Local Photographer: Summer Kegeris

Summer Kegeris is the owner of Images by Summer K.  She has been perfecting her art of photography for several years.  She had training in the fine arts, and has taken private lessons.  Summer shot the back cover and photo of the author for the book, The People Reader.  She is an award winning photographer, mother of two and grandmother of three and now retired and enjoying her time as a full time photographer. We sat down with Summer and asked her about her amazing work and how photography impacts her life  and inspires her.

 

How long have you been a photographer?

 

I've been taking pictures for a few years now.  I never considered myself to actually be professional until I won my first national contest, and later became published on a book jacket.  Occasionally I will send weather photos to a few local TV stations, but only once was one actually used as a backdrop for the weather report.

 

 

What award did you win?

 

2012 Flickr Photo of the Year.

 

 

 

What formal training do you have?

 

 I was a fine art major in school. I have had private lessons in various mediums.  Now, I sign up for every photography class I can that fits into my schedule.

 

What inspires you?

 

Children.  They make me happy, and their innocence is inspiring.  

 

 

 

What type of photos do you like to take?

 

Children, their innocence, their sadness and their short stories, those are my favorites. But, I've never seen something yet that I've not liked to photograph.  There is a story in everything we see, most people just take it all for granted.

 

 

What types of sessions do you offer?

 

I do portraits, newborns, smash cakes, boudoir, weddings, engagements, pets, special events & seniors.  I have also done product photography for local business as well, including My Three Blessings Boutique.

 

 

 

 

What equipment do you use?

 

Canon digital DSL

 

 

 

 

If you could photograph anyone in the world, who would it be? 

 

Street people, so many stories to be told.

 

 

What feelings do you try to convey through your photos?

 

What ever I can find to pull out.

 

 

 

 

Where can we see your work?

 

My website   www.imagesbysummerk.com 

 

I have a show coming up at St. Christopher Catholic School on Nov 28th.  You can find the event at this link  Arts and Crafts Exhibition for St. Christopher

 

I will also have some of my work displayed at The Speedway Centre for the Arts.  They are doing a Holiday Boutique between Nov. 28th and Jan. 3rd.

 

 

Where can we find you on social media?  
 Facebook @ Images by Summer K

Twitter  @SKegeris

Instagram  @imagesbysummerk

Pinterest  ImagesbySummerK

All booking can be done by contacting Summer on her website. 

 

 

 

5 Tips to Creating a Bohemian Wonderland

 

When it comes to being eclectic, I am your girl.  I love to shop and I always find myself liking different types of things.  Either it was a pretty painting of a city or a vintage lace table clothe.  I was realizing that the things I like, didn't really seem to go together.  And then I discovered Bohemain style décor and my wildest dreams came true!  It was suddenly okay to have the vintage lace and the shiny, gemstone candle, the batik print pillow and the classic wall clock.  All of these pieces can come together to make a beautiful home that does not look cluttered and like it is all from a garage sale or hand-me-downs.  (Although, most of my things are)  Here are a few tips to help you convert your space into a earthy, peaceful bohemian nest.

The sofa table is from a garage sale site, the mirror from goodwill, the canvas I recovered with fabric I had, and the placemat I made with spare fabric as well.

 

 

Tip #1:

 

Plants.

 

Succulents are the best plants ever!  I have a red thumb and I have a hard time killing these bad boys.  You can find them almost anywhere, but Lowe's has a great selection.  They require very little care, water, or light and come in a array of shapes and sizes, colors and textures.

Small Succulent.  I found this at Walmart.

 

 

Tip #2:

 

Pillows and Blankets. 

 

Pillows and blankets can make great accessories for your room.  It is also easy to find old quilts or throws at Goodwill, if you don't have any tucked in your closet.  You can brighten up a solid color couch or old chair by adding a patchwork quilt or crocheted throw.  You can even make one yourself.  There are YouTube videos for that.  If you have pillows already, perfect!  Use what you have or you can get charming pillow covers at Hobby Lobby.  They have an entire wall dedicated to pillows and the choices are endless.  Also, Amazon has some great options as well. 

Follow this link for pillow covers on Amazon!

Follow this link for a beautiful tapestry on Amazon. These make great curtains.

I found this chair on the side of the road.  The pillow cover is from Hobby Lobby.

 

Tip #3:

 

Candles.

