A call for book ideas

Dear Karin,

I think that the advice you received from North Light was dispensed with an eye toward what is selling right now; trends go in and out. I'm glad you are undaunted.

For a publisher such as North Light, how about a book such as this:

"How to Paint Portraits in the Style of the Old Masters"

Readers who already bought the Joseph Sheppard book, "How to Paint Like the Old Masters," would want a copy ... readers who want to paint a portrait would want a copy. Still other readers who already know your work would want a copy in hopes of discovering the process that gives your portraits that quiet, timeless look.

For a publisher with an audience that has already accumulated basic painting knowledge, have you considered something like this:

"Customizing the Portrait"

to discuss: using personal objects, flowers, lettering, poses, etc., to give portraits a "signature look" that still reflects the personality of the client; discerning the palette and painting approach to support that "signature look"; marketing oneself as a painter with a unique style.

I've admired your work ever since I saw your portrait of Zabie Nields reproduced in a magazine a few years ago. I'm very sorry to hear that business has had a downturn, but here's hoping that there will be a silver lining of new opportunities. It would be a wonderful treat to have a book from you.

Best wishes,
Brie

[Karin Wells]

Thanks for your encouragement Brie. I think that you have made some good suggestions and I will indeed do something....but I don't know what....yet.

My experience has shown that the classical school of painting can be studied without having a special "talent." The only condition is a passionate desire to learn and a little patience...

Alexai Antonov said this and the only thing I would add to it is "...AND SOME GOOD SOLID INSTRUCTION."

[SB Wang]

See you in Beijing:
I've seen books by Sanden and other SOG members in bookstores of Beijing. Hope to see yours soon.

[Mary Sparrow]

Cynthia and Karin,
You BOTH need to publish a book!

Cynthia, All you have to do is look at how many members you have and know that that would be the BARE minimum you would sell right off the bat. WE ALL want to know how to sell work. Or at least I would think we do. PLEASE? pretty please?

[Michele Rushworth]

Cynthia, I second what Mary has said. I imagine you are even busier now though, than when you wrote that post back in 2002.

I, for one, would gladly pay for your stream-of-consciousness, unedited wisdom on portrait marketing and administration. Perhaps a CD with simple word documents on it could be put together and sold directly to SOG members?