We started off May with one of our best shows, Texas Frightmare Weekend in Dallas, Fort Worth. One of my all time favorite Horror Conventions, Frightmare did not disappoint. Sales were a little down from last year, but still above average.

2 Weeks later, we were off on our 2 week long trip to the Midwest. Denver Comic Con and Phoenix Comicon. Driving through Utah to Colorado was beautiful trip. I love to show rather than tell, so here are a bunch of photos from the road:

And our table and booth Setups at both shows:

At Phoenix Comicon I got to work on quite a bit of commissions. These were drawings of some of the TV actors that were guests at the show. Summer Glau as River Tam from Serenity, Lexa Doig from Andromeda , Alyson Hannigan as Willow from Buffy, Katee Sackhoff as Sarbuck from Battlestar Galectica, Charisma Carpenter as Cordelia Chase from Buffy and Danielle Panabaker as Caitlin Snow from The Flash:

The post May Shows Recap appeared first on Diana Levin Art.

I meant to have a new blog post in January, but after doing Knott’s and going to see family, I was a bit worn out to be honest. But that is neither here nor there, I have a few shows coming up soon, plus working on new art along with commissions. Without further ado, let us begin with some shows.

Long Beach Comic Expo is coming up on February 28 and March 1st at the Long Beach Convention Center. I love doing show and hope to see everyone there.

Then it is off to do the 3rd Annual Spook Show on March 7th at the Halloween Club in La Mirada. I did this show last year and had a blast; great music, horror, and food.Finally I will be ending March with two big shows. First up is Monsterpalooza on March 27th-29th at the Marriott Burbank Hotel and Convention Center. Well I won’t be there, but Shawn will be there representing me. So please stop by and say hello to him.And the reason I won’t be there is because I shall be going to Emerald City Comicon on March 27th-29th for my second year at the Washington State Convention Center. I had an amazing time last year and can’t wait to go back, maybe this time I will get a chance to look around. Now for a quick look at a new piece I have of a dark fairy with wings and horns. She playfully sits on a stone block in front of a doorway. Is she here to stop you from entering or to entice you to your doom? Available as a print at my store.That is it for now, I am off to pack up for the shows. Take care and keep creating.

–Diana

The post Short blog to let you know I am alive… appeared first on Diana Levin Art.

Hiding behind the tower of mini prints.

This has been on my mind for awhile and on the long road trip I had more time to think about it. The business has grown so much in the past couple of years and the direction I want to take it has altered slightly too. The upcoming year there will be some changes, expanding products offered, a book in the works (Shawn get back to writing!), plus some creative, weird stuff from Shawn (I said get back to writing!), along with first and foremost a change in the name of the business.

There are many reasons for the name change, some minor, but  the major one has been growth. I use to share a six foot table with my friend Koko Candles and now I can barely contain everything on an eight foot table, much less a six foot table (which is why I am exploring having booths at certain cons next year). This rapid rate of growth could not have happened without someone very special in my life, Shawn. He has been supportive of me through all of this; he has given me creative ideas, does a lot of grunt work for me, and as he says his official title is, Lifter of Heavy Things. He is very much my partner in this business and I am appreciative of his contributions to the growth of it.

Shawn thinks he is in the new Mad Max movie.

So on a long trip through the desert night of Arizona, Shawn and I started kicking around different names… some good, some hilariously bad. During the banter we had going back and forth it got me thinking; I love the darker side of things and Shawn loves horror (he always disappears from the booth during horror cons to spend money), and we always seem to be on the road lately. The name crystallized in my mind and it just seemed so appropriate. Without further ado I present the new name of the business…

Gypsy Ghouls

This will not be an immediate transition, so Diana Levin Art will still exist. I will still be creating new art and jewelry to have at the shows as these will be the cornerstone of the business as it expands.

More dark things to come…

And finally lest I forget to thank the people who also have made this growth possible, the fans of my art. Thank you so much for your support and love, I could not do it without all of you.

Keep dreaming and creating…

–Diana

The post Times are a changing (along with the name)… appeared first on Diana Levin Art.

Introducing Cheshire Cat personalized stationary note cards from my Alice in Wonderland art series. I am now offering stationary and personalized stuff in my Etsy store.
This set comes with 4 note cards. They are printed on high quality archival heavyweight paper. 5.5″ x 8.5″ in size. Use the notes to write down recipes, letters to friends, thank you notes and anything else you can think off.

The post Cheshire Cat Personalized Stationary Note Cards appeared first on Diana Levin Art.

If you are looking for some unique goods in Los Angeles, Co-op 28 Handmade is the place to visit. This fantastic boutique is filled with an amazing collection of handmade products from local artists and artisans.
I have some of my own Gothic fantasy jewelry in there myself. Come support your local handmade small businesses!

