Category: Art

Art · Business · Community

Turning your Creative Passions into a Career

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Within this and subsequent articles I will be focusing on my passion for evoking creativity and challenging the ways we live our lives within society. We all have an innate ability to create change; however small or large, within our community. It is up to us to harness our abilities and put them into action in fun and creative ways! For me, there is always more that I’m willing to learn and understand. Hopefully you will get some inspiration from the transcriptions of some of the ideas and concepts I have learned and believe up to this point. Some of you may get inspired, some of you may not. Either way, here it is.

Where does creativity come from? Why are some people more creative than others? Doesn’t it seem like we can start out at a young age being talented in certain creative ways and then we seem to lose that spark as we grow older? What is it that makes us veer away from our childhood passions?

Oftentimes, as we age, the jobs we do, the relationships we build, and the social pressures of life continually break down our innate desire to unleash our creativity. We don’t hear about success stories from the people in our lives directly relating to their creativity or their passions. Our parents and our friends have all gone down the same old path to a sustainable job with the security of a paycheck and benefits. We are urged to do the same. When we follow in these footsteps, we tend to lose sight of the passions and excitement that brought us to life. We oftentimes give up on our creative side before it had a chance to prosper. Ultimately, we live the life that “makes sense” rather than the life that breeds excitement and gets us ready to tackle new challenges.

We all started off as children, insatiably hungry for knowledge. The smallest and most minute details of life seemed fascinating! We began to learn about the animals, the trees, and everything new that surrounded us. Through this, we discovered who we truly were at the core. Some of us gravitated to the sciences, some of us loved to make music, and some of us were inspired by the vastness of the ocean. Whatever we were at our core, we became, by taking in the stimuli from world around us. We were fearless and became passionate about the things we loved. Remember being dropped off at friend’s house and learning everything there was to know about metamorphic rocks by the time your parents picked you up? Your creativity was inspired by everything you came into contact with. One day, you would become an architect, a writer, or maybe even sail around the world studying creatures like the next Charles Darwin. The world was there for the taking and all you had to do was follow your feelings and learn everything there was to know about what you loved.

What happened from that point in time until today, was unnatural. We became influenced by outside sources; act this way, believe in this, or don’t do that. Discouragement came from all angles. “Nobody really makes money selling artwork” or the general notion that “People like us never achieve things like that.” For better or for worse, we change. Growing into adulthood, we carry these limiting beliefs with us into our careers and our families. Over time, we become less and less our genuine, authentic, creative, original selves. We adapt to what the world changes us to become. Like a chameleon, we change to our surroundings instead of letting our surroundings change to us. What we should have done was the opposite. Virgil Abloh said it masterfully when he described a crushed can. He said that if you take that crushed can and put it in a garage, it becomes trash. If you take that same crushed can and put it in a white walled studio, it becomes art. We were always meant to become art, we just forgot we had the power to change our surroundings.

Wouldn’t it be something, if we were able to go back to our passions at childhood and develop a career around them? If we take away all the external influences and limiting beliefs that we were taught as we developed through life, that’s exactly where we would find ourselves. Fearless and eager to master whatever our passions may be. Able to enact change into the world, but not just any world, our world. It’s never too late to do just that.

I have a friend who did just that. He was always the most talented drummer in school. The passion had clearly begun from a young age, where his talents had quickly become apparent to everyone who heard him play. The passion was there, the problem, of course, was life. School and work would inevitably draw him into the creative halt. After school, teeming with tenacity and a continued love for performing he decided to join a band and went on to find mild success; filling nights playing at clubs and bars at night and working his day job during the day. At some point in time, he decided that he was going to figure out a way to combine his love for playing with a career that could both fill his life with drumming and provide a living wage. He decided he was going to do in-home drum lessons. Starting off at the student’s house, he was able to bring in a steady $60/hour, 6 hours a day, 5 days a week while still being able to perform with the band. Coupling his passion for drumming and the creativity to innovate on how to make a career out of doing what he loved, he created a thriving business. Now he has a host of teachers that operate under his business’s umbrella.

