I have attended several international art fairs abroad, but this is my first time experiencing one in Vietnam - and also my first Hotel Art Fair. Yes, you read that right: an art fair held in hotel bedrooms, not in conference rooms or hotel lobbies. This is a rising trend in the art market, with its own unique advantages and challenges.
Much like the vibrant poinsettia flower, have you ever wondered about the meaning behind the baubles and decorations adorning the Christmas tree?
The Christmas tree is more than just a radiant centerpiece of the festive season - it holds profound stories within each decoration. The shimmering baubles, the star at the top, the tinsel, and other ornaments all carry messages of love, hope, and faith. Let’s dive into the stories behind these decorations and discover why the Christmas tree always brings warmth and a sense of sacredness whenever the holiday season arrives.
I had never given much thought to the meaning of the poinsettia until I sat down to paint it. Many of us are familiar with the flower’s significance in Vietnamese folklore, but what about this radiant bloom that has become a beloved symbol of Christmas in Western culture? Interestingly, its association with the holiday season is not as ancient as one might think. It began only in the early 19th century when the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico, Joel Roberts Poinsett, discovered the plant and introduced it to the world. The name Poinsettia, which we use today, honors his legacy.
Varnishing is one of the most important finishing steps for acrylic paintings, but many artists and collectors are unsure whether or how to do it. Varnishing offers multiple benefits: it protects the painting from dust, UV rays, and environmental damage, while also enhancing the artwork’s visual appeal. Whether you’re new to varnishing or looking to refine your technique, this detailed step-by-step guide will show you how to varnish an acrylic painting properly for long-lasting results.
Like many artists, I have faced this choice, and I have found that there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Varnishing or not is entirely a matter of personal preference and collector preference, as well as practical considerations for preserving the work of art.