Proudly representing over 115 local, national and international artisans, Co-op 28 is an eclectic unisex co-operative boutique selling jewelry, clothing, accessories, bath and body products, infant and child’s wear, pillows, candles and many more original, one of a kind gifts located on Vermont Ave. in the heart of Los Feliz. Our merchandise is all handmade or produced by independent designers from around the world, brought to you in a warm and inviting space.

They are located at: 1728 N. Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, California 90027

The post LA Boutiques: Co-op 28 Handmade & Vintage appeared first on Diana Levin Art.

Like with every artist, my brain sometimes gets plagued by a disease called self-doubt. Sometimes it’s so subtle that i barely realize what is happening. Symptoms might include comparing myself to other artists, procrastination and hiding out from the world. We all experience it from time to time, even the best of us. I just have to remind myself that thoughts in my head are not real and self doubt is only natural when confronted with pressure to perform.

So how do you treat self-doubt? Put down your phone, shut off facebook and stop looking at other people’s artwork. Go to your studio and start working. Throw yourself into your art. You will have terrible paintings. But with every 3 bad paintings, you will create that one good one. We all have those bad paintings that we don’t show anyone. Bad paintings are a sign that you are taking risks and pushing yourself beyond whats comfortable. If you never have any bad paintings, you are not challenging yourself enough. Let yourself evolve. Take risks, fail miserably and be extraordinary.

Now that I’m taking a stab at Ebay, I’m committed to posting something new everyday. So today I posted Fox Spirit Animal, a little ACEO original painting. I have been painted on mini canvas for a while and wanted to see how they do on Ebay. They are quick and fun to make.

Next I relisted a pendant on Etsy.

Cute Baby Unicorn Heart Glass Pendant

Cute Baby Unicorn Fantasy Jewelry -HEART GLASS PENDANT is a lovely necklace perfect all of those who love of beautiful mythological creatures. Show off your unicorn pride.The Baby unicorn has a little ladybug perched on his rear. He is looking intently at the insect and I wonder what he is thinking. Set against a hot pink background. The glass cameo pendant is set in a 1″ x 1″ antique bronze heart shaped bezel. 3 Colors are available to choose from: Green, Hot Pink and Light Violet. It comes with a Antique inspired bronze chain. The chain is 24″ in length but can easily be adjusted to any length.

Selling Art on Ebay; Is it worth it? Is it possible to make any money? These are the questions I want to answer. I remember about 5 or 6 years ago I tried selling on Ebay. I dreamed of making a living off my art by selling artwork online.  I remember selling 2 original drawings and a few prints. I got frustrated because I kept making new listings but could not seem to sell anymore. Deciding that it was not that market for me, I stopped and did not try again until much later. Throughout the years I have attempted to step into the Ebay world from time to time only to get discouraged by seeing so many talented artists selling their originals for pennies. Who can compete with that? Certainly not me.

Now I know what they were doing. It seems that the success to selling original art on Ebay ( art sold directly from the artist, not a well known artist),  is by starting off with horrendously low prices. Than eventually when you start growing a following, getting your name out there, yada yada,  you can steadily raise the prices as the market value for your art increases. Now that makes sense, right? By that time you have people hooked.

I am curious again. If had stuck it out with Ebay for a while longer, stubbornly listing artwork over and over with cheaper prices and being patient that someone would finally get interested, would I be able to eventually make sales and carve out a niche for myself? I hear of artists who have done just that. They were persistent and eventually it paid off. So I’m wondering that perhaps I might give it one more chance and allow for more time before making any decisions about it.

So to make this fun, I decided to think of this as an experiment or even a game. Already I have subscribed to a basic store and I will fill it up with originals over time. Every day I will paint something new and post a new piece. Most of my paintings are going to be small, simple and super affordable. At the same time I will research the market and see which artists are successful and why.

Today I listed a 6″ x 8″ painting of a cherry blossom tree. It is very simple as you can tell, yet hopefully striking enough for someone to find a spot for it on their wall. The auction starts at only $20 and the buyout price is $30.  It is definitely a different brand of art than what I have been turning out so far. However, I have been meaning to experiment with more of a decorative new age style. It was fun to make.

Do you like mermaids? Check out these cute products from my Society 6 store:

No matter what Valentine’s Day means to you, whether going on a day with your honey or spending a singles night out with your best single friends, celebrate the day of love this this cute cat print.

Love Cats Valentine’s Day Art Print is a lovely piece for a perfect Valentine’s Day Gift. Give to someone you love or even to yourself. The cat like creatures are a bit creepy, starring out with big dark eyes and heart shaped noses.But they are also super cute…and pink!!!

