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Magazine Review: Debut Issue of Artists & Makers Winter 2015

Artists & Makers
Editor Jeannnine Stein explains in her editor's letter that the goal of this exciting new magazine is to “be that friend, that peer, who will guide you through the rough spots, help you celebrate the victories, and inspire you to achieve your wildest dreams” in today's atmosphere where supporting art and handmade goods is the right thing to do.

As I began my first-pass perusal of Artists & Makers I was struck by the incredible information in just the ads! I viewed full-color ads about arts and crafts; things I will probably never do, but are nonetheless inspiring.  These are some examples:  “next steps in painting with fire, video on binding custom books, a mixed media art retreat; and a coffee table book about art studios; and that is just from the first 8 pages!

"Gustavo Victor Golar: Carving His Own Path"
As I continued to delve into the content of the articles, there was exciting insight to share.
I chose one article to share an in-depth summary because of my interest in Social Media: “Working the Network" by Grace Dobush, author of The Crafty Superstar Ultimate Craft Business Guide. She offers this, “As makers we are our own brand so it is important to keep our personal and business presence separate on social media while still letting our personalities shine through. Pure marketing/sales posts don’t create loyalty; fans want to see what you are working on or inspired by. Let photos do the talking; and that is good news if you are not a writer. Focus on networks where your fans are. Keep your social network accounts active. Use tools such as Hootsuite (hootesuite.com) and Buffer (bufferapp.com) to work smart not hard.”

The Social Life: "Working the Network" by Grace Dobush
Each issue is divided into 3 sections: Artist Features, The Goods and Findings. Although the content is quite varied and shared across many genres, you will find the well-written articles of interest whether or not they directly address your particular niche. The featured artists are professional, successful and inspiring; and everyone can benefit from knowledge like how to keep going when you get stuck or reach an impasse or how to avoid “copping out” as a starving artist.

Art Coach: "Getting Unstuck" by Mary Edwards
Richly presented in full color, I highly recommend, Artists and Makers; it is brought to you by Interweave/F+W and costs $9.99 per issue. I have issues to give away to 3 lucky winners. It's easy! Just follow my blog by inserting your email; and then email a confirmation to me that you've done so.





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Stephanie B. said…
I do follow your blog and I love what you've done with it Purple is my fave color!

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