The Bottom Line
Pros
- Showcases the work of professional artists
- Artists explain their working methods
- Covers all mediums
- Entries for the competitions can be done online.
Cons
- Only published every other month.
- Sometimes too much is squeezed onto a page, compromising the white space on the page.
Description
- 160 pages, published six times a year. Website: www.international-artist.com
- Comparatively little advertising in the magazine, as sales are mainly by subscription.
- Distribution points around the world (USA, Canada, Europe, Australia/NZ, Rest of the World).
- Focus is on artists at work, rather than step-by-step how-to demos, though there are some of these within artist profiles.
- Always several paintings by the main artists profiled, not just one.
- Tips and ‘learning points’ highlighted in features.
- A themed competition in every issue, with big prizes. Entry can be by post or online.
- Gallery of winners of a previous competition, plus other art competitions.
- Generally at least one article on the practicalities of being an artist, such as dealing with a gallery
- A small materials review section, plus ads for the magazine’s workshops and how-to books
Guide Review - Review: International Artist Magazine
The first thing that makes this magazine stand out is the very high quality of the printing: bright colors on very white paper, which allows the paintings to shine. It showcases practicing artists in various mediums (painting, drawing, printmaking), with a gallery of work and usually a step-by-step demonstration of at least one painting. The emphasis is on the artist describing their approach, intentions, and working process, rather than how-to descriptions. It’s done is a straightforward way, with little inane or sycophantic editorial.
While the focus is on the USA, Canada, UK, and Australia, artists from other countries are always included. I believe every artist, whether beginner or professional, should read this to recharge their inspiration and pick up tips. I look forward to every edition and haven't been disappointed yet.
There's a themed competition in every issue (entry can be done on-line), with a gallery of the winners and runner's up from the previous competition. The paintings are accompanied by information on each artist's inspiration, design strategy, and working process.
