studio chat

artists are like remote team members

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 18:06:49 GMT

Engagement, work breaks, and trust are critical

to the success of workplace culture.

I have thought over the last 18 months that artists (as was true for me) had the least amount of adaptation to do working in isolation given that most work individually, most of the time. However, the lack of socializing had great impact on them. (As it did for most. )

Artists do need interaction, verbal communication, and yes, validation of the work they are doing. Just like your team.

Your team may still be working remotely, in a hybrid model or adapting those models for future. Here are a few ideas on how to keep your team “balanced” as you move forward ��‍�� — from an artists perspective ��.

These are things I try to implement to keep my day productive and my spirit fueled :

I have discovered my optimal work time — for me it is from 10am til 7pm and sometimes well into the night (yes I know you can’t always accommodate each person's optimal timing but if you can, even for a day or two out of the week, why not?

Often I am so absorbed or focused on what I’m working on that hours will pass before I realize I haven’t moved away from the easel or even moved my eyes away from it. I have incorporated a step away practice to working. I guess I’ve been doing it for some time now as it is ingrained (most days ��). I will at the very least walk away, drink a glass of water, look outside, change the music, stretch and I’ve even taken a few minutes to change the music and dance. Those moves keep my view and concentration on my work fresh.

dance like there's no body watching

To help your team do this, how about a random face-to-face meeting call? When they sign on tell your team member to keep the camera on, walk away from the desk and not come back before your timer goes off (make them interesting no Pavlovian conditioning required here).

spontaneity, random, unusual, out of character = fresh

Maybe phone them to check in but don’t chat work. Take a few minutes to ask them what the view is from their desk? What’s happening outside their window or the room they’re working in? Think you can’t afford the time to do that or it’s too personal an interaction? Do it once in a while and/or have other team members do it for each other.

Artists have deadlines too — sometimes it’s self imposed, some times it’s for submissions or commissions but once in a while, when I’m in a highly productive phase, I will take a half day or few hours away from work to do a personal chore, or meet a friend for lunch or watch a show or video I haven’t taken the time to do. Trust your members to use those breaks affectively and ask them to take one once in a while. Or surprise them with it - “hey blahblahblah shut down for a few hours” - imagine how pleased they’ll be that you value them enough to give them time for themselves when they least expect it.

socialize

And one more thing… I do try to organize social events with other artists, friends or family. It gives me something to look forward to, the commitment forces a break away from the everyday and work. Organize a team gathering whether in person or remotely with an activity that is different from the every day routine.

Remember your 3Rs. Reconnect. Recharge. Rebuild.

That’s it, that’s all I’ve got for now - back to the easel.

Have a great day! Live the power of art.

creatively yours, karen

p.s. that beautiful visual break I take when I'm at the canvas is by emerging artist Taruna Singh - one of the artists in our current group exhibition

#workplaceculture #teamculture #workbreaks #studiok2

the art to team-building

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 16:05:15 GMT

creating a painting is not unlike creating a team

Painting and team-building are about concept and content, focus and composition, vision and communication.

I’m going to break it down for you with a painting that I created and give you a “tour” of the piece. You can determine how each of the elements, or considerations, may relate to how you look at team-members, the characteristics you seek when building a team, and communication tactics. Love or hate the painting, explore my idea to see if this canvas inspires new thoughts for the team which, ultimately, is your work of art.

the role the new team member will play

My process begins with a thought I’ve had about a relationship or situation. I typically spend some time thinking it through in writing which ultimately turns in to sketches and then I compose the idea to a canvas always with regard to communicating the concept. Possibly in a more haphazard way than you might bringing a team together, however building it out is not unlike determining best candidates and how you get there.

composing a team

This painting is titled “what if” - which will give you some insight to the subject and a launch point to consider your strategies with interviewing, onboarding, engaging and retaining talent.

the tour

The idea I was exploring with this was a new relationship that I entered and what directions it might take.

If this, then that? If this, then what? If this, what about that?

As I put it on canvas and filled it in I focused on the figures and abstracted them to allow the surrounding to infiltrate and question the colour and movement direction. (1)

There are areas where a field of colour fills and melds with neighbouring areas for a smooth visual transition one to the other. (2)

Textures are introduced to address the idea that the question poses in varying levels of complexity and depth.(3)

In hot colours of orange, red and yellow, the focus to the piece allows one to realize how intense questions can realize meaning. (4)

In composition there are areas of visual rest, and movement in colour and texture with the ultimate goal to have you consider the figures together in one location of the canvas. (5)

The weight and depth of colour offered in the reds and deep purples offer options and independence from the culmination of those colours between the figures. (6)

is the candidate a good fit?

how will this person affect other members and how will other members affect them? (1)

would this person add to the team in a smooth or contrasting way?(2)

are the questions you ask insightful?(4)

will the good, the unusual or the unkowns ultimately serve the team as a greater whole?(3&5)

will the individuality of this candidate impact the team and business in a good way?(6)

Will you look at your team and/or building your team in a new way now?

Live the power of art.

#teambuilding #hiringstrategy #hiringideas

Happy Fridays

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 16:32:28 GMT

busy long weekends & short work weeks may surprise you

Tuesday feels like Monday. Thursday feels like hump day. Friday? Friday is always Friday.

You might hear a collective sigh of relief or a buzz of anticipation on any given Friday. Short week Fridays may add a hint of apprehension (unfinished tasks), a release of pressure (after all the work week is over today for many) or accelerated productivity as you move toward another weekend.

Long weekends don’t always mean the same to me as it does to family and friends except when it is a traditional family gathering time - then, all bets are off. They are touch points through the year, schedule-busters, or legitimate ways to shut down for a bit. I appreciate having these through the year (even though at times I resent them lol).

how is your week defined?

Whether I’m conducting a class, painting or getting ready for a team-building event, short week or not, I use Friday to finish up the week’s tidbits that didn’t get done because I feel I have a whole two days ahead of me, where there is a little less pressure to do the long term or immediate projects - why is that? My phone is not pinging off the net, I don’t get hundreds of emails, still, I’m often more productive on a weekend day than a week day. ��‍♀️ Yes I'm aware the weekends are typically for days off and breaks from "work" and time away from it is critical for your mental well being. However, my week is always all over the place. Team-building events and classes - morning, noon or night, more on the weekends, oh yes, and then my own art, not to mention the business side of art, may take place anytime Monday to Sunday, at any given hour meaning that I do not have a typical work week. It does not mean that I don't take down time but I am able to negotiate it to suit me (usually). I like the variety and I've never been a routine person so it works well for me.

switch up the moods of week days

How about you? Do you associate particular days of the week with feelings? I always try to dispel the tags/common associations some days have like 'ugh it's Monday' with 'yay, new week - fresh start', hump day with fun day, and Friday? well I've always liked Friday for the the reasons noted above. Why don't you replace a Wednesday work day with a day on the weekend? You never know what doing that may do for you and for your business.

I recognize that not all entrepreneurs feel this, and you are the one to decide how your work week is structured and what works best for your business. Team members may feel a lot of these things too as they help you build the business. Recognize that and check in with them to see what they think. You may gain valuable insight in to them and it may even help you manage your work week well.

Well that's it for today - it just struck me that I had no idea which day was which this week and thought you might feel the same.

Life of an entrepreneur, life of an artist, life in business. Good thing I love all of it!

p.s. The happy painting above is by Amy Ferrari, one of the participating artists in our new group exhibition and you are welcome to bring it to your space and keep you in your happy place (Opti-Mystic Flow, Acrylic on Canvas, 12 x 6, $250)

#entrepreneurlife #teamculture #workweek

the art around you

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 16:13:36 GMT

corporate interiors branding

When is the last time that you really looked around your place of business to see what image it is reflecting? Do the walls need a fresh coat of paint? do you need to replace signs? do you need to edit, purge or update? Take some time now to consider your space. I'm putting on a different hat today and want to share my past life experience as an interior designer and now as a full-time visual artist to motivate your consideration when branding through your interior.

STOP. Look around your space.

There is of course a whole psychology of colour that you can investigate and you have probably already done that to a certain extent in branding your business. You brand with your company logo and you must extend it to project a corporate image that is reflected in the furnishings of your space, the paint on the walls, the art and accessories you display. This is the art of interior branding. Given that I am all about art I'm going to focus on that here. It is critical for any space. The art art on display must be visually comfortable and appeal to as many people as possible that frequent your place of business — both your team and clients.

What's on your walls? Let's consider the art (you know me, I'm all about that!).

"Don't limit your challenges. Challenge your limits."

"Inspirational" posters? Words (those quotes that stick in your mind) and photo's (of shiny, happy people), can inspire and motivate reflection, action and confirmations. In business the posters you can use to do this are so common now that they have lost their effectiveness (no offense intended printers, writers and photographers). If you feel that words are critical to emphasize an idea you want to convey - look for unique presentations. In a past life when designing a conference room, I did a compilation of three images - each were photography based but unique to a meeting space intended for people to gather, share ideas and communicate. The trio was: an excerpt of text by and a photo of Martin Luther King Jr.; a fun photo of Salvador Dali with the title "what makes you tick?"; and a photo of Einstein with a definition relating to invention. These posters were oversize, grouped together and had great impact on the visitors!

I recently saw a photo posting of a little girl that was mimicking the pose of a sculpture of a ballerina!

That's the power of art — it inspires response.

When seeking art for your space, consider your corporate vision or mission for people to land on - find a piece that conveys the meaning without words. Your team will contemplate it longer, consider the elements within it in more depth, they won't feel you're preaching, and that will resonate with them longer! Take the time to tell them about how the piece or pieces relate to the company.

All about concept.

For clients? sure give them photo's of your products or your team but add a visual arts piece that will make them feel comfortable and gear them up for meeting with you. It does not have to have anything to do with your business and it should not be one of those million of common images with no distinction – recognizing budget plays an important role in 'decorating' your space recognize the value art can bring to it, and invest in an original painting or photo that supports a living artist and is then unique to your brand. Investing doesn't have to mean expensive - local art groups, studios, and individual artists put work out there in totally accessible budget ranges.

What's your story?

For your team... You want to project a vibe - a visual story that tells your story and invites them to participate in it. Find art with imagery rooted in concept and presented in colours that convey what you want people to feel about your business and how you want your team to feel at work. The way they maintain their space will be influenced by the interior branding you do. It can be formal, casual, fun, conservative, creative! So many possibilities. You can create a rhythm of energy from the moment they walk in the door til they get to their workspace.

What is their story?

If you've been working remotely and over various video platforms, you will have noticed what is surrounding the people you're chatting with (even the virtual backgrounds tell a story). While much of what has been around them may be reflected in the spaces they occupied in office, there will also be other clues to tell you what motivates them, makes them feel good and/or makes them productive. Plain white walls, family photo's or abstract art — you've been given an opportunity to bring some of that to them at work!

You'll be responsible for the common areas to the space, however, I encourage you to allow the individuals to be individuals and bring some of their own personality and motivation to their workspace. You may feel a family vacation photo or a superhero poster aren't appropriate to your corporate brand but what if those pieces give the person a visual break in the day or incite a feeling of strength or even added incentive to perform well? Not to mention ice-breakers between team members and even with clients.

Art is critical. What we surround ourselves with and what people see we surround ourselves with, project an image and invoke feelings - consider it.

Live the power of art.©

p.s. the original art featured above are by local artists [ Jill Birks, Lee McCarthy, Angela Zheng, Tracey-Mae Chambers], all available for sale through studio k2 price ranges from $75 ~ $400 = affordable! Reach out to me if any work for your interior (karen@studiok2.ca).

p.p.s. studio k2 has a team-building virtual event (1 hour) "concept journaling to seeing" that will get your team members to consider the why's of your art, their own art and explore their critical thought process! It's a great break in a day and affordable! A great activity to consider for a holiday 'gathering'.

Creativity. Individuality. Collaboration.

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 17:36:39 GMT

Team-building 2021!

While respecting the individuality of your team members, your success depends on their collaborative efforts to make the operation run smoothly and grow the business.

The creativity of each member to participate and affectively contribute to the process should be nurtured through leadership and team engagement. It comes down to much of what you already have in place — acknowledgment, appreciation, and opportunities for the members to demonstrate their capabilities and ingenuity.

Building and maintaining a positive team culture is not a science but I bet you could run experiments to test the waters to demonstrate how affective you are at doing so.

Ask — the answers may surprise you.

Anonymous surveys are an easy way to do that!

Ask about their team work:

• How do you feel you contribute to the team you work with?

• How do you think your team members contribute to your professional growth?

• Would you like to (or do you enjoy) activities outside of the everyday work routines with other team members?

• Do you think your team members are "like-minded"?

• Do you have enough interaction to feel connected ... to your team? to your manager?

• Do you feel supported by the company?

Does the environment you provide for your team optimize their performance? Ask:

• Do you like the space you work in?

• Do you find your work space suits all of the functions you do?

• If you could change one thing about the office (cubical, station...) what would it be?

You might want to hear what they have to say about the company overall too!

• Are you familiar with the company vision or mission statement?

• Do you relate to the values your company projects? (or maybe “Do you know what they are?”!)

Team culture starts with leaders.

These are just a few of the things you can ask to get direct, important information from staff and management to help you grow your business. Get the data, see what you can implement to contribute to a happier workplace. After all, given the amount of time people have to work in a week shouldn’t it be a part of their life they enjoy?

