Small Paper Houses

I started creating small paper houses in 2016, calling this series Tree Houses. The small paper houses has been an ongoing series of photographs where I place the paper houses in parts of the natural environment like woodpecker holes, on stumps and between leaves. To learn more about the series of small paper houses, keep reading! 

Much of my current practice involves working outdoors as my studio and using paper to add or transform an area of a landscape that is close to me and I have spent time with. I see both the process of making the work and documenting the work in a photograph as the artwork.

 

In the Tree Houses series, I create miniature brown paper houses and place them in the landscape as tiny villages on tree stumps and in nooks and crannies of the natural environment. The houses are varied in size. After placing them, I take a photograph and remove the house to place it in a new location next time.  This series signifies the idea that home can be made where you make it and the importance of valuing the natural environment as a home. The small paper houses create miniature worlds or communities within the photo that is taken. 

I like taking the paper houses with me on hikes and walks to be able to capture new photos to add in the series. I would like to create a book of the small paper houses in the future.

small paper houses


You can take a look at some of the small paper houses series in the images below. 

small paper houses
small paper houses

This series of Tree Houses has been featured in:

  • Art Promenade (Photograph of Treehouses), City of Waterloo Public Art Installation in 2022

  • State of Becoming, Button Factory Arts, Waterloo, ON in 2017

  • Tree House (select photograph) Tiny Spoon (Issue 10) in 2023






To connect with me, please click on any of the icons below! Leave a comment below letting me know which photo you love from the series. 







Why Giving Artwork as a Gift is Important!

Giving artwork as a gift is a meaningful gift to give someone. Art is a unique gift and something that someone may not receive often but it is a gift that is appreciated and valued. A lot of time is required to choose the right piece of art for someone. Giving art shows your thoughtfulness and love you have for that person.



How Do You Know If You Should Be Giving Artwork as a Gift?

You can give artwork as a gift if you know the person loves the artist or artwork. Maybe they follow the artist on social media and like a lot of the posts. Maybe they have talked about the artwork with you before and how they are saving for it or eyeing it up.


 Maybe you own a piece of art that is similar and your friend always comments on how much they love it. Those may be good indications that the person would love to receive artwork as a gift. 


Why Giving Artwork as a Gift Matters

It matters because artwork is a personal gift. It was made with love and care in a very personal and emotional way and it is selected in the personal way. Where you have to really think about will the person like and value the artwork as much as I do selecting it? Artwork also adds personality to a home and a touch of personalization.  It makes a home feel and look special to the owner. 




Art can have special meaning. Art often reminds us of something. A moment or a memory. The same way hearing a song might take you back to a certain time. A piece of art can have the same magical power! 




Giving art is unique it will definitely be a gift that person always remembers and treasures. 




When to Give the Gift of Artwork

  • For anniversaries

  • As a housewarming present 

  • As a thank you gift 

  • Christmas present

  • Valentine’s Day Gift 

  • After house renovations to your spouse (maybe the walls got painted) 

  • As a wedding gift 

  • For a new baby in a nursery 

  • For someone who is retiring, got a promotion or needs new art for their home office




There are so many times when giving artwork as a gift is a great time! Do you have any other ideas? Let me know in the comments below! 




If you are ever unsure about which piece of my art to buy feel free to reach out to you can always give a gift card to my store.

Please join my mailing list to receive 15% off your next purchase. Just complete the form below! 

I Want to Be an Artist

I want to be an artist and I have wanted to be an artist ever since I was in Kindergarten. I came home with piles of crafts and colouring sheets that were plastered on my bedroom door as a kid. Wanting to be an artist doesn’t just have to be a dream!



If you want to go to art school - check out my art portfolio coaching -to help you make an art portfolio application that stands out and gets accepted!

I have always loved creating. I have always felt a spark while creating and known I wanted to be an artist. 

Jackie Partridge I want to be an artist

I know I am an artist. I went to school and did my undergrad in painting and drawing at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay - you can read about that here. 


I also did my Master of Fine Arts at Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec. I am educated and trained to be an artist. When I make art I feel like I am an artist. 




Right now, I am not doing art on a full time basis. It’s hard because I love teaching and I enjoy it and I’m a great teacher and love my students. Most days I don’t feel fulfilled. 




But when I’m making art, writing about art or posting my art on social media, I feel so much happier. I am in a transition where my husband and I are trying to buy a house, to decide where we want to live and find work that we enjoy and that is meaningful to us. 

jackie partridge - i want to be an artist

As a teacher and artist I know I can work anywhere. That’s one of the reasons I want to be an artist.


As we prepare for this transition of me working as a teacher to switching to teaching part time after I have a baby - here is how I am preparing:


  • I am drafting and planning content. In the summer I filmed and my husband edited 12 youtube painting tutorials that could be released on my YouTube painting channel one per month- so that I have consistent content coming out. 

  • I also do this with the blogs that I have created so that I write 4-5 months of blogs and schedule them out ahead of time.

  • I started creating items that were easy to sell online and that are digital items that don’t need to be shipped like art teaching resources on Teachers Pay Teachers or my prints that are printed and shipped by Society6

  • I have spent a lot of time reading business books and taking courses to prepare myself for running a business on a full time basis

  • Lastly, I have spent a lot of time thinking and journaling about what I want my life to look like. Which is why I know I want to be an artist full time and not just on the evenings and weekends! 


How can you help me with this hopeful transition? You can share my work to your friends - here is the link to my shop you can share.


Download my FREE guide for preparing an art portfolio for school

 On the top of the page there is a form for people to join my mailing list. I would love for you to encourage people to sign up for that. As a treat they will receive a 15% discount code and lots of helpful and inspiring tips! 

Christmas Art Sale

I am participating in a Christmas Art Sale on Sunday November 20th 2022 from 10 am.

Come Join us for the Christmas Art Sale at the St. Agatha Community Centre at 1791 Erbs Rd, St. Agatha, ON N0B 2L0 for a Christmas Market on Sunday, November 20th from 10am until 6pm. This event is put on by Sweet Lights Company. 


I am also having at art sale at the Shakespeare Community Centre on Sat. Nov. 5 from 10am-2pm.

