Joanna Gilbert Contemporary Artist Pop Art

Rachel bridge, journalist for the Sunday times talks to me at centralworking.com on ‘How to make a million before lunch...’

2011-05-23T03:27:00.000-07:00

Fed up with working for someone else? Want to start your own business but don’t want to wait years to reap the rewards?

Take every shortcut you can … and get there fast.

Rachel Bridge, Enterprise Editor of The Sunday Times, offers her inimitable brand of business advice in this new her book 'How to Make a Million Before Lunch'

Here are my notes on the great talk she made at my home from home for entrepreneurs - Central Working;

5am

Wake up - Forget sleep and sacrifice! All entrepreneurs get up early

6am

Be passionate about what you do, make sure you inspire others to feel like they can do ANYTHING.

7am

Do not be fooled by thinking if you invent something it is a sure way to becoming a millionaire. (It can happen, but stay clear if you are a first time entrepreneur- you are practically bound to mortgage up your house and sell your life to a world of patents and paperwork.)

8am

Keep it really, really simple, like the guy that started putting adverts into toilets (Admedia who now has a turnover £7million)

You do not have to reinvent the wheel - change the tyre instead.

9am Research Your field. Understand your industry. Simon Cowell became the man he was today by shadowing Pete Waterman for 3 years when he was learning the ropes. If you can not find your Pete find a mentor instead.

10am Do not think of opening a shop, no one buys in shops anymore, they browse! Internet is the way to go.

11am Promote your business in the newspaper relevant to you. Find out who writes about the things you want to do and get in touch.

12am Contact Rachel Bridge via the How I made it column (if you have made it that is) or aim to be in the Small business feature in The Sunday Times which needs case studies each week.

1pm JUST DO IT

Purchase Rachel Bridges' book 'How to Make a Million Before Lunch' via amazon for £7.15 here: http://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Make-Million-Before-Lunch/dp/0753539349

Inspired? Then Paint!

2011-05-10T04:21:00.000-07:00

The other day I was asked how I select my art materials and I am, as you can imagine, like a kid in a candy shop when I am at my art warehouse shop! Painting is one of the most popular hobbies in the

, enjoyed by people of all ages and if you are thinking of reigniting your artistic side but don’t know where to start, then this blog is for you!

If it has been years since you picked up a paintbrush but have been inspired to do so again, read on and I will tell you the do’s and don’ts of selecting your art materials without being overwhelmed by what is on offer!

Painting Mediums

Watercolour – The most popular painting medium for artists and the medium I first learnt on! This medium is so special as you can create very bold colours followed by the very softest of tints. You can purchase watercolours in tubes or in small blocks, I prefer the blocks as you can create the depth of colour on the brush by how much you swirl!!

My Watercolours

Aged 10, my first watercolour painting

Gouache – This is another form of watercolour but it is opaque rather than transparent in nature. Primarily available in tubes, this comes in a huge range of colours and is used by illustrators and artists’ alike.

Oil Paints – Oils have a firm texture and can be applied in a number of ways with a number of mediums that can alter the drying time length of the sheen of the finished painting. Solvent based mediums, such as turpentine thin the paint and must be used to clean brushes.

If you have not used oils before then there are a range of water-based oil paints which are great for beginners (far easier to clean than the real-deal and you wont be in danger of fumigating yourself whilst creating).

Acrylic Paints – My personal favourite were developed in the 1950’s. When wet they are water-soluble, when dry they are waterproof. They are very versatile and easy to use. Acrylics are readily available in a range of colours and also have fab metallic, pearlescent and fluorescent colours. All the colours mix well and can be applied to literlally any surface!

These are my white, grey and black colours in the Golden Range

Many mediums are available to alter the paint by adding texture, gloss and matt effects as well as a whole library of other fascinating effects. You will have lots of fun experimenting!!

You can get student quality paints which are great for starting out - Daler Rowney do a great range of colours. - here is a photo of my lovely Golden Paints.

My wonderful Da Vinci Brushes

The world of brushes – Brushes can be bewildering! I have spent over £100 on 1 brush before (The one on the left!) The quality of them varies and it is always good to have a good brush collection.

As a general rule of thumb, for watercolour you would use a soft brush (such as nylon and sable) and oil paints would use a hard brush (such as hog) and of course, you guessed it – acrylics can use both.

Round brushes – carry a lot of paint – use for detail and broad areas of colour.

Flat brushes – excellent for laying down flat, even areas or washes.

Fan brush – great for blending colours and creating cloud effects.

I hope that explains the basics to you, if you would like to know anymore then please message me.

I would also love to see some of your work. Please share your art with me?