If you find some elements need to be more formally addressed (with an educational seminar or workshop) consider introducing it in a casual, fun way. That’s where team-building events come in. As a leader, you’ll see how your team interacts, whether they collaborate well with others, who your leaders are and what you can do to guide those that aren’t on the same wavelength. An event can be the icebreaker to a more formal presentation, it can actually deliver the message or reiterate information in a unique way. (And Yes! our art experiences can meet each of these challenges - reach out to chat it through, we’re happy to help.)

Remember it’s time — Reconnect. Recharge. Rebuild.

We are in a unique position this year and going forward, so we must make sure our teams are supported.

As always I encourage you to Live the Power of Art.©

#HRstrategies #teambuilding #teamculture

mid-week musings

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Tue, 14 Sep 2021 16:56:24 GMT

Deep thoughts, inspiring ideas, creative considerations.

Is art important? Absolutely. If we don’t share our stories, ideas and present them, how will we grow as people, as a community, as an idea on our planet?

sharing stories connects us

I love investigating concepts in art. I feel anything created must be done with intent and sharing that story can be as important as doing the work itself. Will everyone respond to it? No. Does that matter? No. People acknowledge, respond and let ideas in to their lives through art that they need, when they receive it. This applies across the disciplines - writing, performance, visual arts...

I think that’s why I love installation, street and conceptual art - often temporary in nature, the ideas put forward are like thoughts - we have them, we consider them, we let them go or we act on them.

ideas are temporary in nature

In the summer exhibition of the studio, we have an installation by Métis artist Tracey-Mae Chambers. She has undertaken an incredible project this summer across Hamilton - actually across Ontario - and I think it will be in demand well beyond this season. The message is important and the work created - while visually pleasing and impactful - gives people pause to think about the "why" and how relevant it is.

"The string is red to illustrate the connectivity between humans and their environment and between each other. This is the perfect time for this as we hover on the cusp of opening up our city/country/world. The installations are intended to open up a community dialogue about our lost connectivity to one another during the pandemic. Although I question how connected people really were to the environment or to each other before the whole world locked down. Maybe that's the discussion. How do we reach out to one another now that this is hopefully coming to an end?" tracey-mae chambers

[ Sidenote don't forget to recognize our

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation September 30th

— there's more info on that here: https://www.blogto.com/city/2021/09/sept-30 ]

I realize not everyone wants to take the time and energy it can take to consider artwork but I encourage you to do so at some time. I assure you that you will appreciate the work more - whether or not you “like” it. Taking your time with a piece of art invites responses — it can be a laugh, a tear or a straight out dismissal. Consider the work that goes in to it - not just the physical endeavour (the install above took about 8hours!) but the thought process through to delivery. Your level of awareness can be enlightening. For instance, next time you see some street art really look at it, read the messages, recognize the content. Street art is a great gauge on area inhabitants, political climate and current events. I'm not talking about tagging, I'm talking about visual stories our communities present to us. The piece below is one I've driven by several times and it strikes me how relevant it is as our pandemic roller coaster persists and the other has a full story so relevant today.

You are encountering art all the time whether or not you recognize that. Look at some of these pieces CBC Arts wrote on playful art in Toronto - you must check it out - there are some very cool things happening out there and you should experience them. [ https://www.cbc.ca/arts/ ] And they are an experience !

C ome and have this conversation directly with us - meet the artists in our current show, see the art, learn about the art experiences you can participate in. Join us for our open studio September 26, 2021 11am-4pm (timed entry please book ahead).

Gearing up for Fall!

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 15:34:15 GMT

season's greetings!

One of the joy's to living in Canada are the seasonal changes. When we enter a new season, I feel like it's a new year - time to reflect, make plans, venture on to new paths or shift routine a bit. Do you?

Sometimes when summer ends people feel a sense of "what now?" when in fact, it can be a time to realign and refocus. Fall is a particularly potent seasonal change. The hot humid days of summer are coming to a close but bright days featuring bright natural colour changes can motivate and bring fresh perspectives.

from hot nights to cool bright days...

I challenge you to bring that to your business! Share your ideas with your team. Ask them where they are at... what Fall means to them ... it's been a crazy year - this season we will face new challenges on personal and professional levels. It's time to check in and make sure your team is well.

Maybe check in with yourself first! Will you tackle a new project, revisit an old one - maybe actually complete it?! If you're a team leader and/or entrepreneur it's important to make sure you do what you need to do to keep yourself in balance.

I've probably told you this before but I think it's worth repeating. I'm an artist and an entrepreneur - are they separate ideas? No. they are completely tied one to the other. I've discovered over the years that if I'm not creating my own personal art on a regular basis, my business suffers. Both on the fine art side and the services side of my studio. I have to check in with myself every once in a while and reorganize or reallocate my time, and energy resources, to ensure that it is balanced. So I now schedule (okay attempt to maintain a schedule) to paint as well as devote time to sharing information, hosting workshops and events and promoting the studio services. I also continue to look for new ways to challenge myself so for instance I am launching back in to studying Spanish and I intend to conquer that this season! (Sí, ¡puedes desafiarme a una conversación en Navidad!)

the balancing act

So my challenge to you is to figure out where you're at and where your team is at.

The rest of my day is scheduled for painting so I have an easel to attend to now.

Enjoy the season! As always I also challenge you to Live the Power of Art.©

Reconnect. Recharge. Rebuild.

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 19:11:28 GMT

Fall in to the NEW 3R’s for business!

As we head in to our new season, whether your team is coming back to the office incrementally or working remotely, it’s time to check in and see how they’re doing!

How are you going to do that? You need to know how your team members are managing individually and in turn, how that affects the role they play in your business.

Reconnect. This is not just about you and the individual, it is about reconnecting the members to each other.

Recharge. With summer coming to a close, new safety protocols in place, and in some cases new roles for members or a new vision for your company, a reboot of spirit will help ensure a smooth transition.

Rebuild. People have been, and in some cases are still, working remotely and relationships have suffered. We need to address these issues and facilitate interaction and communication among team members to move forward.

It’s time for some internal ‘marketing’. How is your team doing? What does your team need to know going into the new season? Have you acknowledged their contributions over the last few months? How are you going to motivate them to stay engaged? There are so many new elements we have to deal with — from going to a store to taking a walk — that you’ll want to make sure your team are comfortable with the direction of your business and the role they play in it. Share your vision and your team will contribute to it in ways you can't imagine!

How about a team-building event?

Yes, yes, I host art experiences for teams (and would love to conduct one for you) but I want you to consider bringing an event to your team no matter what it is. I've heard from many that while they were busy trying to pivot, survive and adapt to our pandemic situation, things like team-building went by the wayside. If your company typically only hosts events for skills building or information dissemination, I encourage you to consider an alternate event to motivate engagement. There are many that will bring skills and benefits to performance that you had not even thought might relate to their work, often you'll learn things about them that you may not be aware of. You can let your team know about changes and acknowledge their accomplishments and challenges in a fun and casual atmosphere that demonstrates your appreciation.

Collaboration and communication are critical to building strength in teams and I believe that events should also foster individuality and creativity.

team-building events have great value

If you need confirmation that team-building events help build morale and keep your team connected, here are some of the outcomes for members from our events (we do a temp check with them by anonymous survey after so that they can share their experience with us). Pre-pandemic our events were in-person, now we host them virtually and yay! we can do in-person again. I’m happy to say both have been overall positive for the participants. (BTW 100% of the participants said they enjoyed the virtual events so if you’re hesitating about trying to do an event that way - don’t!) :

“ Loved the concept and being able to build our own abstract art. Thank you Karen for giving us some tips and tricks on how to get started. Great team event session."

"Great event to be held virtually as it still brings the team together in a fun way. The pace and atmosphere was so calming and perfect for our hectic schedules. Amazing job Karen. "

"The activity made it possible to discover an unsuspected creativity in me. Karen is a fantastic presenter and has perfectly transformed an in-person activity to a virtual one."

"I was hesitant at first (I usually like step-by-step instructions!), but I found the event to be calming and a lot of fun! I may even consider taking painting up as a hobby.”

and from a few organizers:

“It was wonderful. Thank you!!! Yes, please send the survey if you like. The entire team sent me their paintings in an email with raving reviews. They loved it, thank you for all your support with this!! bb. siemens canada”

“...I wanted to engage my coworkers in an event that would get them excited about our new corporate social responsibility program and right from the beginning Karen knew how to take our vision of people, planet, and profit to life. Leading up to the event Karen was very enthusiastic and organized - there was little work for me to do. The painting itself was very informative; we learned about art and how to paint but also how to work with a team in a unique setting. The best part is that our masterpieces now hang on the wall to remind us of our fun afternoon painting and what we are ultimately striving for as a company.” katie a., fiix software

“...most well-attended ice-breaking event that this conference has ever held! ...could not believe the level of involvement of participants and general enjoyment.” Richard, Export Development Canada

Are you ready for the season?

I‘m going to check in with some team leaders over the next little while and share their insight with you on how to reconnect, recharge and rebuild teams.... stay tuned and feel free to share yours!

tourism, customer service & economic recovery

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Tue, 22 Jun 2021 15:02:04 GMT

how may I help you?

Well Canada we are going to have to step up our game to beat out critiques like one in a recent article in the New York Times about a quarantine hotel experience! [I cannot even bring myself to link you to that article.] Our Canadian hospitality reputation can be destroyed with a single visitor and no follow through by the powers that be. Enough said.

When I worked in a hotel I always tried to remember — no matter what was going on personally — that the guests had choices - where to stay, where to eat, how to spend their money — that meant that I needed to ensure their time at that hotel was great and had value to them to bring them back, and ultimately to keep me employed !

Not unlike customer service in every business. Let your expectations dictate how you provide service to others. Sometimes their expectations are laid out (albeit sometimes misinterpreted) but if we implement and follow a standard it means opportunities are not missed and in fact they are had. Last week I hosted a team-building event primarily because I responded to the request for information promptly and directly and I followed up!

Automated responses should only be to acknowledge the persons request and set up their expectations of service from you. I recently reached out to a group to chat with them about an opportunity I knew to be relevant to their group. I was greeted with a response that requested I email them. I emailed them and was sent a reply that prompted me to do a separate email elsewhere … I did all three ways of contact and three weeks later I have not had any direct response from that group. Think I’ll be reaching out again? (And there is no phone number to contact.)

I will shop Canadian, locally when I can, support colleagues and relevant businesses to my industry however I have expectations and if they are not met I will be forced to go elsewhere. Don’t let your opportunities pass you by.

When we don’t get responses that actually bring mutual opportunities we move on — Are they too busy ? Complacent ? Simply not interested ? I give the benefit of a doubt like … maybe they didn’t receive the email? Okay, I’ll phone … I’ll do a followup email but after a time - I give up…

Local travel and activities over the next while are prime opportunities to deliver service and products that will recognize Canadian products and services and allow businesses to thrive beyond this crazy year. And build our reputation as a country with fantastic customer service and hospitality.

If you can’t deliver it’s time to scale up (there are lots of people available and willing to help) !

Our economic recovery depends on us.

#customerservice #tourism #hospitality

our featur e image is a lovely collage piece entitled “customer service” by Jennifer Gruhl, and if you’d like to support this emerging artists it is available for $80Cdn and I’ll ship it out pronto! That’s a promise.

artistBIZ is ready!

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 14:58:02 GMT

so excited to launch this program for emerging artists!

When I finished my program at the Ontario College of Art I was left wondering what to do next and how to go about it to launch my career. Eventually I was awarded a mentorship opportunity with the Xanadu Gallery in Arizona. The program gave me all the tools to plan, brand, price my art, strategize my direction and move forward. That's what artistBIZ is all about — it will give emerging artists the information, an action plan and mentoring by professionals that know their way around planning, promoting and establishing a career.

There is no need for artists to live the 'starving and struggling' persona. The education investment made to learn how to create art must be augmented with how to run their art business. Art is a business and if those skills are neglected, well, the rest of their story will only be available in their personal memoires. For too long this side of an artist's career has been lacking in our education system. We can fill this gap while the system tries to catch up... An artist's gift to communicate through art should be shared and revered.

The arts community must support each other and give a hand up when required. This program is the first step to enable, support and move emerging artists forward. Established artists recognize that other artists aren't their competition with collectors. No two artists produce the exact same piece of art and customers like a variety of art — someone that likes my paintings won't necessarily like that of another artist and vice versa. I personally can appreciate many pieces of art even if I would not add them to my own collection. Does it mean I don't want the collector to buy it? No. I want people to live with art they love and if mine doesn't fit the bill? support another artist. We all benefit when art is appreciated and accepted.

Supporting my peer group and growing a stronger community of artists and the arts industry is part of the vision I have for studio k2. It all embodies the idea that we all can "Live the power of art."©

#artseducation #businessplanning #studiok2 #artsindustry #artists

everyday abstract concepts

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Fri, 07 May 2021 14:52:27 GMT

abstract thoughts can inspire solutions and new ideas...

So.. the last few weeks have been a bit hectic but I wanted to stop for a minute and share the idea that it is okay to stop for a bit once in a while. That should be in any way that best serves you - last night I watched and listened to a conversation put on by the new museum (NYC) with artist Kevin Beasley. Ideas put forward by others can really give you pause to think.