This is one of the first art sales I have done in awhile (since I was in university). I decided to do a Christmas Art Sale because I know it will be busy and a popular event. The event was first created at the end of June, so it has had a long time of advertising and attracting people to this Christmas Art Sale. 

christmas art sale cyanotype artwork by Jackie Partridge

Why am I attending the Christmas Art Sale?

I want to make more money on my art this year so that I can pursue my passion of making and teaching art on a more full time basis. I know my art is beautiful and I would love to spread it around this holiday season!



Buying gifts for people you care about can be hard. I know I have lots of people on my list that are hard to shop for because they already have everything or they are particular about what they like. 




Art is a great gift to give. You can also give a gift card for my art, if you are unsure what people may want.


There will be a variety of vendors and artisans at this sale. Entry is free so I hope to see you there! 

Here’s What I Will be Selling at the Christmas Art Market



Stay up to date with what events I am attending like this Christmas Art Sale by joining my mailing list. You can sign up by entering your name and email below. I will also send you 15% off my art discount as a thank you gift for joining my mailing list. 

How to Save Money Decorating Your House 



Decorating a house can be a lot of work but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Here’s some ideas for how to save money decorating your house. Learn how to save money decorating your house by reading more! 



How to Save Money Decorating Your House 

  1. Make Your Own Artwork

One of the easiest ways to save money decorating your house is through the artwork. You can make your own art. Yes, even if you have never painted and made art before. A great way to learn how to paint with acrylics is through YouTube. You can check out my YouTube channel- Jackie Partridge Art to follow along with one of my painting tutorials and learn how to paint with acrylics on canvas. 




Read this article about getting started with acrylics to know what art supplies you actually need to begin painting. 


Before creating your artwork you will want to decide on the colour palette of the room. What colour will the walls be? What colour will the fabric be? What colour is the furniture? You want the artwork to complement all of this. 


By making your own art it will also be a nice personal touch and a good conversation starter to have with your guests who enter your home. Plus making your own art is a great way to save money decorating your house.


If you are still not feeling confident with artistic abilities you can also choose to print and enlarge photographs and then frame them. Black and white photos or sepia tone photos act as great home decor. 


2. Art Prints and Printed Decor Pieces 

Another way to save money decorating your house is through making use of printed art and printed decor pieces on stores like Society6. Society6 is known for their quality and low prices and works with artists like myself by paying them a commission for their original art designs. 

These links are affiliate links meaning I get a small commission from Society6 for mentioning them.


Daisy Pillow Shams

Daisy Throw Pillows 

Palm Throw Pillow

Palm Wall Clock

3. Invest in Artwork You Love 

The last way for how to save money decorating your house is to choose artwork that you love. When you invest in handmade art you are purchasing quality. Quality that does not come from mass produced artwork at Walmart. The art you love can be treasured for years to come and passed down to generations. 


It’s also your home. You need to feel excited, inspired and confident living in your home. You want people to feel welcome, safe and happy. Artwork can provide those feelings especially if you are picking art that truly makes you feel happy. 




Save 15% off artwork by entering your email address to receive a discount code. 

Rainbow Field 4
CA$110.00


I hope you feel more confident in how to save money decorating your house and that you can live in a house you love surrounded by art that makes you happy! 


Related Articles:

My Society6 Shop

10 FLower Prints Society6 

Coastal Wall Art and Decor




 5 Cards for Family 


Giving cards for family is a thoughtful way to show that you care about your loved ones. Cards for family are cards they will treasure and hold onto for years to come. With my cyanotype cards they have a blank interior making them perfect to write a personalized message for any occasion. You can give these cards for family or to friends. These minimalist floral cards are perfect for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, sympathy cards, get well cards and more! 



There’s something special about receiving a card in the mail that shows that the person really went the extra mile in taking the time to choose the right card, write a thoughtful message and send it off to be mailed. I’m sure you can think of a few people in your life that could really appreciate receiving a card to show that you are thinking of them. Maybe a grandparent? A friend who lives out of town or someone special who is going through a hard time. 




My fine art cards for family are designed to be collected and treasured. After the occasion has passed the card can be cut or folded and put in a frame where the artwork on the front of the card can be displayed and cherished as a personal keepsake. 


About the Card Designs 

These cards are created by me with the cyanotype process. The cyanotype process is a chemical process that involves the sunlight to create a blue pigment. After the prints were created I scanned and edited the designs so they could be printed on cards. 



5 Cards for Family 

Some of these links are affiliate links meaning that I get a small percentage for sharing the link with you. Thank you! 


Daisy Handmade Cards 

These daisy handmade cards are sold individually or as a package of four. They are sold with white envelopes. They have a white interior perfect for writing any message you choose. The minimalist daisy design suits any occasion or holiday. The minimalist navy and white cyanotype would look great in a white or wooden frame to make a lovely and affordable artwork for after the lifespan of the card. 


Ideas for these cards for family: 

  • Wedding and Anniversary cards 

  • Valentine’s Day Cards 

  • Mother’s Day Cards 

  • Birthday Cards and more! 



Click the button below to purchase daisy cyanotype cards! 



Farm Field Wheat Card 

These cards are sold as a pack of 3, 5, or 10 and printed with Society6. This card has a white interior perfect for personalized messages and comes with white envelopes.



Ideas for sending these cards for family and friends: 

  • Father’s Day Card 

  • Birthday Card 

  • Thinking of You Card 



Click the button below to purchase wheat cyanotype cards!





Botanical Cards 

These botanical cards are great cards for family with beautiful floral designs. The cards have an all white interior. Afterwards they can be framed in a wooden or white frame. The cards are printed from Society6 and come with a white envelope. Sold as a pack of 3,5 or 10.


Ideas for sending these cards for family: 

  • Birthdays 

  • Weddings and anniversaries 

  • Valentine’s Day 

  • Mother’s Day 

 

Click the button below to purchase floral cyanotype cards! 



Pine Printed Cards 

Pine printed cards are wonderful cards for family or friends. These minimalist cards are great for a gardener or nature lover. The cards have an all white interior, are printed from Society6 and come with a white envelope. They are sold as packs of 3, 5, or 10.



