The Underground
A newsletter which bridges art, history and community together
2024 | October
You are the best part of my art! - Zandra
Happy New Year! This is the first edition of the Underground for 2024, your go-to source for local happenings in Topeka's art scene. As we bid farewell to 2023, we remember your continued support and are so thankful for it. In this issue, we highlight how to hang your new fine art, provide links to new opportunities, share a lesson from an artist, and spotlight our featured artist, Alisha Saucedo.
So, join us on this journey of celebrating art, artists, their work, creativity, and innovation!
What do with this Beautiful Art
New Art Collector
Christmas is over, and now you find yourself the proud owner of a stunning piece of art. But here's the catch: you need to learn about art or even how to hang it. Don't fret! Discovering the perfect spot for your art in the living room is an exhilarating and inspiring adventure. Prepare to embark on a journey that transforms your space into a masterpiece!
Photo credit: Zandra Sneed- Dawkins - Caged Bird
Before embarking on your art journey, acquaint yourself with the type of art and the artists. Unravel the captivating stories behind each piece, if there be any. Then, it's time to embark on the quest for the perfect spot. Assess your room's layout, lighting, and decor to find the ideal match. Size up your wall, ponder over furniture arrangements and bask in the glory of natural light. Let the artistry unfold! ✨
When deciding on the colors in your painting, consider whether they complement or contrast with your current themes.
One way to create a sense of connection is by selecting a color from the painting and using it as an accent piece in the room. It will bring a delightful cohesion to your space, making it feel more vibrant and alive.
Enhance the visual impact of a room by featuring large-scale art on a single wall. Create a seamless blend with other design elements like pillows, statues, and plants by arranging smaller pieces in a gallery style. When hanging art, aim for eye-level positioning, typically around 57 to 60 inches from the floor. Now that you're bitten by the art bug, let's explore five art styles that can illuminate your space. This list is not exhaustive, but it's a great starting point to equip you with the terminology you need to ease your shopping process.
Five Art Styles
Photo credit: Zandra Sneed-Dawkins - Misty Copeland
Gallery Wall - Looking for a more personal touch
Are you searching for a more personalized way to display your favorite photographs, prints, and artwork? Consider creating a gallery wall! This method involves mixing and matching different sizes, frames, and styles to tell your unique story. So, showcase your creativity and let your personality shine through your wall decor.
David Smith
Photo credit: Jonny Caspari
Image: Head
The beauty of a found object lies in its transformative ability, fueled by your desires and imagination. So, what will you create with that old teapot? The choice is yours, and the possibilities are boundless. Let your creativity shine!
Photo credit: Steve Johnson
Featured Artist Spotlight
Meet: Jonah Graf
Rediscover the beauty in everything: why recycle materials can change your perspective!
Contemporary art - Large form abstract art
If you appreciate contemporary art, incorporating abstract pieces can add a touch of uniqueness and creativity to your space. These pieces can provide a bold and vibrant look that will immediately catch the eye and become the room's focal point, allowing you to express your individuality in a stimulating environment.
Meeting Jonah during our 2023 Artist Inc Cohort session was an incredible delight! His genuine spirit instantly captivated me, leaving me in awe. His story is truly inspiring, and I feel so fortunate that he agreed to be featured. Not only that, but I am proud to call him a friend. Now, let's dive into the world of Jonah Graf and his awe-inspiring welded statues! Read entire article.
Artists Opportunity
Keep seeking your dreams
There's an abundance of opportunities waiting for artists, too many to mention! But don't worry, I've got you covered with a curated collection of upcoming prospects on the online version. Get ready to submit, research, and create your way to success! Remember, the list is just the beginning, but it's a great place to start exploring!There's an abundance of opportunities waiting for artists, too many to count! But fear not, I've compiled a list of upcoming chances exclusively for the online version.
Get ready to submit, research, and create! While the list may not cover everything, it's definitely a great place to kick-start your artistic journey!
Artists Perspective . . .
Artistic Voice
Let me start by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to all those who continue to support me on this incredible art adventure. As a new artist, you'll encounter people questioning why you pursue art. What they're genuinely asking is what drives your artistic passion. For me, it stems from a deep desire to leave a lasting legacy for my children and grandchildren. I yearn to understand the cultural heritage bestowed upon me and to ensure my own value from that perspective. That's why I immerse myself in learning the history that should have been taught in school. Additionally, I find immense joy in bringing happiness and a celebration of life to those who view my artwork.
In recent months, I've dedicated myself to listening to my heart and discovering my artistic voice. It's been a transformative journey, and with each new painting, I feel a stronger connection to my true purpose. It's an exhilarating feeling. I urge you to keep pushing forward, never fearing the creative process. It's the only path toward becoming the artist you envision in your heart, mind, and dreams. Until next time, stay inspired and unleash your creativity! Below is one of my recent pieces that I adore. The process of painting it brought me immense joy!
Thank you for taking the time to read our newsletter! If you found it useful, we encourage you to share it with your friends and family. Don't keep the valuable insights and information contained within to yourself; spread the news and help others benefit from it too.