Be Inspired J

Black & Red - The Cards for the Future

2011-02-28T05:08:00.000-08:00

My latest piece, A 78” x 73” textured abstract created for the reception area of a commercial office building has been finished and is being installed into its new home this week.

This marks an exciting point for me – the painting, entitled ‘The Beginning’ is significant not only to me, but also to all the businesses that will look at it as they enter their new office. It symbolises the creation – the start of something new. It is an exciting piece of work with movement and passion – vital ingredients for a new business to grow and succeed. I am sure it will feel right at home in it’s new home of Cornwall House, Slough and I hope it brings inspiration and thought to those as they enter the building each day.

The name also signifies the relationship I have with the wonderful commercial interior design company www.greyinteriors.com . In a world that is not just black and white, Grey Interiors provide all the shades in between with their vision and turnkey approach to commercial interiors.

Finally, I hope this painting exposes Joanna Gilbert art into the office, hotel, restaurant and bar industry - I loved creating art of this scale and I would love the opportunity of creating a series of paintings for a specific area / building in these areas.

I ask that if anyone knows of anyone who can help me fulfill this dream please email me on info@joannagilbert.com

So, let’s begin. Are you ready?

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS FOR 2011 / Getting Yourself Heard!

2011-01-25T05:00:00.000-08:00

The Gramophone Painting
Concept (C) Gilbert 2011

We all have resolutions, but after a lovely Coffee & Bubbles meeting a few business minded girls collaborated and thought about what could be improved within our companies and we wrote these 10 Commandments.

Follow these rules to ensure you business is being HEARD and you will reach THE PENTHOUSE!

1.Thou Shall Commit to Twitter every day for 15 mins twice a day

Find a subject appropriate to your industry and have a bank of quotes with pics you can tweet to raise awareness
Do #followfriday #ff for specific people giving a reason why people should follow them
Use Tweetdeck as the platform to view mentions / comments etc

2.Thou Shall Not Procrastinate

We know the drill, do To Do lists, set reminders on phones and
JUST DO IT!

3.Thou Shall Not Get Disheartened

Persevere through set backs, it is not a no until they tell you to F Off!
If they do say ‘NO’ pls ask WHY so you can learn for next time

4.Thou Shall Make Time to Help Other Fellow Networkers

Always think of how you can help others

5.Thou Shall Get to Grips With Marketing

Subscribe to Enthuse Marketings Free newsletter full with tips http://enthusemarketing.co.uk/

6.Learn Thy Blog – It’s a Bloggy Blog World

Follow blogs similar to your industry and comment on them to raise your awareness

7.Thou Shall Provide Testimonials

Linked In – Please provide where appropriate testimonials on products / services you have used from people within the group

8.Thou Shall Feel The Fear & Do It Anyway

9.Communicate To Your People

Use Mail Chimp for newsletters http://www.mailchimp.com/pricing
Remember the Bloggy Blog World
Use Twitter
Video Feeds

10.Identify Thy Strengths & Weaknesses and Resolve To Improve & Maintain

Review your strategy and see what is holding your company back then overcome them

Image shown above is a painting concept created by Joanna Gilbert within the Love Music theme. Joanna Gilbert provides art for interiors, Email info@joannagilbert.com to discuss a project . More can be seen at www.joannagilbert.com

You Can't Fight Fate

2011-01-21T02:38:00.000-08:00

Last week I was wishing for week 3 to come, this week I am kind of wishing for week 3 to go. I have had a major set back regarding Duncan and he has decided not to go ahead with my art concepts at this time. You can’t fight a fate line and me painting for that hotel was not meant to happen right now.

But, he does still have a painting of mine in his flat so will always have a reminder of me and what I do which is more than most could ask for.

On another note, more doors are opening as I look onwards; I have come across a very interesting website ‘www.escapethecity.org’ and will be seeing what opportunities open through that.

I am also excited to meet the lovely Sarah Jones from Grey Interiors to discuss various art ventures that will happening this year.

So, am still trying to think big, despite my blow. Many factors are working overtime to ensure I still reach for those stars…

Dare I tempt fate and wonder what week 4 will hold? I don’t think so, perhaps we are better off just living for today and putting everything into now, whatever will happen, will happen.

Congratulations to Cliff Doyle on his new purchase ‘Peacock at Dusk’ A personal favourite of mine.

Finally it was great to meet my first twitter friend @Ms_Sublime and have a good old girlie natter over great food. You can read more about her blog using the link below.

www.escapethecity.org

http://www.greyinteriors.com/

http://vintageapothecary.blogspot.com/

What will week 3 hold?

2011-01-12T09:04:00.000-08:00

Just into week two of this year and I have some amazing news. I met up with Duncan Bannatyne and he loved my art concepts for his Spa hotel in Hastings and will check with ‘his team’ but fingers crossed I am going to be able to start painting them soon.