Ideas for sending these cards for family: 

  • Birthday cards 

  • Get well cards 

  • Father’s Day Cards 



Click the button below to purchase pine cyanotype cards! 




Palm Leaf Cards

Palm leaf cards are printed by Society6 and sold individually. These cards have a blank interior and would look great framed after in a white or wooden frame. The cards come with a white envelope. They are sold in packs of 3, 5, or 10.


Ideas for sending these cards for family: 

  • Retirement or graduation cards

  • Father’s Day 

  • Thinking of you




Click the button below to purchase palm cyanotype cards! 



Click the button to head  to my Society6 shop 



Click the button to shop my cyanotype daisy cards. 


Related Articles:

Cyanotype Pine Cards

Cyanotype Palm Leaf Cards

Botanical Cyanotype Card

Wheat Cyanotype Cards

Daisy Cyanotype Cards


Click one of the icons below to follow me on social media and stay connected. 

How to Pair Art Together

Hanging art together on the wall can be tricky. But I want to show you how to pair art together so that the art looks like it belongs together on the wall. If art doesn’t go together it will look weird. You want art to pair well together. Learn how to pair art together below with my 5 tips! 

How to Pair Art Together

Here are 5 tips for how to pair art together so that the artwork looks great hanging on the wall! These tips are for hanging two pieces side by side as a diptych. For more ideas follow me on Pinterest and check out my framing and display board.

Pair Art Together with Colours 

Colour is one of the easiest ways to pair art together. You want both artwork that are hanging beside each other to have similar colours in them. For example, think of how the art is connected. If it is different art, maybe it has the same colour of navy blue in each painting. You want to make sure the colours go together. Neutral colours are grey, brown, black, white. Similar colours should look the same but may be slightly darker, lighter or brighter. 

Pair Art Together with Style 

The artwork should be in the same or similar style so that it makes sense as to why they are hanging side by side. For example, two black and white photographs, to colourful abstract paintings etc. If the styles are very different abstract and a realistic painting then they won’t go together. You might get away with different styles of art hanging near each other for a gallery wall because in that arrangement it is a group of multiple artwork not just two pieces. 

Pair Art Together with Size 

When you hang two pieces of art side by side they should be the same size of art so that they look even and balanced. You can choose to have a gap of 1-3 inches separating the art. 

Pair Art Together with Lines

Your artwork can connect with lines either obvious lines or non obvious. An obvious line would be a thick black paint stroke that starts on one painting and then comes across on the other painting. A non obvious line could be a horizon line on a landscape. Ideally the lines should match up to make the art look more connected! 

Pair Art Together with Frames

Lastly, if you are hanging art together as a diptych -two pieces side by side you want to make sure they are in the same frame so that they go together. Again, this doesn’t apply if you are hanging art on a gallery wall because that would be a collection of art 6 or more. You should be able to choose the same frame and matting because the art is of similar colours and styles that it will go with the same frame. If you need help framing your art check out this blog post about framing.

Related Articles

How to Choose the Right Frame for Art

How to Frame Cyanotypes 

How to Display Art on a Shelf

Places to Hang your Art 

Follow me on Pinterest for more ideas on displaying your art! You can click any one of the icons to follow me on social media. 

Valentine’s day gift ideas for her


Valentine’s day is coming up. Here are some Valentine’s day gift ideas for her to help get you started! Valentine’s day gift ideas for her will help you choose the right gift to impress your special valentine. I have listed a bunch of ideas to help you choose the best Valentine’s day gift ideas for her. Check out the Valentine’s day gift ideas for her below! 

Valentine’s day gift ideas for her - make a handmade gift 

Nothing says, “I love you” like a handmade gift to show how much you care. You could make chocolates, chocolate covered strawberries, cookies, cupcakes, bath salts, bath bombs, candles, soap, a wood carving, knit a blanket …the list goes on and on. Think about a special talent you have and try to make a personalized gift around that. If you like painting you could try making a painting -feel free to check out my YouTube painting channel for beginners to paint a special landscape painting as a nice gift. You could even watch one of my tutorials as a fun date activity. Crack open a bottle of wine and paint along! 



Floral Cyanotype Printed Card

Valentine’s day gift ideas for her- the card 

You can make your own card or choose to write a personalized message on one of my cards. My cards are made with a cyanotype art print you can write on the back of the print and then it can be framed to be displayed in your home for years to come as a special memento. The following links are affiliate links meaning I get a small portion each sale. Thank you!

The Woodsy Pine Card

The Palm Leaf Beachy Card

The Floral Print Card

Daisy Cyanotype Card



Floral art 

Flowers are a traditional gift but think of how you can make them last forever. My blue cyanotype designs have a calming and minimalist look and feel to them.  Join my mailing list to save 15% on artwork -just fill out the box on the top of this link. You can purchase a cyanotype print of some flowers or greenery. Click the button below to take you to the cyanotype shop.


Floral and botanical designs

If your valentine likes flowers you can take a look at some of my popular cyanotype designs. Choose to have an artwork printed on a mug, T-shirt, sweatshirt or more! Click the button below to take you to the cyanotype print shop. 

Handmade paper art 

For someone with a minimalist design style you can select a piece of handmade paper art. Handmade paper has a beautiful and rich texture to it.  Head to the shop to see artwork by clicking on the button below! 


Art Commissions

Be sure to contact an artist a few months in advance (minimum) but have a look at this link if you would like an original artwork created by me to match your colour palette and suit your home decor. Click here to go to my commissions page. 



There are lots of Valentine’s day gift ideas for her that I have shared. Take the time to think and plan the perfect gift for your loved one. It’s never to early to plan for the next Valentine’s day! 



Related Articles

Cyanotype shop

Cyanotype print shop

Handmade paper shop

Art Commissions 

 Join my mailing list to save 15% on artwork -just fill out the box below! 




Show.21



I am a part of the juried exhibition for emerging artist called Show.21 in Cambridge, Ontario. The exhibition runs from November 22, 2021 - February 13, 2022. Featuring work by Olivia Brouwer, Anahí González, Lupita Guerrero, Anne Hamilton, Brubey Hu, Abby Nowakowski, Jackie Partridge, Lauren Prousky, Brenda Mabel Reid, Racquel Rowe, and Ahmri Vandeborne.