The key is to take some time and really think back to that inner core. Who were you, exactly, when you were a child? For me, I was always the kid that loved making everyone happy. I got joy from pushing my brother around in the big wheel car. I didn’t mind not riding in it because I knew how happy he was when he was in the driver’s seat. Today, I come up with creative ways to showcase events, display handmade creations, offer unique vintage treasures, and inspire my team to work creatively. All of which, in turn, inspires me to do more.

The problem that we all face when evoking this notion is that we wonder how we’re possibly going to make a living doing the thing that we once were passionate about. The truth is, there is always a way that we can incorporate our passions into our careers and make a living. In fact, those that do, are rarely miserable, and those that do it authentically, are never without. Throwing away the social stigmas of failure and actively focusing our creative energy is, in fact, what makes us happy.

Success is garnished through the process of building, not the end result. I hope this has inspired you to create.

-Ian Drake, Diversity Consignment

Art

The Power of Human Creation: Art in Society and the Dark Side of AI-Generated Art

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Art has been an integral part of human society since the dawn of civilization. It serves as a mirror reflecting the depth of human emotions, creativity, and cultural evolution. The act of creating art has always been a uniquely human endeavor, a means of expressing our thoughts, emotions, and experiences. However, with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), we are now witnessing the emergence of AI-generated art. In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of human-created art for our society and discuss the potential downsides of AI-generated art.

The Significance of Human-Created Art

  1. Creative Expression and Communication

Art is a powerful medium for individuals to express themselves and communicate their thoughts and feelings. Through paintings, sculptures, music, literature, and various other forms of artistic expression, artists can convey complex emotions, ideas, and messages. Art serves as a bridge between the creator and the audience, enabling an emotional connection that often transcends words.

  1. Cultural Identity and Heritage

Art plays a vital role in preserving and celebrating cultural identity and heritage. Different cultures across the globe have their unique forms of art, which have been passed down through generations. These artistic traditions help communities connect with their roots, maintaining a sense of identity and continuity.

  1. Reflection of Societal Progress

Art often reflects the societal changes and progress made over time. It has been a medium for protest, activism, and social commentary. Artists have historically used their creations to challenge the status quo, advocate for change, and inspire dialogue on important issues. This helps societies evolve and adapt to the ever-changing world.

  1. Personal and Psychological Benefits

Creating and engaging with art has been shown to have numerous personal and psychological benefits. For creators, it can be a therapeutic outlet for emotional expression, stress relief, and personal growth. For audiences, it can be a source of inspiration, relaxation, and even healing.

The Dark Side of AI-Generated Art

While AI-generated art can be fascinating and impressive in its own right, it raises certain concerns and challenges:

  1. Lack of Emotional Depth

AI-generated art, no matter how advanced, lacks the deep emotional connection that comes with human-created art. It can replicate artistic styles and compositions, but it cannot convey the same depth of feeling and emotion that human artists can.

  1. Diminishing Human Creativity

As AI becomes more capable of generating art, there is a concern that it could discourage human artists and diminish the drive for creativity. The fear is that reliance on AI might lead to a decline in the authenticity and uniqueness of artistic expression.

  1. Ethical and Copyright Issues

AI-generated art raises ethical questions about authorship, intellectual property, and copyright. Who should be credited for AI-generated works? How should they be protected? These questions become increasingly important as AI-generated art gains popularity and value.

  1. Loss of Artisan Traditions

AI-generated art might overshadow traditional artisan practices, leading to a loss of cultural heritage and skills that have been passed down for generations. This could have a profound impact on local economies and cultural diversity.

Conclusion

Art is an essential element of human civilization, allowing us to communicate, reflect, and preserve our culture. While AI-generated art has its merits and can be impressive in its own right, it cannot replace the depth of emotion and creativity that human artists bring to their work. It is crucial to recognize the significance of human-created art and to address the potential downsides of AI-generated art in a thoughtful and balanced manner. Ultimately, the coexistence of AI and human artistry may lead to exciting new possibilities and collaborations that enrich our society.

