February/2023
One question I frequently receive is "Why do you paint wildlife?" Well, wildlife paintings have the potential to be powerful tools in the fight to save endangered species. Animal art can captivate audiences, create an emotional connection with the viewer and cause a sense of empathy and appreciation for the natural world. One of the most powerful tools for conservation is bringing attention to the plight of an endangered species.
By depicting animals in their natural habitats, viewers can gain a better understanding of the animals' needs and how human activity can impact their well being. Additionally wildlife paintings often help to generate funds for conservation efforts. In fact, that is exactly what happened when my "Chimp" painting was an award winning work that helped generate almost $10,000.00 for the Sanctuary for Great Apes.
Wildlife art focuses on animals and provides them with a voice that brings attention to their plight which might not otherwise have been heard. I share my time, talent and ideas in order to give their voices a place to be heard and a platform on which to be seen.
March/2023
Once again my Chimp painting has received an award and is featured as the March artwork at the Camelback Gallery in Scottsdale, AZ. Camelback has added this painting to all their social media pages including Facebook, Instagram, UTube and Eblast. Visit www.CamelbackGallery.com
April/2023
Art4Apes has selected me as their "Visual Artist in Residence (VAiR)" for the month of April. They loved my work and feel the scope and quality of the work are absolutely appropriate to the them for the exhibition. The VAiR offers a chance to get my work noticed and to communicate my message to a broader range of people. To accomplish this task they will:
1. Provide four social media posts featuring my artwork on Facebook and Instagram;
2. I will be featured in their monthly newsletter;
3. An e-flyer is being designed exclusively for me to send to my clients, patrons and contacts;
4. A dedicated page will be provided on the Art4Apes website where :
a) I can feature my personal message about my art and my commitment to wildlife and their environments, and
b) I can include my bio and my artist statement.
5. A personal virtual gallery featuring nine pieces of my work will be set up on their website.
I am so thankful and honored to have been chosen to participate in this wonderful opportunity. I hope you all have a chance to visit during April, and I would love to hear your comments. Thanks, Jody
As a result of all the recognition my little "Chimp" has received, he is now also a contributing artwork at the Wisconsin Primate Research Center (an outreach facility of the Smithonian).
April/2023
Welcome to the new Island Gallery and Studios location in downtown Bradenton, FL . Our new facility will be the home for new artists, new works of art, studio space and teaching classrooms. Come visit us at 456 Old Main St (12th St W.).
May/2023
ArtCenter Manatee, Manatee County's premier art center, has awarded "Chimp" with an honorable mention in the wildlife exhibition this month. This exhibition brought out some of the most premier animal artists in our community, I'm proud to be in their company.
February/2024
Once again my "Chimp" has attracted the attention of the jurists, this time at the Pasadena City Hall Art competition. He's the little guy that keeps getting noticed with his award of First Place at their exhibition.
May/2024
I had the distinct honor to participate in private instruction with wildlife Artist Combes from Kenya Africa. A small class of only eight artists participated in a week long instruction concentrating on wildlife painting. Such an informative class! If you are new to the art world, and you find an artist you particularly admire, I strongly urge you to take advantage of any learning opportunities they may offer. I feel good even if I learn just one new thing in perfecting my artwork.
One place you might want to start your search would be the Scottsdale Art School. They have many award winning artists one one might appeal to you.
May/2025
TEN TOP TIPS FOR COLLECTING WILDLIFE ART
1, Discover your specific interests. If you are considering collecting animal art take a moment to reflect on your interests within wildlife art. Identifying your specific theme will guide your collection towards pieces that resonate with you on a personal level. FYI - my interests in creating animal art is to bring awareness to the dangers to their individual habitats.
2. Research Artists specializing in wildlife and animal art. When you find a piece you enjoy, take note of the artist name so you can easily find him/her in many search fields to identify the details for this artist. Preview their website and media pages to become more familiar with the style and their focus in animal art. Contact the artist directly for details on specific works of art or pieces they might be working on.
3. Be familiar with various artistic techniques employed in wildlife art. This could mean realistic portrayals, abstract interpretations or mixed media creations. By understanding these techniques you will deepen your appreciation for the many expressions within this category.
4. Each piece of wildlife art connects with a story behind the artwork. What was the artist inspiration? the creative process? Connecting with the story adds meaning to the piece and increases its significance in your personal collection.
5. Art has the power to impact your emotions. The pieces you collect will enrich your living space and become your visual companions. The subject matter definitely makes an impact in your collection but color also has an impact. What colors prompt an emotion for you?
6. Supporting emerging talents not only adds a fresh perspective to your collection but contributes to the growth of artists at the start of their career. Keep an eye on local art exhibitions to discover hidden gems and rising stars.
7. Become engaged in local communities, galleries and exhibitions. This provides exposure to artists and opportunities to learn about the significance of their artworks. Attend events, meet the artists and share you passion for shared themes.
8. Display the arrangement of your collection to create a visual narrative. The manner in which you arrange your artworks will tell a story about your collection, allowing each piece to complement the others.
9. Don't overlook the possibility of collecting different mediums. This could include paintings, photos and three dimensional items. This versatility only adds to the appeal of your collections.
10. Each piece of art that you collect adds to your story and a testimony to the beautiful wild world of animal art. Your personal expression is on display for all to enjoy! Happy collecting.