Jackie Partridge, Precariously Perched, maps on pins, 2021, Photo Credit: Scott Lee

Established in 2005, Cambridge Art Galleries’ biannual exhibition SHOW presents the work of emerging artists based in Ontario. Selected from an open call of submissions, SHOW.21 presents the work of eleven artists with connections to Waterloo Region and surrounding areas.


Located at:

Idea Exchange

Queen's Square

1 North Square, Cambridge, ON

Jackie Partridge, Precariously Perched, maps on pins, 2021, Photo Credit: Scott Lee




Here is the digital exhibition brochure

You can see my video explaining the artwork in the exhibition below:


Related Articles:

https://ideaexchange.org/art/exhibition/show21 

How to Get an Artist Grant

Precariously Perched





To learn more about upcoming exhibitions and events please join my mailing list by filling out the form below. 




You can also stay connected by following me on social media by clicking one of the icons below. 


Coastal Wall Art and Decor

Coastal wall art and decor are a great and affordable option to add to your home to create a beach house or coastal feel. Coastal wall art and decor printed by Society6 come in both framed and unframed options. Coastal wall art and decor on Society6 are printed on wall art, home decor, office supplies, bedding and more! I have different cyanotype botanical prints available in my Society6 print shop but one of my favourites is the beachy palm leaf design! 

Please note the links in this blog post are affiliate links meaning that I get a small commission for purchasing through these links. 

Check out coastal wall art and decor - by clicking the button below! 


Click any of the links to take you to purchase the palm leaf print on Society6.


Related Articles 

How to Frame Cyanotypes

How to Make Cyanotypes 

Shop Jackie Partridge Original Artwork


Join my mailing list to be the first to know when sales or new designs come out! 

Exhibition at Show.21


From November 22 until February 27, 2022 I will have my work Precariously Perched on display at Cambridge Art Galleries- at Queen's Square Gallery as part of their group juried exhibition for emerging artists.

This was the first paid CARFAC fee exhibition I took part in and I am grateful for the opportunity to be able to exhibit my artwork and to be paid for it. Paid exhibitions help allow artists to be valued for their work of making the work, delivering and installing the work, picking up the work and advertising the work like the video I created below.

You can check out their link to see more information


I will be showing art with: Olivia Brouwer, Lupita Guerrero, Anahí González, Anne Hamilton, Brubey Hu, Abby Nowakowski, Lauren Prousky, Brenda Mabel Reid, Racquel Rowe, and Ahmri Vandeborne.


See a video about the installation below:


About Show.21 in Cambridge

Established in 2005, Cambridge Art Galleries’ biannual exhibition SHOW presents the work of emerging artists based in Ontario. Selected from an open call of submissions, SHOW.21 presents the work of eleven artists with connections to Waterloo Region and surrounding areas.

Here is the digital exhibition brochure

About Precariously Perched by Jackie Partridge

Precariously Perched is a site-specific installation that uses tiny pins and balances twisted strands of maps on the pins.  You can see and read more about the project here!

Precariously Perched resembles a walk or a horizon line. Some twisted strands of maps rest on pins while others fall to the floor signaling a passage of time. In this exhibition, I have twisted strands of maps and pins wrapping around a column by the window and then they start at the wall near the top and decline down like a mountain towards the bottom of the wall. 

Precariously Perched by Jackie Partridge - installation in Montreal - see the exhibition in Cambridge by visiting Cambridge Art Galleries.

Stay connected by following me on Facebook or Instagram! Just click the icon below!

10 Flower Prints Society6

Flower prints Society6 are a great and affordable option to add to your home. Flower prints Society6 come in both framed and unframed options. My cyanotype flower prints on Society6 are printed on wall art, home decor, office supplies, bedding and more! I have different cyanotype botanical prints available in my Society6 print shop but my favourite would be the daisies -flower prints Society6. 

Please note the links in this blog post are affiliate links meaning that I get a small commission for purchasing through these links. 

Check out my Flower Prints Society 6 - by clicking the button below! 


You can click any links to take you to purchase the flower print on Society6.

Flower Prints Society6 Home Decor

Daisy Wall Clock

Daisy Mini Print 

Daisy Recessed Frame Print 

Daisy Framed Mini Print 

Daisy Throw Pillow

Daisy Wallpaper

Daisy Coasters

Daisy Pillow Shams 



Other Popular Flower Prints on Society

Daisy Mug

Daisy Duffle Bag

Daisy Fanny Pack

Daisy Zip Pouch

Daisy V-Neck T-shirt

Daisy Wrapping Paper 



Again you can check out my Society6 Print Shop to check out my other designs and products! Just click the button below! 



Related Articles 

How to Frame Cyanotypes

How to Make Cyanotypes 

Shop Jackie Partridge Original Artwork



Join my mailing list to be the first to know when sales or new designs come out!

How to Get an Artist Grant

 

How to get an artist grant? Is a common question for artists because being an artist can be difficult and financially frustrating. There are lots of things to pay for as an artist like your studio space, art materials, ongoing learning, travel and residency fees, website fees, domain name and more! If you find yourself asking how to get an artist grant -then keep reading!

Getting an artist grant helps to relieve the financial pressure and money insecurities that come with being an artist, especially an emerging artist that is just starting out. By the end of this article you won’t be asking how to get an artist grant again!

Jackie Partridge taking photos for her artist grant

How to Get an Artist Grant -the Steps

  1. Research what grants you are eligible to apply for (make sure you check eligibility)

  2. Record the deadlines for the grants

  3. Start early at least two weeks but sooner is better than later! 

  4. Read the application instructions 

  5. Gather and prepare your materials for the artist grant

  6. Fill out the application and double check

  7. Proofread and have someone else read it too!

  8. Submit and take some deep breaths! 

Make Sure You Research the Artist Grant

Where can you find an artist grant? Canada Council for the Arts, Ontario Arts Council or even more locally. A lot of cities have their own grants or awards for art. In my city of Waterloo there are Region of Waterloo Arts Fund and City of Waterloo. 