Have you ever listened to someone expound on a concept or project? Someone outside of your usual (okay he is not for me but not the point - this is about you ��) world. I would like to encourage you to listen to conversations with artists. Whether or not you like to chat about art you will be able to take in the thoughts, creativity, and problem solving put forward.

You are probably absorbed in thought abstractions (or abstract thoughts) every day. I think it’s wonderful to hear someone explain the context, direction or determination of concepts that run through their minds - could be a piece of art, might be a solution to communicating with someone - the interesting thing is that, as you listen, those ideas can come right around to you. They might allow you to think beyond the actual issue you’re confronted with, or look at it in another way, to bring clarity. Or maybe it will inspire new ideas. Try it. Indulge the diversion.

It has moved me to consider (and the day will dictate whether it is acted on) taking the time I need to work on a concept (painting) that’s been brewing all week ... when I paint it brings clarity and focus to the things in life that have to be done.

Will you take some time out and listen to a conversation with an artist? Maybe have that conversation with someone about concept!

Wish me luck - I wish the best of it to you and if you need some guidance in terms of what you can listen to ... or maybe you’d like to speak to one directly?! (I’m here!) reach out. [Oh actually you can drop in to our artists salons that I host biweekly (Tuesday evenings link here: https://www.studiok2.ca/gallery#artists-salon and have those conversations!] Happy to help ��‍��

Live the power of art.

#workbreaks #artistlife #thoughtsonabstraction #thinkoutsidethebox

what do you do for occupational therapy?

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 22:20:12 GMT

Do accountants crack open a book on equations?

Would a scientist watch an experiment outside of their field ?

Would a writer learn more about typography?

I have no idea but I do know sometimes you have to step away from your everyday, explore alternate paths, observe and open up to new ideas. Work breaks don’t always have to be totally separate to what your livelihood fills your day or nights with. Sometimes relaxing and observing similar businesses, products or services can inspire, motivate or gift you ideas.

I’m not talking about competitor analysis. I think it’s about validation, confirmation, admiration ... so many other things. My occupational therapy has always been going to galleries, watching documentaries on art or artists, reading a book on a period of art or a biography of an artist.

For the artist, this is a wonderful period of access, intimacy and adventure. With all of the restrictions and lack of travel I’ve had to get my fix in ways other than I used to. (Yes I’m one of those people that travel companions will eventually say “not another museum!” Lol.) This at home stuff has opened up a whole new world of art to me — in the last week I’ve been to Toronto, Miami, New York, Venice (Italy), Brazil — these virtual happenings have gifted me insight to other artists’ process, concept patterns, and afforded me dates with colleagues for discourse on the topics. I love it - I don’t want to think of zoom in dread - I accept it and try to go with it. You never know where it will take you.

So, if I can’t get to the easel today (as I do have to do the admin side of business) I can take my visual breaks and enjoy the art in my studio space, and look forward to listening to a conversation hosted by the new museum (NYC) tonight and a virtual date with a friend to chat about it after. Fun!

What will you do?

#occupationaltherapy #workbreak #relaxationtechnique #creativity

Live the power of art.

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 18:44:14 GMT

a year in the life...

So I’ve been toying with a post to mark the one year anniversary of the studio which collides with the one year anniversary of you know what ��‍♀️, it’s been a struggle of sorts but I will say this...

• I can’t wait to openly share the space with people to experience the art and events of the studio (it’s been a trip learning sooo much about the virtual world);

• I’m grateful for the support and love you’ve shown our artists to date (now in the third group exhibition of the gallery share);

•I believe the world will heal and I know the arts industry helps (culture, mental health, communication and visual distraction, to mention a few of its abilities).

While we continue this crazy ride I wish you all of the best in health, happiness and artful pleasures.

Next year ? Big party !!!

In the interim, you are welcome to participate in the joy of being all about art — book an art experience, add a piece of art to your home and support living artists — In short I invite and encourage you to “Live the power of art.”

#businessanniversary #yearone #artistlife #entrepreneurlife #hamiltonontario

You're bored? Me too! Let's "figure" it out...

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 17:58:56 GMT

working through the ups & downs of February 'blues', pandemic restriction boredom, & miscellaneous other stuff!

So often when we are going through something we think — why me? This doesn’t happen to others... I am... I feel... I wish...

And then if you talk to others, put yourself out there, or just pay attention to what’s going on - you realize your experience is not necessarily unique — may be unique to you but others are, or have been, there.

You are not the only one.

Sometimes sharing helps others (the premise to my personal art). Sometimes paying attention to others helps you.

This was brought to my attention again because, as pumped as I was to try and make February a fun month, I’ve had several ups and downs in trying to maintain and motivate that. I’ve come to a point in this month where I'm feeling low in spirit as I can't travel, bored with all of the pandemic restrictions and in turn how I'm spending my time, less optimistic about the recovery timelines, and while I offer virtual sessions that can entertain and inspire (and love hosting them), I haven’t actually looked at the same for me personally.

is your 'busy' enough?

Working on my art most often gets me through these stages of emotion but I’m also feeling like I haven’t done enough with my time outside of that (and outside of all the things I’ve done or am doing for the studio). So while I am ‘busy’ I need to expand my world to use my time more effectively for me to experience growth, happiness and yep, you guessed it - back to my word of the year - experiment !

I was chatting with a friend recently and said we’ve had all this time due to the pandemic to learn something new (soooo many options out there virtually) but what have we done ? what are we doing ? Eventually, hopefully, we’ll look back and say look what I did with my time not why didn't I do something with that time !?

what do you look forward to?

Looking forward to events or experiences looks very different than it did over the last few years. At this time of year I’m usually gone or packing to go on a creative retreat in a sunny destination - this year I’m looking at bright whites of snow and feeling icy breezes and watching cold grays of the lakes that surround us. [Perhaps that’s contributed to my working mostly in black and white these days lol.] Now looking forward is planning an online birthday party for a friend; last night I shared some amazing memes with a friend from a wonderful trip we had together to Barcelona; this weekend I’ll connect with two artists I know in Barbados; over the next few weeks I’ll continue to look forward to the artists salon conversations I host for the studio; and I’ll get my act together to launch in to the things “I’ve always wants to do and didn’t have time to or rather, didn’t take the time to do.

time to shake it up!

Happy to say I've arrived at the moment where I am going to banish the boredom, the feeling sorry for self and pursue some new activities - I’m thinking :

- time to get back to learning Spanish in a more comprehensive, dedicated fashion;

- take the time to READ those books I glance through;

- play with clay;

- still can’t bring myself to LOVE cooking but if I at least plan and explore new recipes again, bring some of the meal and food prep lessons I’ve learned on retreats including the not to waste, consider the privileges I have regular access to in terms of ingredients and accessibility, appreciate it more and do better;

- continue to reach out and coordinate friend virtual parties & chats;

- look outside of my own comfort zone and help an organization that can use some of my skills or the time I do have outside of the studio.

Yep, that's how I used my morning coffee ritual and meditation - pondering the direction to address these issues I've been having. Maybe none of my ideas turn your crank but I urge you to find what does and/or reach out to someone you might know is feeling this and encourage them to do the same.

keeping it real...

So while this post has been all about me, I’m part of the world and the world is part of me, so I have to reach out and recognize how I can contribute to it in other ways and keep on keeping on. Wished me luck and I hope you do the same.

how's your journey going?

p.s. that's me in photo's above from coffee ritual to working in studio which I'm going to get back to right now!

february!

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 04:20:36 GMT

choose your words wisely — funk, blues, fun ...

Isn’t fun a much more inspiring word than funk?! or blues?!

Well I am doing my best to ensure that this February does not fall in to the funk category for me, and hopefully I can inspire others to stay out of that zone as well. At this time of year, I am usually out of the country at, or preparing to leave for, a creative retreat. Yes the destination would be sun and heat. I’m not a winter person - I am most definitely Canadian but it is a season I’ve never found a way to embrace lol. So this year is a real challenge for me in terms of dealing with our pandemic restrictions and lack of travel. I am determined to keep my general level of optimism and enjoyment of life up!

missing the sun this year

You are probably aware of how this month affects you as well. Do you know how it affects your team or members of your family? Can you help yourself (if you need it) or others if you’re aware of it, to keep the spirits high? I’m going to share some of the things I’ve planned, a few thoughts on ways I try to keep my spirit up, and the path of optimism I’m following. See what it inspires for you. Share your suggestions and let’s get through this together!

glass half full

I am quite sure our virtual world is here to stay for a while. I know many of us have to be online for meetings and business a lot these days, however when you’re getting together for fun and seeing faces of people you miss and want to be with, it’s a totally different environment to be involved with. Of course it does not take the place of actually being together but it gives us the opportunity to connect and enjoy each others’ company.

. virtual birthday party! One member of a group of friends that I travel with to Mexico each year, suffers from SAD and so we decided to give him an online party for his birthday (which yes, we have traditionally celebrated in Mexico). Here’s what we did - I hosted an online fiesta, did a curbside drop off to each of the group of Mexican cuisine and a basket of margaritas, glasses, & limes complete with a pinata, party hats, birthday cake & candles! We had dinner online together. During the dinner, we had Spanish music in the background, shared a slide show with memes of past trips and a list of aquarius personality traits [comparing how his personality aligned (or didn’t)] lol. We had a great time and at least felt like we were together to celebrate his special occasion.

staying connected

. games . interactive and social time on line - I’m not a ‘gamer’ but I do know a number of people who participate in a community of online gaming that keeps them connected - the type of games I’ve participated in have been trivia, drawing and word play. The group was able to interact by voice and the game was played on screen and keyboard.

. cocktails or coffee? I participate in a meetup group of Hamilton professionals that is a great wrap to the week - a bit of networking, advice and sometimes just general chitchat, I also have occasional virtual coffee or cocktail meets through the week with family or friends.

. art experience . as you may or may not know I personally conduct virtual drawing and painting sessions. I have a lot of fun doing these and they have always been well received so I am sharing them with some of my friends as well.

. impromptu video calls . pick up your phone and do a video chat with a friend! Doesn’t have to be prearranged - think of it as the old ‘telephone’ calls to touch base.

food & beverage events

. online dinner party . another group I connect with regularly are friends with whom the usual get togethers were dinner parties or just parties so we’ve arranged themed dinner parties on line - everyone does their own thing in the kitchen but we swap recipes or menus and have a chance to catch up

. wine tasting . being in this region of Ontario and so close to wine country I have b een on a number of tours and tastings. This can happen just as easily online. Pick a few wines that are sold everywhere and featured in your province/country and everyone can taste and discuss at the same time.

. mix it up! one weekend soon I’m hosting an online cocktail party - everyone is to pick a favourite beverage and share the recipe for it (of course we’ll enjoy them while chatting about them) and I’ll pull the recipes together in a book form for everyone .

. movie nights / book clubs / artists salon . I have a friend who hosts shared movies and the people watching can comment throughout; another hosts a book club and they even have guest authors attend! I host a salon biweekly where artists, writers, art enthusiasts and thinkers get together to talk about various topics in creativity, from questions like “who decides what art is?” to definitions of sexy, erotic and pornographic! it’s one hour short and thought provoking for days... (all are welcome and it’s free to attend!)

. travel meme chain . forward a favourite holiday meme to friends and have them reciprocate. Actually just send a selfie or a pic of your little one or a pet to someone (may just put a smile on their face!).

. gratitude chat . well it’s said time and again we should acknowledge small and great things that we are grateful for and sharing it in a text group or similar keeps us mindful

. courses, workshops, hobbies, podcasts, museum tours online .... there are sooooo many options (and many many that are free) to enjoy and keep yourself busy [as you can see from the above lol] . R eally, we are very lucky. In fact, there are a number of events I’ve attended online that I doubt I would have taken part in if I’d had to travel to get to them!

the blues & funk are beautiful music genres — enjoy them that way!

Oh I’m sure you’re inundated with many a how-to for self care in terms of exercise, balancing your diet, go off-line if you need to, etc etc but do add some of these to the list so that there will be fun and games ‘til the world heals .

Don’t let February ‘blues’ be your theme , make it a time to celebrate opportunities and live life as fully as we can right now. I intend to. Yes, you can hold me accountable, I need that ! lol.

Fun in 2021 !!

breakthroughs!

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 20:44:30 GMT

small or large, new steps, ideas & recognition of them are amazing

Isn’t it a great feeling when you arrive at a moment to shake things up, resolve issues or move forward? Do you acknowledge them? When you recognize that moment, ask yourself questions like ‘How did I get to that moment?’ ‘What did I do to let the idea in?’ ‘Where did it come from?’ Answers to these questions will likely keep your positive energies flowing and you’ll find concepts, solutions and motivation will drive you to continually succeed. The answers are available to you if you look at your history, your circle of acquaintances, the way you think about things and an analysis of areas of the elements you’re considering.

how did that happen?!

Last week I wrote a post on productivity as I was hyper-productive over the ‘holiday’ period in to the first of 2021 (actually it’s still happening!). With all of the things I accomplished over that period I was so happy that I maintained a very ‘chill’ state of being. Hoping to continue that state even without my creative retreats. After all of the business side of the studio was taken care of, it led me to focus on my art again and the energy that I generated from that period has now transferred to my personal work. I sketch/journal to centre myself and stay in a creative flow. I am used to small breakthroughs when a sketch and concept come to be a finished painting, however this last week the process led me to a major breakthrough for my artistic journey!

