{"id":1518,"date":"2019-11-07T10:45:50","date_gmt":"2019-11-07T15:45:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogprodproxy.wpengine.com\/?p=1518"},"modified":"2025-08-20T15:19:06","modified_gmt":"2025-08-20T20:19:06","slug":"artist-entrpreneur-design-print-your-own-artwork","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/blog\/behind-the-print\/artist-entrpreneur-design-print-your-own-artwork","title":{"rendered":"Artist &#038; Entrepreneur: Design &#038; Print Your Own Artwork"},"content":{"rendered":"<!--the_content--><!--block-empty--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-6\"> <p>Artist and designer <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abelarts.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Erik Abel<\/a> grew up surrounded by surf culture and eschewed corporate life for an extended travel adventure. While the realities of raising a family and running a business where you design and print your own artwork keep him onshore today, he still keeps his eyes on the horizon searching for that next perfect wave.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <\/span><\/p> <h2>Key Takeaways<\/h2> <ul> <li><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><a href=\"#wake-up-call\">Erik Abel rejected a traditional corporate life<\/a> in favor of a travel- and surf-inspired journey that profoundly shaped his art and values. His commitment to doing what he loves, despite uncertainty, led to creative and personal fulfillment.<\/span><\/li> <li><span data-sheets-root=\"1\">Abel successfully turned his passion into a business by <a href=\"#artist-as-entrepreneur\">combining analog art techniques with digital tools and online printing.<\/a> His transition from a sketchbook artist to an independent brand highlights the blend of creativity and entrepreneurship required to sustain a modern art career.<\/span><\/li> <li><span data-sheets-root=\"1\">Despite his success, <a href=\"#constant-motion\">Abel emphasizes the importance of self-discipline, family support and constant evolution.<\/a> He balances commercial projects with passion pursuits and nonprofit collaborations, illustrating that staying creatively relevant requires both reinvention and staying true to core values.<\/span><\/li> <\/ul> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <!--block: 50-50-image --><div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-bottom-sm\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-10\"><div class=\"row center-xs\"> <p><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 no-pad blockOffset-top-sm blockOffset-left-sm\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/ventura_pier.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=900&s=6ffabfdfc0d901ca93de77f5846d8dc9\" alt=\"A sign on a pier lamp post with Ventura Pier 1872 in yellow and a teal waves design below it.\"   data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/div><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 no-pad blockOffset-bottom-md raisedRight\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/surfing.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=900&s=f49a238d16776ba3d653bac153b15ee9\" alt=\"A man surfing in the ocean wearing a white hat, white top and black shorts.\"   data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/div><\/p> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--><!--block-empty--> <!--graybar--><div class=\"ltGrayBkgd-md\"><\/div><!--\/graybar--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <!--block: 50-50 --><div class=\"row center-xs\" ><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"><div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p>The Ventura County coastline is recognized as one of the original birthplaces of California surf culture. Referenced not once but twice in the Beach Boys 1963 hit, \u201cSurfin\u2019 USA,\u201d surfers from around the world pilgrimage to the steady swells at any of Ventura\u2019s seven breaks.<\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p>It\u2019s this laid-back coastal town between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara where Erik Abel spent his formative years. From learning to surf at age eleven to his first job airbrushing surfboards at age seventeen, Abel\u2019s connection to art and the ocean runs deep. \u201cI\u2019ve felt a special bond with the sea,\u201d he said. \u201cIt\u2019s been my refuge and my inspiration.\u201d<\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--><!--block-empty--> <div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-bottom-sm pullQuote\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <p>\u201cThe worst days for those who love what they do are far better than the best days for those who don\u2019t.\u201d<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-top-sm\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row end-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h2 id=\"wake-up-call\">Wake-Up Call<\/h2> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div><!--block-empty--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row end-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-6\"> <p>After studying art and graphic design in Oregon, Abel made his way to Los Angeles for an in-house design job at a startup that offered more stock than salary. \u201cLeather shoes and slacks and a button-up shirt and it\u2019s 75 degrees outside,\u201d he recalled. One day, he encountered a billboard that would change the course of his life. It read, \u201cThe worst days for those who love what they do are far better than the best days for those who don\u2019t.\u201d<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>\u201cThat hit me like a ton of bricks,\u201d Abel said. He quit his job and bought a one-way ticket to New Zealand. \u201cI just got my backpack and surfboard bag and took off,\u201d he said. \u201cThat was the most liberating experience of my life.\u201d<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div><!--block-empty--> <!--graybar--><div class=\"ltGrayBkgd-md\"><\/div><!--\/graybar--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<div id=\"metaslider-id-1778\" style=\"width: 100%;\" class=\"ml-slider-3-62-0 metaslider metaslider-flex metaslider-1778 ml-slider ml-slider-lightbox-1-12-0 ari-fancy-lightbox-1-3-8 ms-theme-default nav-hidden\" role=\"region\" aria-roledescription=\"Slideshow\" aria-label=\"Erik Abel - South Pacific\">\n    <div id=\"metaslider_container_1778\">\n        <div id=\"metaslider_1778\">\n            <ul aria-live=\"polite\" class=\"slides\">\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1789 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1789\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/abelarts_new-zealand_nov_betsy.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=1784807a136c44e2b6161df3b0a91e49\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/abelarts_new-zealand_nov_betsy.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=900&s=e44a44865671efae0f7fa1baebe13d93\"   alt=\"A van parked in a grassy area with mountains behind it and food and clothing supplies packed inside it.