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. 

Patched Exhibition

For the month of March and April 2022 I will be displaying my work Patched at the Kitchener Public Library in their gallery on the lower floor. This will be a two-person exhibition along with another artist on the opposing wall. 

I will be displaying 20 framed Patched installations and some of my nature inspired poems. 

Patched is an ongoing series of photographs 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.

Could the landscape be an archive remembering every mark and every trace set upon it? Will my footprints still be here when I am no longer? For how long will the traces of me stay on the surface of the earth?

featuring two separate exploratory photography exhibits with accompanying poetry by artists Annette Dekker & Jackie Partridge

In celebration of Poetry Month: https://poets.ca/npm/  April 2022 



Hello Shadow 

Artist: Annette Dekker 

Enraged by Shadow’s relentless stalking 

The woman behind the camera 

turns 

shoots 

captures the prowler – live, 

smirking at her    strutting 

on a seabed of bleached eelgrass . . . 

 

Annette Dekker is currently in private practice as a psychotherapist. She is fascinated by the capacity of people to heal and to explore their inner worlds.  Annette finds joy in photography and writing and sometimes uses these mediums to better understand herself.  She surprised herself when the outcome of such exploration became an exhibition. She shares this work in the hope that it inspires others to become acquainted with their own Shadows.    

 

 

Patched 

Artist: Jackie Partridge 

 

I feel for places.  

We walk all over them.  

We stomp on them. 

We forget about them.  

Rarely do we visit. 

And when we do – 

We drop by unannounced.  

Coming from a small town and family heritage of farming, Jackie Partridge has visually seen the land developing over time. She has seen and felt both the impacts of climate change and urbanization within her community.  

As a mixed media artist, she is interested in expressing the rural landscape in an abstract and poetic way through drawings and installations. 

Patched is an ongoing series of photographs where map paper (made from maps of places she has been) is embedded into trees where the bark naturally peels away as an act of offering or mending. 

She asks, ‘Could the landscape be an archive remembering every mark and every trace set upon it? Will my footprints still be here when I am no longer? For how long will the traces of me stay on the surface of the earth?’ 

http://www.jackiepartridge.com/work#/patched/ 

 


The Kitchener Public Library is located 85 Queen Street North

Kitchener ON N2H 2H1

Phone: 519-743-0271

The Patched exhibition is on til the end of April, 2022. If you have a chance to see it please share photos on social media by tagging me @jackiepartridge_ or use the #patchedproject. 

Purchase my book Patched here -that contains poetry and photographs.

Related Articles

Patched

Patched Book

Patched Ebook

Patched Video

Follow me on social media to stay connected about future art exhibitions and news by clicking on one of the icons below! 

How to use layers in a sketchbook

Learn how to use layers in a sketchbook by having the permission to make art in the sketchbook. Adding layers in a sketchbook is a great way to add texture and have fun testing and experimenting with new materials and techniques.  I have three ways for how to use layers in a sketchbook. Read more to discover how to use layers in a sketchbook. 


how to use layers in a sketchbook


Layer in Materials 

Start by pushing yourself to add layers of different media in your sketchbook. You can start with pencil then add pen, then marker, then water colour paint, then acrylic paint, then sharpie etc. Each layer you can challenge yourself to add a new medium.

pile of sketchbooks on the floor with layers in them

Layer in Textures

Begin to play and experiment with your sketchbook through the layers. You can add collage elements to bring in different textures. Here are some great collage elements to try:

  • Magazines

  • Fabric

  • Scrap paper 

  • Paper with writing or text like book pages or handwritten letters

  • Tissue paper 

  • Ribbon

  • Scrapbooking materials 

  • Stickers 

  • Buttons 

  • Anything that interests or speaks to you


Adjust your mindset 

Sketchbooks can have multiple purposes. You can plan out artwork and do a rough sketch, you can create a full artwork or a finished piece. Or you can use your sketchbook to create layers and to test and experiment with new supplies or techniques. You can give yourself permission to let go and to just have fun and play since a sketchbook is usually cheaper than watercolour paper or canvas. 

stack of sketchbooks



Tips for using your sketchbook more

  • Have it readily available in a place you see daily

  • Give yourself time in your schedule to sketch, doodle (make it part of your morning or evening routine)

  • Create a challenge where you are going to make a small artwork in your sketchbook either daily or weekly



Benefits of keeping a sketchbook

A sketchbook is a great place to test out new materials and techniques. It is a great tool to record ideas, inspiration and research. It can be used as a log to record what worked and what didn’t. Lastly, a sketchbook can be used as a test to create a mock up or mini work before committing to a larger or final piece. 