-Ian Drake, Diversity Consignment

Art

Mastering the Art of Pop-Up Sales: A Guide for Artists

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Pop-up art markets have become a popular avenue for artists to showcase their creativity and connect with potential buyers in a unique and intimate setting. Whether you’re a painter, sculptor, photographer, or any other type of artist, pop-up events offer an excellent opportunity to market, promote, and sell your artwork. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the strategies and tips to help you maximize your success at a pop-up art market.

  1. Planning and Preparation

Before you set up your booth at a pop-up art market, careful planning is essential. Here’s how to get started:

a. Choose the Right Event: Research pop-up events in your area and select those that align with your artistic style and target audience.

b. Create a Cohesive Collection: Showcase a curated selection of your artwork that tells a story or follows a theme. This helps create a cohesive and visually appealing display.

c. Set Clear Goals: Define your objectives for the event. Are you looking to sell a certain number of pieces, gain exposure, or build your email list?

d. Pricing Strategy: Determine the pricing of your artwork. Consider factors like materials, time invested, and market demand.

  1. Presentation Matters

The way you present your artwork can make a significant difference in attracting potential buyers:

a. Eye-catching Display: Invest in a visually appealing booth setup that reflects your artistic style. Use professional displays, lighting, and signage.

b. Storytelling: Share the stories and inspiration behind your artwork. People love to connect with the artist and the narrative behind each piece.

c. High-Quality Prints and Reproductions: Offer affordable prints or reproductions of your original artwork for those with smaller budgets.

  1. Marketing and Promotion

Promoting your pop-up event is key to its success:

a. Social Media: Utilize platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to create buzz leading up to the event. Share sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes content, and event details.

b. Collaborate: Partner with other artists or local businesses to cross-promote the event. Joint marketing efforts can expand your reach.

c. Email Marketing: Build an email list and send out newsletters with event details and special offers to your subscribers.

  1. Engagement and Interaction

Engage with visitors to your booth to create a memorable experience:

a. Personal Connection: Interact with potential buyers, answer questions, and share stories about your art. Be approachable and enthusiastic.

b. Live Demonstrations: If possible, consider live art demonstrations. Watching an artist at work can be captivating and draw in a crowd.

c. Collect Contact Information: Have a sign-up sheet or digital QR code to collect visitor information for future marketing efforts.

  1. Payment Options

Make it easy for buyers to make a purchase:

a. Multiple Payment Methods: Accept cash, credit cards, and digital payment options to cater to various preferences.

b. Receipts and Packaging: Provide receipts for purchases and package artwork securely to ensure it arrives in pristine condition.

  1. Follow-Up

Your relationship with customers shouldn’t end at the event:

a. Thank You Notes: Send personalized thank-you notes or emails to customers who made a purchase.

b. Post-Event Promotion: Continue promoting your artwork through social media, email newsletters, and your website.

Conclusion

Pop-up art markets offer a fantastic opportunity to showcase and sell your artwork while connecting with art enthusiasts and potential buyers. With careful planning, an engaging presentation, effective marketing, and follow-up, you can make the most of these events and grow your art business. Remember, it’s not just about selling art; it’s about creating memorable experiences and building lasting relationships with your audience.

-Ian Drake, Diversity Consignment

Art · History

Exploring the Innovative Styles of Rick Owens

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Fashion has always been a dynamic and ever-evolving industry, driven by the creative minds of designers who push the boundaries of what is considered fashionable. One such avant-garde designer who has consistently challenged the norms of fashion is Rick Owens. Known for his dark, edgy, and innovative styles, Rick Owens has carved a niche for himself in the fashion world. In this blog post, we will dive deep into the innovative styles of Rick Owens that have made him a trailblazer in the industry.

The Rebel of Fashion

Rick Owens is often referred to as the “rebel of fashion,” and for good reason. His designs defy traditional fashion aesthetics, favoring asymmetry, drapery, and a dark, otherworldly vibe. One of his signature styles is the use of unconventional fabrics, particularly leather, to create pieces that are both luxurious and subversive. His leather jackets, in particular, are legendary in the fashion world, with their unique cuts and oversized silhouettes setting them apart from the rest.