If so, there we have it - Joanna Gilbert will officially be an artist with a client list that includes Duncan Bannatyne.

As a follow on project, I have also been asked to visit the Bannatyne Spa Hotel in Somerset with a view of assessing the reception area for any artwork and concepts.

So all in all very, very exciting.

People are saying that it is my year to shine, let’s prove them right.

All images copyright Joanna Gilbert 2011

The Future

2011-01-04T06:08:00.000-08:00

Please click the follow me button and keep upto date with my blogs this year...

HAPPY TWENTY ELEVEN EVERYONE!

It seems funny to look back at my posts from January last year and see how far I have come.

This time last year, I had a vision of working for celebrity clients and now it is a reality (YAY!) I also had the pleasure (and pressure!) of holding my first solo exhibition 'Windmills of My Mind' which was tough but fantastic at the same time.

Working on this allowed me to explore different techniques and resulted in my creating my own art style which I have called 'artdeco-meets-popart'. It is very current style that could well be printed on coasters and placemats before the year is out!

My art is now being displayed in anywhere from commercial offices, to exclusive houses in affluent areas to Harley Street!

I can honestly look back on 2010 and know that I put everything in and more that year, and as a result have pushed my career on greatly.

Where ever I go I seem to notice possibilities and I wonder if this is why people say that I inspire them as they often ask my advise on business strategies and design ideas. A recent trip abroad to Poland exposed me to a whole array of new people - I came across some fantastic artists in Warsaw (Marzena Turek-Gas / Dorota Lacek / Marek Sulek / Anna Alicja Trochim) and I hope to work with them in the new year and specifically introduce them to people I know in the UK.

This year I will carry on this exciting journey following my passion for art. I am entering my work into the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and my ‘Twinkle’ painting is being used on the cover of Talitha Giusti’s forthcoming single which is very exciting.

I am keeping my mind open for any opportunities, and as always I will put everything I have and more into each one.

MY ADVICE TO YOU - THINK BIG!

Happy New Year to you all x

http://www.gorczyca.art.pl/index.html

http://www.turekgas.blogspot.com/

http://www.mareksulek.pl/

http://www.galeriadelfiny.eu/home/?page_id=33

December Buzz

2010-12-02T04:02:00.000-08:00

It is really all very exciting at the moment, all the hard work and long hours are paying off and many fantastic opportunities are arising.

I am currently working with a number of interior designers who commission art for client’s interiors and have done a funky abstract New York skyline called ‘Manhattan Celebration’.

The interior designer, Janice Dalton was searching and searching for a particular painting but then decided to commission a piece of art by Joanna Gilbert. The painting is loved by the owner who very kindly leant it back to me for my recent exhibition at HJA solicitors.

This month also saw the big meet with Duncan Bannatyne. Completely in awe of being in the presence of someone so successful and inspiring, I somehow managed to keep my cool and present him ‘Mr Super Ice’. It was received very well and as I later found out via twitter, his wife loves it also!

I have visited his hotel in hastings to identify areas in need of artwork. And am creating concepts to present back to the big man himself shortly!

Finally I am embarking on a great journey with the wonderful commercial interior designer – Sarah Jones – from Grey Interiors Ltd. I have been chosen as one of their top artists to provide bespoke art commissions for company interiors and offices. More to follow on this exciting venture soon! But the below paintings are some sample canvases I painted for one of their clients.

Mr Super Ice to meet Duncan Bannatyne

2010-10-13T01:43:00.000-07:00

Mr Super Ice is due to meet Duncan Bannatyne in November.

The portrait which was created by Joanna Gilbert represented how he began his career with one icecream van - 'Duncan's Super Ices' to where he is now.

Of the painting, Gilbert said 'I am very excited about the thought of meeting Duncan and giving him the painting which as you can see has become a firm favourite in our house!'

Mr Super Ice is forming part of the exhibition 'Windmills of My Mind'.

Exhibition opening night: Monday 18th October, 6:00pm to 8:30pm

The paintings will be on show in the atrium of:

Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors

180 North Gower Street

Euston

London

NW1 2NB

RSVP to info@joannagilbet.com

Facebook & Twitter inspire new art exhibition

2010-10-11T12:29:00.000-07:00

Platforms where individuals bare there soul to the world inspires

mother of two in her latest art exhibition

Connecting people from around the world, Facebook and Twitter act as a platform for self-expression and exploration. Born in

India

, Joanna Gilbert explores society’s use of social media by creating a window to her mind through creative art.

The ‘Windmills of my Mind’ exhibition represents a series of paintings that reflect the thoughts and attitudes of the artist in her quest to balance her working and family life.

Pablo Picasso said

‘Painting is just another way of keeping a diary’

Art is an expression of inner self and this exhibition represents

self-expression artistically rather than electronically.