If you have enjoyed how to use layers in a sketchbook feel free to try any painting tutorials on YouTube or learn about some of my art resources on Teachers Pay Teachers.


Check out my drawing prompts for high school students. I have over 30 pages of drawing prompts, ideas, checklists and drawing practice pages that use the elements of design!

Click here to shop!

My Art Goals Examples 


Here are some tangible art goals examples to feel inspired when it comes to making your own art goals. You can change and adjust your art goals through out the year. You don’t need to wait for January 1st to make your art goals happen! Check out my art goals examples below! 

Jackie partridge outside in nature as her art goal example

My Art Goals Examples 

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

Social media takes time. I recently started a tiktok - Jackie Partridge Art.  I would like to try paid ads this year 


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

I have been getting more exhibitions and artist grants since I have been consistently applying to art application calls. 


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

Once a month Gordie and I made it a habit of hiking, campinging or walking outside. I’ve taken lots of photos that I have shared on Instagram

Make consistent art sales- I would love my art to be my main source of income. I would like to match my current teaching income before the end of 2022. These are my current streams of revenue:

  1. Art grants/awards and artist fees

  2. Art workshops and coaching 

  3. Selling art teaching resources on Teachers Pay Teachers

  4. Selling my original art 

  5. Selling my cyanotype prints on Society6

you got this sign for your art goals


Set boundaries for teaching for more work life balance- no work on Friday nights and Saturdays, no emails past 5pm, no marking on the weekend. No working camps.

This past summer I worked the month of July at a day camp at my school. I was very intentional not to start working on school stuff until the end of August so that I could have a break from school. Make art during school breaks- I plan on not working at camps this year so that I have more time to focus on my art and business. 


Make art each month- I want to get back to making art each month. It is something that I put off like exercising. I want to be able to prioritize both. 

2022 Goals 

  • Exercise 2x a week

  • Match my teaching salary in my art income

  • Purchase a Home 

  • Have 5 exhibitions or publications 

  • Grow my mailing list by 500 people 

  • Grow my YouTube to 500 subscribers 

  • Have 200 products in my TPT store

Related Articles

6 Tips for Hitting Your Art Goals

5 Tips to Stay Motivated as an Artist 

5 Tips to Sleep Better as an Artist


If you found these art goals examples helpful please leave a comment below. Be sure to follow me on social media by clicking one of the icons below! 

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. 


2021 in Review

Happy Holidays to all of you! Wishing you all the best during this holiday season. Here is to a happy and healthy 2022! Here is a look at 2021 in review for me and my art business. Here are the goals I made for 2021- you can read about how I maintain my goals here!



2021 in Review - my goals

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 did well with these goals and was able to really grow my following. I was more intentional this year with planning what I wanted to post and doing it ahead of time and not last minute. I took the summer off from posting on YouTube to allow me to focus on other projects and relax after a stressful year of teaching during the pandemic. 

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

With Covid there are still less available exhibitions but I did participate in a few exhibitions including Landscape Transformed in Orillia, a paid opportunity with Create Waterloo to do my Patched installation in Regency Park during the month of July. I had a grant project from the Region of Waterloo Arts Fund for a series of acrylic painting tutorials - link to playlist and link to blog. I also participated in the Mask Required exhibition at Gallery Stratford. I have a current exhibition for SHOW. 21 which is a juried group exhibition of emerging artists -with 10 other artworks present. My work Precariously Perched is on display until February! My solo Patched exhibition at the Kitchener Public Library has been tentatively rescheduled for next year. 

