[Video] Welcome!
Introduction to: the Art & the Calm
What?
The Art and the calm is a twice a month newsletter written by myself, a professional artist, instructor and published author.
Why this, why now?
I have been creating art for more than 20 years, not including the countless days in Catholic grade school when I longed for an art class! Frequently, I got into trouble for “doodling” instead of focusing. Before starting grade school, my all-time favorite character was the mad painter on Sesame Street. He had the most incredible job, and he inspired me greatly!
I started a Patreon and then created a private art-making community, but both felt burdensome and costly for the average person who wants to create art. I truly enjoy learning about different cultures and religious beliefs, as well as respecting those who are exploring a more general spiritual path, so I decided to make a community that welcomes all. Leaving any agitating labels at the door.
Religion, medical, political: these private beliefs are driving us further from one another, not closer. Which is what I hope our little community can do. Bring one another in from the cold isolation of our modern society and leave all our personal and private beliefs at home.
The shot of adrenaline and cortisol that people inject into their own systems by reading or scrolling with topics they disagree with is physically harmful to the body and painful to the soul.
I give you my word this will be an art & creativity newsletter ONLY.
I have studied neuroscience for years and its WILDLY beneficial aspects of improving the way we think and create. For instance, I have volunteered with veterans suffering from trauma. Through implementing my teachings, I was stunned to see incredible improvements in their outlook and creativity.
To think little old me could alleviate someone’s pain through art and applying basic principles, it began to feel like a calling from God.
You can read what others have said about working with me, I want to make sure you feel a warm trust when joining this exclusive community.
Paid vs. Free?
IMPORTANT: *If you were a paid subscriber to my previous newsletter, you'll need to become a paid subscriber to the new newsletter (which I hope you will!)*
***I paused all billing on my previous Substack to launch this new newsletter designed to calm people and help them tap deeply into their own creativity.***
As an artist who has sometimes had to live on a tight budget, I sympathize with those who want to learn but may not have the means to do so.
You deserve to learn as much as you can! I’ve got your back!!
Once you're able to afford the $7 monthly fee, you'll gain access to the video tutorials, time markers for each episode’s topics, and additional perks for paid subscribers.
The kind of community I’m looking to build:
I am so excited to build a community based on kindness and creativity, where people ages 8 to 80+ are welcome.
We will have a close bond of art making, learning, and embracing easy-to-understand knowledge to make us feel better.
Feeling better is just the start! You will become a ripple effect of kindness to those in your circle, and that love and patience will extend to others.
Participation rewarded!?
You darn straight! You will receive an art assignment twice a month. For those who submit BOTH assignments BEFORE the next month, you will be entered into a drawing for a prize!
When, what, & how often?
Free subscribers will receive two free posts a month.
When? 2nd and 4th Fridays of each month will allow you to fully embrace the homework, buy materials, and do the assigned work.
Time posted? 3 pm CST (mark it on your calendar!)
What do I get for the $7? Paid subscribers will get the same as above, along with a video tutorial showing an art demo and time marker of each episode’s lessons.
You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see this image!
Sample Video
Make sure you know who your teacher is! Here’s a sample video from a previous art teaching course I offered AND your first assignment! Art history is just as important as art lessons; it will help you learn who you are and who you aspire to be as an artist.
(Watch until the end!)