 

You can find brand new candles at Goodwill or candles for $1.00 at Dollar General.  Mix up the colors, sizes or shapes.  I do not recommend mixing up the scents.  You can get unscented and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to each one.  You can also make your own candles.  Pick up some mason jars and swing by Joann's or Michael's for clearance ribbon or trimming.  It doesn't take much and you can make a remarkable candle for under $3.00.  If you are looking to spending a little more, check out Kirkland's.  They have a variety of wall sconces, pillar candle holders, and even battery powered candles for fair prices. 

 

Tip #4:

 

Buy local art.

 

You can find really wonderful artwork right in your own city and you do not have to purchase a print or canvas that someone else has in their home.  Make your space unique.  A local artist will normally have pieces ranging in price.  If you come across one that is not in your price range, keep searching.  I have found some wonderful prints and original pieces at local art fairs and craft shows.  Even if it is just a print, it is inexpensive to frame.  You can find frames at Goodwill or Michael's and spray paint them to match or even leave them mixed.  But buy local, you will thank me later.

Follow this link for a dream catcher made by My Three Blessings Boutique!

 

Tip #5:

 

Do what you like.

 

You have to live in your home.  And you should be surrounded by the things that you like to look at and that make you happy.  I found that when I tried to stay with a certain theme or have all of my things from a "collection", it was boring.  I didn't take pride in it and I wasn't eager to show my friends that things that I had found.  I am now.  I also love to find pieces of furniture and redo them.  You can do this with a can of spray paint and some sand paper.  And I take pride in looking at something and knowing that it was me that brought it back to life.  If you are crafty and handy with a hammer and nails, build your own things!  You can find pallets for free and wood is affordable.  You can find project plans on Pinterest.  And check your local garage sale sites on Facebook for DIY project pieces.

Follow this link for a few DIY projects I love.

The baking rack is from a garage sale site.  I used spray paint and finished with spray enamel.  The containers are from Goodwill.

 

 

Make your space YOURS and give it a funky, bohemian vibe along the way.  The thing I love most about the bohemian style is the colors.  Deep reds, bright yellows, warm browns, royal blues, vibrant greens and creamy whites, with a splash of gold!  It doesn't get much better.  I hope your inspired to transform your place into what you want it to be. 

 

Handmade at Amazon: My Three Blessings Boutique

Earlier this month Amazon launched it's own website for artists and artisans, Handmade at Amazon.  There were approximately 5,000 shops chosen for the launch.  My Three Blessings Boutique was one of them!  Please check out our page on Amazon and remember to support small business this holiday season.
 

My Three Blessings Boutique on Handmade at Amazon

 

 

Local Indianpolis Craft Show: Arts and Crafts Exhibition for St. Christopher Catholic School

Shop Small on Small Business Saturday! St. Christopher will be hosting artists and artisans from around Indiana for an arts and crafts exhibition. There will be an array of local shops and artists set up and ready to help you with all of your holiday shopping! There will also be a raffle held. Please join us and finish up those wish lists with unique gifts made right here in Indiana, while supporting the children of St. Christopher Catholic School.

Local Indianapolis Artist: Danielle Scott

Indianapolis is full of wonderful, talented artists.  And one of them just happens to be my Aunt!  Danielle Scott is a self-taught, popular artist here in Indianapolis and is well versed in the local art scene.  She has had exhibitions at Oranje, IDADA First Fridays on Mass Ave, and The Art Bank.  Danielle has been involved with the Hendricks County Art Council, Indianapolis Downtown Artist & Dealers Association, and the Indianapolis Art Center.  I talked with Danielle and also found she has a new way to get her beautiful art out into the World and into your home.
 

 

 

Where did you attend school?

 

I earned my Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Anderson University. My undergraduate studies are in Business with an emphasis in Marketing.
 

What type of art do you specialize in?

Though the medium may change, I am most happy when creating art that includes trees or flowers or abstract elements that are inspired from nature.

 

What mediums do you use?

My primary medium is pen and ink. I also work in watercolor and mixed media as well as photography.

 
 

How do you feel your art contributes to the world?

Like many of the artists I know, I create work that is very personal and a way to communicate a particular message or vision, rather than just for the sake of decoration. Although my work may not be widely known, I’ve been on the receiving end of happy tears and overwhelming emotions from patrons of my art, and that I consider that a significant contribution—making a positive impact, one person at a time.

 

 

What inspires you?