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

Once a month Gordie and I made it a habit of hiking, campinging or walking outside. I’ve taken lots of photos that I have shared on Instagram

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

I have started to make more consistent sales with my art and in April I started a Teachers Pay Teachers Store and in October I started a print shop for my cyanotype art with Society6 . Having these extra sources to sell my art and art teaching resources has allowed me to have more consistent income and I am excited to watch it grow next year! 

2021 in review - goals sheet

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

In August, I created my www.jackiepartridgeart.com website where it focuses more on acrylic painting, YouTube channel, my TPT store, art teaching articles and tips. My www.jackiepartridge.com website now focuses on my contemporary art, my paper art in my shop and blog posts related to my art news and contemporary art practice/what I am working on in the studio. I have liked keeping these areas separate but I have definitely doubled my workload! 

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.

This past summer I worked the month of July at a day camp at my school. I was very intentional not to start working on school stuff until the end of August so that I could have a break from school. I did well not responding to emails after 7pm and will continue to do that this year as it gives me more time to relax. 

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

During school breaks I started working on cyanotypes and creating print designs - you can see them here! I also worked on my painting tutorials from a grant from the Region of Waterloo Arts Fund- you can watch them- here.  I also installed Remnants outside and photographed it this year. I finished my Patched installation video. 

2021 in Review - 

Overall, 2021 was a great year for me. It was my first year teaching full time in the classroom. I had a lovely small class of 12 grade 4 students. We had a fun time going to the park, learning together and seeing them grow. This year with Covid was challenging! We were online twice. We wore masks and it was hard to not see each other smile. 

I made it a habit of going outside more. It was hard to see people less and not being able to hug people especially when I’m not really a hugger. 

I worked on starting to new streams in my art to continue to grow my business. I read a lot of books this year including: Everything is Figureoutable, You are a Badass at Making Money, 

My friends are having babies. My sister-in-law got married.


2022 Goals 

  1. Exercise 2x a week

  2. Purchase a Home 

  3. Have 5 exhibitions or publications 

  4. Grow my mailing list by 200 people 

  5. Grow my YouTube to 500 subscribers 

  6. Have 200 products in my TPT store



Thank you so much for following on this journey. I appreciate you being here and supporting me along the way.



Here are some FREE Ways to Support me (if you aren’t doing them already)

  1. Join my mailing list ( I send lots of tips, free products and painting tutorials) -join the box below

  2. Subscribe to my YouTube Channel

  3. Follow me on Pintrest 

  4. Like my Facebook Page

  5. Follow me on my instagram

  6. Follow my TPT store if you are a teacher

  7. Follow my Cyanotype Print Shop



Lastly, I would appreciate it if you like something I post to like, comment or share to help me to reach more people! 







How to Make Time for Art


How to make time for art is an ongoing question I ask myself. I’m sure other artists ask themselves how to make time for art and maybe you do too. I want to share my tips with you for how I have time to make art and how I find pockets of time in my busy schedule to get creative. Learn how to make time for art below!


how to make time for art

How to Make Time for Art- tip #1 

Track Your Time:

In order to have more time to make your artwork it is important that you understand how you spend your time. You can do this by tracking your time. Create an Excel sheet or grab a pen and some paper and start making note of how much time you spend on typical tasks. Once you have totalled how you spend your time you will be able to assess if there is any room for improvements that could give you more time to make art. 

For example, check your screen time usage on your smartphone. It is amazing to see that we spend hours (2-3) even more scrolling on our phone. Ask yourself how you can reduce it. Maybe set a timer. Check your email only once or twice a day, have an intention before going on social media so you avoid mindless scrolling. 

Another time waster is mindless tasks like folding laundry, or doing the dishes. I try to listen to a podcast or audiobook during this time or I give someone a phone call. 

A big culprit is watching TV. Again, it’s important to have an intention and limit your TV time. What could you be doing instead? Working out, painting, reading, making art?


How to Make Time for Art- tip #2 

Make a Plan

Now that you have tracked your time and have a better understanding of how you are spending your time you can begin to make a plan. Your goal is to make more time for your art. So ask yourself what can you give up or shorten the time to give you more time to make art.

