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Title: "Choosing Your Personal Art Instructor: A Guide for Traditional Art Enthusiasts"

Introduction:
Embarking on a journey to refine your skills in traditional art forms like painting and drawing is a fulfilling endeavor. While self-study is valuable, having a personal art instructor can significantly accelerate your progress and provide you with valuable insights. However, selecting the right art instructor is crucial to ensure you get the most out of your learning experience. In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing a personal art instructor who aligns with your goals and needs.

1. **Determine Your Goals and Objectives:**
Before you start your search for an art instructor, it's essential to define your goals. Are you looking to master a specific medium, like oil painting or watercolors? Do you want to develop a particular style or technique? Understanding your objectives will help you find an instructor with the right expertise.

2. **Research Local Art Instructors:**
Begin by researching art instructors in your local area. You can do this by searching online, visiting art galleries, or asking for recommendations from fellow artists or art organizations. Local instructors offer the advantage of in-person sessions, which can be highly beneficial for hands-on learning.

3. **Check Qualifications and Experience:**
Review the qualifications and experience of potential instructors. Look for instructors who have formal training in the medium or style you want to learn. Experience, both as an artist and as a teacher, is invaluable. Ask for a portfolio of their work to gauge their expertise.

4. **Consider Teaching Style and Approach:**
Each instructor may have a different teaching style and approach. Some may emphasize structured lessons, while others may take a more flexible, open-ended approach. Think about your preferred learning style and choose an instructor whose teaching approach aligns with it.

5. **Ask for References and Reviews:**
Request references from past or current students and read online reviews. Hearing from other students can provide insights into the instructor's teaching methods, communication skills, and overall effectiveness.

6. **Attend a Trial Lesson:**
If possible, attend a trial lesson or consultation with the instructor. This will give you a chance to experience their teaching style firsthand and assess if you feel comfortable and engaged during the lesson.

7. **Discuss Logistics:**
Before making a decision, discuss logistical details with the instructor. Consider factors such as the frequency and duration of lessons, location, fees, and any additional costs for art supplies. Ensure that these factors align with your schedule and budget.

8. **Evaluate Communication:**
Effective communication is essential in a teacher-student relationship. Assess whether the instructor is responsive to your inquiries and understands your goals. Clear communication ensures that your learning experience is productive and enjoyable.

9. **Trust Your Instincts:**
Ultimately, trust your instincts when choosing a personal art instructor. You should feel inspired and motivated by their guidance. If you don't connect with the instructor on a personal or artistic level, it may be worth exploring other options.

Conclusion:
Choosing a personal art instructor for traditional art forms like painting and drawing is a significant decision that can greatly enhance your artistic journey. By carefully considering your goals, researching local instructors, and evaluating their qualifications and teaching style, you can find an instructor who not only helps you develop your skills but also inspires your creativity. Remember that finding the right instructor is a personal process, so take your time to make an informed choice that best suits your needs.

Image: "Savannah Sunflower" by Olivia Beaumont (acrylic on canvas)

**Exploring the Vibrant Savannah Art Scene: A Guide for Visitors**

Savannah, Georgia, is renowned for its historic charm, cobblestone streets, and rich cultural heritage. Amidst its historic architecture and oak-lined squares, you'll discover a thriving and dynamic art scene that beautifully complements the city's unique character. If you're planning a visit to Savannah, here's a guide to help you explore and immerse yourself in its vibrant art world.

**Savannah's Art Districts: Where Creativity Thrives**

1. **Historic District:**
The heart of Savannah, its Historic District, boasts a blend of galleries, studios, and public art. Stroll along Jones Street, often referred to as one of the most beautiful streets in America, to find numerous galleries featuring a variety of art forms, from traditional to contemporary.

2. **Starland District:**
Located just south of the Historic District, the Starland District is a hub for emerging artists and creative entrepreneurs. It's an area that continually evolves with street murals, pop-up galleries, and trendy boutiques.

3. **Forsyth Park District:**
This district surrounds the iconic Forsyth Park and is home to the Telfair Museums, which includes the Telfair Academy, the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, and the Jepson Center for the Arts. These museums showcase an impressive collection of American and European art spanning centuries.

**Art Galleries: A Feast for Art Lovers**

Savannah's art galleries offer a diverse range of styles and mediums. Don't miss:

-**Gallery 209:** An incredible two stories of local art, curated and manned by dedicated artists of Savannah. Artists are on duty every day to speak with you and share their artwork. Gallery 209 has been artist run since 1975. Located at 209 E. River Street. 

-**Savannah Gallery of Art:** This art space is new and refreshingly modern, but the artists are by no means new to the art scene of Savannah. Born of the Savannah Art Association, a small group professional artists and art instructors have created this space to foster the arts for both working artists as well as amateurs. Truly unique local art can be found daily! They also provide a feature artist space that changes every 6 weeks and invites the public in to host a reception for the featured artist. Don't miss SGA at 304 E. Bryan Street.

- **Gallery Espresso:** A beloved coffee shop and art gallery, Gallery Espresso features local and international artists, making it the perfect spot for a caffeine fix and art appreciation. Located at 234 Bull Street.

- **Kobo Gallery:** Located in the Starland District, Kobo Gallery showcases contemporary art from both established and emerging artists, reflecting the city's creative energy. Located at 33 Barnard Street.

- **ShopSCAD:** Operated by the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), this gallery offers an array of art and design pieces created by students, alumni, and faculty.

**Public Art and Outdoor Galleries: Art in the Open**

Savannah's streets and squares are often adorned with public art, adding to the city's visual appeal. The Savannah Art Walk and SCAD Art Walls project feature impressive murals and installations that contribute to the city's artistic vibrancy.

