Cheap Canvas and Wood: Why Buyer Beware Should Be Your Mantra

As an artist, you know that the materials you use are just as important as your artistic talent. From the quality of the paint to the canvas and wood you use, every little detail matters when it comes to creating a masterpiece. Unfortunately, when it comes to buying cheap canvas and wood, the saying "buyer beware" is especially true.

One of the biggest issues with cheap canvas and wood is that the manufacturer may use wood that is still green. This means that the wood hasn't been properly dried, and when the canvas is attached to it, the wood will bow over time, causing the canvas to become crooked. It's like building a house on an unstable foundation – it might look fine at first, but eventually, it will crumble.

Another issue with cheap canvas is that it may come with exposed staples. Not only does this look unprofessional, but the thin canvas used in cheaper products may not be coated with gesso, which is necessary for the longevity of the artwork. You can always coat the canvas with gesso yourself, but if you're trying to save money, this might not be the best option.

If you're a starving artist (and let's face it, many of us are), you might be tempted to buy the cheapest canvas you can find. However, it's important to keep in mind that cheap gallery-wrapped canvas is especially susceptible to changes in humidity and dryness. When this happens, the canvas can warp, even after it's been sold, and your collector won't be too happy.

Framed canvas can be forced straight by framing, but unframed canvas is at the mercy of the climate. Even if you've painted and varnished the front of the canvas, the back is still exposed to the elements. This means that if you're using cheap canvas, your artwork might not stand the test of time.

The good news is that you don't have to break the bank to buy professional-grade canvas. Look for sales at various art supply stores or consider buying canvas in bulk to save money in the long run. In the end, it's worth investing a little extra money to ensure that your artwork will last for years to come. After all, you don't want your masterpiece to crumble like a house built on an unstable foundation.

How to Properly Present Your Finished Art Piece to a Gallery

Talent is a pursued interest. Anything that you’re willing to practice, you can do ~ Bob Ross

As an artist, you've poured your heart and soul into your artwork. You've spent hours perfecting your technique, and your finished art piece is a masterpiece that you're proud of. But finishing the art itself is not the end of preparation. If you want to showcase your artwork in a gallery, you need to present it in the best possible way. Here are some tips to help you properly present your finished art piece to a gallery.

1. Finish the Sides of Your Canvas

Whether you're working with stretched canvas or a surface less than 1” in depth, the sides of your canvas must be complete. Unfinished sides can make your artwork look unprofessional and detract from the overall presentation. You have two options for finishing the sides of your canvas:

• Frame your canvas if it is less than 1” in depth. Choose a frame that complements your artwork but doesn't distract from it. Simple frames work best for contemporary artwork.

• Paint the sides of your canvas if it is over 1” in depth. You can either wrap the image from the front around the sides of the canvas or paint the sides a solid color. Exposed canvas or staples are not permitted.

1. Prepare Your Art Piece for Hanging

When you present your artwork to a gallery, it should be ready to hang. Make sure that you have installed hanging hardware on the back of your artwork before you bring it to the gallery. Do not use sawtooth hangers, as they can cause your artwork to tilt forward and become unbalanced. Instead, use D-ring hangers or wire hangers to ensure that your artwork hangs straight and securely.

1. Consider Framing Your Artwork

While framing is not always necessary, it can add a professional touch to your artwork and help it stand out in a gallery setting. If you choose to frame your artwork, make sure that the frame complements your artwork without overpowering it. A simple frame can work wonders for contemporary artwork. In conclusion, presenting your finished art piece to a gallery is an important step in your artistic journey. By finishing the sides of your canvas, preparing your art piece for hanging, and considering framing, you can ensure that your artwork is presented in the best possible way. With these tips, you'll be ready to showcase your artwork and take your artistic career to the next level.

Passion. Creates. Progress.

Dedication to one's passion is a remarkable thing, and there's no doubt that it's something to be admired. If you're someone who is passionate about painting, then it's clear that you understand the value of hard work and the importance of challenging yourself to constantly improve. In any creative endeavor, the willingness to push yourself beyond your comfort zone is what separates the great from the merely good. And when it comes to painting, each completed piece is an opportunity to learn and grow as an artist. Whether you're experimenting with new techniques or simply trying to capture a particular mood or feeling, each stroke of the brush is a chance to expand your horizons and develop your skills. So, keep pushing yourself, keep striving for improvement, and keep creating. Your dedication to your craft is sure to pay off in the long run, and your passion for painting will only continue to grow stronger with each new completed piece.