You could agree to have a night with no TV and this day of the week could be a painting day. You could reduce your screen time by an hour a day. You could leave work earlier instead of staying late all of the time. You could wake up an hour earlier than normal. 

See how much time you can give yourself to make art. Start small with 30min. to an hour and see if you can add more time to make art later on.


How to make time for art by writing it down on paper

How to Make Time for Art- tip #3

Make a Habit 

If possible try to block off time in your online or paper planner to schedule yourself time to make art. When making art make sure to limit your distractions. Put your phone on airplane mode. Tell your loved ones this is your uninterrupted time and they should respect that if this is something you truly care about and value!



Bonus Tip:

Habits help to stick when they are goals. Make sure you are clear about why you want to make art and why it is important to you. Does it bring you joy? Is it stress relief? Once you have established why making art is important to you -you should continue to want to strive to make time for it. Realizing why art is important and giving myself art goals has helped me to stay motivated in making art. For me the process of making art calms me down and makes me feel more relaxed so I try to fit it into my schedule whenever possible. You can check out my article about tips for achieving your art related goals - here! 



There will be days or weeks that you don’t make art and that is okay. Give yourself some grace and know that you will make art again! You can read this post about tips for adding freshness to a stale art practice here! 


Need some accountability to make art for your portfolio application - try my art portfolio coaching so you can create an application that stands out and gets accepted without the stress and overwhelm!

Related Articles:

6 Tips for Hitting Your Art Goals

How to Add Freshness to a Stale Art Practice

How to Stay Motivated as an Artist 

Sleeping Tips for Artists



If you found these artist tips make sure to join my community in the box below! I send tips, exclusive painting tutorials and special bonuses to my members every two weeks! 



You Got this sign for how to make time for your art
how to make time for art

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!

What to Buy Someone Who Likes Art

What to buy someone who likes art? This may be hard if you don’t like art yourself but as an artist and someone who loves art. I want to help you out! Below is a list of ideas for what to buy someone who likes art! Feel confident in buying the right gift for someone who likes art.


What to Buy Someone Who Likes Art - for the Walls


Rainbow Field 4 Rainbow Field 4
Rainbow Field 4
CA$110.00

What to Buy Someone Who Likes Art - for the artist or aspiring artist

  • A great sketchbook

  • A fancy paint brush

  • Golden acrylic paint - a great company with luxurious paint and rich colours!

  • Easel 

  • A nice journal and pen from Indigo or Staples

What to Buy Someone Who Likes Art - for the reader



What to Buy Someone Who Likes Art - for the viewer 

  • A camera or nice camera bag 

  • Camera cleaning kit 

  • Tripod 

  • A book of art from their favourite artist 

  • A calendar made by their favourite artist


Some of My Favourite Cyanotype Print Designs

These links are affiliate links meaning I get a small commission when you purchase through the links below! Thank you!



I hope you like these ideas of what to buy someone who loves art. Leave a comment below if you have other ideas of what to buy someone who loves art. For more ideas connect with me on social media by clicking on one of the icons below! Check out my shop for original -handmade art here!


How to Frame Cyanotypes

How to frame cyanotypes is something I get asked all the time. Framing art can be challenging but framing cyanotypes has its own set of challenges. Original cyanotypes made through the cyanotype process need to be framed differently than a cyanotype print which is a print or a copy of the original cyanotype artwork. Learn how to frame cyanotypes below!

how to frame cyanotypes



How to Frame Cyanotypes

Original cyanotypes are created using UV light. If they are constantly exposed to direct, bright UV light (sunlight) they will fade over time and can fade faster than other artwork that faces direct sunlight. While it’s good to always preserve artwork in glass that is UV protected it is especially important to frame cyanotypes using UV protected glass.


When hanging your original cyanotype artwork it is recommended not to place the prints in direct sunlight for this reason. Cyanotypes can handle daylight but do not  hang them in a very sunny room or directly near a bright, large, and sunny window.


