I am sorry that you found my artwork "plain." I have never had that as a description for my art before. The images were layered with many, many images...and I had other professional artists rave about them. Not all of it was magazines. Perhaps you just do not like my style? I know that one of the cards had lace and a metal bracket...I was excited about that one because it the maps I used were from an ancient time where California was depicted as an island. It's very hard to find, so I felt very fortunate to find it.
The one with the army men and the body parts with the distressed blue background had gotten the best comments from those who commented, so many reasons. I did some experimentation, and had a lot of fun figuring out how to combine various body parts. I had been out of town, so I was unable to upload...I apologize. I try to get them completed and commented on the site so if they aren't satisfactory I can change them. Yet, we had a lot come up. So, I had to take the artwork to those I know who have degrees in art that I am in contact with and asked their opinion. This one was very much commented on, and they are usually harsh critics. Would it be better to just sent them back? I don't mind...I have people who REALLY liked and appreciated them if you don't.
I am sorry you did not like them. However, there had been a lot of thought put into them and I thought they were quite complicated. I actually thought it was some of my best artwork. I know that they may have seemed "flat" but they were NOT photo-shopped or anything. I cut each image out by hand from many different sources. So, I am not sure what you were looking for...unless you just wanted more "stuff" on it?
If I participate in one of your future swaps, what would you suggest?
Thank you for your comments. I have my BA in Studio Art, so I am used to criticism. I have had teachers tear my work apart until I was in tears...yet they really liked these particular pieces. Honestly, I am going to recreate the one with the body parts and soldiers (men) to enter into an art show. Anytime an instructor says "this is good" it usually wins.
We all have our differing opinions in art. I am just not sure with the themes given to me what you had expected me to do differently. I would be happy for any suggestions of what YOU were expecting. I was just very caught off guard that you thought them "plain."
Thank you.