some strategic planning and equipment selection.
The Importance of Proper Studio Lighting
Good lighting is pivotal for every workspace, but when it comes to a studio, it gains a special significance. Proper lighting not only enhances the visual appeal but also impacts the efficiency and mood of the artist at work. Inadequate or poor lighting can result in skewed colors, unwanted shadows, and added strain on your eyes.
Essential Components of Studio Lighting Setup
When it comes to your Studio Lighting Setup, certain key elements should be part of your configuration:
Daylight Bulbs
Daylight bulbs can be your best friend when you don't have access to natural light. These bulbs mimic natural daylight, which is particularly useful for studios without windows. For those interested in a reliable daylight lamp, you might want to look into the Beurer daylight lamp.
Ceiling Lamps
Having a three-lamp configuration on the ceiling could provide you with uniform overhead light. These should ideally be filled with daylight bulbs to replicate as much natural light as possible.
Supplementary Lamps
Even with overhead lighting, you may need additional sources for specific tasks. A professional swing arm lamp or a similar design can offer beautiful, focused lighting.
Ring Lights
These are particularly useful for video content, live streams, or reels. They offer uniform light distribution and eliminate harsh shadows, making them a popular choice among content creators.
Further Reading
If you're into art or painting, understanding your tools and mediums is crucial for your creativity. Find out more about this in our articles about Maximizing Art Tools & Techniques and Exploring Painting Mediums. Additionally, the right studio setup extends beyond just lighting; consider reading our guides on Using Palette Stands in My Studio and My Palette Stand.
Conclusion
Creating an effective Studio Lighting Setup in a windowless space may seem daunting, but with the right tools and approach, it can be straightforward. A combination of daylight bulbs, ceiling lamps, supplementary lamps, and ring lights can achieve a well-balanced and productive workspace.
Remember, lighting can make or break your studio experience. Your choice of lights is more than just a functional decision; it's an integral aspect of your creative process.
The style here isn't about grandiloquence or complexity; it's about delivering valuable content in a friendly yet sophisticated manner. Thus, let's not underestimate the power of optimal lighting in a studio; it's the unsung hero that can either make your artwork shine or cast it in shadow.
I hope you find this guide useful in setting up your perfect studio space.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CxdrrzdM9MI/?igshid=NzZhOTFlYzFmZQ==
FAQ
What types of light bulbs are best for a windowless studio?
Daylight bulbs are the most recommended for a windowless studio. They mimic natural daylight, which is especially useful when you lack access to natural light.
Can I use a ring light for general studio lighting?
Ring lights are excellent for focused tasks like video content, live streams, or reels but are generally not suitable for general studio lighting. They are best used in combination with other light sources.
What is the importance of ceiling lamps in a studio?
Ceiling lamps offer a uniform distribution of overhead light. They are an essential component of a studio lighting setup, especially when equipped with daylight bulbs.
Are specialized lamps like swing-arm lamps necessary?
While not absolutely necessary, specialized lamps like swing-arm lamps offer directed and focused light that can be beneficial for specific tasks or areas within your studio.
How do I control the lighting for live streams and reels?
For live streams and reels, using a ring light can be a great way to offer uniform light distribution and eliminate harsh shadows. Other specialized video lighting equipment can also be useful.
Maximizing Art Tools Techniques for Everyday Use
Maximizing Art Tools Techniques for Everyday Use
Art Tools Techniques are an integral part of the creative process for artists. Navigating the vast sea of tools available can be daunting, but with the right techniques, any artist can maximize their toolkit's potential. Here's a guide to making the most of your art tools every day.
The Power of Proper Tool Use
Every artist, regardless of their medium or specialty, has encountered the dilemma of choosing the right tool for a particular task. But as those familiar with the intricacies of art know, it isn’t just about having the right tools but knowing how to use them.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CxGdbq1MOgl/?igshid=NzZhOTFlYzFmZQ==
A Deeper Dive into Art Tools Techniques
Let's delve into some art tools that are frequently used, their techniques, and how to optimize their use for everyday art creation.
- Pliers: While seemingly a simple tool, the plier offers multi-functional utility. It aids in squeezing tubes efficiently to ensure no wastage, especially when it comes to oils. It's also adept at opening sealed items, eliminating the risk of potential injury.
- Wire Cutters: This tool is ideal for ensuring you get every drop of oil out of its container. By cutting and squeezing, you can avoid waste and get the most out of your products.
- Sharp Light Palette Tools: Sometimes, you need to remove oils from a palette or even apply them directly to a canvas. A tool with a sharp light ensures precision and ease in these tasks.