I recognize it is a culmination of ideas, happenings and desires to reach this point. I’m sharing those with you now so you can understand how the questions above can be answered in your own breakthroughs .

keeping it chill & letting ideas through

answer your own questions, analyze your process, go with the flow...

history

I am a figurative, abstract painter - all of my concepts feature figures, some more abstract than others but always present in my paintings. Traditionally I work on canvas or wood grounds with oil paints. I am a great believer in the importance of looking at other art, chatting with like-minded individuals whether they be artists or art enthusiasts and I am all about concept.

where have I been?

recent events

In the group exhibition in the studio k2 gallery you will see that I collaborated with another artist on a project - he’s a photographer (Jim Craigmyle) and it pushed my painting to a new medium and grew the basic concept to the piece.

The studio hosts online chats (the artists salon) every couple of weeks, where people get together to ask questions or comment on art. We’ve had some fabulous conversations about street art, graffiti, inspirational quotes and a number of other discussions.

I have had amazing conversations with a sculptor (Yas Alsabbagh) and we are in the process of coming together to do a collaborative piece.

AND

I was asked: ‘what is your word for 2021 going to be?’ My immediate answer was “experiment”.

what's happening in my little world?

the creative breakthrough

That word (experiment) has opened up a whole new direction for my art! I asked myself what it meant - was I going to change the concept of the series I work in? No. I discarded that since everything I played with had no substance and came back around to the basis for my series’, so I have to assume I still have lots to say on the matter lol. Then I questioned the medium I work in (paint) and asked myself if I wanted to abandon that - nope. Was it that I wanted to get more realistic in the traditional sense of painting the figures - again no. In fact I have been pushing the abstraction boundaries more and I love that. In essence what it boiled down to was the ground that I was working on and then how art can be in stalled in a less traditional fashion.

an idea reveals itself...

Ta-da! that opened up an incredible amount of ideas for me. In a past life I was an interior designer and have stored a number of pieces of left-over fabric and wallcoverings and samples or unique accessories that did not get utilized. I always sought to have my clients display their art in unique ways from chains and hooks on a bookcase to ceiling mounted artwork! I also have a thing about frames and can never seem to part with them. And there were pieces of plywood left in my studio when I took the space over that I decided to keep. All of these elements are part of my new creative direction and I’m pumped!

It’s like a breeze of fresh air on a hot, humid day and has re-energized my whole being.

This is a major breakthrough for me and I do not know where it will end up or ultimately if it will be a direction I choose to explore for a very long time, however, I’m on it and in it now!

small or large ideas deserve recognition & celebration

I believe that breakthroughs of any significance to you — whether it is an idea that changes one part of a process or a major one such as I’ve encountered — should be celebrated.

I also encourage you to find a word for 2021 that pushes you and gives you a little landing point when you need it :)

productivity notes

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Tue, 05 Jan 2021 19:37:53 GMT

when your world slows down are you more productive?

I love the week between Christmas and the first few days of the New Year. I love the hectic time before it and after but there is something about this time of year that seems to lift the pressure of deadlines and allows me to be very productive.

it’s holiday time!

This last week I have created all of the promotional materials & website updates for our new group exhibition in the gallery share, communicated with each of the artists in the outgoing show and incoming, taken down the “fall in to creativity art” (not to mention the holiday decor), installed the new art for the “warm up to creativity” exhibit, handled some of the accounting side of the studio (not a fave activity lol), planned the artists salons for 2021 and even began to plan for virtual workshop/course offerings (which came to me in a dream so obviously, I need to create them!), had Christmas with my little bubble (pre-lockdown), read a book for the pure joy of it, had virtual Christmas & New Year celebrations, concepted my next series of art!

on overdrive but chill

All of this productivity leads me to wonder what has been so different in this period of time? The deadlines were there (like planning to launch the new show January 2nd and lining up the salons in January but they did not feel ominous or pressure filled. It is probably partly due to our lockdown situation as well as knowing many companies close down over the holidays, which more than limits social engagements, phone calls and virtual meets are more social than business, and the launch of a new year to look forward to new challenges, the hope for an easing of the pandemic, and it allows one to consider that family and friends are the most important elements to wellbeing, which then makes one realize how (for most of us) our general business activities are not a matter of life and death. I love what I do and I know that helps and I hope that you do as well.

to do or not to do...?

In fact, it leads me to consider the way I determine what my productivity or lack thereof will result in — which goals can, should and/or will be met, what those ultimate goals are and how valid the pressure is that I put on myself or experience externally.

Can you do that? step back and look at this in a more detached fashion ? One of the ways I do that is if I’m feeling anxious or concerned about getting something done I stop and ask myself “what is the worst thing that can happen?!” If I don’t get the art installed on time, if someone has to wait for information, etc. etc. Once I face those potential fall-outs I seem to be able to calm down and then I get more done. More often than not, I actually end up accomplishing all that I have set out to do!

time-out s

This also has me thinking about the creative retreats I have done [always away from home and studio, either in northern Ontario or out of country] - I stayed connected but primarily focused on creating new paintings and considering my life situation - I always come back very centred and calm and during the time away I’m very productive. My retreats are not a ‘holiday’ but the feelings I walk away with are much the same as when I have totally disconnected and explored a new culture or country and spent a week on a beach!

My conclusion is that it is a matter of living in the moment. Enjoying as many of them as you can individually and trying to keep that momentum and motivation by considering every action you take, how you’re using your time and why you are doing something.

moments that make up hours that make up days that make up our life

I’m not always successful at keeping my zen and thoughtful state, and by year’s end, I know I am wound which is why the retreats are so important. I’ve had to adjust my expectation of that given our pandemic, while this week has accomplished that for me I am going to take an at-home retreat. Granted I will have to rearrange some furniture as well as some of my usual home activities to do this but that is my first goal for this upcoming year (in case I drop off for a week or so lol).

Can you do something similar - even if it is a weekend or dividing your time so that your “free” time brings you joy and you’re able to handle the times when commitments, whether to work or others, are easier.

time is really all we have

Now I have to write a little addendum to this post! My nephew sent me a text and told me to watch “Soul” (it’s a Disney pixar production) and so thought I’d take a chance since he’s been pretty great at recommending shows and music for me lol. Coincidence he sent it to me today - yep! He had no idea I was blogging about this very topic. And now, I’m recommending you watch it too. It is a ‘finding your passion’ story but more than that it speaks to goals, recognizing value in the little things you do and the moments we live.

watch the movie, what else are you going to do with your time?

Find the question, thought or action that will keep you or put you on track and put the fun in 2021 !

warm up to creativity . new group exhibition

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Tue, 05 Jan 2021 18:30:38 GMT

for immediate release . January 5, 2021

"warm up to creativity" group exhibition . 02 January to 02 April 2021

studio k2 . artist-run gallery

156 parkdale avenue north, hamilton, ontario

show launch virtual opening , artists salon . January 17, 2021 11am-noon . zoom platform

HAMILTON, Ontario Lockdown doesn’t stop our artists from working! Our 2021 first quarter show is online in the gallery, up in the studio for virtual tours, featured regularly on our social feeds and in the street-level windows.

artists :

jim craigmyle, photographer, Bradford

youssef elgohary, painter, Toronto

amy ferrari, abstract painter, Hamilton

rachel kienitz, mixed media, Hamilton

yas alsabaggh, sculptor, Brampton

karen klucowicz, figurative, abstract painter, Hamilton

With a strong leaning toward conceptual, abstract and experimentation, these artists provide great visual distraction and contemplation during this crazy time.

While we are not able to have an opening reception for this show, our artists participate in a virtual gathering where we chat about our work, art and have active discussions. The first salon this year will be held on Sunday, January17, 2021 from 11am to noon (via zoom), artists, thinkers, art enthusiasts and skeptics all welcome.

studio k2 is an artist-run space and, as the world heals, will open up to more shared experiences between artists with collaborations, working space and workshops, art experiences for individuals, team-building events and continued exhibitions.

“Live the power of art.© is the vision I intend to extend to as many people as possible and demonstrate through artist-to-artist opportunities like this group exhibition. Art is critical and a powerful tool for living.” karen klucowicz, artist & founder, studio k2

contact: karen klucowicz | karen@studiok2.ca | 647-883-6639

instagram @k2chats; twitter @k2chats; facebook studio k2 canada

www.studiok2.ca

— 30 —

about studio k2

studio k2 creatively brings people together through visual arts. Founded in April, 2020 by karen klucowicz, k2 is working through this pandemic to create a dynamic space and (for now) virtual interaction between artists, collectors and art-enthusiasts.

“Live the power of art” is studio k2’s vision for:

• artists to create, collaborate and lift each other up;

• art experiences for individuals to explore their creativity;

• collectors and art-enthusiasts to support the arts;

• business collaborations that offer mutual support; and

• team-building events for companies that will engage talent, and deliver corporate messages.

Art lives up to all of those promises and studio k2 has the passion, talent, and vision to deliver them.

klucowicz is a fine art painter with an extensive background in marketing, advertising and interior design. studio k2 brings her vision together to continue her art, advance other artists’ careers, and grow the arts culture with corporations and individuals through workshop and retreat offerings.

current exhibition : participating artists’ statement extracts

jim craigmyle , photographer, Bradford

“A number of years ago I started shooting defocused images as part of an experiment. Following that path eventually led to this group of images... Each photograph has it’s own journey.”

youssef elgohary , painter, Toronto

“... I depict the echoes of the interactive relation between human emotions and crises, and the world, in a dreamy realm, through a universal language by which any viewer can relate.”

amy ferrari , abstract painter, Hamilton

“My vision is that joyous vibrant potential thrives in everybody, everything, and every situation. With every painting, my goal is to paint earnest positivity by showcasing this potential.”

rachel kienitz , mixed media, Hamilton

“The ‘Wild Woman’ series explores the inner landscape of the female psyche and our bodies natural cyclical wisdom... offers an insight into the connection between women’s health and the ecology of our planet.”

yas alsabaggh , sculptor, Brampton

“I try to stay out of my art as much as possible, and help it come to life by itself, the materials must show itself...”

karen klucowicz , figurative, abstract painter, Hamilton

“We have inner strength that is not always readily apparent until we are challenged to negotiate or handle a situation. My art focuses on that strength and explores how it affects relationships. I present the concepts both as an observer and participant.”

______

can't have your usual holiday gathering with the team? :(

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Wed, 16 Dec 2020 00:41:43 GMT

Want to show your team how much you appreciate them as individuals & recognize the toll this year has taken? :)

I have an idea for you!!

2020 has been a weird year. Our social interaction and activities have been limited. Given that this is likely to go on for a while until the vaccines are in place, we should try to alleviate the lack of congregating and having fun together with an experience that can be held virtually or in our studio and offers a connection that is outside of the normal work week (well for some lol).

Consider gifting your team with a studio k2 art experience.

This doesn’t have to be a ‘team-building’ event — you can gift it to them individually or for their family. With a gift certificate for the experience they are able to book the activity on their own, as it suits their schedule and their mood.

We are able to host couples for a date night, group ‘bubbles’ (max10), 3-4 individuals in studio at one time for a private painting experience, or we can ship supplies to the individuals and host them virtually. They decide on their level of comfort to enjoy the activity and you have gifted them a fun event that gives them a creative break !

The gift certificate will include your company logo and message to the team member together with notes on how to arrange the experience.

Each art experience is 2hours long, includes all supplies & materials, private artist guidance & instruction to create a painting.

• date night for 2 includes light refreshments, local wine and guidance to create a piece of art together ($165/2)
• bubble dates are themed paintings created individually in a group setup ($45/person for 6-10 people)
• individuals will be guided to create a painting in a theme most relevant to them ($65/person)

(experiences are quoted in Canadian currency, in-studio are plus hst, virtual experiences are plus shipping & hst)

I do hope you’ll consider this fantastic option to show your appreciation to your team in a way that is very considerate of their individuality. Message, email or call and we'll get this party started!

Experiences are sought out and particularly relevant to this year’s holiday season.

Merry ARTmas from our studio! The world will heal.

Live the power of art.©

p.s. if you’d like to know the rest of the ARTmas days’ gifts,

or facebook studio k2 canada,

as we wrap the year up...

great quotes lead to great conversations

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Sun, 13 Dec 2020 18:18:06 GMT

creativity, nature, energy, breaking rules

The artist salon is a wonderful opportunity to have a conversation about just about anything. Today we began with quotes each of us have referenced at some point or another. So interesting! It lead to discussion on thoughts of whether nature is considered art in and of itself to thoughts on how we are all nature and nature is simply energy. Conversation on the history of storytelling, where art comes from and where it may go. Today's salon was so thought provoking we went over time and probably could have continued for hours! Awesome vibes! We will continue in the new year... join us some time - questions from people that aren't in the industry are as important to contribute as are thoughts and comments from artists and others. Can't wait for 2021!

p.s. eventually we'll get these conversations loaded so you can listen in to some that have taken place this year :) stay tuned!

how many languages do you speak?

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Wed, 09 Dec 2020 18:44:15 GMT

one for your peer group? one for your consumers? one for your ego?