**Art Events and Festivals: Celebrating Creativity**

Savannah hosts numerous art events and festivals throughout the year:

- **Savannah Art Walk:** A monthly event where galleries open their doors for an evening of art, mingling with artists, and refreshments.

- **SCAD deFINE ART:** An annual festival hosted by SCAD, featuring exhibitions, lectures, and presentations by renowned artists and scholars.

- **Sidewalk Arts Festival:** A beloved SCAD tradition where students create intricate chalk art masterpieces right on the sidewalks of Forsyth Park.

**Art Classes and Workshops: Tap into Your Creative Side**

For those looking to get hands-on, Savannah offers art classes and workshops suitable for all skill levels. Whether you're interested in painting, ceramics, or photography, there are opportunities to learn from experienced instructors and explore your artistic talents.

**Conclusion: Savannah's Artful Allure**

Savannah's art scene is a testament to the city's creative spirit and dedication to preserving its cultural heritage. As you explore the historic streets and diverse districts, you'll find that art is not just displayed in galleries; it's woven into the very fabric of the city. So, whether you're an art aficionado or simply someone who appreciates beauty, Savannah's art scene is sure to leave an indelible mark on your visit.

Image: "The Olde Pink House", Acrylic on Canvas by Olivia Beaumont

Here's the big REVEAL!

The new limited edition Honey Badger Mug is here, but only for one week!

💧 On sale March 14 - March 18 ONLY! 

SHOP HERE

Check out the weekly Art on the Air show at wruu.org or listen to 107.5 fm Savannah Soundings at 3 pm on Wednesdays. You can also enjoy recently archived interviews on their website. Go check it out!

Today marks 11 years since I started up the Olivia Beaumont fine art brand!

I am so grateful to have made a living doing what I truly enjoy. I graduated with a degree in art in 2009 and made a bold move from west coast California to east coast Georgia. I had nothing but a few suitcases full of clothes, sketchbooks, and paint tubes. My first studio furniture was cardboard boxes. They wern't even my cardboard boxes, they were borrowed. That is straight-out-of-college-poor level!  I bought a little easel I found on craigslist for fifty bucks. I decided to open an Etsy shop on April 25, 2010 and that is where my efforts started to take off. That was a staggering and exciting year!

I chose to believe in myself, but I'm even more greatful for the family around me that believed in me and supported me. 

I am just as excited about where the Olivia Beaumont brand is headed today! April has been all about making the new studio my art home, and starting a secret new art collection! I cannot wait to show you what May will bring. I am painting something you have never seen from me and you are going to love it!

I have big news! By popular demand, I am working on a line of locally designed and produced items to add to the Olivia Beaumont brand. 

I am so excited to be able to offer items like puzzles for you to enjoy with your family. 

The best part is that I have found a local Savannah artist of Moss & Marsh Co. to help me create these beauties. So every mug, tote bag, or tea towel that you buy from me actually helps two artists! After seeing, holding (and hugging) the first samples I am absolutely thrilled with the beauty and quality that I will be offering to you right out of our two Savannah studios.

Now is the time to drop me a line and to get your ideas and suggestions in. I think you are going to be amazed when the first products drop. Since the first products will be made in small batches you will want to follow me on Instagram and sign up for my email list if you are not already doing so. 

xo
Olivia

I previously shared how I develop a pet portrait. In this post I would like to share more complex commissions. 

The most frequent request is for a multiple figure portrait where the client has several pets they would like to incorporate into one scene. When multiple pets need to be incorporated it created challenges like accurately representing the size of each pet in proportion to each other. You can see in the sketches below that at first the chihuahua was too large in comparison to the two tiny Pekingese. The proportions of the dogs had to be tweaked a couple times.

In a multiple pet portrait you also have the question: what are the figures doing in relation to each other? This client presented the idea to me of the chihuahua on the throne and described all the features very clearly to me. Most of the time a client isn’t going to have as clear of a vision, which is totally ok, and so it’s up to me to present some ideas.

I also get unusual painting size requests at times. This happens when a client has already selected a picture frame they would like to use for the painting. This could include a vintage frame or a small oval frame. In order to accommodate this type of request I had to learn how to make oil paintings on illustration paper. The painting is sturdy and archival, and the paper allows me to customize it to any shape or size. This duo is painted on custom paper and fits the intended frames perfectly. 

At times I also receive requests to paint animals that represent people. Here’s an example of a wedding portrait that included the bride and groom’s exact wedding clothes and some features that were symbolic to their relationship. The painting was revealed at their wedding!

There have also been times I have refused a commissioned painting, just a few. The reason may be because it is out of line with the type of work I create and just not a creative direction I want to explore in my portfolio. Usually, I would recommend an artist or two who I think would match the client’s request. 

I really love creating custom art for clients. It is satisfying to see their reaction when their vision comes to life. 

Presenting the Olivia Beaumont Collection by Pigeon and Pip: A furniture line inspired by the artwork of Olivia Beaumont. 

This post is a treat for me because I get to talk about another creative person I really admire. She also happens to be named Olivia. Pigeon and Pip is a small business started by Olivia Lacy who specializes in one of a kind vintage furniture that has been reimagined with an artful and whimsical approach.

The photography is also by Olivia Lacy. She takes a fun approach to styling and personalizing a space with an unexpected pop of whimsy. Follow @Pigeon_and_Pip on Instagram for truly inspiring home decor ideas!

 We hope you enjoy our collaboration and are inspired to "feather your nest" , as the motto of Pigeon and Pip. 

The welcome mat is out to view more at...

Pigeon and Pip

Pigeon and Pip Etsy 

-The Olivias

Olivia Beaumont Oil painting glazing Demo 3 from Olivia Beaumont on Vimeo.

Olivia Beaumont Oil Painting Glazing Demo 2 from Olivia Beaumont on Vimeo.