Introducing Fiendish Bettie. Bettie Girl is both Cute and edgy. Inspired by Bettie Page and pinup art, this cutie is sure to win your heart. The girl is wearing red dress with a flower in her hair. The little vixen is even holding a whip. Set against a pink pinstriped background and inside a whimsical border. Now available for sale in my online store.

 

Franken Fairy with Bat Wings, Gothic Fantasy Art Print is ready to be framed and hung on a wall. The Franken Fairy is all stitched up from parts of other fairies. It’s a little morbid but cute. Frankenstein didn’t just create scary monsters. He also created cute fairies with bat wings. She is wearing a skull bow and a pink dress with heals while sitting on a mushroom.

This Print is 8 1/2″ x 11″ with a white 1″ inch border around the image for easy framing. Printed on high quality archival Epson ink jet paper. It comes unframed. Beautiful vibrant colors. Looks even better in person than on screen. Convo me for larger sizes. Print is signed by the artist.

It comes in a clear plastic bag and a stiff unbendable envelope.

Alice In Wonderland Necklace Fairy Tale pendant is a wonderful fantasy piece. Its perfect to give as a gift to someone or wear it yourself.
One of my favorite fairy tales is Alice in Wonderland. This cute little girl is wearing an Alice in Wonderland costume and is holding a bunny toy by the ear. I call her Miss Wonderland. The Glass Pendant Art is created from my Miss Wonderland digital painting.
The glass cameo is set in a beautiful Antique Vintage Bronze Setting. The whole piece measures 40mm Tall x 35mm Wide.
It comes with a vintage Antique bronze chain.

Introducing the Gothic Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland glass Pendant. Monsters are not just for Halloween anymore. Even as a grotesque zombie, the Mad Hatter seems to keep his elegant charm. If you like Alice in Wonderland but want to see something beyond the Disney or Tim Burton version, than this pendant was made just for you.

The Mad Hatter has a corpse-like greenish complexion and vacant zombie eyes. He is wearing his traditional suite and funky bow tie and an oversize top hat. On top of the hat sits a little pesky demon ready to munch on some brains.
the glass pendant is 1 1/4″ tall by 7/8″ wide with rounded edges. Secured with resin in the back to make it sturdy and waterproof.

Introducing the Gothic Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland Antique Style Pendant. Monsters are not just for Halloween anymore. Even as a grotesque zombie, the Mad Hatter seems to keep his elegant charm. If you like Alice in Wonderland but want to see something beyond the Disney or Tim Burton version, than this pendant was made just for you.
The Mad Hatter has a corpse-like greenish complexion and vacant zombie eyes. He is wearing his traditional suite and funky bow tie and an oversize top hat. On top of the hat sits a little pesky demon ready to munch on some brains.

The glass cameo is set in a beautiful Antique Vintage Bronze Setting. The whole piece measures 40mm Tall x 35mm Wide.
It comes with a vintage Antique bronze chain. The chain is 24″ in length but can easily be adjusted to any length. Please convo me if you would like it shortened.

Love Alice in Wonderland? Check out these other cute pendants of other characters:
White Rabbit
Queen of Hearts
Alice in Wonderland
Cheshire Cat

Introducing the Gothic Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland Antique Style Pendant. Monsters are not just for Halloween anymore. Even as a grotesque zombie, the Mad Hatter seems to keep his elegant charm. If you like Alice in Wonderland but want to see something beyond the Disney or Tim Burton version, than this pendant was made just for you.
The Mad Hatter has a corpse-like greenish complexion and vacant zombie eyes. He is wearing his traditional suite and funky bow tie and an oversize top hat. On top of the hat sits a little pesky demon ready to munch on some brains.

The glass cameo is set in a beautiful Antique Vintage Bronze Setting. The whole piece measures 40mm Tall x 35mm Wide.
It comes with a vintage Antique bronze chain. The chain is 24″ in length but can easily be adjusted to any length. Please convo me if you would like it shortened.

Love Alice in Wonderland? Check out these other cute pendants of other characters:
White Rabbit
Queen of Hearts
Alice in Wonderland
Cheshire Cat

Lucky Black Cat Heart Pendant–Gothic Glass Necklace is the perfect charm for cat lovers. Whether you believe in superstitions or it’s just its fun to think about, the black cat heart charm is a delicious little trinket for your whimsical imagination. Maybe you have that eccentric friend who would love this as a gift. The heart glass pendant is 1 1/4″ tall by 1 1/4″ wide. The silver bail is attached firmly to the back. It’s sturdy and waterproof. Resin in the back for best quality.

