Doing Strange Things in the Name of Art

Above Photographs: “Modern Moses” and “Get Born Again” by Daniel W. Coburn

The concepts for these images were born out my fascination of religion and environmentalism.  These aren’t new photographs, they were completed about a year ago for inclusion in the “Gods and the Garden” portfolio.  Very little digital manipulation was performed on these shots.

Preparation and Execution

Images like these begin with a simple idea or stroke of inspiration.  The concept materializes in a sketch and I might make several small unfinished drawings until I decide on a final composition.  From there, I begin looking for the props needed to execute the shoot.  This usually means scouting for the right location as well.  When all of the leg-work is finished, I set up the shot and do my best to duplicate the sketch.  It’s not as easy as it sounds.  Sometimes, something spontaneous happens that adds to the dynamic of a piece.  Other times, I find that it’s nearly impossible to achieve my original vision and I have to improvise.  I enjoy this type of work because it allows me to be very proactive and take control of the finished product.

Modern Moses (left photo)

In this photograph I found the perfect location to shoot.  Unfortunately the perfect location was located on private property and I didn’t know how to contact the owners to obtain permission.  So I did what any self-respecting landscape photographer would do_ I trespassed.  I used wire tent stakes to anchor the nylon rope.  I used myself as the model.  My camera was anchored to a tri-pod and I used an infra-red remote to trigger the shutter release.

Get Born Again (right photo)

I spent a Sunday afternoon rummaging through junk at garage sales to find the doll parts for this piece.  And yes, that is me wallowing in the mud, half-naked, amongst tree roots.  Again the camera was positioned on a tripod and I triggered the camera using a wireless remote.

Comments and Critiques are welcomed and encouraged.    

Sticker Shock and The Rising Cost of Being an Artist

Have you ever wondered why original work by an artist is so expensive? A couple of prospective customers have been surprised when they see the price tag attached to my work. However, most people slowly start to recover from the initial sticker shock when I explain the benefits of purchasing original artwork. They gain an even deeper understanding when I give them the basic rundown of my costs. 

When you buy original artwork you are making an investment. You are buying something that will be cherished by future generations of your family.

Galleries

The commercial galleries that represent my work are vital to my success as an artist. I wouldn’t be writing this post today if it weren’t for the kind people that help me sell my artwork. A good gallerist can offer you exposure in many ways. They absorb the cost of advertising and promotion of your work.  An experienced and well-connected gallery director will sell your work to significant collectors on a regional and national level. Since I don’t compete with my galleries, the retail price is the same whether you purchase the work from me, or from one of my representatives. If a patron was introduced to my work at one of my galleries I always refer them back to that establishment.

A gallery usually collects a significant commission on sales_ Between 30 and 50 percent.  

Hidden Costs

As an artist, I absorb the cost of my materials.  This means I pay to make prints and I also pay to have the work framed.  If I were a painter or sculptor I would have even greater expenses.  I transport my work to and from the gallery and pay for shipping if needed.  Like most small business owners, I have all of the overhead that comes from having an office and studio.  I buy a new camera every few years.  I pay taxes on any income that I make.  As you can imagine this all starts to add up. 

Alternative Sources of Income

There are other ways that artists can make enough money to pay the bills.  You can teach at a university if you are qualified.  I work as a graphic designer at a publishing company full-time during the day.  You can freelance or sell your work through stock agencies.  If you can land a publishing deal or self-publish a book there is a potential for significant income.  There are also a number of grants available to qualified artists who take the time to apply.

If you know of any additional ways to make money as an artist please leave your remarks in the comments section.

Please support local artists_ you are making an investment in their future. :c)  

Photography Illustration

 

Above: Digital Illustration by Daniel W. Coburn.

This will be the last of my posts regarding recent illustrations.  This is a piece of digital art that I created for my portfolio (see previous post.)  It was made using photographs from a trip to Chicago.  I also did a photo shoot to capture the image of the figure in the foreground.  Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator were used in conjunction to create a dynamic combination of vector and raster graphics.   

As always, comments and critiques are welcome.  Post your thoughts in the comments section. 

Drawings by a Photographer

 

 

Above images are drawings in Graphite and Charcoal by Photographer Daniel W. Coburn.

Many of you may know that I work full time as a graphic designer and illustrator at a publishing company in Topeka.  I don’t talk much about my artwork (outside of photography) on this blog very often, but I have decided to share.

I have recently decided to return to school to finally complete my BFA.  I am applying for a couple of scholarships, so I thought it was time to polish up my portfolio.  I completed the above drawings over the last week. 

Comments and critique are welcome and encouraged.   Leave your feedback in the comments section.

Photo of the Week 2/6/08

Above Photograph: “Lost Highway” by Daniel W. Coburn

Have you ever driven under one of those tiny bridges that run over the turnpike and wondered where a road like that might take you?  Until recently, I had no idea how I might find myself on a road like that or where it might lead.  This shot was taken from one of those tiny bridges on one of my recent trips through the Flint Hills around Matfield Green. 

There is still time to see my work art 6 Gallery and Corner Bank.  

Have a great week!

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Crossroads: Midwestern Views
photographic works by Daniel Coburn
and paintings in oil by Zak Barnes
January 9 – February 29th

Corner Bank
4621 W. 6th Street
Lawrence, KS 66049
Phone:(785) 838-9400

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I have 2 pieces in a show at 6 Gallery.  6  Gallery opened a couple of months ago in Lawrence Kansas and has since hosted 3 amazing group exhibits featuring work by some of the regions best artists.  

Inner Journeys
January 11 – February 22
6 Gallery
716 1/2 B Mass Street
Lawrence, Kansas