Sometimes I read art reviews and think wt*!# does that mean?! I would say I’m relatively well-versed in understanding principles of design, art, and critical thought as regards artwork. When I read a review in a consumer magazine or post and feel I need to look up words in order to get the gist of what the article is saying, I think that is a fail in communication! (I also think that, at times, it gives the art world a bad wrap.) I’m not suggesting I know all of the lingo out there relevant to critiquing art however, if I’m not understanding easily from a place where I feel I am part of the audience, for whom is it intended and why is it so complicated?! How can we expect to grow an appreciation of art, the industry and culture if we can’t reach beyond the ‘academics’? (That's me venting a little now here are my thoughts on how to use appropriate language.)

Words chosen to share thoughts are important.

As an artist I’ve tried to make sure my artist statement is clear and direct and doesn’t get convoluted with ‘artsy’ words and descriptions. I hope that it states both my intentions and the direction of my art for both collectors and curators. (You’re welcome to jump over to my art website www.artbyk2.com to see if it’s a pass or fail in your opinion and let me know why.) Some of my favourite comments from people about my art come from those not in the field at all - simply expressing their thoughts in their own terms [see pic above].

Being understood is most important.

Are there reads that you feel the same about in your industry? I once had a conversation with a vp in the college and universities field. He said I should share my input or viewpoints with management of orgs as I see things a little differently. he felt I was able to step back and listen from the outside, question and offer a different perspective. To put it in to context, we were discussing a presentation that management had given to their team, and I finally had to say “what the heck does that mean ?” He had to break it down and I said “if I know what you’re talking about and I have no idea what is being said, how do you expect your team to follow?”. They modified the piece for the next group and it was much more successful.

If you’re the writer — know your audience, know where they are coming from, don’t be vague, tailor it to be as widely received as possible! Test it out with someone not as knowledgeable (preferably from your target group) and see where it lands.

Predetermine who you are speaking to and the language that relates to them.

I’m not a professional writer and I know editors that cringe when they read some of my posts or texts to them lol, however I do know that simpler is better and if most understand what I’m saying isn’t that success? Do I know all the corporate lingo out there to describe situations or directions, when to cut a sentence back, when to use square brackets, an ampersand or an em dash (which I love the look of and believe sometimes that’s enough)? I’m not an expert but when I’m having a hard time getting through something, I’m inclined to think while it’s rich in words does it reach the target audience? If the intention is to reach all, then save the wordsmithing for your peer group and break it down to everyday language that the majority will relate to.

KISS

Consider explaining your thoughts to a child and then have them relate it for you! Brings to mind my favourite story of a niece of mine (at about age 8) that attended one of my exhibitions. Always curious about why I put things in the painting or why I used particular colours, we had many conversations and at the show, she was able to explain what my art was about to her father! Simple direct words and descriptions that clarified it for him (even if he still did not like it lol).

Ask a child!

I recognize that the juxtaposition to some of my thoughts create a cacophony of information but hey! hopefully you get my point :) [I love those two words had to throw them in to this!]

Play with words (or paints as I do)

p.s. on acronyms and shortforms ! Yes I use them too (see above) however, one should always stop and think about who you are speaking to. I know, I know, if it’s someone in your own sphere they will likely know but if you need to reach beyond them either explain them as you go or just don’t use them.

Podcast interview with "Unapologetically Canadian"

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Fri, 04 Dec 2020 18:33:35 GMT

what a great experience chatting with Tracey Arial!

Tracy Arial hosts a podcast called "Unapologetically Canadian" (what a great name!!) and she interviewed me on it - so much fun and we covered so many topics from entrepreneurship, today's business climate, my art and being Canadian.

The podcast airs on MixCloud and you can access the interview here:

https://www.mixcloud.com/TraceyArial/exploring-the-power-of-art-with-karen-klucowicz/

Notes extracted from Arial blog: "First, we got together on Zoom to do a tour of her new gallery Studio K2 in Hamilton, Ontario.
We finished up on audio for the rest of our conversation. We spoke about entrepreneurship, the challenges of staying productive, working process and contributing to the local community. It was a great conversation. Karen has lots of ideas about how artists can package their expertise to create inspiring products for companies, individuals and families. I particularly liked her date night painting adventure."

are you in sales? is your team in sales?

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Thu, 26 Nov 2020 19:20:01 GMT

’tis the season when a customer decides when we’ve been good or bad

This last week has been interesting and there are a number of times I was in situations that made me think we are all in sales whether buying or selling at some point, and maybe by sharing stories we can help others get better and commend those that do it well! (And since this is about sales I thought I'd throw our studio christmas gallery shop into the mix ! lol)

I’ll tell you how I handle selling and then the buying situations I was in this week where customer service both fell short and exceeded my expectations.

on follow-up and follow-through….
So I’ve been driving a 2004 Honda CR-V for hmm about a dozen years - I almost managed to hit 360,000K when I “traded” it in last week. I started my shopping with a dealership where I thought the salesperson knew I was serious and we narrowed my watch list down (they didn’t have any in at the moment). I left thinking she was going to advise when next one came in — nope, a few days later I went on their site only to find three possibilities that she did not follow up on with me… a couple of days after that I sent her a followup to see if in fact she was watching for me. Several days after that and in fact, just after I went to another dealership and bought a vehicle she replied… That is how to lose a sale.

I personally had an issue with followup — not recognizing the urgency to a customer I missed the opportunity to do a commissioned piece of art (won’t do that again!).

Do you have a system in place to ensure clients don’t fall through the cracks?

on assumptions…
I try very hard not to assume my customers know all about the products or services I offer, and I try to balance that and investigate the level of understanding they do have before I ‘pitch’ — whether they are wanting to book a team-building event, explore an art experience or a collector that wants to buy a piece of art from the studio.

Back to the car story - I went to another dealership and the sales person there assumed (I think because I was asking about a particular model) that I knew everything about the vehicle when I did not and in the end I bought a model that was one if not two levels up from my first choice. Was he a good salesperson? Not really, I only knew that the model I first thought I wanted didn’t have some of the features I wanted and so I had to ask him to show me one that did — maybe he initially disqualified me as a buyer for it? Now the story doesn’t end there - I did buy it, however it was the next two people I encountered at the dealership that actually detailed the features and sold me on the vehicle. So what that means is I would recommend the dealership but I will not recommend that salesperson and will tell people to avoid him if they go there. That is how to lose referrals but save a client through team work.

What is your system to qualify your customers or clients? Do you have a process that involves more than one person in a team — do they complement and build on each other or does one carry more weight than another, are there safeguards in place to keep customers happy and make the sale?

Make sure your balancing act doesn’t under- or over- estimate your potential client.

on customer appreciation
How do you thank your customers for coming to you rather than your competition? Does your team realize how important it is? — we all like to feel that we’ve either contributed to someone’s well being or filled a need on their side as we do business with them. I know, sometimes the ‘thanks’ ring false but other times a simple ‘thank you’ shows you value their business. When I bought my vehicle the actual salesperson did not even thank me for the order! knowing the salesperson is on commission I have to say it did not make me feel valued as a customer. The other two people that followed through on the order and process were much more appreciative of the sale. How weird is that?

Whether a service or product, you want them to go away feeling good about doing business with you. It will keep you top of mind for the future and/or for referrals. For instance, I do an art experience through Airbnb and at the end of it their takeaway is a journal, a sketching pencil, the art they create and I gift the participant with a sketch that has a note of thanks.

on customer feedback...

We are constantly asked for feedback on customer service or product satisfaction. Sometimes I don’t feel there is any point in providing that if there is no acknowledgement of it (when it is a concern or issue versus a complement of course). When I have a review on google business, from airbnb experience guests, or a note from a customer I always acknowledge the comments directly! I know I’m a small company but there must be a way for larger organizations to do so in a more personal fashion.

How do you gather your feedback and do you acknowledge it?

on complaints, enquiries, refunds…

with all of the online shopping the pandemic has put into play, businesses are having to (or maybe I should say businesses should…) step up in terms of customer service and resolutions.

I have encountered good and bad in this regard of late.

accolades…
I had a box of canvases delivered to me for a workshop and when I opened it one of the canvases was damaged. Shout out to Deserres - as soon as I sent them an email with photo’s and the explanation they shipped out a new product immediately and did not even make me go through the hassle of figuring out how to return the others (said I could use as I see fit) — what a relief and they arrived in time for the session!

I also had a major issue with my computer when I upgraded the system (a persistent pop-up that I had no idea how to deal with). I dreaded the idea of having to take it for service (never mind the down time that might have been involved) however shout out to Apple! and Canon! support — those teams worked through chatlines with me and we eventually resolved it and I didn’t have to venture to a store or replace or buy items to fix it.

not so good…
It took me a good deal of hunting around to get a real person at Apple although as soon as I did manage to find them, the follow-through was amazing, Deserres was easy, Canon was manageable — however I am presently trying to figure out how to contact a real person at FaceBook (shrug) that is seeming quite impossible at present — my issue with them is an ad I was trying to place for a ‘date night art experience’ was rejected — they took it to mean I ran a dating service and it did not comply with whatever rules they have in place for those types of ads — I still have not been able to reach someone to explain and dispute the algorithm that lumped me in that category lol.

How are your customers able to reach a real person in today’s climate to chat and resolve concerns? I try to make sure my phone number, email and address are readily available so that people know I am here and available. What do you do?

Whether you’re working with a team to ensure great customer service, product development or fulfillment, I believe the elements within your communication all entail sales and some of the key ingredients are follow through, assumptions and availability . Addressing these areas in a complete and clear manner lead to happier teams, happier customers and with a little luck goodies in Santa’s sleigh for all :)

#teamwork #communication #businesspolicies

How are you going to keep your team happy now?!?

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 17:16:40 GMT

is that art ?!?

As the pandemic continues and restrictions tighten once again, are you considering inventive ways to keep your team motivated and in good spirits? Particularly with the holiday season upon us we need to find ways to uplift, sometimes cheer up and fuel their spirits.

While the Christmas season is going to be very different for me (and many this year) there are some things I will keep the tradition up on - may be you can incorporate a few of the ideas...

Sometimes the work is enough, sometimes not.

My decorating craze at this time of year is all about trees :) I love them and every year I add one to my collection . some are abstract, some are made of wood, some of feathers, glass.... I put them everywhere so given that many visits will be over zoom this year I’ll set my area up to include one or two or a few! If you celebrate this season, can you do that ? put something in the line of vision for your chats — a wreath, a message, I know some of you will even don the Santa hat!

I’m going to have a little seasonal celebration on line with our group exhibition artists - bonus ! no one has to drive!

You need to have an engaging interaction with your team. Can be as simple as an online cheer for the season or an interactive activity or event. Donate and/or shop locally on behalf of your team to show your support goes beyond the business.

How about a virtual guest speaker ? Either someone that relates to your business and can inspire a renewed appreciation for your industry or maybe something totally unrelated and fun !

When I do team building events I have always started with an introduction to art by surveying styles both popular and obscure. I even have an artist’s work in the presentation that has built a career on drawing stick figures lol.

1. To have people relax and not worry about what their painting will look and, 2. Well, because I’m all about art.

I have found that any of the groups I’ve addressed they have learned something and/or gained a new appreciation for art. In some cases, it has confirmed a like or dislike of styles, inspired several to explore their creative side and mostly it brought them into a world outside of their usual work day!

It’s up to you to be the leader, create or maintain interest and help your team manage their situation.

I can help you with a “zoom in to creativity” art experience but I can’t talk numbers, recipes or fitness routines — you’ll have to seek experts in those areas on your own.

Enjoy the season! Let’s lift each other up in this trying time, karen

#teambuilding #holidayideas #artevents

entrepreneurs are a special breed

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 20:08:00 GMT

the time management and priorities battle

My love of art, teaching, sharing, and painting inspired me to establish studio k2. With that comes a host of requirements to get the word out that we are here to support the arts, grow the industry, offer relevant services to companies for team-development and individuals to experience art. The effort to communicate with our markets takes time and continual effort (as I’m sure many of you know!).

So I know I’m not the only one that has to juggle multiple priorities and still have a life but some days!!*#!! I’ve been looking at multiple planning tools, ideas and directions for managing those priorities and this is where I arrived - maybe it’ll bring a few ideas to you as well and feel free to share yours!

first! layout the main areas that have to be addressed
Often it is like a game of domino’s but I choose to think of it like playing snakes & ladders. And I think of it as a work-in-progress - maintaining flexibility and fluidity, commitment and honestly, most importantly — having fun! My priorities shift all of the time but the overall direction still leads to a common goal to “live the power of art” through sharing the experience of art with clients, collectors and my peers. So my main areas are: the admin side (yes art is a business and paperwork has to happen); my personal art (the one I’d love to give most time to but have to reign in on); the marketing & client care (advertising then delivering!). Can you break your priorities in to three major areas then tackle the management of them from there?

after you have a handle on that...7 ‘easy’ steps

scheduling (event & admin manager hat on)
1.    determine a regular studio routine (I’m not the best at following routine and nothing presently dictates specific hour requirements, so this is going to be a big one for me!) . if you have this flexibility what influences it? For me, it’s personal enjoyment of particular times of day (I LOVE morning coffee & meditation time); my body clock and productivity energy levels in a day (high in the mornings [after coffee] and a resurgence of it in the evenings [typically I have to force myself to go to bed at a reasonable hour ie before 1am!]); and stay flexible to schedule meetings, host events and meet project deadlines.