Of her work Joanna said

‘My paintings are like blog entries – a snap shot of a moment or a day. I wanted to create a platform that allowed the outside world to see my

thoughts in art rather than the written word.’

Specialising in Pop art portraits, modern abstracts with a hint of art deco, Gilbert builds on her graphic design background to create hand-painted pieces at her studios in London for both office interiors and private collectors.

Patron and friend Michael Maslen said;

‘I have watched Joanna go from strength to strength over the last year and really become an artist with great creative presence and one to look out for. This exhibition will give people the chance to see her talent up close’

Exhibition opening night: Monday 18th October, 6:00pm to 8:30pm,

The paintings will be on show in the atrium of:

Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors

180 North Gower Street

Euston

London

NW1 2NB

For further information, interview requests or image requests please contact:

Monique Lester

London Digital PR

Tel: 07958 411 653

Email: info@londondigitalpr.com

Notes to editor:

• To find out more about Joanna please visit http://www.joannagilbert.com/.

• RSVP to info@joannagilbet.com

Windmills of My Mind Exhibition

2010-10-06T05:46:00.000-07:00

All 12 paintings for the exhibition are complete and varnished. With 2 weeks to go, invites gone out and RSVPs coming back there is not much more I can do apart from wait!

The exhibition will be held in the beautiful atrium of the Hodge Jones & Allen LLP office during the week of the 18th October – 21st October. The opening night is open to the public so if you like art or know of any sad looking empty walls then please come and join us for a drink!

The paintings will then be moved to the lavish Home House for an exclusive 'Cultured Pearl' networking event brought to you by ‘The Oyster Club’ on the night on 21st October.

If you would like to attend any of these events please RSVP to info@joannagilbert.com

August and its work work work

2010-08-02T05:52:00.000-07:00

It has been an amazingly satisfying month (or three). I am kind of feeling invincible at the moment. I know that seems very super hero but it is true. Sometimes in life you get these moments when you are just on a buzz and everything you do is exciting so you 200% immerse yourself in it until you cant breath. But, you love it!

Know what I mean?

Hmmm, well put it this way, I love the fact that I am cramming in 50 hours work in each day. Like the wonderful Tanya Rennick from The Oyster Club said - you have 9 meetings already and its only 11am.

I just feel good.

Anyway I hope you do too.

Much love and brushes.

Jo

Social Media Inspires Artist Joanna Gilbert for her Touring Exhibition

2010-06-10T06:59:00.000-07:00

An artist is using the phenomena of social media as the inspiration for her latest exhibition.

Joanna Gilbert is exploring our growing use of social media – on sites such as Twitter and Facebook – and how we bare our innermost thoughts to friends and colleagues with Windmills of My Mind, which begins touring this September.

Indian-born Joanna, who describes herself as “very much the modern working mother”, said she was fascinated by how much time adults spent immersed in one another’s thoughts and wanted to probe the trend deeper.

A specialist in pop art portraits and modern abstracts, she uses digital technology to create hand-painted works of art at her studios in London.

The collection of pieces – including NObama, about the American President’s first year in office; Painting Peace, done to remind us that everyday there are soldiers praying for peace in Israel; and Stay at Home Mum, illustrating the pressure on women to “have it all” and still look glamorous - are akin to status updates on Facebook and Twitter, but in tangible art form, she says.

Each canvas takes between ten and 15 hours to paint and is worked from digitally-enhanced photography.

“Art is an expression of inner self,” says Gilbert said.

“I’m trying to reflect the diversity of ours lives now, in this generation, by building a collection that will reflect what we think about what is happening now.

“My exhibition tells the story of a happily married mum of two. Perhaps it doesn’t sound particularly interesting, but isn’t that point? Through social media and blogs, we have all become obsessed with the minutiae of daily life.

“Think of it as a real life tangible blog, with each painting telling the viewer about a snapshot of a mind. It is status updates in art.

“My paintings are like blog entries – a snapshot of a moment or a day.”

Joanna, who has been commissioned by companies such as House of Fraser, Marks & Spencer, Sports Direct and B&Q as well as by private collectors, draws inspiration from pop artists Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Allison Lefcort, as well as younger artists such as Kris Hardy.

After attaining a BA (Hons) degree in retail marketing at Manchester Metropolitan University in 2000, she furthered her qualifications by studying graphic design and photography.

She began painting in 2005 and started to experiment with mixed media on canvas, using metallics, gold leaf and other media to create 3D pieces of art.

In 2007, Joanna started to produce portraits.

“There are always going to be fine artists who can create paintings like they are photographs,” she says. “I like to turn photographs into paintings and add a little pop!”