You have to begin by researching and checking which artist grants you are eligible for. Then you can research deadlines so that you have enough time to apply for the artist grant. 

As a young emerging artist, I started with smaller grants with a low budget proposal that I could help build my CV and prove that I could complete projects and handle working with grant money. This is a new skill -it’s good to start small and to practice! 

Jackie Partridge working on her artist grant

How to Get an Artist Grant -Practice, Practice, Practice

It takes time to get an artist grant. You probably won’t get one right away and that’s okay! Keep applying and keep practicing. It can be difficult to write about your art or to explain why getting the grant would help you as an artist or your community. With time you do build your confidence and your writing improves!

Tips for How to Get an Artist Grant 

  1. Read and complete everything 

  2. Make sure your writing and proposal is clear and makes sense

  3. Have professional photos of your art 

  4. Ask for feedback if you don’t get the grant so you can improve 

  5. Attend free grant writing seminars or workshops -most places offer this or there’s lots on YouTube

  6. Interview people who have won grants and ask questions 

  7. Call the place or email where you are applying at to and ask any questions (this doesn’t negatively impact you receiving a grant- only helps)

  8. Again, give yourself plenty of time and make sure to submit early in case the website crashes!

What Happens When I Receive an Artist Grant?

When you receive an artist grant -which you will someday (don’t worry!) Make sure you keep track of your receipts, paper copies and digital copies (take a picture or scan) This way you don’t lose them. Complete the project you proposed on the deadline stated. If you can’t meet the project deadline or if the project is changing slightly -reach out to where you received the grant to speak to them. They are always very helpful and they want you to succeed! 


Related Articles

Patched Book

WAF Grant Update

Tips for Pricing Your Art

Quit Feeling Like a Starving Artist

6 Tips for Hitting Your Art Goals

Helpful Links

Waterloo Artist Fund (for people living in the Waterloo Region)

Ontario Arts Council -people living in Ontario -OAC 

Canada Council for the Arts for Canadian residents

CARFAC fees to help you with your budget

If you found this article helpful connect with me in the box below! I send tips, tutorials and discounts to my mailing list members!

how to get an artist grant

What it’s Like to Be Vermont Studio Center Alumni

Being a Vermont Studio Center Alumni is a part of joining an online community. I attended the Vermont Studio Center art residency in Johnson, Vermont in November, 2017. I stayed at the artist residency for two weeks. I follow them on instagram and I am a part of a private Facebook group similar to the Women’s Studio Workshop residency -which you can read about here! Vermont Studio Center Alumni have been recognized for tons of achievements as the Vermont Studio Center is a top residency known globally.

Vermont Studio Center in Johnson, Vermont

Vermont Studio Center in Johnson, Vermont

Although I am grateful for the experience at Vermont Studio Center and to be a Vermont Studio Center Alumni I don’t think I would go back to this artist residency. As an artist, I like to travel to new places to see how place impacts my work. Vermont Studio Center is a more pricey artist residency as the fee does include your food. Since I am a paper maker the Vermont Studio Center is less appealing as they do not have a paper making studio.

For anyone who has not been or is needing a quiet space to work I would recommend this residency as I was very productive and got a lot done. Everyone is friendly and there are options to sing karaoke or enjoy a campfire while you are there too! 

While I was there, I worked on some projects for my thesis exhibition that happened in February, 2018 at Concordia University. I had a large studio with a window and a couple of tables. I worked on pieces that later became projects in my exhibition including:


What I Worked on at Vermont Studio Center

Piled Up installation tested out at the Vermont Studio Center

Piled Up installation tested out at the Vermont Studio Center

While being at the Vermont Studio Center residency I worked on altering books for my project What is and What Was. I used the leftover cut-outs to make Piled Up. I tested out the installation for Piled Up on a shelf that was in my studio. I later built a shelf for my exhibition display in my thesis show at Concordia University. 

With my series Patched that is still an ongoing series I arranged photographs of Patched into patched quilt formations. After the residency, I sewed them on my sewing machine. I worked with plaster casts of leaves during my Vermont Studio Center residency. I took advantage of the beautiful scenery in Vermont (it is very easy to be inspired) and I took more photos for my series Patched. 

I enjoyed having a lot of wall space so that I could test out Precariously Perched. In this piece I balance twisted thin strands of maps on straight pins and nails. You can see more of Precariously Perched here! 

Accommodations at Vermont Studio Center

I stayed in a room by myself and had a shared bathroom. There was a few other people living in the house I was staying at. I had a separate key to my bedroom so I felt very secure while living there. At the residency all of your meals are provided in the dining hall. The food is really good and there are a lot of options. All of the food is made by the chef. Having your meals provided is nice during an artist residency because then you don’t lose time cooking, getting groceries or doing dishes and you can have more time devoted to making art. 

Again, I don’t think I would go back to this artist residency although I am grateful for the experience at Vermont Studio Center and to be a Vermont Studio Center Alumni. Experiencing new places to make art is important for me and having access to materials like a paper making studio is also extremely important.

Winter view out my studio window at the Vermont Studio Center

Winter view out my studio window at the Vermont Studio Center

With that being said Vermont Studio Center is a great relaxing and quiet place to work. The beauty of Vermont is incredible and I had such a productive two weeks! 

Patched installation I worked at while at the Vermont Studio Center

Patched installation I worked at while at the Vermont Studio Center

Patched installation for my thesis exhibition at Concordia University inspired by being at the Vermont Studio Center

Patched installation for my thesis exhibition at Concordia University inspired by being at the Vermont Studio Center

How to Become a Vermont Studio Center Alumni

Here is more information about how to apply to Vermont Studio Center so you can become a Vermont Studio Center Alumni - one day too! 

https://vermontstudiocenter.org 

https://vermontstudiocenter.org/residenciesinfo 

Precariously Perched installation tested out at the Vermont Studio Center

Precariously Perched installation tested out at the Vermont Studio Center

Related Articles 

Women’s Studio Workshop -artist residency

If you are mom you can check out this motherhood residency: http://www.artistresidencyinmotherhood.com/how-it-started 

Here is another great website to help you find the right artist residency for you! https://resartis.org/covid-19-updates/

  

Stay connected with me by following along on social media -click on one of the icons below!

