backwards beauty

My Step-by-Step Process to Prepare & Ship an Original Painting Internationally

In this video, I walk you through my complete step-by-step process for preparing and shipping an original oil painting internationally — from my studio to its new home.

You'll learn how I:

  • Photograph my artwork using an iPhone

  • Color correct images for print and digital use

  • Apply a final non-toxic cold wax varnish

  • Frame the artwork and secure the backing

  • Wire and crimp for professional hanging

  • Work with an international shipping broker

  • Prepare a thoughtful certificate of authenticity

  • Add a marketing touch with a personal note and packaging details

Whether you're an artist shipping your first piece or curious about what goes into preparing fine art for a collector, this video is full of tips and insights from my own experience.


Cleaning the Studio & Painting a Peacock

If you need some motivation to get some spring cleaning done then this video is for you. I also let you in on some problem solving I had to do this week in the studio. I almost didn't get this video posted on time because I procrastinated painting the peacock and I have a real simple trick you can use to over come those feelings of overwhelming when painting something so complicated and detailed. Don't forget to visit my website to get a print of your favorite backwards beauty.


Painting the Portrait of Lisa Lisa and the Tiger

Let me take a moment to tell you the journey we have been on while make this painting. It started out with making the AI Reference image and showing you my process of how I do it. Then I walked you through my steps for how I prepare a canvas, then how I transfer that image onto a large canvas. Parts 2 and 3 I slowed things down and shared some rather lengthy paint with me videos. Part 2 - was all about putting down a very expressive loose 1st layer in acyclic paint and Part 3 - was all about refining the color and details to bring out the true character of the painting. This weeks part 4 I continue to refine the details of the painting. This week I ran into a dilemma on what to do with the dress. I will share with you how I worked out the problem. I promised you I would share the inspiration behind Lisa Lisa and the Tiger so I will be revealing that also. Before we dive into the painting process. I want to tell you about this weeks sponsor my online shop. If you would like to support me as an artist and also fill your space with some beauty then head over to my shop at janlakey.com and check out the beautiful museum quality prints.