Gilbert’s friend and patron, Michael Maslen, said: “I have watched Joanna go from strength to strength over the last year and really become an artist with great creative presence and one to look out for. This exhibition will give people the chance to see her talent up close.”

ENDS

For further information, interview requests or image requests please contact:

Monique Lester

London Digital PR

Tel: 07958411653

Email: info@londondigitalpr.com

Notes to editor:

• To find out more about Joanna please visit http://www.joannagilbert.com/

• Please note locations for the tour are yet to be confirmed.

Behind the Art – Second in the Series of Joanna Gilbert’s Art Stories

2010-05-14T02:41:00.000-07:00

Part 2 -What Came Next

May 2010

This is the second in Joanna's series of blog posts talking about the inspiration behind the art.

This is called “NObama”! When Obama was voted in as president of the USA, I decided to paint him as part of the celebration of a new era. Like many, I was inspired by his charisma, his speeches and his personality. Like many I hoped that he could help us through the troubles of 2009.

NObama - by Joanna Gilbert

I had originally called the piece “Obama Rocks” but when I released my show reel there was such an outcry against him that I gave it a new title.

Now, several months into his presidency, his speeches, his charisma and our hopes have all changed.

“Magic & Sparkle” was a commission developed to celebrate the proposed (now approved) flagship M&S development in Cheshire Oaks.

Magic & Sparkle - by Joanna Gilbert

This will be the company’s biggest store outside London and is being described as the ‘Marble Arch of the North’. Work on the 150,000 sq ft store, which includes a 950-space car park, begins early next year and is due to open in spring, 2012. This was an exciting project for me for one of the UK’s leading names in retail.

“B&Q – New Malden” was a commission for the giant DIY brand in celebration of its most energy efficient store, featuring the largest wind turbine yet installed on a building in the UK.

B & Q New Malden - by Joanna Gilbert

The DIY chain said the 159,000 square foot store in New Malden, South London, would emit 50 per cent less carbon emissions compared with a traditional store of similar size. It will also stock the largest range of green products under B&Q’s One Planet Home brand.

“Painting Peace” is very close to my heart. I get so frustrated about the one sided anti Israel propaganda, saying Israel fired missiles here, and killed Palestinians there, without explaining the whole story. Because we only hear what the news want us to hear, I hoped that my painting would send a message that every day the Israeli soldiers, who fight to protect Israel, pray for peace.

Painting Peace - by Joanna Gilbert

This painting was sold on eBay. I decided to use the concept to create a charity auction, with all proceeds being donated to UK Friends of AWIS (The Association of the Welfare of Israeli Soldiers). The piece has received a lot of positive attention and many have been very moved by the idea of young boy soldiers praying in full uniform at this holy site.

For your own original art work by Joanna Gilbert contact her here: info@joannagilbert.com

The Stories Behind the Art – Artist Joanna Gilbert talks about her Inspiration for her Striking Art Work

2010-04-15T06:42:00.000-07:00

April 2010

Part One – In the Beginning!

Joanna Gilbert is a rising art star and is building a name as a new talent not to be missed.

In this post, Joanna talks about the inspiration for some of her work.
The first piece of importance in Joanna’s collection is ‘The Piano Man’.

Jo wanted to give a 30th birthday gift to the most amazing pianist (and brother in law) she knows – Jonni Gilbert from The Gilev Showband. http://www.thegilevshowband.com/

The Piano Man - By Joanna Gilbert

Joanna says “I knew I wanted to give him something special but did not have a clue what – after all, he really does have it all. So I decided on doing a painting of him playing at one of his gigs. This revived my creativity and passion for art – a hobby I always loved doing but somehow never found the time”

This led to the next piece, aptly named ‘The Decider’.

The Decider - by Joanna Gilbert

“This commission from Mike Maslen for his daughter’s room was the turning point for me. The reactions I was getting from The Decider and The Piano Man – was proving that actually, art is an option, and I decided that art was the path for me!”

‘The Boxer’ was a commission for Sportsworld who own the Lonsdale brand.

The Boxer - By Joanna Gilbert

The painting is currently in the head office boardroom and has triggered discussions into a pilot concept incorporating original art for advertising. This would mean that Joanna Gilbert would paint portraits of key sportsmen and women that would be photographed and reprinted on walls of retail interiors.
‘House of Fraser / Sophie Ellis Bexter’ was created as part of the Simons Group Exhibition of Original Art by Joanna Gilbert, this painting is one of Joanna’s personal favourites.

House of Fraser/Sohie Ellis Bextor - By Joanna Gilbert

It shows the flagship, beautiful Westfield House of Fraser store which was opened by Sophie Ellis Bexter.
It was so well received at the exhibition that Joanna was invited to meet the MD of House of Fraser and present him with the painting which he loved.