Precariously Perched installation part of my thesis exhibition at Concordia University inspired by my work at Vermont Studio Center

Precariously Perched installation part of my thesis exhibition at Concordia University inspired by my work at Vermont Studio Center

Patched by Jackie Partridge

Patched by Jackie Partridge has been an ongoing installation and photography project since 2017 where map paper (made from maps of places I have been to) is embedded into trees where the bark naturally peels away as an act of offering or mending.

Watch the Patched Installation

Patched by Jackie Partridge, map paper on a tree art installation

I have done these installations in various places I have lived and travelled including:

  • Rosendale, New York

  • Johnson, Vermont

  • Waterloo Region

  • Kinmount

  • Huntsville

  • Gravenhurst 

Recent Patched Installations

Patched is installed in Regency Park in Waterloo, ON for the month of July, 2021.

You can see more about this project funded by the City of Waterloo and Create Waterloo - here!

With this funding I also created free seed starter kits - you can see the instructions for the kits- here.

Here is a photo from the installation:

Patched, Jackie Partridge, handmade map paper on tree


In 2018, I was awarded a grant from the Region of Waterloo Arts Fund to create my book Patched which included nature poems about trees and my series of Patched as coloured photographs.

You can purchase Patched by Jackie Partridge - by clicking on the product or heading to my shop!

In the summer of 2019, I created a large-scale installation of Patched on a tree on my grandmother’s property in Kinmount, ON.


Patched by Jackie Partridge Video of Installation (Sped Up):



I created a large sheet of map paper on a vacuum table that sucks out the water from the pulp on my artist residency in 2018 and the Women’s Studio Workshop in Rosendale, New York. I then used a spray bottle of water to dampen the paper and turn it back into to pulp to apply it onto the tree.


To see more from the project click here!


Connect with me on social media by clicking one of the icons below! 


On my instagram @jackiepartridge_ I share photos from this series that can be found searching the hashtag #patchedproject.

Patched, Jackie Partridge, outdoor photography art installation

Trusting Your Gut Feeling


Trusting your gut feeling when it comes to making art can be difficult. I get that you don’t have time and there are other things on your to-do list. As an artist trusting your gut is an important step in the art making process. Without following your intuition you might not be making enough art or the best art. You have to trust your gut and listen to your art intuition. 


If your art intuition is telling you to try something to add a different colour, to try a new technique, to make something- you should follow that. Just like any other form of intuition like a red flag warning sign in a bad relationship your art intuition usually isn’t wrong. If the art you are making looks off or doesn’t feel right make sure you are trusting your gut feeling. 



For awhile and I mean awhile, I have struggled with finding time to paint and make art. When I was living in Montreal doing my MFA it was easy because I had multiple studio spaces and designated time to make art. I was only working part-time and my main job was being a great art student.


Fast forward a few years, I had a mountain of student loans and was working multiple jobs to pay off the debt quickly. I didn’t have time to make art and was feeling tired, frustrated and unhappy.


Now, my student loans are paid and although I am teaching full-time I have been making more art. 


THIS IS A RECENT CHANGE...

Trust your gut when you are playing with new materials like this clay!

Trust your gut when you are playing with new materials like this clay!


I started to make art a priority and stopped saying, “I’ll make art when I have time.” Or, “When I have finished my to-do list.” 


I have realized that if you don’t make time for your priorities or what you value most that you won’t magically gain more time later.


There might not ever be a great time to do something.


I’ve made it my goal to make art everyday. Even if it’s something small or just for 10 minutes. I have been doing this for two weeks now and recording the days that I have made art and how I feel versus the days that I haven’t.


I have seen a HUGE difference in how I feel! I have more energy in my day because I have prioritized doing something that makes me happy and provides stress relief. 

 

I encourage you to do the same. Start making time for you and what you enjoy most! 

How to Trust Your Gut as an artist. Desktop of supplies to organize yourself as an artist


How Trusting Your Gut Feeling in Art Can Be Helpful

  • You will make better art 

  • You will be making art you are passionate about and not listening to other outside forces like society, family, or the art world pressure

  • You will feel happier and more proud of your art

  • You will want to make art more and naturally feel like you have more time to make it 

  • You will feel in align that you are doing what is right

  • You will feel more confident in your art and naturally in yourself


Desk space to organize yourself as an artist to trust your gut

How to Trust Your Gut in Your Art

  • Start making it a habit - part of a morning or evening ritual to make art 

  • Schedule a time to make art daily/weekly

  • Record in a journal how making art makes you feel and on days when you don’t make art how you feel 

  • Try rewarding yourself to establish your art making goals

  • Lay out your art supplies so they are visible and ready to be used

  • Write art goals and give yourself deadlines for what you are making

  • Set reminders/alarms on your phone for when to make art 

  • Remove distractions that might prevent you from making art like leaving your phone in another room or putting it on airplane mode


Trust your gut in design choices like flower arranging this vase

Once you start making art consistently by blocking out time to make art you will be trusting your gut feeling while you are making art.

Part of my goals that I made in January were related to wanting to make more art.


Here are the goals I made in January-let’s review them and see how I did: 

I have written in italics how I have been doing on these goals in the last 6 months.


Post consistently to social media (5x a week to instagram, 1-2x to facebook, every day to Pinterest, twice a month to my email list, blog post 3-4x a month, YouTube 2x a month)


I have posted consistently to instagram usually about 4-5x a week, I have done 2-3 posts on Facebook per week, emailed my list 2x a month and YouTube. I have been blogging 4x a month. 

Apply to art calls twice a month - I want to have more exhibitions this year!

I have been applying to 2-4 exhibitions or art calls a month. I have gotten a couple of new art exhibitions and grants this year!

Spend time in nature for inspiration- I find this really helps with my art practice.

I try to walk every day and plan a hike on the weekend. Although this doesn’t always happen I feel a lot better when it does. 

Make consistent art sales- I would love my art to be my main source of income.