2.    establish weekly and monthly minimum requirements . hand in hand with my plan goals (and mental health requirements) as well as the safety and operating guidelines our studio has to follow during the pandemic, there is the learning curve connected to that in terms of technology and creative adaptation of our services, so it means that the time for these areas have created demands on time that were not previously accounted for but have to be accommodated. Entrepreneurs have to maintain flexibility to meet new and ongoing challenges! How many has our pandemic given to you?!

3.    commit a number of hours in a day to meet the requirements that will benefit the studio, and ultimately my peer group and clients (I think the only one I’ll have difficulty enforcing is painting time . a hard stop time is not always possible when you’re in the flow of creating new art).

4.    centralize my to-do lists . I am one of those people that have multiple lists, notes and arrows within those to signify change, additions etc. some tasks become perpetual so if I use one list maybe procrastination won’t happen (as much), I’ll have a sense of accomplishment, and goals will be attainable! Recently I met an artist that absolutely commits to one work of art at a time, while I can’t do that, it did make me realize that accomplishing a task is ideal to move forward so maybe I need them in smaller bites. idea! apply my event management skills to my overall to-do’s — that should work I’ve never had issues with time management when project managing! Is there some process that you undertake in a particular part of your business, that you can adapt to time manage your overall schedule?

environment (interior designer hat now on)
5.    functional space . declutter my work areas ? not my style - I realize many must work in an organized fashion but I believe I work best (and it’s inevitable) in a state of organized chaos. I know where things are possibly due to being a visual artist - I can picture where things are whether it’s a list within a pile or a particular paint under a pile of paint tubes. If this is you - embrace it and don’t let the person with a one-file desk (or none as is apt to happen in our virtual worlds) dictate how your area looks and functions. However if you know you operate more efficiently and effectively with a clear area do it! On the other hand I do recognize that organizing ‘stuff’ is a skill and I draw on the talents of another to do that for areas I need better control in - storage, inventory, supplies... which assists me in being productive but doesn’t lay claim to my day-to-day work style.

6.    your visual surround . this one is critical to me and I believe often neglected in many work areas. We are supposed to take eye breaks from the screen regularly so what does your line of vision include? I’m lucky I have windows where I’m working and a group show of art on the walls so my breaks are great! What can you do to make yours work to best advantage? If a window, great! if not, maybe bring an image to the area that gives you a visual distraction and rest spot for your eyes. If you’re surrounded by corporate imagery that doesn’t allow for your personal flare maybe you need to tuck a photo in a desk drawer or create a photo file/screen saver you can tap in to occasionally.

fun!
7. I love what I’m doing and I try to look at each task as leading to the ultimate goal of being happy, productive, making a living and aiding in the support/growth and livings of other artists as well!

coincidence of timing

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Mon, 19 Oct 2020 19:10:43 GMT

looking back is not always a bad thing (lol)

Wow! This morning I was concept journalling (this is where I go to inspire painting ideas and dump any thoughts that are disrupting my flow) and when I looked back over a few pages in this particular sketchbook I noticed my writings of one year ago today! That was the day I landed on the concept to establish the studio! One year later with the roller coaster ride Covid-19 put us all on, the studio is here and on the right track.

Thought I’d share the key concepts that I landed on a year ago as well as where it’s at right now... [if I can decipher and transcribe my writing]. Keeping perspective, hope and motivation in mind...

extracts from my 2019 notes... (yes, I recognize it is not corporate-speak but I’m putting it out there anyway!)

“Basically there are three prongs to my plan :

for companies to use art to grow their business in fun and purposeful ways with team-building art events in workshops, retreats and conferences.
develop an artists peer network, retreats for artists to get together, grow their own personal work and learn from each other in alternate spaces and locations.
help to build a further appreciation for the arts through workshops where art enthusiasts can experiment and experience visual art personally and art-holidays to explore painting and the art of other countries.

the common elements?

• passion for art • the role art can play for people

All of this fuels my creative spirit to fuel creativity in others.

Sharing art - bridging industries and communities, inspiring new ideas, growth of individuals which ultimately grows a community of communication whether that be a company’s mandate, an artists portfolio or individuals’ relationships.”

six months later... So that is where I began in terms of developing the studio plan which, of course, this year became a work in progress. Originally I was just going to look for a studio space to work on my art outside of home, however, the other ideas I’ve had over the years kept gnawing at me and as I spilled them into my sketching journals, it evolved to be a more interesting, dynamic, far-reaching and some say ambitious (lol) plan. The pandemic lock-downs and restrictions were a scary challenge to accept but having signed the lease, I resolved to commit to the plan, ‘pivot’ as they say and power on. A few of the ideas had to be put on the back burner with travel restrictions (retreats and art holidays) and a few had to shift to in terms of delivering the services (ie going virtual for workshops). Nonetheless it is in motion!

now, October 2020... You can visit the website to see the full extent of what the studio delivers, however, in a nutshell it has arrived today to be an artist-run [that’s me :)] space with:

workshops designed and launched for individuals;
a physical gallery in the space where multiple artists can show (just launched our first group exhibition and had a few sales!), getting artists together to network and share ideas; and
creative ideas [that have been very successful to-date] for companies to team-build, enhance their culture and engage talent through art experiences.

fingers-crossed for October 2021... Pending portions of the plan remain and I’m hopeful that as the world heals they will come sooner rather than later...

creative retreats for artists . traveling together on a creative retreat to feed off of the energy, inspiration and creativity of their peers, as well as experience the arts of other countries;
art-experience holidays for individuals to live like an artist and live art in other countries; and
corporate conference partnering.
growing the studio client-base to include employment for additional artists, further support and collaboration with local businesses that enhance the art-experiences.

In the interim, please support your local entrepreneurs, artists, art spaces, participate as restrictions allow and stay well.
Art is critical.

As I launched the studio I also arrived at the tag “ Live the power of art. ©”
I know artists do and I truly believe we can deliver this experience for others.

fall in to creativity at studio k2 gallery . group exhibition

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Fri, 02 Oct 2020 19:19:02 GMT

for immediate release . october 2, 2020

Fall in to creativity and live the power of art at studio k2.
Artist-run gallery - group exhibition opening weekend.

               Friday October 9, 2020 6pm to 9pm
               Saturday October 10 to Monday October 12th, 2020 11am to 5pm

Hamilton, Ontario . studio k2 is launching the inaugural group art exhibition at 156 Parkdale Avenue North . this artist-run gallery, featuring contemporary Canadian art, is just one of the opportunities the studio is launching to collaborate with other artists, expand the arts culture, and ultimately grow the arts industry.

           exhibition dates : October 5, 2020 to January 2, 2021

           artists : yas alsabbagh, sculptor, toronto

jessica brown, painter, hamilton

emma enright, textile artist, hamilton

steven kenny, pen & ink artist, hamilton

karen klucowicz, figurative/abstract artist, hamilton

manuela moldovan, mixed media artist, toronto

This initiative was undertaken by karen klucowicz, a professional fine-art painter.

“I believe artists should network with their peers, and be afforded the opportunities to collaborate with each other and grow their careers. My history with social marketing and design has fueled me to develop workshops for team-building that promote the visual arts, engage talent and deliver corporate messages. I know people love the idea of being an artist and I’ve created art experiences that enable them to explore their creativity and the life of an artist. Art is critical and a powerful tool for living. ”

“ Live the power of art ” is studio k2’s vision for:
   • artists to create, collaborate and lift each other up;
   • art experiences to encourage individuals to explore their creativity;
   • collectors and art-enthusiasts to support the arts;
   • business collaborations that offer mutual support; and
   • team-building events for companies that will engage talent, and deliver corporate messages.
Art lives up to all of those promises and studio k2 has the passion, talent, and vision to deliver them.

Hamilton is making great strides to advance creative industries and contributes significantly to the Ontario arts culture and industry sector. Ideally positioned in the Golden Horseshoe, Hamilton is fast becoming a convenient, “happening” destination for the arts. The ever-expanding arts-vibe clearly demonstrates that the studio can serve artists, individuals, collectors and businesses with the services and opportunities offered for each of these groups.

Day-tripping to see the colours this fall? studio k2 is a great destination to take a break from the QEW and see the colours our art offers. The studio is open to the general public (free admission) with current safety stage protocols in place. [Virtual tours of the exhibition and an intro to studio k2 are also available by appointment.]

contact : karen klucowicz   |   karen@studiok2.ca   |   647-883-6639

studio k2 . 156 Parkdale Avenue North, Hamilton, Ontario Canada
instagram @k2chats; twitter @k2chats; facebook studio k2 canada
www.studiok2.ca

— 30 —

studio k2 art experience offerings:
• group exhibitions, artists retreats (local & eventually travelling!),
visiting artist space, artist salon, networking
• corporate team-building workshops & retreats
• gallery exhibitions & sales
• individual & group art: figure drawing & figure painting workshops;
date-night private art experiences; art staycations (& eventually travelling!);
art & interior design workshops; artist salon . zoom chats
with exhibiting artists.

karen klucowicz bio : artist/owner, studio k2
Karen Klucowicz is a Canadian artist known for working with nude figures in various levels of abstraction, intimacy and bold compositions of colour, represented by Raven Art Gallery in the Niagara region. Her art focuses on the strength of individuals and how that strength affects relationships.

Klucowicz established studio k2 in April, 2020. Although the pandemic hit hard, she demonstrates the resilience and creativity of artists moving forward to engage and grow the studio. The studio is the realization of her vision to share her passion for art and her belief that art has great power to enable communication, heal and grow individuals. With an extensive background in marketing, advertising and interior design Karen has created a studio plan to share her passion for art and collaborate with other artists to grow.

studio k2 moves her entrepreneurial spirit to new levels and brings her concepts together under one roof. studio k2 will advance other artists’ careers, grow the arts culture with artists, corporations and individuals to experience the joy of creating through workshop and retreat offerings.

current exhibition : artists’ statement extracts...

yas alsabbagh, sculptor, toronto, on
“...I think that the world is always starving for something that brings them satisfaction on a deeper level in a materialist society. There for I take recycled material, which is considered worthless, and unleash the potential in it, by molding it to match my thoughts...”

jessica brown, post-impressionist artist, hamilton
“...I’ve always thought of myself as an old soul; I often feel out of time with my generation. I’m drawn to stories from the 1930s, and architecture from the 19th century. That is where I feel at home, and it is the romance and mystery of this era that my paintings evoke...”

emma enright, textile artist, hamilton, on
“...Upon personal reflections when using a loom, a transformative reaction takes place. The pushing and pulling movement translates into a metaphor for the repetitive nature of daily life. My collection of work embodies these concepts...”

steven kenny, pen & ink artist, hamilton, on
“Through this highly stylized method of drawing, I am able to convey narratives to the viewer, providing them stories both old and new under the guise of a traditional inker from a different age. By committing to methods of drawing that seem “outdated”, I am able to provide visual experiences to the audience that are newer and current...”

karen klucowicz, figurative artist, hamilton, on
“Painting is thinking out loud on canvas. I believe there is no better way to demonstrate strength, relationship challenges, options and results, than to strip away ideas of an individual and reveal the character of being. ... To that end, I work with body-positive images, (and) flesh tones that are not based on anyone’s reality...”

manuela moldovan, mixed-media artist, toronto, on
“I feel deeply connected with our mother nature; it is very dynamic, with unexpected energy and vibration...”

How inspiring is colour to you?

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Fri, 25 Sep 2020 19:43:44 GMT

fall in to the beauty nature gifts to us

Colour. One of my favourite subjects. This season has me reflecting on the impact of colour. There is no better resource to plan, work with or learn from than nature. Sure, my art deviates from it but I have learned the essence of working with colour, juxtaposition and composition by studying natural items — peacock feathers, water, flowers, fruit, animals and human flesh. Here’s a little exercise for you - stare at the skin of your arm for an extended period of time (natural light is best but wherever you are...) As you visually absorb the area, multiple colours will appear to you. While I paint figures in various tones of purple for maximum cultural bridging, there are always other colours within. They give the forms dimension, depth and access to the concepts.

the art of colour

Corporate branding from the logo and marketing materials to the interior of the space a company occupies, deliver messages in colour as well as words, images, furnishings and fixtures. What do your corporate colours say about your company? How do you influence it presenting it to your team and customers?

Oh, just a minute, I’m going to put my interior design hat on regarding corporate branding ...
Notwithstanding the ambient noise (music? traffic? machines?), furnishings, fixtures, scents and lighting, the colour of your interiors, beginning with the walls, is critical to your environment.

interior planes

Retailers... I’m sure you’ve worked with a designer to ensure optimal presentation of your products. If not, get an expert in and plan your background colours.

Offices open to the public (well, as pandemic regulations permit). What do you need to inspire ? calm, excitement, stability, professionalism, formal, informal ?

Offices / production facilities . where most work is not generally open to clients or consumers. What kind of energy do you need to bring to the space and in turn, the team? Peace, very active, multiple levels ?

Offices open to clients or consumers . Do you reiterate your brand identity? A complementary colour to your logo, an accent wall in a colour from the logo, a neutral tone that emphasizes the corporate image?