Minimalism Meets Drama

One of the hallmarks of Rick Owens’ style is his ability to blend minimalism with dramatic flair. While his designs often feature clean lines and a muted color palette, he infuses them with a sense of drama through oversized proportions, asymmetrical hems, and unconventional tailoring. This unique combination of minimalism and drama has made his pieces instantly recognizable.

The Iconic Rick Owens Sneakers

Rick Owens has also made a significant impact on the world of footwear. His collaboration with Adidas resulted in the creation of the iconic Rick Owens Geobasket sneakers. These sneakers feature a high-top silhouette, exaggerated proportions, and unique details like oversized tongues and chunky soles. They became an instant hit among fashion-forward individuals and celebrities alike, solidifying Rick Owens’ status as a trendsetter in the world of sneakers.

Gender-Fluid Designs

Another aspect of Rick Owens’ innovative style is his commitment to gender-fluid fashion. He challenges traditional notions of masculinity and femininity by designing clothing that can be worn by people of all genders. His draped tunics, oversized coats, and avant-garde dresses are not bound by traditional gender norms, allowing individuals to express themselves freely through fashion.

Avant-Garde Runway Shows

Rick Owens’ runway shows are a spectacle in themselves. He often chooses unconventional settings and themes for his shows, creating a surreal and immersive experience for the audience. From staging shows on scaffolding to using models of diverse body types and ages, Owens consistently challenges the industry’s norms and expectations.

Sustainability and Ethical Practices

In recent years, Rick Owens has also embraced sustainability and ethical practices in his designs. He has incorporated eco-friendly materials into his collections and focused on reducing waste in the production process. This commitment to sustainability reflects his willingness to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of the fashion industry.

Conclusion

Rick Owens’ innovative styles have left an indelible mark on the fashion world. His rebellion against traditional norms and his ability to blend minimalism with drama have made him a true trailblazer in the industry. From his iconic leather jackets to his gender-fluid designs, Owens continues to push the boundaries of fashion, inspiring a new generation of designers and fashion enthusiasts to embrace creativity and individuality in their style choices. As the fashion industry continues to evolve, Rick Owens stands as a beacon of innovation and authenticity.

-Ian Drake, Diversity Consignment

Art · Business

Winning Hearts and Selling Art: A Guide to Successful Pop-Up Market Sales

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Pop-up markets provide a fantastic platform for artists to showcase their handcrafted artwork and connect with potential buyers. To make the most of these opportunities, it’s essential not only to have a beautiful product but also to master the art of human connection. Drawing inspiration from Dale Carnegie’s classic book, “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” we’ll explore strategies for successfully selling your handcrafted artwork at pop-up markets while building lasting relationships with customers.

  1. Show a Genuine Interest in Others

Carnegie emphasizes the importance of showing a genuine interest in people, and this principle applies perfectly to the world of selling art. When customers approach your booth, don’t immediately jump into your sales pitch. Instead, start by asking open-ended questions about their interests, preferences, and the kind of art they’re drawn to. This not only helps you understand their needs but also builds rapport.

  1. Smile!

Carnegie’s advice on smiling is timeless. A warm, genuine smile instantly puts people at ease. When customers see you as approachable and friendly, they’re more likely to engage with you and your artwork. So, greet visitors with a warm smile and a friendly “hello” as they approach your booth.

  1. Be a Good Listener

Listening is a crucial aspect of effective communication. While discussing your art, pay close attention to what customers say. If they mention a particular color, theme, or style they like, use that information to guide them towards pieces that match their preferences. People appreciate when they feel heard and understood.

  1. Talk in Terms of the Other Person’s Interest

Carnegie advises us to talk in terms of the other person’s interests, and this is especially relevant when discussing art. If a customer is interested in abstract art, don’t lead with your landscape paintings. Instead, show them your abstract pieces first and then transition to other styles if they express curiosity. Tailoring your conversation to their preferences makes the buying experience more personal.

  1. Make the Customer Feel Important

One of Carnegie’s core principles is to make people feel important, and this can be achieved in various ways at a pop-up market:

a. Remember and use customers’ names when you can. b. Give them your full attention. c. Compliment their taste and choices. d. Offer them exclusive deals or early access to new artworks.