Storage Techniques for Preserving Your Materials
Art tools and materials can be expensive, and preservation is essential. Some innovative storage techniques include:
- Tissue Paper Storage: Instead of discarding tissue paper that comes with purchases, it can be repurposed in the art studio. Having it handy means you always have a means to clean or dab without any additional expense.
- Jar Storage: Empty jars, even something as simple as a soy sauce jar, can be great for preserving leftover oils. Sealed tightly, these jars can ensure that the expensive oils don’t dry out, making them usable the next day.
If you're keen on enhancing your workspace's efficiency, consider reading up on the use of palette stands in the studio or exploring the benefits of a dedicated palette stand.
Exciting news for art enthusiasts! Dartecor is offering an exclusive 10% discount on their top-tier products. Use code "TR10" at checkout for quality art tools. Elevate your artistry with Dartecor's premium collection. Don't miss out!
Conclusion
In the realm of art, tools aren't just instruments; they're extensions of the artist's will and creativity. The way an artist interacts with their tools can profoundly impact the final piece. Taking the time to understand and maximize each tool's potential ensures that every drop of paint, every stroke of the brush, and every squeeze of the tube is purposeful and effective.
To witness these techniques in action and explore a range of inspiring artworks, consider visiting Tania Rivilis' artworks collection.
FAQ
Q1: What are the key art tools every artist should have?
A1: Every artist should have a set of basic tools such as brushes, palettes, pliers, wire cutters, and various mediums. The specific tools might vary depending on the artist's medium and style.
Q2: Why is it essential to maximize the use of art tools?
A2: Maximizing the use of art tools ensures efficiency, reduces waste, and helps artists get the most out of their investment. It also allows artists to unlock their full creative potential by utilizing the tools to their utmost capabilities.
Q3: Can I use household items as art tools?
A3: Absolutely! Many artists repurpose household items like jars for paint storage or tissue papers for dabbing. It's all about creativity and making the most of available resources.
Q4: How can I ensure the longevity of my art tools?
A4: Proper maintenance and storage are crucial. Clean brushes and tools after each use, store paints and oils in sealed containers, and ensure your tools are kept in a dry place to prevent rusting or degradation.
Q5: Where can I learn more about effective art tool techniques?
A5: There are various online resources, workshops, and courses that offer insights into art tool techniques. Websites like Tania Rivilis also provide valuable insights and tips on maximizing the utility of your art tools.
Painting Mediums: Exploring My Studio Favorites
Painting Mediums: Exploring My Studio Favorites
Introduction
Painting Mediums are the soul of an artist's toolkit. Just as every painter has their distinct brush strokes, their choice of mediums often defines the heart and depth of their work.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cw5PAKttnje/?igshid=NzZhOTFlYzFmZQ==
Sennelier's Non-Toxic Option
Delving into mediums, there's one that stands out, both for its quality and its care for the environment. Sennelier's green for oil is not just about producing vibrant artwork, but also ensuring that our process remains as sustainable as our creativity.
Dartecor: A Brand Worth Mentioning
Cobalt Siccative
Having a favorite brand is one thing, but understanding why it's a favorite is the true journey. Take Dartecor's Cobalt Siccative for instance. Just a few drops can help dry a painting overnight. For artists who need their work ready quickly, be it for an exhibition or a sudden inspiration, this medium is nothing short of magic.
Impasto Medium
Yet another secret from Dartecor's chest is their Impasto medium. The texture it provides is almost like giving the oil paints a life of their own. When you want to give your oils a more voluminous texture, almost making them leap off the canvas, this is your go-to medium.
Odourless Mineral Spirit
Balancing the vibrancy of oils with the right spirit is essential. Dartecor’s Odourless Mineral Spirit brings this balance seamlessly. It's not just about dilution; it's about creating a harmony between the paint and the canvas.
Exciting news for art enthusiasts! Dartecor is offering an exclusive 10% discount on their top-tier products. Use code "TR10" at checkout for quality art tools. Elevate your artistry with Dartecor's premium collection. Don't miss out!
A Nod to Tradition with Sennelier's Gel Medium
Rounding off the list is the gel medium from Sennelier. While exploring mediums, it's hard to ignore the classic charm of a gel medium. Like Dartecor's offerings, it's non-toxic and perfectly complements the essence of an artist's palette.