 

I thrive on bringing creativity to every corner of my life, including my professional and volunteer activities. Depending on my mood and inspiration, this can be through drawing, painting, photography, graphic design or writing. My art is primarily influenced by elements of nature; however, I am internally driven and often go deep within my own head (or what some people may say zone out) for inspiration. My goals are to always maintain my unique style, not be too influenced by realism, and to capture emotion and meaning for those who see my work.

 

 

 

 

Where can your art be seen?

I can be found creating art in my personal art studio in Coatesville, Indiana or traveling the world trying to capture the perfect photograph. In the past, I have displayed my work in a gallery and done a variety of exhibitions, but presently, my art is solely online. The different sites where you can view and buy my art are:

Find Me Here at Redbubble

 

Find Me Here at Fine Art America
 
Find Me Here on Facebook

 

 

On the website, what are some choices for buyers?

Redbubble (RB) and Fine Art America (FAA) are very similar online sites where I have uploaded very high resolution scans of my artwork. I have authorized the sale of my art for a variety of products, depending on the size and shape of my art and how well it works on each product. Nearly all of my art is available as art prints, canvas prints, greeting cards, posters and similar 2d items. If the drawing or photograph makes sense and looks appropriate for other products, I have made it available there as well. Some of those items include duvet covers, pillows, t-shirts, skirts, leggings, scarves, notebooks, tote bags, stickers, calendars, hoodies, and more.

 

One big difference between RB and FAA, is on FAA, is that FAA tells you more details about the original artworks and whether or not they are for sale. If you have an interest in buying original artwork, FAA is the site to check out.

 

Finally, if you have questions about originals for sale or would like to request custom made originals and prints, you can always contact me through my artist page on Facebook or email art_by_danielle@yahoo.com

  

What made you take this avenue in selling?

 

Originally, having an online presence for my art was chosen to supplement my other marketing efforts, such as being in a gallery. I have had a lot of changes in my personal and family life in the past few years. Ultimately, I have moved away from where I had my gallery and job. My plan is to begin working full-time with my art. For now, family obligations have meant keeping my art at less than full-time. The great thing about having it online, however, is that I am able to work as much as I can, at my own pace and schedule.

 

 

How do you feel it sets you apart from other artists?

Setting yourself apart from other artists requires knowing and maintaining your unique strengths. First, I have been consistent with my online presence for many years. People who have come across my art in the past can find my art in the same place in the future. Next, and I am far from being perfect at this being part-time, I use similar language, taglines and text in each place where I sell and promote. You must have a recognizable brand if you want to stand out. Finally, my style is memorable and associated with me, but each piece is not so consistent it is repetitive and boring. You have to be recognizable.  As Tom Peters puts it: “In today’s wild wired world, you’re distinct…or extinct.”

 

What are your thoughts on the art scene in Indy?

Being born and raised in Indianapolis, I can truly say the Indy art scene has grown by leaps and bounds over the past couple of decades. Little by little, the art scene has changed from being just the Indianapolis Museum of Art and a few pockets of galleries to several art museums and communities in and around the city, all garnering to be known for their own arts districts. You can find all types of art, in any medium, at any price point on any side of town, as well as online.

 

While I doubt the Indy art scene will ever be in the league of New York, Chicago or LA, Indy is holding its own as far as the creation and exhibition of art for its size. However, where I see the art scene lacking is in the education and outreach of youth, and in public forums. To take things to the next level, the average citizen needs a better understanding of the importance of art and culture. Now that we have people attending events, like open houses, art fairs, First Fridays or other exhibit, more Hoosiers need to expand their thinking to buying original art instead of mass produced art you can get from any department store. Some people may be afraid to get too creative with the art in their homes, but I think most people are afraid to buy original art because of price. However, one of the best reasons to buy original art in Indianapolis versus the bigger cities is because of the wide range of price points, which are often not nearly as high as people might think.

 

Where else can we find you on social media?

 

Follow Me on Twitter

Instagram
 
Art by Danielle on Pinterest
 

 

Pantone Color Chart for Fall 2015

Check out the beautiful colors for this Fall! 

Visit My Three Blessings Boutique!

Local Indianapolis Event: Art Squared

Fountain Square, in Indianapolis, has a wonderful event coming up this month.  It is called Art Square: Make Art, Buy Art, Be Art.  We spoke with the Director of the Art Fair, and member of the Fountain Square Arts Council, Rene Hatcher Fox, to find out more about the event.  Rene works extensively on the art fair, making sure it is a hit. 


When and where is the show?

Art Squared is a 3-part event.

