The Blog | ART SECRETS STUDIO

4 min read

Understanding How To Use The Color Wheel - You Might Be Using the Color Wheel Wrong!

Discover how to create stunning color schemes that evoke emotions and convey messages through value, temperature, and color psychology.

10 min read

The Story Behind 'A Man of Prayer,' my Smithsonian Portrait of President Jimmy Carter

Using Art Mapping and the technique of the Old Masters to tell the story of an American Hero and the 39th President of the United States.

1 min read

Lazy Painting Techniques: Get Back to Work Without Leaving Your Spot

The reducing lens, a useful and "lazy" resource for painting - step back without moving & prioritize perspective.

2 min read

Simplifying Charcoal: My Favorite Brands and Why

I've simplified my charcoal experience by choosing top brands Winsor Newton's Vine & Marie's Willow for charcoal - here's why!

1 min read

Micron Pens: A Watercolor Artist's Favorite Tool, Pen & Ink

We love Micron pens! They're archival, waterproof & perfect for layering over watercolor. My favorite is size 5 for detail & bold lines.

2 min read

Painting Technique: Humanism with Donatello & Mary Magdalene with Giotto's & Darker Farther Away

Donatello's "Mary Magdalene" embodies early Renaissance humanism, expressing emotion through texture & expressive mark-making.

2 min read

Part 6 of 7: Varying Your Edges Lord Ribblesdale Sargent, Analyzing Lord Ribblesdale

Uncovering John Sargent's secrets: his edge work technique and masterful use of texture to create depth & contrast.

2 min read

Tips and Techniques: How to Use Powdered Graphite and Nylon Charcoal Balls with Bristol Paper

Discover the versatility of Bristol paper: perfect for sketches, experimentation & artistic expression.

2 min read

Sketch Drawing to Explain Giotto's 3D Mass & Solidity - Gradually Lighter to Darker, Farther Away

As you wander through the grand halls of art museums, surrounded by masterpieces from around the world, it's easy to feel a sense of...

2 min read

Softening Edges by Cross Hatching, Analyzing Lord Ribblesdale with a Rosemary Brush

Softening edges with a round brush creates subtle contrast & direction, inviting viewer focus while balancing bold strokes.