This is a glimpse in to the importance of colour. Unless you are colour-blind, colour always affects you. Even at that I would suggest that the tints and tones of the grays you see influence your reception to an idea or item. I encourage you to step back and really see the colours around you and your team. If they don’t align with the corporate vision and brand identity and team engagement, it’s time to scheme...

team colours

Take your colour branding a step further. When I present (or work on) art, as when I worked in interior design, I always wear black or white clothing - the idea is to not influence how the colours of the art or the selection of finishes for interiors are received by the viewer. Black and white neutralize and stabilize the surround. Your clothing says something about you but when you’re representing a concept, selling an item or service it should complement and augment the idea with a positive reinforcement.

mother nature

and the artist in me is back...
For heaven’s and artists’ sake don’t forget about the art on those walls! You can bring multiple messages in with art from the concept to the colours and the positions they occupy in your space. That’s a whole other post I’ll share with you in the future... for now...on this first weekend of autumn, take a walk or a drive and relish in the glory of natures’ colour as the trees shift to prepare for our winter landscape... You may take away an inspiring palette to reenergize your space, revitalize your personal or corporate brand, and at the very least you will be awed by the beauty surrounding us in these crazy times.

season’s greetings :)

painting by k klucowicz 'privilege' oil on canvas, 16x20"

Want to go on a vision quest?

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Wed, 16 Sep 2020 14:43:12 GMT

engage, reinvent, grow

If your team has been helping reinvent, grow or modify your business, corporate vision and mission through the pandemic, are you watching out for their well-being?

I’m not a vision quest expert, nor can I do guided meditations through a forest however, I do have a corporate vision, as I’m sure you do. My vision is to have as many people as possible feel and share in the power art has to communicate and enrich lives. “ Live the power of art. ©” is as much about the artists creating the work as it is about collectors living with it, companies discovering how art will communicate for them, and individuals discovering what it will do for them.

Now, more than ever, your corporate vision, purpose, goals and strategy need to be made known and reiterated to your team so they can draw on their own strengths to engage and deliver ideas that contribute to your business journey. Through these unsettling times, it is critical to have your team feel confident that your leadership, strategies and engagement will ensure their success.

comprehension

engage the whole team
As a painting’s title allows you access to an artist’s concept, your corporate vision statement will allow team members access to the ideas and goals of your company. Convey your vision to your team in a new way. You can have them participate in the creation of a visual presentation of your vision — a pictorial view of it, a collage of elements, or maybe a video. Having them demonstrate their understanding of the vision will both reiterate it and show you if there are any breakdowns in reception.

measure success
You probably have measuring tools in place that demonstrate ‘success’ by your team members with hard numbers - sales quotas, outreach objectives, meeting participation. How about the ‘soft’ successes like a great google review, client letters, unique solutions by a team member? How do you acknowledge these successes to resonate with the member, in turn the team culture, and ultimately the continued growth of the organization?

strategy

individuals
Feeling heard, valued and appreciated are positives that we all seek.
Acknowledgment can be as simple as a handwritten note or a phone call.

engage the team member
Identify a success. Have the individual responsible for it present to your team - sharing the actions they took, what the solution did for the customer or company. Their involvement gives you the opportunity to recognize the member, and creates a peer-to-peer experience. With that member you might explore how that could transfer to other members actions and have them deliver the message to the whole team.

ongoing contributions
In our growing virtual world it may actually be easier to have your team participate in sharing ideas and thoughts. You could start a chat room, a blog for the team where anyone can contribute, a private group, brainstorming breaks. And, once in a while do a ‘safe’ gathering or activity to make sure they still feel connected and grounded with the team. Always, always, ensure that you are monitoring and responding to their input. Accountability and responsibility both by the team members and leaders are essential.

dream team

Enabling involvement and contributions on your quest to achieve the vision will ensure ongoing engagement.

What remote setting would make you happy and productive?

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Wed, 09 Sep 2020 12:33:14 GMT

if you could work anywhere....where would it be?

On a beautiful beach, the surf gently lapping, warm temps and cool breezes? With a city view, easy access to restaurants, galleries, theatres ?

If people can work anywhere, they can live anywhere.

If you can keep the team engaged, the work interesting and rewards appropriate, you can keep your team.

We’ve seen a shift from ‘lifers’ to somewhat transient workers - apart from seeking more monetary compensation people are also looking for a greater quality of life aspect to what they are doing in addition to the amount of time they have to spend earning.

So if people are working remotely they may have more opportunity to expand that quality to include their idea of and goals toward an ideal living space, location and work pattern. Ultimately bringing that highly sought after work/life balance to an equilibrium!

How many people in your immediate circle of family and friends have a land-line? Younger people may not even know what that means ! Cell phones are the norm and keeping the number no matter where you are lends itself to the idea that it doesn’t matter where you are.

Setting down roots will be different in the coming years than it has been in the past. There’s a freedom to recognizing you can make those choices based on your ideals rather than employment circumstances. The security of remote-style working will motivate individuals to maintain that status, in effect inspiring loyalty, strong work ethics and the highly sought after happiness.

work/life

In fact some of these options may be so wide open to them that it is overwhelming. Recognizing this will be key to your relationship with them. Helping them to cope with it should be one of your goals.

For instance, after my mom passed away I realized that I could live anywhere I wanted to - location was no longer critical, my work is portable, new locations are inspiring, my relationships are solid, however, with the whole world open to me I could not decide where I wanted that to be. It took several years to determine that while I’m a bit of a nomad, I still want roots and those need to be relatively near family and friends. I think I’ve found that happy medium and actually with the pandemic as it’s been, now I have even more access and direction in the virtual world.

Over to you... let’s delve into engaging your team members.

If your team is going remote (or many members are) why don’t you engage them in an exercise that helps them see the possibilities and feel the company support. Try some of these - it’s an investment of your time and theirs that will pay dividends.

individuality

First tackle the individuals - find out where they are at, what they would like and how they can connect the dots:

Have them create a ‘dream board’ and then help them draw parallels with them to their employment circumstances that can move them toward realizing some, or maybe even all, of those ‘dreams’.

Hit them with a list of questions and ask them to write a ‘story’ in response. You can make it fun and have them do it in a children’s book format or a romantic short story. Maybe it becomes a contest of some sort, the team receives each story and rates it for originality, motivation or inspiration?

Have them create an ideal day away and then gift it to them!

In each of these potential activities you need to be the leader you are and ask the questions that will help them focus, build direction and then help them realize what they have created and what they can create.

team 'rules'

When you have a handle on where the individuals are at, engage them in an activity to develop your team culture .
Determine what accountability looks like for them, what member to member interaction would be most satisfying for them if they can’t physically work together, what do they need to see, hear, know about to feel connected? You can try this in one of the formats for individuals or perhaps it’s a brainstorming session, one on one meetups or a team-building event. Whichever way you handle it, again, as the leader you must pose the questions and draw out the responses. When you have an analysis on their input, address the group and deliver the results - touch on individual responses, innovative solutions, rewards that can be affiliated with the directions you’re taking. Demonstrate that you hear them and value their input.

follow the leader...

The interesting work part I can’t help you with unless they are in the arts :) however, I believe every job has a creative aspect to it, be it how to beat the clock, which way a number should read or how to arrange a display. I sincerely hope most of your team are working with you because they enjoy the actual work and you likely know a great deal about it so ask yourself what you do to keep it interesting and share those ideas with your team.

Rewards are not always monetary [although those often well received :)] stay tuned to my blog and I’ll offer up some of those next week!

In the interim, get your team engaged.

If you’d like a template to run the activities - drop me a line or this post will go on forever lol! karen@studiok2.ca

If your team were a painting how would you look at it?

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 18:49:43 GMT

The art of objectively critiquing your team.

the collection = your team

Staying on top of how your team is doing is critical to developing and ensuring a positive team culture and ultimately growing your business. It’s not unlike an art critique.

This is how I critique my own work and how it parallels to conducting a team critique (performance reviews) ! Then you can line up your team and use the same (or similar lol) method.

A critique is not an emotional review. It is intended to be professional, objective and a growth experience. Every so often I have to step back and see where my art has been and where it is going (team assessment) . Sometimes that’s from photo’s of sold paintings (completed projects) but more importantly it’s with my inventory that’s available (team members) and art that I am working on (company goals and objectives) .

I line the pieces up against a wall. Then I put ‘like’ pieces together. The “likes” might be based on the concept or the evolution of a solution to an idea . When I have a group of paintings that are similar to each other I line those up to view the collection.

Then I review the collection (your team) and then the individual artwork (team members) in concept, composition and technique.

the critique goes something like this...

how the collection aligns with the story that my series are telling (corporate vision) ; I look at the elements within the content - the figures, the colours, the textures, the movement (what makes that person tick) ;

then I judge the composition - where the focus is, how I lead the eye through and to the focus, what breathing space I give to elements within (the tasks and autonomy to the role) ;

and technique - whether my skill in execution is improving, is it achieving a portrayal of the emotion and concept I want people to receive, should I look to other artists ? take a course ? practice a technique that will advance both my skill in execution and deliver my ideas in the way I want them to ? (professional development requirements) .

results

Whether I like a painting or not, I evaluate it - sometimes it doesn’t make it to my work for sale, sometimes I rework it, sometimes it inspires a new concept and occasionally I paint over the piece and reuse the canvas (develop or new hire) .

Collector feedback - comments, analysis and reception by others also feeds my information line on where my work is at or where it’s going (project analysis, client and customer reviews) .

At the end of this critique session I arrive at realizations, confirmations, a to-do list, new directions... (action plan ) in short, I continue to develop as an artist.

Team leaders gather, critique, grow.

#team-building #teamdevelopment #performancereviews

how do you think a situation through?

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Tue, 25 Aug 2020 16:58:06 GMT

here’s a new process for you to try!

I’m sharing my method of concept journaling - see if it opens up new ideas for you !

I have often been asked how I come up with the ideas for my paintings. I don’t put fruit in a bowl and light it up, or sit on a hill and paint a landscape, I don’t take a photo of a person and paint that. Nope. I take out my sketchbook and write about what is on my mind, things that I can’t get off my mind, why something has affected me or how it has affected me or a situation I need to resolve. What will happen is my visual brain takes over and all of a sudden I’m sketching. Sometimes what ends up on my canvas has nothing to do with my original writing or thought but the process helped me determine a soluton or gave me a direction to take.

here's how you can incorporate this type of process with your work...

ask the question

Let’s say you need to find out why Grace in the cubicle at one end of office doesn’t even know Linda’s name at the other end of the office - insert shrug here? No! Start to write it out - your frustrations with it, why they should connect, how you might get them to interact, what you think they are thinking, how you think they are acting, any ideas you have (even fire both and rehire) just ramble... I let the dark thoughts surface too coz who’s gonna read them ? just me but once I put them out there I can move past them.

relocate

Oh and I’d like to suggest you NOT do this in your usual state and place of thinking/working - at a desk, on a stability ball, on a run... step away, go somewhere different - a beach? a park? on your deck? at a cottage? A switch of the environment will inspire new thoughts.

scribble
ramble

Now, take a breath, look back over your writing (if it’s legible - mine often is not as I like to spill it all out as quickly as possible, and yes, I’m suggesting you use good old pencil and paper to do this!) and pick out key words that have surfaced. One of these words or thoughts will be the key to the direction you need to take.

doodle

Let your mind wander on to what those words mean, what you need them to mean, and how you might get there. My sketch pages end up with circled words, arrows and indecipherable drawings but ultimately they land on one canvas (well sometimes more than one :)) In fact often the title for a painting emerges this way as well. The struggle or thoughts I was exploring boil down to one word or intention that has then become a piece of art. And more than that - it’s off my mind and I’m moving forward.

assess

Doodle! So my art is figurative (and yes I could draw you hair for hair in high realism but I don’t like to) and you may think you can only draw stick figures or people wouldn’t even recognize a beach ball if you threw the drawing at them but who cares? it’s for you, and you will know what it is and what it means - sometimes I tear up the pages after I’ve spilled or I keep them to see where I’ve come from. You decide. Either way just get to it!! Try it, see what it can do for you and ultimately, for your team.

move forward

Here’s an example of one of my pages and how it ended up on canvas. I chose this piece as it was at a point when I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do - keep painting and trying to sell my work? create workshops and share my passion for art? work for someone else? go back to interior design - wtw?! so i started to ramble on about what each might do for me, where I was at, where I’d been and then I started to sketch and then went back to writing again... this went on for awhile (lol) when I boiled it down it was about sharing and teaching. Sharing the skills I have picked up, sharing my life on canvas so people would realize they are not the only ones thinking about these things, teaching others to share their stories. So while I was planning out the studio and services I’d offer, this is the painting I was working on. It’s called ‘journey’.

do your team members feel like you hear them?

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Wed, 19 Aug 2020 20:33:07 GMT

the art of listening versus hearing, being in the moment, outcomes...
Focus on communicating.

Remember when your mom or maybe your boss would say ‘I know you’re listening to me but do you HEAR me?’ I sure do and I even understand what’s meant by it...now. It’s an ongoing effort and something I think we should all do a check-in on occasionally.

Being “in the moment” is not some woowoo sentiment. It is a difficult feat and one that we should always try to achieve. Even when you’re multi-tasking, or juggling multiple projects and deadlines you must stop and focus on the current item in hand. In a team setting, it’s about valuing opinion, ideas, responding, challenging and accepting. In other words, it’s about communication.

When you’re working with a team of people sometimes opportunities are missed if the members aren’t heard.

Here are a few checks and balances to determine how you’re doing:
• Listen to yourself; are you rushing head on or delivering your ask or message in a meaningful way?

