We are so proud of our wonderful Make Art That Sells alumni and are pleased to showcase a series of gorgeous work that is being produced in the Self-Paced MATS A and B classes.
Today, we have student work from MATS A which helps students build a professional portfolio to sell art in 5 of the most lucrative markets: bolt fabric, home décor, children’s books, wall art, gift.
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Paula Morgan
I am a student on the MATS part A self paced course. The above work is from my main assignment work for the Home Decor assignment.
What have you enjoyed most so far about the course?
There are so many things I enjoy about the course, its hard to pick one, but I think its the assignments. I haven’t worked from briefs before and I like the way that having the assignments keeps me focused and challenges me too.
How is the MATS class helping you grow?
I have a BIG problem with self doubt and lack of confidence – putting myself and my work ‘out there’ on the FB page wasn’t easy for me but I know that is is very important in I want a career in art. But everyone has been so supportive and helpful – now I love posting my stuff!
What are you discovering about yourself?
I have discovered that the my creative process is too slow! So far I have only completed two markets ( another needs fixing!) I l know that I ‘overthink’ my ideas and spend far too much time on research and referencing. I am now making a concerted effort to work more intuitively and of course, faster!
How would you describe the class to a friend?
I am loving the course and cannot praise it enough – if I were to describe it to a friend I would call it a’ rescue ladder’. For a long time now I have been in a very deep , dark hole (because of my lack of belief in my own creativity) and the worst thing is that no one made the hole and pushed me in – I dug it and threw myself in! Finding Lilla and the MATS community was like a ladder descending down into the gloom and written on the first run it said ” Do you need help?” and on each run of the ladder there is something wonderful like a video about embracing your weirdness or a challenging assignment that push me to learn new techniques or a affirmation which gives me courage!
See more work here: Blog
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Doro Kaiser
Above is my Wall Art Assignment from MATS A
What have you enjoyed most so far about the course?
The course was a great motivation and inspiration. It was not only about getting insights in 5 different markets. In addition I’ve learnt something about presentation and time management. But the best advice were short and most important: to have joy creating something and to stay true and make MY kind of art.
How is the MATS class helping you grow?
I’ve learnt not to give up. Not to stop creating when I’m quite satisfied with my work, but go ahead and make it even better. It’s worth it.
What are you discovering about yourself?
I discovered that I don’t need to decide whether I make digital or conventional art. I can combine both and I really enjoy that fact.
How would you describe the class to a friend?
This class is about being creative and trying to make the most of your talent. You get insights in different markets and learn about them.
See more work here: Blog | Facebook | Instagram
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Mitzie Testani
Which self-paced MATS class are you taking (A, B or both?)
Both
Which market is your submitted work for?
This project was for MATSA — Home Décor section
What have you enjoyed most so far about the course?
The way my style is growing. I’m having more fun and getting much faster.
How is the MATS class helping you grow?
I’m experimenting and sharing my work in a safe and supportive environment
What are you discovering about yourself?
I LOVE to paint!
How would you describe the class to a friend?
If you want to grow and keep yourself motivated, this course is a must have. I will be taking these courses again and again. It really pushes personal work.
See more work here: Website
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Becca Campbell Smith | “The Story Smith”
Which self-paced MATS class are you taking
MATS A
Which market is your submitted work for?
Home Decor
What have you enjoyed most so far about the course?
I never realized there was so many places my artwork could live, and it’s been so fun and invigorating to see so many possibilities and how to outfit my work for the different markets. I’ve really loved experimenting with new mediums and color palettes. I also loved finding inspiration in unexpected places.
How is the MATS class helping you grow?
It’s really helping me develop my illustration style and learn how to make art that works. By career I’m a graphic designer and art director, so I primarily do computer based art in a ton of different styles. Here, I really get to look inside myself and do what I love, what I’m passionate about, and explore my own style. It’s so empowering!
What are you discovering about yourself?
It’s upped my confidence a ton as an illustrator. While I still have so much to learn, I am seeing that I can do more than I ever thought I could. I am also figuring out who I am as an artist.
How would you describe the class to a friend?
I would say that it is a fantastic class that goes through five different markets where art can live, such as pattern design and children books. It teaches you all about how to get started in that market and what buyers are looking for. It then gives you a chance to play around in that market, be inspired, try new things and make something amazing to present in a way a buyer would see it. There’s a great community of people taking the class you can chat and share with, and Lilla Roger’s reviews and videos that are so inspiring and give a glimpse into what amazing things are currently out there.
Thank you so much for offering this great class. It has been such a huge help and I can’t wait to take more classes! Seriously, I couldn’t thank you enough.
See more work here: Website | Instagram
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COMING WEDS 6 APRIL – FRI 8 APRIL, 2016
Watch this space as we will be launching a BIG SPRING SALE on Wednesday 6 April.
So does ‘Make Art That Sells’ actually work? Do artists who take the class actually sell more art? Well yes, they do. Students have since secured licensing deals in the gift, editorial, baby apparel, bolt fabric, wall art, greetings, home décor, paper and fashion markets, many have won competitions and a number have been signed for representation.
ALL of our classes will be on SALE.