  1. Let the Customer Do Most of the Talking

Encourage customers to share their thoughts, feelings, and desires related to art. By actively listening and allowing them to express themselves, you create a memorable experience. Remember, people love to talk about their interests, so use this to your advantage in building connections.

  1. Be Sincere and Honest

Authenticity is key in both Carnegie’s principles and art sales. Never exaggerate or make false claims about your artwork. Instead, be honest about your creative process, materials, and inspiration. People appreciate transparency and are more likely to trust you as a seller.

  1. Show Your Appreciation

Carnegie advises expressing genuine appreciation, and this is vital in the world of art sales. When someone purchases your artwork, express your gratitude with a handwritten thank-you note or a small token of appreciation. This personal touch not only delights customers but also encourages them to return or refer others.

Conclusion

Selling handcrafted artwork at pop-up markets is not just about making sales; it’s about building relationships and creating a positive experience for your customers. By embracing Dale Carnegie’s timeless principles from “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” you can successfully sell your art while fostering meaningful connections with art enthusiasts. Remember to be genuine, attentive, and respectful, and your pop-up market endeavors will undoubtedly flourish.

-Ian Drake, Diversity Consignment

Art · History

Virgil Abloh: A Revolutionary Force Shaping the Fashion Industry

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The fashion industry has always been a melting pot of creativity, innovation, and self-expression. Over the years, countless designers have left an indelible mark on the world of fashion, but few have had an impact as profound and transformative as Virgil Abloh. As a visionary creative, entrepreneur, and artist, Abloh’s influence had transcended the traditional boundaries of fashion, redefining the way we perceive and interact with clothing. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the remarkable journey of Virgil Abloh and explore how his unique perspective has revolutionized the fashion industry.

A Multifaceted Genius

Virgil Abloh, born in 1980 in Rockford, Illinois, emerged as a polymath in the realms of architecture, design, and music before he solidified his position in the fashion world. Trained as an architect and engineer, Abloh’s approach to fashion is deeply rooted in his diverse background. This multidisciplinary perspective gave birth to a unique fashion philosophy that blurred the lines between streetwear and luxury, urban culture, and high art, democratizing and elevating fashion in unprecedented ways.

Breaking Barriers in Streetwear

One of the most significant contributions Virgil Abloh has made to the fashion industry is his redefinition of streetwear. He co-founded the streetwear brand Off-White in 2012, which quickly gained a cult following for its minimalist aesthetics and distinctive use of industrial-inspired motifs. Abloh’s genius lay in his ability to blend street culture with high fashion, appealing to a new generation of consumers seeking authenticity and individuality.

The Off-White brand became a cultural phenomenon, with its iconic diagonal stripes and quotation marks becoming instantly recognizable symbols of contemporary streetwear. Virgil’s clever use of irony and self-awareness in his designs connected with the millennial and Gen Z mindset, reflecting their desire for authenticity and inclusivity in the fashion world.

The Louis Vuitton Era

In 2018, Virgil Abloh achieved another groundbreaking milestone in his career when he was appointed the artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s men’s wear. This marked the first time an African-American designer was given such a prominent role in a luxury fashion house, breaking down barriers and opening doors for diversity and representation within the industry.

With his artistic vision, Abloh brought a fresh and youthful energy to the storied fashion house while preserving its heritage. He seamlessly integrated elements of streetwear into Louis Vuitton’s traditional designs, injecting a modern edge into the brand’s collections. This bold move not only revitalized the brand’s appeal among younger consumers but also showcased Abloh’s ability to bridge the gap between the worlds of luxury and street culture.

Championing Diversity and Inclusivity

Virgil Abloh’s impact on the fashion industry goes beyond his design aesthetics. As an African-American creative, he had been a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusivity within the fashion world. By occupying prominent roles in luxury fashion houses and collaborating with brands that celebrate diversity, he had become a driving force in pushing the industry toward greater representation and social awareness.