For your own original paiting, email info@joannagilbert.com and for more from Joanna visit:

http://www.joannagilbert.com/

Art Star Joanna Gilbert and Halo Records are in tune for new Album release this Summer

2010-04-07T09:34:00.000-07:00

Art and music are inextricably linked. Both are expressions of more than the surface and both are about evoking feeling from the viewer or the listener. London contemporary artist Joanna Gilbert, is using this link to her advantage with a new project from Halo Records. She has been invited to provide the art design for a CD single and the video for, ‘Hellmand’, the debut single from new album ‘Paradox’.

Paradox is co-written by producer and writer Mike Karl and Tally Spencer, former lead singer of JYNXT, who are the offspring of Fleetwood Mac’s Jeremy Spencer. Mike has returned to song writing after many years and is looking forward to working with emerging talents. Previously Mike has worked with the likes of Dr Hook, Spooky Tooth, Camel and Don Everly. Halo Management with its production arm (Aries) was created to represent and progress bands to higher levels through effective producing, promoting, gigging, obtaining recording contracts and marketing and giving small independents a place to distribute and promote their work.

Mike was very impressed with Joanna’s recent work, ‘Painting Peace’ and felt that her art style would be well suited the messages conveyed by the tracks on ‘Paradox’. Mike has watched Joanna’s talent grow from strength to strength as she becomes a noticeable voice in the art world and is very excited by the possibilities of working with an up and coming art star, to promote the messages of a new album. He believes in the ‘true spirit of music’ and Joanna’s art expresses that spirit.

‘Paradox’ will be released in Summer 2010, and will coincide with Joanna Gilbert’s NOW! Exhibition; a perfect mixture of art and music collaboration and creativity. Joanna is looking forward to exhibiting a varied and emotive collection where there will be subject matter to suit everyone. She has recently reworked her abstract ideas, and fallen in love again with the use of colour and texture, as well as developing her pop art masterpiece range. Her style lends itself to creating art which has widespread commercial and personal appeal and she is not afraid to experiment with controversial subject matter.

The album concept is very much in line with Joanna’s visual messaging and how what happens in the present shapes our futures.“My images are linked to what I feel strongly about. I have young children. I’m conscious of what affects us now, so this is where the inspiration is coming from for my paintings”.

Watching her at work, you can feel the creative energy she puts into every piece. Joanna’s recent success with ‘Painting Peace’ has led to her becoming a talent to look out for. Her style is unique and strong. Her ideas lead to striking but evocative images, yet the subject matter cannot help but make you think. This work has led her to connect very strongly with Israel and her roots as a Jewish artist.

Having the time to find the right images to get the NOW! Collection started has proven to be a challenge for Joanna. Ideally she would go to Israel and observe through artists eyes, photographing images of people and places for use as the basis of her collection. She has had to find other ways, since the demands of family life do not allow such freedom.

“I am a working mother, like many others. I have so many ideas to paint and also love asking my followers for inspiration, but I juggle children and family life with getting the ideas onto canvas”, she says.

A recent meeting with photographer, Maurice Selwyn, of Mydas Photography has meant she now has someone who can become her eyes while she creates the art. Maurice is one of London’s most experienced wedding, event and barmitzvah image creators. His talent is in producing images which are there forever; capturing a moment. As well as his renowned event photography, Maurice has many images he has captured of faces and places which translate perfectly into the kind of material Joanna is looking for.

The synergy between Joanna and Maurice has lead to collaboration in image production between expert photographer and emerging artistic talent. Joanna was captivated by Maurice’s images of father and sons, celebrations and people caught unaware of the camera and off guard. Maurice’s evocative images are to become the food for thought for Joanna’s developing collection and there will be bright future for the two, to include joint projects.

Ideas and creative energy, as well as commercial appeal are abundant for Joanna and she is looking to grow her collection for the future, but very much focus on now.

For your own work of art by Joanna Gilbert, email your enquiries to info@joannagilbert.com

Show Reel - Joanna Gilbert, Contemporary Artist

2010-03-09T03:20:00.000-08:00

Rising Contemporary Art Star Joanna Gilbert makes her Mark

2010-03-09T03:17:00.000-08:00

22, February 2010

Art must be in Joanna Gilbert’s blood. The Indian born British artist is making her mark in the contemporary art world. Joanna uses digital technology to create hand painted works of art which once seen, are never forgotten. Her inspiration comes from Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein as well as younger modern artists such as Kris Hardy. Her style, despite these influences, is very much her own.

Of Warhol she says” I love his work. I also take inspiration from Allison Leftcort – her work is very simple, yet edgy and she has lots of celebrity clients. I’m planning to follow in her footsteps.” Seeing and hearing her enthusiasm and determination, somehow you wouldn’t doubt it.