Check Out My Cyanotype Print Store for Framed and Unframed Prints


how to frame cyanotypes - wheat cyanotype by Jackie Partridge



If Your Original Cyanotype Artwork Does Fade:

You can try placing the cyanotype in a dark place, such as a cupboard or drawer for example, for a few days. If a small amount of air is there they should return to their original blue colour.  




Cyanotypes are not recommended for rooms subject to high humidity such as kitchens and bathrooms either. The humidity can affect the paper and damage the print especially if the artwork is not properly framed. 

Black Eyed Susan Cyanotype 1
Black Eyed Susan Cyanotype 1
CA$50.00

Tips for How to Frame Cyanotypes

You should frame cyanotypes in the traditional way with a solid frame and matted so that the print doesn't touch the glass and there is a small amount of oxygen within the frame. This helps the blue colour from fading over time. Float mounting can also work as long as the print doesn't come into direct contact with the glass. 


Using UV resistant glass will help to prevent some fading over time but do remember not to hang your original cyanotype in a place that has direct bright sunlight or a place with high humidity. 



I hope you found these tips helpful for how to frame cyanotypes. If you purchase a cyanotype of mine I would love for you to send me a photo of it framed and hanging in your house. 



My Favourite Cyanotype Prints

These links are affiliate links meaning I get a small commission when you purchase from the link! Thank You!

Fern Cyanotype 4
Fern Cyanotype 4
CA$90.00

21 Books for Artists to Read

Here is a list of books for artists to read. These books for artists to read will help artists improve their art practice, artwork and art entrepreneur skills. Oftentimes, in art school you are taught how to make art but not the business side of things. You aren’t really taught how to market your art, price your art, create a mailing list, an Instagram page etc. These recommended books will help you expand your art business and take it to the next level! You will love these books for artists to read. These books are all books artists should read as they will help with your professional development as an artist!  

Money Mindset Books for Artists to Read

Think and Grow Rich By Napoleon Hill

You are a Badass at Making Money By Jen Sincero 

Real Artists Don’t Starve By Jeff Goins

Art Money & Success By Maria Trophy

books for artists to read

Productivity Books for Artists to Read

Chillpreneur By Denise Duffield-Thomas

Everything is Figureoutable By Marie Forleo

12 Week Year By Brian P. Moran 

Free to Focus By Michael Hyatt



Business Books for Artists to Read

The Artist’s Guide: How to Make a Living Doing What You Love By Jackie Battenfield

Art, Inc.: The Essential Guide for Building Your Career as an Artist By Lisa Congdon

Design as Art By Bruno Munari

Mind Your Business: A Workbook to Grow Your Creative Passion into a Full-time Gig By Ilana Griffo

How to Build Your Art Business with Limited Time or Energy By Corinna Thurston

Art-Write: The Writing Guide for Visual Artists By Vicki Krohn Amorose

How to Sell Your Art Online By Cory Huff

Don’t Panic: A Legal Guide ( In Plain English) For Small Businesses & Creative Professionals By Art Neill & Terri Karobonik

Steal like an Artist By Austin Kleon

Show Your Work By Austin Kleon

Keep Going By Austin Kleon

Find Your Artistic Voice By Lisa Congdon

The Business of Being an Artist by Daniel Grant


If you are thinking of applying to art school or an arts-based program -click here to download my FREE guide of 10 Tips to Create an Art Portfolio that Stands Out!


Related Articles:

Patched Ebook

Tips for Pricing Your Art

6 Tips for Hitting Your Goal as an Artist








As I come across new books to read I will add these to this blog post. Have you read any of these artist books? Let me know in the comments! Or if you have any book recommendations be sure to comment below or send me a DM on Instagram @jackiepartridge_ 

books artists should read

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

All About the Women’s Studio Workshop in NY

In March 2018, I attended the Women's Studio Workshop Residency in NY. (The small town of Rosendale to be exact).  I stayed for 5 weeks at the Women’s Studio Workshop. I got to experience part of the winter and part of the spring at the Women’s Studio Workshop. The Women’s Studio Workshop in NY was founded in 1974. I was in the paper making studio at the Women’s Studio Workshop in NY.