Through his work, Abloh has shown that fashion can be a powerful platform for raising awareness about social issues and advocating for change. His collections have often featured themes related to racial equality, climate change, and gender fluidity, encouraging dialogue and inspiring other designers to use their platforms for positive impact.

Conclusion

Virgil Abloh’s journey from an architect to a cultural icon in the fashion industry is a testament to his boundless creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. His unique approach to design, which blends streetwear with luxury fashion and embraces diversity and inclusivity, has had a profound influence on the fashion landscape. Through his work at Off-White and Louis Vuitton, Abloh had challenged conventions, broken barriers, and set new standards for the industry.

RIP Virgil

-Ian Drake, Diversity Consignment

Art · History

Fashion Trends and Influence: 1970s

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The 1970s were a decade of significant change in fashion. The fashion trends of the 1970s were influenced by various cultural, political, and social factors that made the styles of the era unique and iconic. The 70s saw the rise of the hippie and disco culture, which had a significant influence on the styles seen from day to day worn by both adults and younger teens. I have done some research and compiled a list of some of the top trends of 70s style and where the influence arose. 

Hippie Culture and Fashion

The hippie movement of the 1960s continued into the early 1970s. The hippie style was characterized by free-flowing garments, tie-dye prints, and a bohemian vibe. The styles were made up of maxi dresses, peasant blouses, flared jeans, and fringed vests. The colors were often earthy and muted, with a lot of browns, greens, and oranges.

Disco Culture and Fashion

The 1970s also saw the emergence of disco culture, which influenced fashion trends in a different way. Disco culture was all about dancing, and the clothes reflected that. The style was characterized by shiny fabrics, metallics, and lots of glitter. The disco style was made up of jumpsuits, bell-bottom pants, and wrap dresses. The colors were often bright and bold, with a lot of blues, pinks, and purples.

Influence of Pop Culture

The decade saw the rise of iconic celebrities such as Farrah Fawcett, Cher, and John Travolta, who all had their signature looks that were emulated by many. Farrah Fawcett’s feathered hairstyle and bell-bottom jeans became a fashion trend, while Cher’s daring and revealing outfits inspired many fashion designers.

Influence of Politics

The political climate of the 1970s also had an influence on fashion trends. The feminist movement was gaining momentum, and women’s fashion was becoming more androgynous. The power suit emerged as a symbol of women’s liberation, and shoulder pads became a fashion trend. The anti-war movement also influenced fashion trends, with many people opting for military-inspired clothing such as fatigue jackets and cargo pants.

Influence of Technology

The 1970s also saw the emergence of new fabrics and materials. Synthetic materials such as polyester became popular, and clothing was often made with bright, bold prints. The use of technology in fashion also led to the creation of stretchy fabrics such as spandex, which were used in disco clothing. Materials otherwise unseen in popular culture.

In Conclusion

As you can see, the fashion trends of the 1970s were influenced by various cultural, political, and social factors that made the styles of the era unique and iconic! The hippie and disco cultures, pop culture, politics, and rise in synthetic technology all contributed in various ways to hit the mainstream. The fashion trends of the 1970s continue to inspire fashion designers and are still popular today.

Tell us about your favorite fashion trends from the 70s…or maybe some that should remain history 🙂

-Ian Drake, Diversity Consignment

Art · Business · Community · Uncategorized

Why is Gender Neutral Clothing Important?

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Listen people, it’s 2022. Clothing really has no business being gender specific! Taking a look at the newest fashion lines coming out will give you a perfect example of clothing androgyny and the progression we have made in the past couple decades.

In today’s article I’m going to explain why gender neutral clothing is important. I will cover freedom of expression, some of the challenges with gender neutral lines, the stigma, and where I think the future lies.

This is not an article forcing you to wear gender-neutral clothing or to make you, as a woman, dress like a man or vice versa. It is only my opinion based on what I have seen during my time in the clothing industry and an alignment of what our store Diversity Consignment believes in within our core mission.

Freedom of expression

Freedom of expression can be defined as : You have the right to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of your choice without interference and regardless of frontiers.