Joanna moved with her parents from India to leafy, suburban Kingston Upon Thames when she was two. Her schooling built character, since she was one of three Jewish children in her school and so she learned early to be individual and not part of the mainstream. Joanna then describes he move to North West London and this lead to her meeting the ‘man of her dreams’. Very much the modern working mother, Joanna balances her painting with looking after her two young children. As she puts it on her Twitter profile, she likes to juggle life around her painting. But it is art and painting that is in her soul.

Having gained a BA Hons degree in Retail Marketing at Manchester Metropolitan University in 2000, Joanna began her career in the commercial marketing of major brands such as Orange, Discovery Channel & Puma, working on everything from Point of Sale, Direct Marketing to Advertising.

After furthering her qualifications to include Graphic Design and Photography she began painting again in 2005, combining the simplicity of graphics with the personality of brushstrokes.

During her abstract phase, Joanna began experimenting with different collections of mixed media on canvas including the use of rich metallic’s, gold leaf and various mediums to create 3-Dimensional exciting, thought provoking pieces of art, which have been commissioned for both residential and commercial properties.

Gilbert then moved onto portraits in 2007 as the demand for requests grew. She states, “There are always going to be fine artists who can create paintings like they are photographs, I like to turn photographs into paintings and add a little pop!”

Her friend, Mike Maslen, encouraged Joanna to develop her talent. She says he has been her” friend, adviser and kick – starter” and inspired her to take the plunge into a full time contemporary art career.

It began with a painting for Mike’s daughter’s bedroom and turned into a commission for a major construction company and she has since gone from strength to strength.

Her work has included *Commercial commissions for:

Westfield Centre, London - House of Fraser flagship store which was opened by Sophie Ellis-Bextor in November 2009.
Marriotts Close, Witney - A £50m retail, leisure and residential project designed in association with West Oxfordshire District Council.

Kettering NHS Hospital Trust - Cardiac Catheterisation Procedures Unit.

Mike Ashley – Sports Retailer Tycoon who owns Sports World and Sports Direct.

B&Q New Malden – B&Q store incorporating renewable technologies including ground source heat pumps, rainwater harvesting, solar roof panels and a planted sedum roof.

Marks & Spencer, Cheshire Oaks - Flagship store developed by Simons in partnership with Marks & Spencer.

She has also undertaken private commissions, including work for Alan Rubenstein (MD for Jewish Chronicle) and Richard Ferrer (MD of Jewish News).

Most of Joanna’s work has come from word of mouth referral. Her most recent painting, entitled ‘Painting Peace’ depicts an Israeli Soldier praying by the Western Wall. It was a topical piece and very much about now. It is a very modern image with a strong message.

Each painting takes between ten to fifteen hours to paint and is worked from digitally enhanced photography. Joanna likes to work big and feels that the bigger the canvas the better for her. The images are strong and colourful and one cannot help but notice them.

The concept of this painting has led her to the idea for her new collection. Joanna is working on a collection about now. “I’m trying to reflect to the diversity of our lives now, in this generation in building a collection which will reflect what we think about what is happening now”.

The collection will go on show in September and will contain contemporary portraits of celebrities from now, as well as topical paintings reflecting to the diversity of our lives right now in this generation and where we are at.

Joanna’ s work makes a fantastic gift and each piece is unique. They make an ideal gift or addition to any room. If you email her a photo or an idea, she will work on concepts for you, no obligation

Email ideas to info@joannagilbert.com

For Joanna’s work online visit http://www.joannagilbert.com/

Contact:

Monique Lester

London Digital PR

http://www.londondigitalpr.com/

info@londondigitalpr.com

+44 7958 411653

Original Art for Original Interiors!

2010-03-09T02:00:00.000-08:00

9 March 2010

After a really busy January, February seemed quite chilled in a ‘hands on brushes’ kinda way.

I created a concept for Duncan Bannantyne and James Caan which will be shown to them in mid March – so expect some pics of my paintings shortly.

I also attended a great Art Workshop held by an amazing artist called Pip Seymour who taught me about various techniques I can use on my paintings to add more texture and life.

Exhibition wise - I am showcasing some of my work at the SEED ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire’ supper quiz for around 300 people to see. http://www.seed.uk.net/event.php?id_evt=182 Seed are a charity that aims to enthuse and educate Jewish families. They really loved my artwork and have offered me the chance to show off some of my other pieces.
My flyers and promotional material needed a rework and after overcoming artist writers block (finally!) I created a concept that is so simple it really kicked me in the face and made me realise how I over complicate things.

It is VERY limiting not having a smart phone and I have driven myself and hubby and friends mad choosing which phone to go for. After much deliberation I decided yesterday on the Sony Ericsson Xperia x10,then I did a complete ‘Jo-turn’ today and am now eyeing up the Nexus One (thanks to Monique for the recommendation).