Coming from a small town, I really enjoyed the small community of Rosendale. I felt very safe and welcomed while at the residency, in town or on the Rail Trail nearby.  Read more to figure out if attending the Women’s Studio Workshop in NY as your next artist residency is right for you!

About Women’s Studio Workshop in NY

Women’s Studio Workshop in NY was founded in 1974 by Ann Kalmbach, Tatana Kellner, Anita Wetzel, and Barbara Leoff Burge. Their goals were to develop a studio workspace for artists to create new work and collaborate. Programs were centered on the artistic process. The first studios were in a two-story single-family home. Etching was in the living room, paper making was in the attic, and screen printing was in the basement.

This passage is from their website - To read more- click here


The Rail Trail at the Women’s Studio Workshop

I was working in the paper making studio while I was there. I really enjoyed hiking in the area, especially on the Rail Trail. While on the Rail Trail I did numerous Patched installations using my handmade map paper. The Rail Trail is very close to the residency and is a great source of inspiration to artists there including myself! 

Patched is an ongoing installation since 2017 by artist Jackie Partridge that uses handmade map paper pulp on trees where the bark has naturally peeled away.

Patched is an ongoing installation since 2017 by artist Jackie Partridge that uses handmade map paper pulp on trees where the bark has naturally peeled away.

At the Women’s Studio Workshop residency when I was there I made a lot of paper working with maps and blue jeans. I took advantage of the hollander beater and worked on my piece Sediment. You can learn more about the project here! 


I got to try the vacuum table for the first time which was very exciting for my practice. I worked on creating large sheets of map paper on the vacuum table which I used in my Patched video. See the installation of this large sheet of handmade map paper below:

Highlights of the Women’s Studio Workshop in NY

I loved the Women’s Studio Workshop because the staff are very helpful and kind whether it is showing you how to use equipment or giving you a ride into to town to get groceries. I liked how every lunch we had a potluck so we could really get to know one another.

What I Love About Artist Residencies

I am always highly focused and productive while on an artist residency. It is nice to be in a new place and see how that relationship directly impacts my work. Since my work is directly related to the land and environment there is always new inspiration, ideas, and projects when I am in a new place. This is always exciting for me! Residencies give you time, space and materials to explore and practice with. New ideas always form when I am away from home!

What I Did at the Women’s Studio Workshop in NY

  • I had an opportunity to present my art in an artist talk while I was there to people at the residency and locals in the Rosendale area

  • I submitted a piece of art I made as part of their alumni collection

  • I met other artists and learned new techniques like the vacuum table

  • I explored the local scene and enjoyed the Rail Trail 

Patched installation made on the Rail Trail at the Women’s Studio Workshop in NY

Patched installation made on the Rail Trail at the Women’s Studio Workshop in NY

Accommodations at the Women’s Studio Workshop

I stayed with another person and we shared a bathroom and kitchen but had separate bedrooms. Bedding was included. Kitchen utensils and equipment were included. The price for the residency is highly affordable and their are options for grants from the residency or to apply for funding externally. 

I would definitely go back to this artist residency again! 


How You Can Go to the Women’s Studio Workshop in NY

Check out their calendar on dates of when you can apply to their upcoming programs and classes! https://wsworkshop.org/opportunity-calendar/


I would highly recommend this residency to all the artists out there!

Related Articles

 Read about my artist profile on their webpage

Read my interview about my residency here!

Learn about the Patched Project Here!

Purchase my Patched Book -here!

Learn about the Women’s Studio Workshop Here!

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

Read about my artist residency at the Vermont Studio Center!

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

What is Support in Art?



What is support in art? And how can you find a good support system? Why do you need a support system as an artist? I will let you know in this blog - don’t you worry! Learn from artist Jackie Partridge what is support in art is.


A strong support system can be one person or more than one. They are someone you trust and they radiate positivity. You can trust this person with your dreams and know that they will be supportive, a good listener, offer great advice, be encouraging and believe in you (often more than you believe in yourself).


As an artist it’s important to have support because making art can be draining. At times, you will feel like your art is not good enough, like everything has been done before and that you won’t make money off your art. 