Art Squared takes place on Virginia Avenue and Prospect Street, in front of the Murphy Building and behind it.  It takes place on September, 19th, 2015 from Noon to 6pm. 

Masterpiece in a Day is where you can create a work of art in the visual or written categories the day of the event for a chance to win cash prizes.  It is free to participate.  Registration runs from 9-11 am the day of the event and completed entries need to be submitted by 3 pm.

The Art Parade steps off at 5 pm to wrap up our day with music, it’s where you can be a moving piece of art.

How long has the event been running?

The Fountain Square Arts Council is presenting Art Squared for the 5th year in a row.

How many are in attendance?

We do not charge admission to the event, so the estimated attendance per IMPD is around 3000.

How many artists/artisans are set up?

We currently have 90 artists registered.

What makes this event different from other festivals?

Our niche is that all of our artists live in Indiana.  Unlike other art fairs in town, artists from other states are not accepted at this time.  In particular, we want to encourage artists and art vendors within our neighborhood.

Why do you think an event like this is important to the art scene in Indy?

Art brings people together, it expresses our humanity, it creates common bonds, and it can improve neighborhoods.

Where do the artists/artisans come from?

Artists who are registered for Art Squared come from all over Indiana, some traveling many miles to attend.

What is the cost for the event?

Artist pay a minimal registration fee for a booth space.  There is no fee to attend the event and check out the music, art and vendors.

Are you an artist yourself?  And if so, where can we find your work?

I don’t consider myself an artist.  I do some sewing and paper crafts, plus I have a mild interest in photography.  I’ve never displayed or sold anything I have made.  I have considered doing so in the future, once I build up some inventory.  Right now my favorite thing to make is pillows. 

You can find more information on Art Squared at:

Art Squared on Facebook 

Art Squared on Yelp

#artsquared2015

Fall Weekend Getaway

Fall Weekend Getaway by melissa-hedge featuring khaki pants

Long sleeve shirt / River Island khaki pants / Nine West ballet shoes / Vince Camuto crossbody purse / Bracelet / Scarve

Local Indianapolis Artist: Kevin J. Wilson

I had the pleasure of speaking with Kevin J. Wilson, a local artist here in Indy.  He shared with me his thoughts on art in today's society, and how life effects his work and the work of other's.  Kevin graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design, and majored in Illustration with a double minor.  He is currently the Graphic Design Department Head at International Business College.  Kevin has recently had his work featured at The Indiana State Fair and was featured at September's First Friday.

 

What piece did you have displayed at The State Fair?  Tell us a bit about it.

 

The piece I had at the Indiana State Fair was jazz musician 

Cathy Morris.  It was created by using oil on canvas. 

I remember the first time I heard her play I was struck

by her emotion, and that's what I wanted to capture.

When I posted that piece to my Facebook page,

I received more "likes" on it than any other piece 

of art I've ever posted.

 

 

 

How do you balance teaching and creating, and does teaching influence your work? 

 

Balancing teaching with creating can be a challenge.

They are both demanding, but if you don't create,

you're not as effective as an instructor.  You also 

get better as you teach and inspire your students.

If you desire to be a good teacher, it will keep you growing

as an artist.

What role do you feel the artist plays to society? 

 

An artist influences every aspect of society.  Art is a "healer."

Imagine our world without graphics, advertising, fine art,

textile design, etc.

 

 

 

What are your thoughts on the art scene in Indy?

 

The Indy art scene has grown and progressed immensely 

in the past 30 years.  There are plenty of shows and exhibitions,

you just have to get involved.  We still need to educate buyers 

on "why" a piece may cost what is does, and artists need to 

be educated on being "business people."

What type of art do you do?

One of the greatest influences on my art was Norman Rockwell.

He painted everyday people in everyday places and told a story.

I love portraits and figurative art, but I also like drawing and painting

stemware…LOL.

 

 

 

Where do your ideas and inspiration come from?

 

Again, I'm really inspired by people.  My daughters have told me, on

more than one occasion, that I've never met a strange, and that I

can talk with everyone.  I believe everyone has a story to tell,

the question is, do we have time to listen?  I also receive a lot of 

inspiration from the Bible.  It's my hope that my artwork will lift

someone and inspire them to a greater level of living.

 

Tell us a little about your family.

I'm a single dad with two teenage girls….14 and 16.  And, yes...

they are talented in art and music.  My mother could draw extremely

well, although she never pursued it as a career.  My older brother 

also attended the Rhode Island School of Design and was a Senior 

when I was a Freshman.