\" class=\"slider-1778 slide-1789\" title=\"New Zealand\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1780 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1780\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/abelarts_new-zealand_billabong.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=6b4bf684efc11993a5550d530a8ead34\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/abelarts_new-zealand_billabong.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=5b393de3622cb4aa45f0168e59a13af2\"   alt=\"A man sitting and painting next to a white van parked in a grassy area with the ocean in front of it.\" class=\"slider-1778 slide-1780\" title=\"New Zealand\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1793 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1793\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_process-color-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=4eded8cbc3b66f1d7709a15f6535abd8\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_process-color-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=b271784b9e88e78e4b0eaa7c0ee30327\"   alt=\"An artist&#039;s sketchbook laying open to ocean scenes and surf-inspired designs.\" class=\"slider-1778 slide-1793\" title=\"instagram_process-color-2\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1796 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1796\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/facebook_surfing-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=dfabfd2833204edd3a1afaabaf11297a\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/facebook_surfing-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=467&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=466&s=9ee2445a49206c92d3b347617bb2586e\"   alt=\"A man wearing navy blue shorts surfing in the ocean on a white surfboard.\" class=\"slider-1778 slide-1796\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1798 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1798\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/instagram_fiji-sketchbook.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=c9dde696f3b25457b23c22079cd81a1e\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/instagram_fiji-sketchbook.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=2ce094efb0c7a1877d41967d0f5e8fa1\"   alt=\"A sketch of the inside of an ocean wave from a surfer&#039;s perspective.\" class=\"slider-1778 slide-1798\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1781 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1781\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/abelarts_my_story_fiji_guitar.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=48187b29d723498181b84cbab76b35e2\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/abelarts_my_story_fiji_guitar.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=4571def9d932c3bc979645477015a985\"   alt=\"A man wearing a hat and sunglasses sitting on a rolled up sail on a sailboat in blue-green water.\" class=\"slider-1778 slide-1781\" title=\"Fiji\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1797 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1797\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/instagram_indo_sketches.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=5e90bc7c1c9fa545d1b08574a1846357\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/instagram_indo_sketches.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=84efbc4087474e82e6717446e7d388ed\"   alt=\"A page from a sketchbook with various designs, including cacti, trees, waves and geometric shapes.\" class=\"slider-1778 slide-1797\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1788 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1788\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/facebook_surfing-4.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=14a1b4516d82cc56c8e399255755df68\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/facebook_surfing-4.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=56c6125bf071d09471636d7a13ba3bfc\"   alt=\"A man with a beard standing on the beach wearing a black wetsuit and holding a metal staff.\" class=\"slider-1778 slide-1788\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n        \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-top-sm allowclickthru\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10\"> <h2>Path to the South Pacific<\/h2> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div><!--block-empty--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-6\"> <p>Abel bought a van and traveled around New Zealand, surfing and picking up freelance jobs for brands like Billabong. \u201cI was just living the dream,\u201d he said. \u201cSurfing every day and just exploring.\u201d<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>As comes with the territory, Abel often found himself surrounded by ocean creatures, like whales and sharks. But he\u2019s far from circumspect about those he\u2019s encountered. \u201cI think that would kinda be the way to go down: fighting a shark in a pool of your own blood, doing something you love,\u201d he said. \u201cBetter than fighting off cancer.\u201d<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>Lured by a job at a fishing lodge in Tonga, an island near Fiji in the South Pacific, Abel left New Zealand to work barefoot and plant banana trees. \u201cI just realized that you can kind of choose your own path and do what you want,\u201d he said. \u201cDuring this whole trip I had my sketchbooks and I was just sketching away.\u201d<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div><!--block-empty--> <!--graybar--><div class=\"ltGrayBkgd-md\"><\/div><!--\/graybar--><!--block-empty--> <!--block: 50-50-image --><div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-bottom-sm\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-10\"><div class=\"row center-xs\"> <p><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 no-pad blockOffset-top-sm blockOffset-right-sm raisedLeft\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_painting-humpy.jpg\" alt=\"A hand holding a custom art print with a teal blue whale design.\"   \/><\/div><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 no-pad blockOffset-bottom-md\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/instagram_animals_5.jpg\" alt=\"A custom art print with a round fish design in blue, black and teal.\"   \/><\/div><\/p> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--><!--block-empty--> <div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-top-sm allowclickthru\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h2>Changing Course With Print<\/h2> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div><!--block-empty--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-6\"> <p>Two years of travel around the world deeply influenced Abel\u2019s aesthetics. \u201cSeeing different cultures and their art and architecture,\u201d he recalled, \u201cwas a profound experience.