I will define freedom of expression within the clothing industry as the following : The ability to express oneself freely, without restraints, and voluntarily, through the clothing you choose to dawn regardless of specific constraints. Side note: I am not a proponent of blatant disregard for the sensitivities of specific cultures or the use of historical garments for appropriation.

Freedom of expression, especially within the confinement of the United States is a beautiful thing that should be embraced. One of the simplest ways to express oneself is through the clothing that one wears. Want to dress in Crayola colors? Go for it! Want to wear a plaid skirt with Dr. Marten boots? I say, you better take a picture and send it to us so we can promote it!

Clothing should not have gender constraints. They take away the very principle of freedom of expression that has been founded.

Challenges with clothing binarity

One of the major difficulties a lot of men, in particular, may find when clothing shopping in a gender neutral environment is sizing constraints. You see a cute skirt that you want to try on, but find out that the sizing is only constrained to XXS-L in “women’s” sizing. As a 6’4″ 240lb guy that can be a real challenge! What are the options out there?

The same can be said for women. The clothing companies do not take into consideration body shapes, differences, and tastes. There should be no reason why a skirt is not manufactured for men’s bodies as well as women’s. In fact, men have historically worn skirts as well as heels!

The simple fact is this — people come in all shapes, sizes, and with different interests. It’s time for retailers to embrace this.

Stigma

Another major challenge within the retail world is the stigma. It is challenging for opposing sexes to find a comfortable space where they can shop in the “other” section. There is a lot of separation between areas; men’s and women’s. When the general population sees a man in the women’s section they tend to do a lot of gawking and staring. That is super uncomfortable for that individual. The same can be said for women in the “men’s” section.

As we progress as a society, I must say, this is becoming less of an issue in specific geographical areas. The fact still remains that the stigma is continuously a huge issue that deserves recognition. Living in a diverse community of NYC will show a big difference in the stigma than an area in rural America. That is unfair for individual freedom of expression.

I want to explain a little bit about how clothing styles and sexuality corelate. They Don’t! Just because a man finds a certain blouse nice, does not mean that man is gay. If they are, great! Just because a woman is wearing a Carhartt top with Timberland boots does not mean that they are gay. It is simply an expression of taste through style. Period. Regardless, it’s honestly none of your business anyway so why should you even care??

The future of clothing androgyny

I, for one, am hopeful for the future of clothing and the elimination of stigma and judgement. I have already witnessed lines of bags and accessories that positively embrace gender neutrality. Many of the lines on the runway for 2022 showcase femme skirts on men as well as wide-leg “dad jeans” on women.

I am hopeful that more gender neutral environments will be opening up that decrease the divide. I really am not trying to be political in this article, as I believe that politics have nothing to do with freedom of expression and the comforts that should come with the concept.

We, at Diversity Consignment openly embrace gender neutrality and focus on creating a comfortable environment where men, women, and non-binary individuals can express themselves freely without judgement. I cannot tell you the amount of times I have seen burly, bearded men (prototypical essences of masculinity) trying on a dress and KILLING IT. I hope that we can continue in a progressive direction where everyone feels comfortable as a society.

-Much Love, Ian Drake – Diversity Consignment

Art · Business

How To Make Money As An Artist

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“There’s no point in seeking out an art degree.” “You’re wasting your time and our money!” “Yeah she’s hopefully going to get a good college experience, we’re not expecting it to become her actual career.”

The Advice

These are all typical things you’ve been told by your parents, teachers, or friends at some point during your life if you’ve ever been interested in pursuing a degree in the arts. It can honestly seem like a waste of time trying to convince people around you that this is something you’re passionate about and that you can make money pursuing.

If you’ve ever been feeling this way or have been told you should feel this way, read on my friend because I’m going to prove that you CAN make money being a freelance artist/creator and prove all the nay-sayers wrong!

Now I should note, I am not a professional artist nor do I personally have an art degree but I do know the art of creating and selling and there are certain principles that span over different facets of art.

Specialize

The key is to become a specialist. The same thing applies in whatever style of creating/selling or buying/selling you decide to take leadership and ownership of. When you specialize in one particular area or niche, you become an expert at that particular skill. This could be anything from painting landscapes, drawing graffiti art, or carving wooden sculptures. Just know that the old adage, “A jack of all trades” is almost always followed by “A master of none.” Use this to your advantage and focus solely on creating one unique specialized form.