 

What themes do you pursue in your art?

 

I create work relative to what is going on in society and things 

that I am interested in.  I also create based on the "lift"

or inspiration that I believe society needs.  Most of the 

pieces being shown were individually created and not part 

of a particular series, but I hope they can lift and inspire 

people in a positive way.

 

 

In what positive ways has social media impacted your work?

The greatest thing about social media is how many people

you can now worldwide.  It has definitely made the 

World much smaller and brought more things within our reach.

Where do you create?

 

I've had my studio in my home for years.

I like the tax write off for home/office deduction,

and it keeps me close to my family.

How do feel your art has developed over the past 10 years?

In the past 10 years, my technique has definitely

gotten stronger.  In terms of subject matter for competitions,

it seems like I've developed a better "eye" for what will,

and will not be accepted.  However, I've never met an 

artist who has been guaranteed admission to every 

exhibition he or she has wanted.

 

Where can we see your work?

At the present time, my work can be seen at the 

Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce Building.

320 N. Meridian St. Indianapolis.

You can also view my work online.

 

Where can we find you on social media?

 

Kevin J. Wilson on Facebook

 

I'm also in the process of creating a new webpage.  

 

 www.kevinjwilson.net

 

Local Indianapolis Artist: Christina Hollering

In Indianapolis, we are so blessed to have a phenomenal art scene.  I would like to share with you all a personal side of one of our local artists, Christina Hollering.  She studied at Herron School of Art, graduating in 2012.  She started out in 3D Animation and printmaking and she finished with a degree in painting.  She is very talented and brings a bright, clean, and interesting vibe to the art world.  I spoke with Christina this month and found out a little more of what she thinks of the art scene in Indy and what her day to day life is like.

 

How long have you been an artist?

 

 I’ve been an artist for as long as I can remember. When I was a kid I would spend hours in my room drawing. I tried to quit and flirted with the idea of becoming a marriage counselor but the grief that came from not making was too great.

 

 

 

What/Who inspired you to be an artist?

 

Walt Disney. I use to watch documentaries about him and his films as well as read every book I could find. My dream, as a kid, was to grow up and be a Disney animator. I also remember watching the making of Jason and Argonauts and being fascinated by the claymation and stop motion animation used in the film. I was mesmerized and would spend hours in my room drawing and making my own characters.

 

Is there an artist you relate to?

 

All of them. We all know what it feels like to have the creative drive inside and the deep feeling of grief when too much time has passed between projects. I love how I can visit any museum or gallery in the world and feel as if I’m among friends.

 

Where do you do work?

 

 I share a studio at the Harrison Center for the Arts in downtown Indianapolis. I also have home studio where I produce most of my work since I have two children and have to do most of my work when they are in bed.

 

 

 

What inspires your work?

 

My work is inspired by science fiction and how it is derived from the nature. Many of my ideas come to me during my daily adventures with my kids in the backyard, at the park, at museums or even just watching movies with them. It is inspiring to see the world fresh through their eyes. Kids are always so passionate and inquisitive about things.

 

Do you work from life or from photographs/imagination?

 

 I generally will pick a subject matter and either find a specimen to look at or look up photos online. The compositions, however, come from my imagination.

 

 

 

What do you enjoy about the techniques you use?

 

 The paper cuts and linocuts are similar in that once my image has been planned out and the problem solving is done, my hands are free to carry out the work and I can get into a good flow of just doing. The cutting process is also strangely therapeutic.

 

What is more important on your work: content or technique?

 

 Both.  Although the intricacy of the paper cutting technique seems to dominate the visual dialogue.

 

What would be the most inspiring location in Indy for you?

 

Eagle Creek, the Zoo and the IMA. There is always something different that speaks to me no matter how many times I go.

 

How do you feel about the art scene in Indy? 

 

The Indy art scene is a very open and welcoming community. It's really easy to connect and to find places to show. Not to mention it is constantly growing.

 

 

 

Where are you present on social media?

 

Facebook: Christina Hollering on Facebook

Instagram: Christina Hollering on Instagram

Website: christinahollering.com

 

Christina's studio is at the Harrison Center and is open every First Friday. It is where most of her art is on display. She will also have some work up for the show Paper Route at the Harrison Center. https://www.facebook.com/events/1866902970202383/  and will also be at Rocky Ripple Festival on September 26th.   You can also see her art on display at The Indianapolis Zoo.