If it’s direct interaction - virtually or in person:
• Stop your brain from jumping ahead; stay with the current item try not to think about the next question, statement or direction until the current one is complete;
• Focus on voice; yours and theirs - intonations, hesitancy, urgency in tone may mean more than the actual words;
• Body language (virtually or in-person) - together with voice and words personal presentation and movement will also give you valuable insight to the conversation;
• Allow thoughts to be finished before moving on - don’t ‘fill in the blanks’ - ask questions to get the full message, and then ask if it is complete don’t assume.

If it’s a written format (emails or chats):
• Make sure the message has a clear start, ask and finish; get clarification on the responses if you’re not clear;
• If the conversation is getting convoluted in writing ... pick up the phone!

With my art, I work somewhat in reverse - I begin with an internal conversation and when I put the painting out there I’m delivering a message. I appreciate that my intentions are not always what is received however I also know that they can act as a catalyst to open the conversation up and that is equally satisfying to me. If you work with introverts you might want to open the team up to this type of contribution.

All that to say — hear the people you’re interacting with so you that you receive their full intention.

Isn’t that what ‘active listening’ is about?

Do you solicit feedback from your team? Do you acknowledge it? If you are having a difficult time getting them to contribute their thoughts do you try other methods to attain them?
If you don’t or aren’t able to incorporate their input into a plan do you communicate the reasons to them?
Your consideration of these thoughts and relay of information to them on all of this, will help them feel heard even if you can’t accommodate their ideas.

Feel free to share some of your own checks and balances...

the painting featured above: k klucowicz — 'focus', oil on canvas, 11x14"

for those of you that don't know... I work in two series the first centers around the strength of individuals

and the second on how that strength affects relationships.

The message I am putting out with this piece is about leaning in to feelings, creativity and how to put them out there.

It was the first of several pieces I produced on a creative retreat. This painting grounded me to determine where I was at in that moment and how I could move forward to put new concepts out there. In case you were wondering...

Was that what you were thinking it meant?, love to hear your thoughts, karen

oh and ps! the title bar painting is called 'articulation'!

Recess, track & field, ‘field’ trips...

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Mon, 10 Aug 2020 16:10:55 GMT

Play days!

Remember those days at school when you didn’t have to sit at your desk all day, take notes, work on lessons? There was a euphoric feeling of freedom to the day that we looked forward to, were excited to participate in and probably still have memories of today. I’m a firm believer in work hard, play hard and it can be within your company too.

When I had a team in an ad agency we used to do tourist-days exploring the local city attractions that many only did (if ever) when they had out-of-town company. We had champagne breakfasts, did a skate at the Harbourfront rink, took the hop-on hop-off bus around the city, went to the Science Centre and ended with a meal at a local hot-spot. Years later I ran into a former employee that said we ruined her for any other companies she had worked for.

What if instead of a take a kid to work day you took or sent a team-member on a play day?

should we bring back ringing a bell, taking a recess, have everyone stand up and dance?!

and I’m pumped! I designed a play day for studio guests of Airbnb and it was accepted : figure it out - concept to painting fun!

(check out the team-building play day here www.studiok2.ca )

occupational therapy

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Sun, 02 Aug 2020 17:01:56 GMT

a break from the everyday workload

How do you take a break from your work? I think there are a few different ways to switch things up! You can do something totally different like taking a run to clear your head or you can research or investigate the lives of others in the same profession. I choose that. It often inspires me and motivates me to move foward. I thought I’d share today’s venture with you and maybe it will inspire you to do something similar as it relates to your career.

Today I went to the Art Gallery of Hamilton to get my occupational therapy fix. I do this once in a while and then I’m reminded I should do it regularly. Years ago someone said to me a show or piece of art will either inspire and motivate you or could throw you into despair. Today, I’m happy to say the show brought me inspiration, ideas and motivation as well as, a new appreciation for the artist - Michael Snow (Canadian artist) ! This exhibit is of his early work and really well done.

Some of my takeaways today are:
. I should go back to some of my own foundation basics and do a high realism piece once in a while:
. it’s okay to not fill the whole canvas ie not applying paint to every square inch doesn’t diminish the concept;
. on canvas size... I find I get engulfed in a piece that is very large - the environment around it is in melts away and I’m mesmerized by the colours and textures before me - so i want to do a bigger canvas than I’ve ever done and see how it is to paint within that scenario;

. I tend to manipulate paints to blend and bleed into one another and in so doing I get obsessed with the ‘smooth’ transition of one to another - today I’m reminded that sometimes you need to have stark and true applications of a colour or texture to deliver the concept so I will try to deliberately leave some areas alone and see where that takes the piece;

and finally, (well maybe not)

. I will continue to and ramp up my exploration of mixed media - I love pencil and conté and charcoal and have experimented with them before together with paint but Snow’s work has shown me a new appreciation for it and I will try again.

Maybe my takeaways mean nothing to you but think about who can you look at to gain insight or motivation. Then search for info on them - you never know what you’ll gain. I promise it can be just as rewarding and beneficial as taking a walk to clear your head.

#team-development #careerfocus #workbreak

fostering a community of communication

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 15:05:50 GMT

team-development tips

In today’s business climate it becomes more and more clear that we must create an open path within our communities of clear communication to and from our team members.

You may have a strategy in place to achieve this however it might be wise to step outside of that framework once in a while, and offer an alternate method of participation. These methods can offer unique and insightful information on the way people process information, capabilities for delivering information, how they interact with others, how they feel about a particular topic, even how they think in terms of creating solutions. These are some of the benefits of conducting team-building activities.

On the simplest level team-building events allow members to relax outside of their typical work environment and meet up on a social level. Many events end at that - building a little comradery, you may even garner a little info that wasn’t forthcoming in the formal corporate environment, and goodwill (particularly if the beverages and food are included lol).

Imagine taking your activity further and holding a team-development event that has residual effects for team-members AND management.

Consider :
. setting a goal, objective or purpose to the event;

. how you will evaluate and gather info from the participants;

then plan:
. an activity that is outside of your teams’ norm ie not at a desk, not on a computer, not meeting on zoom;
. an event that can be tailored to your purpose;
. physical participation;
. a take-away item that each participant will keep to remind them of the event and reenforce outcomes.

That makes it a win-win!

the painting featured above is by k klucowicz, "hear" oil on canvas, 16x16

the at-home workforce

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 19:43:20 GMT

an artists' perspective

While we have seen the shift to working at home for many businesses and will continue to see a huge shift to people working at home, we have to remember that human contact or socializing outside of a screen will be important.

There will be a need to address the spirit of the team over time. Creating a community of communication is critical to maintain and grow a business. The at-home workforce will be productive and cost savings will be incredible. There will be a need for occasional physical team meetings or events to build and develop the teams. Eventually, there will be conferences and retreats where teams gather to reconnect, brainstorm and hear new corporate info. It will be a necessity.

As an artist, I’ve had less adjusting to do than many to our restricted status (mind you I miss my social outings!!) I am used to, and thrive, working alone. I’ve had plenty of time to get even more creative.

My vision going forward includes using the power of art to help teams reconnect and stay connected. It will give people the opportunity to explore new ways of thinking and processing information.

next step is ready!

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT

worked it up ... now launching.... studiok2.ca

Now the plan is real! Yup it's all on this site so it must be :) When you're planning a business and working the plan each step seems monumental and each step seems to lead to other requirements. Well and then sometimes you just have to trust and fly. So today www.studiok2.ca is launching! Excited, nervous... Ready. I look forward to hearing from anyone that stumbles on to this blog to hear what they have to say about the site and the studio offerings. In the interim I will continue to work on the details that it has generated (ugh #notatechie). Have a great day!

up & down days

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Mon, 01 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT

Excitement gets the better of me everytime.

So one of the first things I'm going to launch at studio k2 is collaborating with other artists. I've started the 'artists' salon' so that we can network, share resources and just be with other like-minded people. Sometimes it's difficult to stay motivated and focused in the arts industry and I believe by networking with your peer group you can stay in a positive frame of mind and work toward the vision you have of a life in creativity. The idea to found studio k2 came with the intent to be more actively involved with other artists. When you work in relative isolation (even apart from the pandemic we are enduring) it's easy to get wrapped up in your own little world and not participate in the industry as a whole. Recognizing that and reaching out to others is a key goal for me in putting studio k2 out there. Now we'll see how the membership grows and I believe the members will see the benefits to meeting, chatting, collaborating with others to share resources and promote our field.

Granted, the pandemic has put a kink in the plan in terms of launching it physically but I think we can do this on a virtual level that will still be motivating and worthwhile. artist-to-artist Let's go!

what's in a logo?

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Fri, 15 May 2020 04:00:00 GMT

who am I, why am I here, where am I going?

Not going there (my personal paintings are more philosophical than a logo needs to be)! A logo represents an idea, an idea turns in to a plan, a business needs to be identifiable.

There are many elements that come in to building a logo. In a past life I used to brand manage campaigns and create company id’s so that people would recognize the company and, in turn, the concept. It’s much more difficult to do it for your own company ! However, after this painful process studio k2’s logo has arrived.

Among the ideas I bring to this logo are:
. art has a foundation;
. ideas are meant to be exchanged;
. direction is critical.

These thoughts represent the concepts behind studio k2. I boiled them down to a presentation of the basic elements of design. The circle, the square, and the triangle. In these shapes you have the cornerstones to design - strength, direction, stability and infinity. Combined with a name mark it projects the feel of the operation.

In it’s simplicity this identity is memorable, in it’s complexity and through consistency and branding, it will reinforce the studio philosophy and vision to live the power of art.

Now, on to the fun stuff!

studio k2
Live the power of art.©

a studio... a pandemic... a plan

klucoart (karen klucowicz) — Tue, 05 May 2020 04:00:00 GMT

thank goodness creative is flexible...

I am in the midst of launching studio k2. I’ve had this vision for some time and have now synthesized my concepts to create an environment and a business to collaborate with other artists, to teach workshops, conduct art-experience retreats AND continue my own painting. Ambitious? I believe art is a powerful tool for those that create, and for others to utilize and grow their experiences, and for businesses to engage talent and ultimately grow their company.

In February of this year I started to look at finding a location to put my business plan in place - found it! Signed the lease, paid the deposits and then.... COVID-19 hit full force. Life’s a process and while it was a blow to the initial launch plans I’m bringing it around to weather this storm and have continued to get the studio ready, the website underway, exploring activities that I can participate in, and creating virtual events that I can bring to others. It has been challenging. I haven’t got the rhythm down yet but I’m getting closer.

studio chat

artists are like remote team members

Engagement, work breaks, and trust are critical

to the success of workplace culture.

the art to team-building

creating a painting is not unlike creating a team

Happy Fridays

busy long weekends & short work weeks may surprise you

the art around you

corporate interiors branding

Creativity. Individuality. Collaboration.

Team-building 2021!

mid-week musings

Deep thoughts, inspiring ideas, creative considerations.

Gearing up for Fall!

season's greetings!

Reconnect. Recharge. Rebuild.

Fall in to the NEW 3R’s for business!

tourism, customer service & economic recovery

how may I help you?

artistBIZ is ready!

so excited to launch this program for emerging artists!

everyday abstract concepts

abstract thoughts can inspire solutions and new ideas...

what do you do for occupational therapy?

Do accountants crack open a book on equations? Would a scientist watch an experiment outside of their field ? Would a writer learn more about typography?

Live the power of art.

a year in the life...

You're bored? Me too! Let's "figure" it out...

working through the ups & downs of February 'blues', pandemic restriction boredom, & miscellaneous other stuff!

february!

choose your words wisely — funk, blues, fun ...

breakthroughs!

small or large, new steps, ideas & recognition of them are amazing

productivity notes

when your world slows down are you more productive?

warm up to creativity . new group exhibition

for immediate release . January 5, 2021

can't have your usual holiday gathering with the team? :(

Want to show your team how much you appreciate them as individuals & recognize the toll this year has taken? :)

I have an idea for you!!

great quotes lead to great conversations

creativity, nature, energy, breaking rules

how many languages do you speak?

one for your peer group? one for your consumers? one for your ego?

Podcast interview with "Unapologetically Canadian"

what a great experience chatting with Tracey Arial!

are you in sales? is your team in sales?

’tis the season when a customer decides when we’ve been good or bad

How are you going to keep your team happy now?!?

is that art ?!?

entrepreneurs are a special breed

the time management and priorities battle

coincidence of timing

looking back is not always a bad thing (lol)

fall in to creativity at studio k2 gallery . group exhibition

for immediate release . october 2, 2020

How inspiring is colour to you?

fall in to the beauty nature gifts to us

Want to go on a vision quest?

engage, reinvent, grow

What remote setting would make you happy and productive?

if you could work anywhere....where would it be?

If your team were a painting how would you look at it?

The art of objectively critiquing your team.

how do you think a situation through?

here’s a new process for you to try!

do your team members feel like you hear them?

the art of listening versus hearing, being in the moment, outcomes... Focus on communicating.

Recess, track & field, ‘field’ trips...

Play days!

occupational therapy

a break from the everyday workload

fostering a community of communication

team-development tips

the at-home workforce

an artists' perspective

next step is ready!

worked it up ... now launching.... studiok2.ca

up & down days

Do accountants crack open a book on equations?

Would a scientist watch an experiment outside of their field ?

Would a writer learn more about typography?

the art of listening versus hearing, being in the moment, outcomes...
Focus on communicating.