Your support system can help you to stay focused on your goals and reassure you that your on the right path and that you shouldn’t give up! 


What is Support in Art and Why Does it Matter?

  • Having someone who always believes in you can help you to feel confident and successful

  • Having a support person can be someone you trust and can talk to on a tough day

  • That support person can push you to be your best and reassure you when you doubt yourself

  • A great support system encourages you and pushes you to keep going even when you feel like giving up


My Support in Art

Jackie Partridge

“Make more art!” isn’t as simple as it sounds. Making art can be challenging to find the time to do it. For a couple of years since graduating my MFA, I struggled with finding time to make more art and often put off making art all together. I was “too busy” paying off my student loans, working multiple jobs and really didn’t have the time. I started feeling unhappy and my husband really noticed.




He encouraged me to start my YouTube channel. Which scared me. I was worried if people would comment nasty things. That no one would watch the videos, that no one would subscribe and that I would embarrass myself. I was worried what people would think and that they would make fun of me.

coffee mug and bouquet of flowers

Most of all I worried that it would be a complete waste of time.


But he encouraged me to do it.


He often believes in me more than I believe in myself.


And then when I wanted to start my Teachers Pay Teachers store I was scared too. I was worried I wouldn’t make any sales and that I would spend all this time doing it and it would be a waste. He believed in me and encouraged me to keep going.



Not only does he encourage me to do things and to get my art seen but he helps me. He attends exhibition openings, helps me install and de-install my art, takes photos of my art, edits my photos, edits my videos, edits my writing… the list goes on and on.


He is 100% on board with any new and random idea I have. He is there encouraging me, giving me praise and assisting me in my goals.



He will help out around the house or make dinner to give me extra time to work on my art.  He knows that it’s important and that I will appreciate it.


It really helps having a support system like that in your life. 

So, How Can You Support an Artist?

  • like, comment, save and share their work on social media

  • follow them on social media - invite your friends and family to do the same

  • join their mailing list/read their emails

  • refer to your artist friends when someone is looking for art

  • shop local and from small businesses like artists whenever possible

  • ask an artist to do a commission

  • purchase artwork from your favourite artist

  • compliment an artist - let them know you love their work! Bonus points if you tell them why (this can help them develop new work)

  • Send them inspiration, art exhibition calls or other art opportunities

  • Listen without judgment

    Even doing a FREE action like commenting on their post can help an artist - because it allows the artist to reach more people!

If you would like to support me as an artist - you can click here to check out my shop or support me by clicking the social media links below!

Related Articles

FAQ and shop policies

Why I became an artist

8 reasons I love art


Send me a DM to let me know who your support system is. 

How to Make Cyanotypes

You might be asking how to make cyanotypes? Let me tell you first what a cyanotype is...Cyanotypes are an old photography/printmaking process that involves creating a blueprint with exposure from the sun or UV light. The process uses two chemicals: ferric ammonium citrate and potassium ferricyanide. The process was discovered in 1842. Read on to learn from artist Jackie Partridge as she reviews the process of how to make cyanotypes!

How to make cyanotypes- this wheat print is being washed to remove chemicals

How to make cyanotypes- this wheat print is being washed to remove chemicals

Fun Fact About Cyanotypes

Cyanotypes were used to create house blueprints and that’s how the blueprint got its name. Of course blueprints are created digitally nowadays. 

 


Materials for How to Make Cyanotypes:

  • Paper or fabric

  • Plastic gloves

  • brush/sponge

  • Container of water for rinsing 

  • Water

  • Chemicals: ferric ammonium citrate and potassium ferricyanide

  • plants/flowers to create the prints

  • A sheet of glass or plexiglass

how to make cyanotypes


How to Make Cyanotypes:

  1. Mix the chemical solution in the dark by mixing half and half of each chemical

  2. Apply the chemical solution with a brush/sponge to the paper or fabric (thin and even coat)

  3. Let the paper dry for a few hours in the dark

  4. Store paper somewhere the light can’t get it

  5. Fill a container of water to rinse the prints 

  6. Lay your coated paper in the sun and add your botanicals on top - can add a sheet of glass or plexiglass to keep the plants secure

  7. Set a timer and test your exposure times between 3-30min. (3min if it is full and direct sun)

  8. Rinse the paper in the water and let the paper dry (Make sure all yellow residue is off)

Learn about my wildflower cyanotype project here!