You have to understand that when it comes to art there is a lot of competition out there. Why would a gallery or storefront give their precious space up to you vs. someone else? The answer is simple: YOU are the best at x*.

Take a look at @itsasign by Keith Henderson on IG to get an idea of specializing. He’s an artist who has honed his skills into making custom window splashes for business window displays. An excellent example of how to make doing what you love into a business and monetizing it.

Use Online Selling Platforms To Your Advantage

In today’s day and age, selling direct to consumer is as easy as creating an Etsy account or even a business IG page. Use these platforms to your advantage! They can be especially advantageous when you have mastered point number one, “Specialize”. First of all, people love buying handmade and custom made things from Etsy. It gives you a feeling of wow this was made just for me! It works out even better when it comes to gifts for people’s birthdays and holidays. Making your art customizable for people to buy as gifts is a huge advantage to being able to do what you love to create and make some money doing it.

Yes I know, Etsy takes a fee but trust me when I say that everything comes with a price. At least you’re putting your work out there to thousands of eyes who wouldn’t have seen it previously! I will probably do a more detailed post about how to create an Etsy page in a separate article.

As far as selling on IG goes or creating your own website, this too is a good way to sell products or gain a solid following. I would avoid posting only “product” posts on IG (especially on the feed) and post more about how it’s made or something funny like blooper reels. Take a look at @madeinthemoment on Instagram for an example.

Remember, IG or Tiktok are social apps and people will be lulled to sleep on your page if they don’t see anything entertaining. GET CREATIVE! IT’S WHAT YOU’RE GOOD AT!

Instead, use IG or tiktok as a funneling tool to get people to click on your website or Etsy shop. The integration is awesome and powerful. Once you’ve gained a substantial following of people who love what you create, you can funnel them right into your site! Offer special coupons or call to action incentives for people who order from you directly.

We (@diversityconsign) sell our products directly through our story page on IG. We take venmo payments for holds and ship things out for an extra fee.

On The Road

Now that you have your social apps working to your advantage, it’s time to get the word out there. You can try and wait it out and spend your time twiddling your thumbs until word of mouth spreads or you can get yourself in the drivers seat and spread the word yourself!

Start by researching and getting involved with outdoor or indoor markets. They’re typically affordable (small start up costs) $50-100 and they can be great for exposure if you find one in a busy part of the city! I know for example @neoopenmarkets has a few in our local area of Boston! But if you do your research, you’ll definitely be able to find some near you.

You’re going to need a few basic things; a canvas tent, a foldable table, a card processor, table cloth and be prepared to have some products ready and available! Make the investment! Bring some business cards to hand out that can direct people back into your funnel and be ready to talk people’s ear off about who you are and what you do! Be prepared to spend some weekends traveling and waking up early.

If you’re an artist you’re going to want to make some prints available of your originals. Trust me, most people do not carry hundred of dollars on them during pop-up markets and are less likely to buy originals and carry them around. Use your social skills to tell them about where they can find your originals for sale.

Get your products in as many stores and local businesses that will take them. From a small business perspective, we love the feeling of helping someone gain exposure. Even if your art doesn’t get purchased in the store, you should have an artist bio made up letting shoppers know who you are and where they can find more of your products!

Conclusion

I know you want to spend your time creating new products but you need to remember that you’re trying to make some money here as well. Turning your art into a business is extremely time consuming and involved. That’s why only a small number of people actually succeed in transforming “doing what they love” into a sustainable career! You’re going to need to spend a lot of your time focusing on marketing yourself and creating a need for your work. That’s what separates the dreamers from the doers.

I would recommend watching YouTube tutorials and reading educational books on business regularly. After all, that’s what we’re really here to do right? Prove the nay-sayers wrong and show them that you can make a career making art and more importantly doing what you love!

Leave a comment down below and let us know if you think this information was helpful! -Much Love- …Ian Drake, Diversity Consignment.