Artist hands covered in clay. Artist tips by Jackie Partridge on trusting your gut with new art techniques

I started a Teachers Pay Teachers store a couple of months ago to help add consistent art income. I am continuing to grow my business.

Keep my website updated monthly- I like reviewing my website at the end of each month to make sure everything is current.

I usually update my website every couple of months and I know I can get better at this.

Set boundaries for teaching for more work life balance- no work on Friday nights and Saturdays, no emails past 7pm, no marking on the weekend.

I have done really well with this goal which has helped me to have more time to make art.

Make art during school breaks- Teaching full time has made me really miss having time to make my art.  

I have been doing this and recently started to make art everyday even if it is something small like a quick sketch or taking a photo.

Related Articles You Might Love:

You can read more about the 6 tips for achieving your goals here!

How to stay motivated as an artist

You might enjoy adding freshness to a stale art practice

Biggest secret for a struggling artist

Trusting your gut feeling will really make a difference with your art and in your life. I have found that when I make art more often I feel happier and when I am listening to my intuition and making the art I want to make I am also happier.

Connect with me on social media by clicking on one of the icons below:


Join my mailing list where you can receive more great tips!

Make Seed Starters

Seed starters are a fun and easy DIY project you can do by yourself or even with kids. Make seed starters as great gifts to grandparents, moms, coaches, teachers and any special gardener in your life. Make seed starters to teach about the environment, composting, recycling, Earth day, growing seeds etc. You can teach students or kids about the importance of protecting the bees by adding seeds in your seed starter that will naturally attract bees. Bees generally gravitate to flowers that are yellow or purple. 

The supplies needed to make seed starters

The supplies needed to make seed starters

Materials Needed to Make Seed Starters

  • A blender, food processor or hand blender (Smart Stick)

  • Water

  • Recycled paper like construction paper/newspaper/egg cartons

  • A package of seeds

  • A cookie cutter

  • Plastic tray or baking sheets

  • Sponge or tea towel

  • A strainer/sieve

  • A bowl


*If you don’t want to use a blender you can rip the paper into smaller pieces and let in soak in water for longer until it becomes a pulp

Make Seed Starters!

  • Start by tearing up your recycled paper into small pieces about an inch in size

  • Start by putting a couple of handfuls of torn paper into the blender

  • Add some water to cover the paper. It should all be wet. If you have added too much water add some more paper. If your paper is dry add more water. Your blender should be about half full of water and paper. You don’t want to do too much and overwork your blender

  • Blend it for a minute or so. Pour the blended pulp (paper torn up with water mixed) into a strainer over a bowl

  • Squeeze excess water out through the strainer into the bowl by pressing the pulp with your hands

To Receive More Detailed Instructions on How to Make Seed Starters - click the link below!


To receive video instructions of this process, environmental themed activities for kids - click here!

You can dab out the water of a seed starter with a tea towel or sponge to help it dry faster

You can dab out the water of a seed starter with a tea towel or sponge to help it dry faster

What to Do Once You Have Made Your Seed Starters 

  • You can plant them in a flower pot, garden or start them in your home and then transplant them

  • You can give them as a gift to someone



Ideas for Making Your Own Seed Starters

  • Hole-punch your dried seed starter and add a ribbon to make an ornament

  • Glue on your dried seed starter to decorate a card

  • Use seed starters as place cards for a dinner party

  • Give seed starters as a party favour

  • Give seed starters to a school/library or community centre to plant a garden

  • Create seed starters as a birthday party activity

  • Try mixing other colours of paper pulp together to make a multicoloured seed starters

  • Make seed starter fridge magnets

  • Use seed starters as gift tags for presents



Related Articles

Check out my Teachers Pay Teachers Store for more art resources!

Watch YouTube videos on acrylic painting on my channel

Learn about how I make paper with denim here!

Purchase the Seed Starter Lesson, Video and activities here!

Tag your seed starters on instagram @jackiepartridgeart - I would love to see them!

Join my mailing list to receive updates, discounts and special surprises! 

Connect with me on social media - click on one of the icons below! 

Spring Painting Tutorial

Here are some spring painting tutorials you might have missed from my YouTube Channel -Jackie Partridge Art. See photos and descriptions below and click on the spring painting tutorial you would like to try painting.

To subscribe to my YouTube channel -please click the button below - so you don’t miss new acrylic painting tutorials! Make sure to hit the bell to receive notifications for when new tutorials are being released!

The nice thing about YouTube is all of the painting tutorials are free! You can adjust the speed in the settings and pause anytime you need or rewind if necessary! Take a look at my spring painting tutorials below!

How to Paint a Sunset- Easy

Description: In this spring painting tutorial, I show you step by step how to paint a simple sunset that is easy to do for beginners and anyone new to acrylic painting. In this acrylic painting tutorial, I explain colour mixing and how to paint water and reflections.

Time Length: 19 min. and 2 sec.

Click here to watch how to paint a sunset-easy!

How to Paint a Simple Bee

Description: In this acrylic painting lesson, I show you how to paint an abstract beehive and a simple bee. This spring painting tutorial is ideal for children or art students ages 8 and up! You will learn colour mixing, how to create abstract texture and how to paint fine details like a bumble bee!

Time Length: 16 min. and 39 sec.

Click here to watch how to paint a simple bee!

Cactus Painting Tutorial

Description: In this spring painting tutorial, I show you how to paint cacti and paint details like their prickles. This painting lesson is for beginners and is intended for children or art students ages 8 and up!

Time Length: 40 min and 20 sec.

Click here to watch the cactus painting tutorial!

Night Sky Painting Tutorial

Description: In this night sky painting tutorial I show you with step by step instruction how to paint a galaxy sky and stars. You will also learn how to paint an abstract tree line at the bottom of the canvas. This spring painting tutorial is great for beginner or intermediate acrylic painters. You can also learn how to paint the moon here!

Time Length: 29 min and 15 sec.

Click here to watch the night sky painting tutorial!

Are you looking to improve your acrylic painting? Learn the 10 common mistakes beginner painters make and how you can avoid them!

How to Paint a River with a Palette Knife

Description: In this spring painting tutorial, I show you how to use a palette knife to paint this river scene. This painting lesson is challenging for beginners and is intended for a more intermediate painter. You can gain palette knife painting experience by checking out my palette knife painting playlist on YouTube.

