Posts by Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes is a Staff Editor at My Modern Met, Manager of My Modern Met Store, and co-host of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. As an illustrator and writer living in Seattle, she chronicles illustration, embroidery, and beyond through her blog Brown Paper Bag and Instagram @brwnpaperbag. She wrote a book about embroidery artist Sarah K. Benning titled 'Embroidered Life' that was published by Chronicle Books in 2019. Sara is a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art. She earned her BFA in Illustration in 2008 and MFA in Illustration Practice in 2013.
Career
December 17, 2023

16 New Year’s Resolution Ideas for Creative People To Make in 2024

Every year, people declare their New Year's resolutions and are determined to make the coming 365 days their best yet. Many think about hitting the gym or getting their finances in order. But as a creative person, you might have different goals. If you’re struggling with what to focus on in 2024, we’ve got New Year's resolution ideas that artists, photographers, designers, and crafters can easily adopt.

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Gift Guide
November 4, 2023

40 Quirky Products for a White Elephant Gift Exchange That Are Under $25

Every year, people are putting a fun spin on the conventional holiday gift exchange with a white elephant party. The rules lend themselves to a playful environment and even some light-hearted shenanigans. So, what is a white elephant gift exchange? Also called a Yankee Swap, there are a few basic rules. Essentially, each person in the swap contributes a wrapped present to a gift pool.

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Watercolor Painting
October 19, 2023

36 Watercolor Painting Ideas for Beginning Artists and Seasoned Professionals

Watercolor painting is one of the easiest creative activities to pick up. There are only a few supplies that you need—a set of paints, paintbrushes, paper, and water—and there are just a handful of essential techniques to know before you put pigment to paper. This brilliant simplicity means that it’s a breeze to start and finish a watercolor painting in the same day. So, what are you going to paint?

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Gift Guide
September 25, 2023

38 Fun and Creative Gifts for the Artist in Your Life

Whether you’re gearing up for a holiday, birthday, or just the everyday, it’s always a good idea to have gifts in mind for the artist in your life. There are a ton of items out there that are sure to inspire your favorite creative person, so how do you choose the best gift? Luckily, the search is over. We’ve found some great gifts for artists that'll spark their inspiration—no matter the season.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.