My life is Google, my mail is Google and I am all ‘G’d up for it. Bring on April!

The ‘NOW!’ concept is taking shape and there are lots of ideas pouring in from war scenes to dice symbolising the gamble we take with everyday life.

If you have any ideas on what NOW! means to you, let me know so I can paint it!

Send your ideas by email to info@joannagilbert.com

http://www.londondigitalpr.com/

http://www.joannagilbert.com/

Sign Of The Times!

2010-02-01T16:41:00.000-08:00

January 31/1/2010

Right,

So here we are… 1 month into 2010 and I feel I should keep you all up to date with the latest very exciting news.

This month I painted another two ‘Painting Peace’ pictures – one was for Alan Rubenstein, the Managing Director of the JC (thank G-d I only found this out after as I would have been on speilskas whilst painting it!) and another was for my dear friend Miri, who was overcome with emotion when she saw the original that I promised her one.

I also sold my lovely ‘Lily’ painting during a visit to Athena (a ladies networking group) so rather than having a blank space where it once lived in my lounge I have put up ‘Obama’ – not quite the same feel but still looks good. (This painting is for sale by the way!)

My dream of a celebrity client could be round the corner - It turns out I have got the opportunity to create a pop art concept forDuncan Bannatyne and James Caan through Janice Dalton, a lady I met at Athena. So I am trawling through the Internet to find ‘the photo’ I have in mind to ‘pop’ and will get to work on these first.
Exhibition wise – we are thinking something along the lines of ‘Sign of the Times – Where We’re At.’ This would incorporate a collection of paintings that represent where we are in terms of anything from TV, Cars, Politics, Music or Sport.

The collection will be complete and will tour the UK in September. Email info@joannagilbert.com to receive details of when & where the exhibition will be.

Big thanks to my Patron – the one and only Michael Maslen and of course Monique!

Links –

www.joannagilbert.com

www.mbhp.biz

http://www.londondigitalpr.com

Barnet artist easel-y raises money for Israeli Soldiers

2009-12-08T13:29:00.000-08:00

The controversial painting by Whetstone artist, Joanna Gilbert, has been sold to an Art Collector in Elstree.

'Painting Peace' shows a soldier praying by the Kotel which reminded the art collector of his days in the Israeli Army.

John Laslow, was the highest bidder on ebay, where the painting was being auctioned. Laslow arrived to pick up the painting two hours after the auction ended, armed with a newspaper cutting from the New York Times dated May 17, 2002. The headline read 'This is Israel, Too' and the article showed a photograph of him and his Officer walking along a beach in Tel Aviv with not a care in the world. Gilbert states 'if only Israel could be as care free as this all the time.'

Laslow has since commissioned Joanna Gilbert to 'pop art' this photograph in her Warhol style as he loves her work so much and feels this image reminds him of happier times.

All the money raised has been sent to UK Friends of AWIS to help build recreation centres for IDF Soldiers in Israel.

Gilbert is currently taking orders for Pop Art Portraits or Bespoke Art Commissions for Chanukah.

Email info@joannagilbert.com if you would like Joanna Gilbert to pop art your picture or if you have a bespoke art commission to discuss.

http://www.joannagilbert.com/

Barnet's own Lichtenstein paints for peace

2009-12-02T06:50:00.000-08:00

2 December 2009

Barnet artist Joanna Gilbert has put one of her latest paintings on online auction site Ebay to raise money for charity.

The 31-year-old hopes her depiction of an Israeli soldier praying for peace at the Kotel in Jerusalem will raise at least £1,000 for UK Friends of the Association for the Wellbeing of Israel’s Soldiers (UK Friends of AWIS).

Gilbert decided to volunteer the picture, Painting Peace, after an Israeli friend, who had been in the army, was moved to tears by the image and suggested donating it to a charity that supported Israeli soldiers.

But it was eventually agreed that selling it to raise money for such a charity would be even more helpful.

“Miri walked into my house halfway through my painting and she burst into tears with emotion,” Gilbert recalls.

“The concept was borne out of a desire to remind people in the UK who can be quick to criticise the heavy-handedness of the Israeli army, that those soldiers are doing all of us a service and praying for peace just like us.”

It is the first time the artist, whose Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein-inspired works adorn the head offices of House of Fraser and M&S among other familiar High Street names, has sold a painting for charity, but there could be more in the pipeline if it generates sufficient interest.

The auction closes at 9pm on 6 December. To bid for 'Painting Peace' visit http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250538014019&ssPageName=ADME:L:LCA:GB:1123

View Joanna’s work at http://www.joannagilbert.com/