Above we see my original nude drawing of "Cupid & Venus" in the form of a design for an art mug.  I would like to take a minute to discuss the importance of design in the life of a modern-day artist.  Throughout art history, artists have always had to find ways to reach their audience.  Fortunately, artists no longer have to resort to painting rock walls in dark caves... As we've already seen, Picasso and Matisse made their works in many forms for people to enjoy as postcards, art posters, and magazines.  If you're an artist today, it requires serious juggling of art & design skills.  I'm always juggling between drawing, painting, and designing... We artists have to fulfill the public need to consume art in practical and affordable ways.  Being an artist and designer allows me to play at the intersection of Art & Design.

 

Yet people sometimes still wonder why I design coffee mugs. So, once and for all, I want to answer the question.  To put it simply, I enjoy reaching my audience, especially in practical ways in their everyday lives.  Everyone loves art & coffee!  So, of course, much like Matisse, and the other commercial artists who came before me, The Art Mug is a fast and enjoyable way to put my art into someone's hands that is a "fun" and accessible way to enjoy art!  Let's look at one more popular example that combines Art & Design before viewing an oil on canvas inspired by both Picasso & Matisse.