30 works in 30 days

Zenith, a new mixed media painting on maple wood panel

My friends think I'm crazy.  I'm calling it a test in self-discipline.  Since January 7, I've been creating a new original work of art every day for my Etsy shop.  Today marks Day 10 of the challenge. 

I've been focusing on smaller, affordable pieces of art, which has been refreshing after a stint of working on larger wood panel paintings.  Working small allows me to experiment more with different ideas and materials, like the mini canvas panels and watercolor markers purchased a couple of months ago.  

I also found a line of maple wood panels out of New York that I'm trying out.  Due to the closing of a Portland art store in October, I lost my local source of smaller, uncradled wood panels.  The maple wood panels are quite a bit pricier (nearly double), but the material is nicer and the panels come with slots in the back for easy hanging.  

New pieces that have sold.

The 30 day project has made me sit at my art desk every day, which is one of my favorite places to be.  The challenge comes in finding enough time in the day to finish a work of art [that I like!], take pictures of it while there's decent light, and then upload it into my Etsy shop.  The schedule this past weekend was a little hairy, but I managed to get it all done.  

There is no master list or inspiration board to work from.  When I sit down at my desk, I decide at that point which substrate to use, and then I go from there.  I'm actually a little surprised that my works don't look more alike than they do.  Maybe a mini-series of art will surface in the second half of the project. 

twilight, 10 x 10 in. mixed media painting

Five pieces have sold so far, which is so encouraging.  This month, I'm trying to create a number of original works of art that are truly affordable for anyone.  I love the idea that a person can have in their home a one-of-kind art work for $40.  I realize that I may be underpricing my art, considering the time and detail I put into the smaller works.  But it brings me joy to know that people who love my art can afford to own an original.  And just so you know, I pack each one of the little works of art with as much love and care as I do the larger pieces. 

Twilight (above) and the works below are currently available.  You can keep checking back every day for new originals in my Etsy shop, or you can subscribe to the shop's feed here.