Lucky Black Cat Heart Pendant–Gothic Glass Necklace is the perfect charm for cat lovers. Whether you believe in superstitions or it’s just its fun to think about, the black cat heart charm is a delicious little trinket for your whimsical imagination. Maybe you have that eccentric friend who would love this as a gift. The heart glass pendant is 1 1/4″ tall by 1 1/4″ wide. The silver bail is attached firmly to the back. It’s sturdy and waterproof. Resin in the back for best quality.

 

Bettie Page Sex Kitten Pin-Up Girl Glass Pendant is for the perfect accessory for showing off your wild side. The cute little pin-up girl is sporting a Bettie Page style hair due, a whip in hand and a mischievous expression on her face. The background is pretty pink vertical stripes.
This Glass Tile Pendant is 1 1/4″ tall by 7/8″ wide.

 

Bettie Page Sex Kitten Pin-Up Girl Glass Pendant is for the perfect accessory for showing off your wild side. The cute little pin-up girl is sporting a Bettie Page style hair due, a whip in hand and a mischievous expression on her face. The background is pretty pink vertical stripes.
This Glass Tile Pendant is 1 1/4″ tall by 7/8″ wide.

Dark Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland Stories and Fairytales fantasy art print is a fiendishly delightful piece of art for boring walls. Monsters are not just for Halloween anymore. Even as a grotesque zombie, the Mad Hatter seems to keep his elegant charm. If you like Alice in Wonderland but want to see something beyond the Disney or Tim Burton version, than this print was made just for you.
The Mad Hatter has a corpse-like greenish complexion and vacant zombie eyes. He is wearing his traditional suite and funky bow tie and an oversize top hat. On top of the hat sits a little pesky demon ready to munch on some brains.
Print is 8 1/2″ x 11″ with a white 1″ inch border around the image. Printed on high quality archival Epson paper. It comes unframed. Beautiful colors
Other sizes are available:
4″x6″ mini prints- $5
11″ x 14″- $25
13″ x 19″ – $50
And custom sizes

Signed by the artist

Comes in a clear plastic sleeve and shipped in a stiff envelope.

Dark Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland Stories and Fairytales fantasy art print is a fiendishly delightful piece of art for boring walls. Monsters are not just for Halloween anymore. Even as a grotesque zombie, the Mad Hatter seems to keep his elegant charm. If you like Alice in Wonderland but want to see something beyond the Disney or Tim Burton version, than this print was made just for you.
The Mad Hatter has a corpse-like greenish complexion and vacant zombie eyes. He is wearing his traditional suite and funky bow tie and an oversize top hat. On top of the hat sits a little pesky demon ready to munch on some brains.
Print is 8 1/2″ x 11″ with a white 1″ inch border around the image. Printed on high quality archival Epson paper. It comes unframed. Beautiful colors
Other sizes are available:
4″x6″ mini prints- $5
11″ x 14″- $25
13″ x 19″ – $50
And custom sizes

Signed by the artist

Comes in a clear plastic sleeve and shipped in a stiff envelope.

Awesomeness is happening the world of Diana Levin Art.Here are a list of new stuff going on:

Designer Con 2012-  is an annual art and design convention that smashes together collectible toys and designer apparel with urban, underground and pop art. Saturday November, 3, 2012. @ Pasadena Convention Center , 300 East Green Street. Pasadena, CA 91101

Bats Day-in the fun park. A show for all you Gothic ghouls out there. Sunday, November, 4, 2012. @ DoubleTree Guest Suites Anaheim 2085 South Harbor Blvd Anaheim CA, 92802

Co-op 28 Handmade-My wearable art jewelry will be displayed there. Stop by the store and check out some cute handmade items. @ 1728 N. Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, California 90027

Hive Gallery- I will have wall featuring my original art at this amazing gallery starting November. Woohoo…Can’t wait.

Fairy and Dragon fantasy art print is a beautiful illustration of a fairy girl holding a baby dragon. She is wearing a purple dress and has pretty purple wings. Is the dragon her pet or her loyal companion? Although the girl is cute, the thorny background suggests that the environment she is standing in is very dangerous.

The print is on 81/2″ x 11″ heavyweight archival matte photo paper with a white 1/2″-1″ border around the image for easy framing

World domination just got even cuter. Cute Cthulhu Necklace is made just for you–Cthulhu fan. You alone can harness the power of the Pendant and bring the world to its knees. This little creature is based off a H.P. Lovecraft story Call of Cthulhu. He is a green squid chibi and I call him Cutethulhu.
The glass cameo pendant is set in a 1″ x 1″ antique bronze heart shaped bezel.It comes with a Antique inspired bronze chain. The chain is 24″ in length but can easily be adjusted to any length.