Daily News

From Home Furnishing Business

I.O. Metro Works with Local Artists

May 23, 2014  by in Community / Charitable Support, Industry   

Through its Local Art Partnership, I.O. Metro, Lowell, Ark., encourages artists to submit examples of their original hand-painted canvas art. Selected works may ultimately be available for sale online and in stores, providing a potential opportunity for talented artists to reach a wide audience.

I.O. Metro will accept entries for its Local Art Partnership through its newly designed Web site June 2-8. The home furnishings store works with a limited number of local artists who enhance its own aesthetic through unique techniques, blending of colors and themes, and by creating abstract/realism through their works.

In addition, artists will receive a 10 percent commission from the sale of their piece(s).

"The Local Art Partnerships are a great way for us to differentiate our art offering, while supporting up-and-coming artists," said Bernie Gacka, president and chief merchandising officer.

Duane Gardner of Dallas is one such artist who has benefitted from this program. "It offers a great opportunity to reach a new audience that I otherwise would not have been able to tap into," he said. "I am also very impressed with the quality of product I.O. Metro has produced. But more than anything for me, as an artist, it has opened up a new avenue for my work, which has really inspired and challenged me."

Artist Buddy Whitlock of Des Arc, Ark., has been involved in the program for the past few years. "The amount of publicity is astounding," he said. "The program has boosted my exposure and facilitated my art career. I’m so grateful for the I.O. Metro customers who have chosen a piece for their space and have supported my art. When someone recognizes you as an artist simply by your signature, the feeling is amazing."

Artists may submit up to three pieces. Only original hand-painted canvas art will be accepted. Art must be painted on a rectangle or square canvas no larger than 18-by-24 inches. Original art will be turned into multiple hand-painted or printed reproductions by various I.O. Metro art suppliers. The artist’s signature will be on the front of the piece, and the artist’s biography and photograph will be featured on the back of the piece. The artist’s biography also will be included on iometro.com.

In addition, I.O. Metro will provide any interested artist a trend document that outlines some colors and ideas for Spring 2015, which is when selected pieces will most likely be available.

I.O. Metro sells online and through 17 stores in eight states across the South and Midwest.