Time Length: 23 min and 7 sec.

Click here to watch how to paint a river with a palette knife!

Here are some other helpful palette knife painting videos:

Choosing the right palette knife for you/how to use a palette knife

Palette knife painted clouds

How to Paint an Easy Sunset with a Palette Knife

Description: Learn how to paint an easy sunset painting with a palette knife. You can check out other palette knife painting tutorials in my palette knife painting playlist on YouTube! In this tutorial, I show you how to mix colours, how to create an abstract texture with a palette knife, how to paint clouds and how to paint water/reflections. This acrylic painting lesson is intended for intermediate painters. Please watch my other palette knife painting videos - before trying this!

Time Length: 22 min and 20 sec.

Click here to watch how to paint an easy sunset with a palette knife!

If you love these acrylic painting tutorials and have found them helpful - please like the videos and subscribe to my channel to show your support! Just click the button below!

Palette Knife Painting Tutorial

A  Palette Knife Painting Tutorial is the best way to learn palette knife painting quickly. You can watch my palette knife painting playlist on YouTube to see my palette knife painting tips! 


Check out these palette knife painting tutorials on my YouTube channel below: 



Palette Knife Painting Tips - In this short video I show you the difference between plastic and metal palette knives. I show you the basics of painting with palette knives and share my palette knife painting tips with you! 


 Palette Knife Painting Clouds- In this painting tutorial I show you how to paint a sky and clouds with a palette knife. This is an essential step to painting a successful landscape with a palette knife! 

Palette knife painting tutorial. Artist completing an abstract palette knife painting


Palette Knife Painting Farmhouse Pumpkin- Paint this cute farmhouse style pumpkin painting is perfect to hang in your home for fall! Learn how to paint a textured background with a palette knife! 

Abstract pumpkin painting by Jackie Partridge. Watch this palette knife painting tutorial!

Abstract pumpkin painting by Jackie Partridge. Watch this palette knife painting tutorial!


Palette Knife Painting Winter Landscape (EASY)- Learn to paint snow with a palette knife and create wonderful texture - check out this easy landscape painting to try painting with both a brush and a palette knife! 

Palette Knife River Landscape Painting - Learn how to paint a sky, a river and some grass all with a palette knife!


Palette Knife Sunset Painting Easy- Learn to paint a sunset, clouds and water reflection by painting with a palette knife!

Here are some Palette Knife Painting Tips!

I love palette knife painting because it creates such a fun abstract texture with the paint. I love the look of abstract painting and the freedom it gives me to paint in a more relaxed manner!


I am constantly updating my YouTube channel - be sure to subscribe to my channel to see when new videos come out - you can do that here! 


If you want to improve your acrylic painting - download my FREE guide where I show you the 10 common mistakes beginner painters make and how to avoid them! Click the button below!


Hope these tips are helpful! Happy Painting!

Related Articles

3 Steps to Painting a Better Landscape

Paint Better Landscapes by Painting Better Clouds

Learn Colour Mixing

Be sure to connect with me on social media by clicking one of the icons below!

10 Skills You Need to Become a Better Artist

10 skills you need to become a better artist - here they are -ready for you to put them into action! As an artist you are constantly balancing producing art and running a business. There are a lot of skills you need to be a successful artist. Here are my list of 10 skills to become a better artist below!

Jackie Partridge

Skill #1 Confidence 

It is easy to think that everything has been done before, that you will never “make it” as an artist and that you are just wasting your time and money. You might even feel like you are not qualified enough or that you shouldn’t even apply to an exhibition because you probably won’t get in. It’s important to have confidence and faith in your artwork and in yourself as an artist. If you aren’t confident you will not want to put your art out there. You will not want to share it and you won’t receive art opportunities or money for your art.



Skill# 2 Time Management 

You need to be able to balance your time with making art and completing admin tasks like updating your website and social media, answering emails, updating photos, buying supplies, applying to artist calls and more. If you aren’t making art then you are not enjoying the reason why you wanted to become an artist in the first place. It is also hard to grow as an artist if you aren’t making any new work!



Skill #3 Patience 

I don’t think it’s possible to wake up one morning and all of a sudden you’re a famous artist and making money without having to do anything. It takes time and it takes work to happen!  Artists face a lot of rejections and disappointments in the art world. Just remember that your time will come! 

10 Skills You Need to Become a Better Artist - pin this image to save it for later!

10 Skills You Need to Become a Better Artist - pin this image to save it for later!

Skill #4 Consistency 

In order to be good at anything it takes consistency. Consistent applications, social media posts, art making, etc. If you aren’t putting in the time and the consistent effort it will take longer to become a successful artist! 


Skill# 5 Ongoing Learning 

I am a teacher and I love learning. You can learn through YouTube (check out my painting channel), through books, courses and more. Brush up on learning new art techniques or business strategies to make your art business more successful! 


Skill# 6 Risk Taking 

You have to be able to fail and to learn from it. Try new materials, take a chance and step outside of your comfort zone. If you always do the same thing you can become stuck or bored and that’s not good either.


Skill #7 Writing and Communication

You have to be able to talk and write about your art. When you apply for grants or exhibitions often you need to write about your art clearly and concisely. When talking to people it could always lead into a networking opportunity further down the line. It’s important to know what to say when speaking about your art and share it proudly.


Skill #8 Money Mindset 

This relates to confidence but if you have issues with money it will be hard to make money as an artist. If you believe in the starving artist narrative then good luck trying to make consistent sales with your art! You need to start believing that you can make money with your art and that you can make as much as you want! 

Stack of books to have ongoing learning as an artist to improve your skills as an artist

Skill #9 Creativity 

You need creative ideas to be able to make something exciting and something that stands out. In the world of social media going viral can help your art. But if you are making art that looks like everyone else’s you won’t stand out. Be creative and do something different that is unique to you! 


Skill #10 Marketing and Business Strategy

In order to make sales you need to share what you are doing. You need to have a plan if you are launching a new piece of art or an art collection. You can’t just post about it once. It’s good to learn more about marketing and business if you are new to it!