Lisa Giessel Art

Q) When and how did you get started in art?
A) My junior year of high school.  I had an exceptional teacher who showed us how to see what we wanted to draw.  Many of his students chose a career in the arts field.

Q) Why did you decide to make and sell reproduction prints along with your originals?
A) It helps to make my art more affordable.  It gives my customers more choices and me more time to enjoy my art. 

Q) What galleries and art fairs are you in?
A) Spirit of the Northwoods in Shawano, Wisconsin is my main venue.  I also have a large textile company that has produced pillows, tote bags and bell poles of "Lisa's Lamb" (also available at Spirit of NW).  This year I developed a web site, www.artbygiessel.com and am adding to it as things develop.  This will be linked to Inkdrop Arthaus to make my Giclees available to my customers through the web.  By early summer I am hoping to have enough originals to do a nice sized show.  Watch my website for details.

Q) Who was your influence?
A) I'd have to say Robert Haze, my art teacher in high school.  He gave me a love for the arts that is as strong today as it was then.  Next would be my husband, Ken, who has faithfully supported me through all these years.  Always encouraging me to keep going.

Q) What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
A) Through the years, I let a number of pieces slip through my hands.  My advice would be to go the extra mile and get your nicer pieces digitized.  Once they are gone you can't get them back.  Digitals can be used to advertise, make prints and keep record of your pieces.  It's well worth it.  In this business, if you want to be successful you need to be able to offer affordable work.  This is the best way to go.

Q) What are your thoughts on the giclee process of reproduction?
A) These are the highest quality you can ask for.  I have to admit though, I have had this process done by other firms and have not been nearly as satisfied.  It has a lot to do with the reproductionist.  Mel is an artist in her own rights.  She does such a great job, I have a hard time telling the difference between the original and the prints.  And the nice part about Giclee prints is they will last as long as the originals.