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This summer is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and meaningful seasons of my artistic career. I’ve been applying to art shows across the West—each one in a beautiful location, each one filled with its own unique energy and community. Some I’ve been accepted into (which is always such an honor), and others I’m still waiting to hear back from. But no matter the outcome, this season is about more than just getting into shows—it’s about growth, connection, and stepping o

In a world filled with mass-produced décor and prints that can be purchased with a click, original art stands apart. When you buy an original painting, you’re not just filling a space on a wall—you’re investing in something meaningful, personal, and lasting. For many collectors, the value of original art goes far beyond its price tag. Original Art Is One of a Kind Unlike prints or factory-made wall décor, an original painting exists only once. The brushstrokes, the texture of

Why I Choose Oil Paint Over Acrylic As an artist, I’ve spent years working in both acrylic and oil paint. Acrylic was my foundation — the medium where I learned to experiment, take risks, and build confidence. It has incredible advantages, and I still value everything it taught me. But over time, I found myself reaching more and more for oil paints. There’s something about oil — the way it moves, the way it blends, the way it stays alive on the canvas — that continues to pull

There comes a point in every artist’s journey when the kitchen table just isn’t enough. For years, I painted wherever I could find space — spare corners, shared rooms, temporary setups that had to be cleaned up at the end of the day. It worked… until it didn’t. I needed something more permanent. More intentional. I needed a space that was fully mine. So I built one. Not hired out. Not assembled. Built. By me. Why I Needed My Own Studio Oil painting requires space — physically

Amber Hansen is more than just a painter; she’s a storyteller. Her studio, nestled right here in Rapid City, is a treasure trove of original paintings inspired by the natural beauty and culture of the area. What makes her work stand out is the way she blends realism with a touch of impressionism, creating pieces that feel both familiar and new. Walking into her studio feels like stepping into a gallery where every canvas has a story to tell. From the rolling hills to the icon

Something shifted in me recently. I realized that if I really wanted to grow my art business—not just dream about it, but truly build it—I had to get serious. That didn’t mean losing my creative freedom or becoming a robot to a calendar. It meant finding a way to give my ideas structure, direction, and the space they deserve. With a busy household, four kids, and a lot of responsibilities, I’ve often found myself trying to squeeze in art whenever I can. But the truth is, ar