Chinese factories are increasing production again as the economy picks up steam. This comes as recovery in much of the developed world shows worrisome signs of fatigue.
In the suburbs of Shanghai, a toy factory is producing at full capacity. Chinese factories say they have been seeing an increase in demand for exports since the end [...]

When I describe my teaching method for drawing as a “directed drawing” exercise I sometimes get the comment that directed drawing stifles creativity. Another comment is that “directed drawing only encourages the student to mimic the teacher”. Not only do I disagree with these comments but I would go so far as to say that, [...]

If you’re a determined pastel artist with some experience, isn’t it time you stepped up and produced a pastel artwork that’s truly great? There’s nothing wrong with ambition! Here are some tips on using pastels to create a masterpiece:
1. It all begins with a thumbnail
Thumbnail sketching is simply one of the best ways to begin [...]

What Laughter DoesThey say laughter is the best medicine. After all, there’s no better feeling than laughing your heart out at something that’s really funny. What’s more, the funny things tend to stimulate your brain and make you think more actively. That’s because humor and laughter also take a certain level of intelligence. However, with [...]

Today is the era of power and vigour. When you are in a business it’s not only your written communications which should appear powerful, even your vocal recordings should reflect the weight of the supremacy.
Today its voice which impacts the customers and peers alike and to get that amazing or resonating voice all you need [...]

Canvas prints or photographs on canvas have become the new box of chocolates over recent years. Many people are now choosing to give a more personal gift for Valentines day and this is down to the affordable nature that putting photos on canvas has become. A photograph printed is always special because it usually represents [...]

If you are a first timer quilt maker, you are about to embark on a project that will consume considerable amounts of time and creative resources. Before you begin, check out your options for quit design. Is this quilt going to be a gift? The most valued gifts are those that commemorate special events in [...]

Canvas printing has become highly affordable over recent years and it is a great way of making sure those cherished images last a lifetime. Photographs transferred onto canvas can last a lifetime but only if you buy from the correct company using the right materials.
What to look out for when buying canvas photographs online? There [...]

Do you love painting with pastels? If so, you’re in good company. Many, many artists have fallen in love with their vibrant colors and the ease with which they can be used. There’s really no other way to achieve such a colorful, painterly result without resorting to a wet medium.
Here are four pieces of advice [...]

When choosing a tattoo consider what it symbolizes, what statement you want to make and what it says about you or who you are. A butterfly tattoo means rebirth or transformation. It can also have spiritual significance as life after death. Some consider it a symbol of divine love or freedom. Flowers also have several [...]