Creating cyanotypes is a bit of an art and science. There is a lot of testing and experimenting to see what works. To learn more about this process you can purchase a detailed lesson with instructions, tips, video tutorial and examples for cyanotypes here: 


Cyanotype print design made with pine by Jackie Partridge
 
 

My Favourite Cyanotype Prints

These links are affiliate links meaning I get a small commission when you purchase from this link! Thank you!

Pine Branch Framed Mini Print

Palm Leaf Wall Clock

Palm Leaf Fanny Pack

Palm Leaf Backpack

Palm Leaf Unisex V-neck T-shirt

Daisy Duffle Bag

Fern Mug

Wheat Throw Pillow


Cyanotype Prints by Jackie Partridge

In my new series called Garden Prints- I use the cyanotype process to create these original prints. Each one is slightly different. I use foraged plants and flowers from my mother’s and grandmother’s garden to create these special prints. 


Related Articles:

Learn how to make paper out of blue jeans

Learn how to make paper out of plants

How to frame cyanotypes

Check out my Cyanotype Prints- here!
You can check out other art in my shop -here!

Shop Cyanotype Daisy Cards -here!

Join my mailing list to save 15% off my cyanotype artwork

How to make cyanotypes - lay flowers (forget me nots) on the coated paper and cover with glass in the sun

How to make cyanotypes - lay flowers (forget me nots) on the coated paper and cover with glass in the sun

DIY Classroom Decor Ideas




Create a classroom you love with my DIY classroom decor ideas. My DIY classroom decor ideas are all printable PDFs that can be printed in colour on white paper or printed in black and white on coloured paper, decor that you or your students can create to give your classroom a calm and welcoming look. All of my classroom posters are designed with a simple and minimalist look so that they don’t look distracting or busy. All posters are sized: Poster sizes are 8.5" x 11.”

I often laminate my classroom decor to keep it looking new for years to come.


Sometimes I rotate my decor on bulletin boards or hang the decor beside student artwork. 


Classroom decor helps to make your classroom more inviting and feel more like a community or home and less institutional



DIY Classroom Decor Ideas

  • Adding plants -real, fake or dried

  • Adding fabric on your bulletin boards or wall paper

  • Printing or design your own borders for bulletin boards

  • Choose a consistent colour palette to decorate your classroom

  • Hang student artwork

  • Hang printed posters

  • Arrange books by colour

  • Add decorative objects related to the topics you are teaching

  • Keep wall, bulletin boards minimal so they aren’t too distracting 


Calming Classroom Decor

I have created calming classroom decor with blue and white designs using the cyanotype process and botanicals.

Pine theme -classroom decor

Palm leaf theme classroom decor

Daisy theme classroom decor

Growth Mindset Printable PDF Posters


These posters are a plant theme with watercolour clipart added. There are 15 posters in colour and black and white versions in this growth mindset poster package.

Check out the posters here!


These growth mindset posters are great to hang in your room in September when you're teaching about growth mindset. If you are like me and you love having a lot of plants in your classroom these posters will really match your classroom decor and accompany your plant friends nicely.




Art Room Rules Posters

You can download my FREE Art Room Rules Posters here!  This set of FREE posters includes 3 different styles of rules for the art room in colour and black and white versions! 



Blue Paint Theme of Artist Affirmation Posters

Blue Paint Theme of Artist Affirmation Posters

Artist Affirmation Posters

Each of these sets of affirmation posters have a paint theme with paint splatters and paint brushes. Each set of posters includes different artist affirmations. These posters will look great hanging next to student art work in your art classroom. 

Check out the Rainbow Paint Theme - here!

Check out the Blue Paint Theme- here!

Rainbow Paint Theme for Affirmation Art Posters

Rainbow Paint Theme for Affirmation Art Posters