Why an artist?
There is a certain freedom for me when I paint. I put on music (my iPod these days) and tune out the world, as I enter another one full of colors and images that I create. I attempt with each creation to evoke which ever emotion that calls to me at the time. If someone views my art and evokes their own emotion from it, than I have accomplished my goal.
Why do you paint fantasy?
I have always loved fantasy and the idea that what the human eye sees is not all that exists in this world. Fantasy has allowed me to tap into those worlds and bring them to life.
How do you come up with your ideas?
Ideas are all around me. Most often I find inspiration in books, music and sometimes in simple phrases that randomly pop into my mind.
Do you paint just fantasy/fairy art?
While fantasy and the world of the fey are my first love. I am also passionate about children's book illustration. In the Fall of 2008 my first children's book illustrations will be released in a wonderful story written by Jennifer Lazinsk. My own children's fairy book will follow--written and illustrated by me. I have also been commissioned for a few more children's books that will be published in the coming year. I am a proud member of The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.
Do you take commissions?
Yes. Take a look at my commission page.
Do you license any of your artwork? If so to whom?
I do license my artwork for use on quality products. Please feel free to contact me at giovanna@artofgiovanna.com if you are interested in discussing licensing my artwork. I am currently licensed with: Ellen Million Graphics, Stab and Stash, Candles Enchanted, Mystic Memories, Mystical Art and coming soon Coriale Enterprises.
Do you offer your products for wholesale?
Wholesale orders are welcome! Prints from The Art of Giovanna are available to eligible retailers and resellers at wholesale prices. There is a minimum order amount, and your tax ID number will be required. Please feel free to contact AOG at giovanna@artofgiovanna.com for additional pricing and ordering information.
What do you use to paint?
Mostly watercolor, although you'll find, digital paintings and pencil in my galleries. For the digital paintings I use Photoshop and a Wacom tablet. As for the watercolors, I use Windsor-Newton cake and tube paints. I love using Arches 300 lb watercolor paper in cold press. However I recently began experimenting with Arches 300 in a hot press texture.
How big are your paintings?
Watercolors can be anywhere from 8x10 inches to 12x16 inches. I tend to get bored with a piece if I work on it for too long, so I do not like to go very large. My digital paintings I do at about 300ppi 8x10 inches.
How long does it take you to finish a painting?
My watercolor paintings can take anywhere from a couple of hours to many months. It depends greatly on the size and complexity of the image.
Will You Personalize my Piece?
Sure. Just email me your request. If you have commissioned me for a painting, I'll say whatever you'd like on your piece: "Happy Birthday", a personal quote, whatever you'd like! I will also sign prints.