Additional Reads
If you've found this exploration insightful, you might be interested in diving deeper into other aspects of an artist's studio. Here are some articles that offer a peek into my art universe:
Conclusion
The journey through painting mediums is not just about understanding their technical aspects. It's about how they amplify an artist's voice, how they add layers of depth to a work, and how they breathe life into every brushstroke.
FAQ
Q1: What are painting mediums?
A1: Painting mediums are substances added to paint to modify its properties, such as drying time, texture, and consistency. They play a crucial role in achieving desired effects in artworks.
Q2: Why use Dartecor's Cobalt Siccative?
A2: Dartecor's Cobalt Siccative is a popular medium because it helps to dry a painting overnight. It's especially useful for artists preparing for an exhibition or needing a quick drying solution.
Q3: Are the mentioned painting mediums environmentally friendly?
A3: Yes, mediums like Sennelier's green for oil are eco-friendly and non-toxic, making them sustainable choices for artists concerned about the environment.
Q4: What is the purpose of an impasto medium?
A4: Impasto medium, like that from Dartecor, gives oil paints a voluminous texture. It adds depth and dimension, allowing for the creation of raised brush strokes and sculptural effects.
Q5: Can I mix different brands of painting mediums?
A5: While many artists do mix brands, it's essential to test a small amount first. Different brands may have varying properties, and combining them can result in unexpected outcomes.
Trevor Jones Castle Party 2023 Paris: A Fusion of Technology, Art, and Celebration
Trevor Jones Castle Party: A Fusion of Technology, Art, and Celebration
Introduction
Trevor Jones Castle Party has solidified its position as the most prestigious event in the ever-evolving realm of NFTs and crypto gatherings. A fusion of art, technology, and pure festivity, this gathering is truly unparalleled in its ambition and scale.
The Setting: Château de Vallery
The beautiful Château de Vallery near Paris, France set the backdrop for this year's festivities. A venue with a rich history that blends effortlessly with the contemporary significance of the event it's hosting.
The Event’s Evolution
Last year, Scotland was the chosen destination, providing attendees with an air of mystique and grandeur. However, the transition to France for the 2023 edition of the Trevor Jones Castle Party signifies not just a change in venue, but an evolution in its stature and global appeal.
Highlights of the Gathering
This wasn't just another tech meet-up. Among the attendees were renowned artists such as Henrik Uldalen, Paul Reid, Pani Santiago, Daniel Martin, Jenni Pasanen, Violeta Jones and others. Furthermore, prominent platforms like MakersPlace, World of V, and Artcrush gallery had their representatives mingling, networking, and collaborating.
Performances and More
For those whose inclination is more toward the entertainment side, the party did not disappoint. The event featured musical brilliance from Grammy-nominated BT, Arthr, Sarah Main, and DJ RT. However, that was just the tip of the iceberg. From French circus acts and football tournaments to immersive debates and pool parties, there was never a dull moment.
A Cause Beyond Celebration
It's worth noting that the event was not solely about the glitz and glamour. Trevor Jones, in collaboration with the NFT marketplace MakersPlace, also held a charity auction in memory of the late OG Crypto artist, Philippe Fatoux. The cause was heartfelt and resonated with many, as last year's auction had successfully raised £17,000 for Maggie’s cancer charity.
Concluding Thoughts
Events like the Trevor Jones Castle Party showcase the perfect amalgamation of old-world charm and futuristic innovations. As the realms of art, technology, and celebration converge, such events pave the way for more collaborations, understanding, and unity within the diverse crypto community.
For those interested in delving deeper into the world of NFTs, a recent Artcrush NFT tour provides enlightening insights worth exploring.
FAQ
Q1: What is the Trevor Jones Castle Party?
A1: The Trevor Jones Castle Party is an annual event that merges the worlds of technology, art, and celebration. Set in luxurious locales, it attracts artists, tech enthusiasts, and crypto experts from all over the world.
Q2: Where was this year's Castle Party held?
A2: This year's event took place at the beautiful Château de Vallery near Paris, France.
Q3: Who were some of the notable artists in attendance?
A3: Renowned artists such as Henrik Uldalen, Paul Reid, Pani Santiago, Daniel Martin, Jenni Pasanen, and many more graced the event with their presence.
Q4: Was there any charitable initiative associated with the event?
A4: Yes, Trevor Jones, in collaboration with MakersPlace, organized a charity auction in memory of the late OG Crypto artist, Philippe Fatoux. The funds raised go to Maggie’s cancer charity.
Q5: Are there plans for another Castle Party next year?
A5: While specific details might not be available yet, given the success and anticipation surrounding the event, it's likely that the Trevor Jones Castle Party will return next year.