\u201d On his return to California, he mounted a show of his work from the trip that would propel his career.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<div id=\"metaslider-id-1524\" style=\"width: 100%;\" class=\"ml-slider-3-62-0 metaslider metaslider-flex metaslider-1524 ml-slider ml-slider-lightbox-1-12-0 ari-fancy-lightbox-1-3-8 ms-theme-default nav-hidden nav-hidden\" role=\"region\" aria-roledescription=\"Slideshow\" aria-label=\"Erik Abel BTP Work\">\n    <div id=\"metaslider_container_1524\">\n        <div id=\"metaslider_1524\">\n            <ul aria-live=\"polite\" class=\"slides\">\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1706 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1706\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/moment-surf-co_reef-hawaiian-pro-wall-3.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=fd9f9f44933cb445f45f6d778f7b59b6\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/moment-surf-co_reef-hawaiian-pro-wall-3.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=d237523815d8da9d0422e98e807a96db\"   alt=\"A man standing in front of a custom banner printed with a surfing design in shades of orange and red.\" class=\"slider-1524 slide-1706\" title=\"Reef Hawaiian Pro Artwork.\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1537 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1537\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/instagram_long-sboard.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=30835fb4f884290a45700347e986c580\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/instagram_long-sboard.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=82f5e40fca3b7c8f453b5cbf9e3617ef\"   alt=\"Three skateboards lined up in a row with custom beach-inspired artwork on the bottoms.\" class=\"slider-1524 slide-1537\" title=\"Graphics for Sector 9 Skateboards.\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1543 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1543\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/abelarts_client_billabong-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=39065361245c75f3ecfbfd3c72c62506\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/abelarts_client_billabong-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=cded3cd45a805479e154d046a58a609a\"   alt=\"Four T-shirts printed with custom artwork of surf-inspired designs in a round shape.\" class=\"slider-1524 slide-1543\" title=\"Billabong released two Erik Abel Artist series lines in Fall 2016 and Spring 2017 featuring a variety of shirts and board shorts. Abel designed various graphics for the company in 2010 as well.\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1538 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1538\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/instagram_blue-moon.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=1353bf0c1adf08dfe9b39b9aad5ed67e\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/instagram_blue-moon.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=f1706de062f0baf54de28953cb123a41\"   alt=\"Two Blue Moon beer bottles sitting in the surf on the beach with custom labels.\" class=\"slider-1524 slide-1538\" title=\"Custom artwork for Blue Moon Brewing\u2018s 20th Anniversary Artist Series bottle labels.\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1541 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1541\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/abelarts_client_rei.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=9efb9647b6ca1968bdeb6cce22a8850e\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/abelarts_client_rei.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=360e529a1cff66fe3ec441a9be14263b\"   alt=\"Custom wall art with a waves-inspired design shades of green in an REI store.\" class=\"slider-1524 slide-1541\" title=\"Mural on plywood for REI&#039;s Santa Monica store.\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1542 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1542\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/abelarts_client_potterybarn-3.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=6fb12e69e53abc03079b243c95649c09\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/abelarts_client_potterybarn-3.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=aa573fadb6d4b044b76abc7b819e6666\"   alt=\"Two custom art prints hanging side by side on a wall with abstract surfboard designs in shades of blue, green and maroon.\" class=\"slider-1524 slide-1542\" title=\"Wall Art for Pottery Barn.\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1539 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1539\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/instagram_beer-breakside-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=601ca70ee1d39131b2798c26524384a9\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/instagram_beer-breakside-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=8e61a82912992b2f8a901b2a53e919cd\"   alt=\"A custom art print with a forest design in shapes of blue, green and orange next to a beer bottle.\" class=\"slider-1524 slide-1539\" title=\"Breakside Brewing Co. packaging and label design.\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1540 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1540\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/abelarts_client_semihandmade-3.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=b6572c53afe87e8f97532bdbf7413a18\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/abelarts_client_semihandmade-3.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=803a24a3ad715499c131f1bc7d585440\"   alt=\"A coffeetable designed with custom art in shades of blue sitting in front of a navy couch with a clock hanging above it.\" class=\"slider-1524 slide-1540\" title=\"SemiHandMade licensed designs for their artist line of custom printed cabinet doors that fit on standard IKEA cabinets.\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1547 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1547\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Screen-Shot-2019-08-26-at-2.16.42-PM.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=f804fcc52b5c193d1d03c490667e3b71\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Screen-Shot-2019-08-26-at-2.16.42-PM.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=93fd371d62062c10f6981b96f255a54e\"   alt=\"A snowboard standing in the snow with custom artwork of an owl on the bottom.\" class=\"slider-1524 slide-1547\" title=\"Graphics for Signal Snowboards.\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1705 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1705\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/abelarts_reef-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=e37f1c3389f70b7e41a9b0aa1cbba512\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/abelarts_reef-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=4f8fb280d224237e83d5e00d00902331\"   alt=\"A custom banner printed with palm trees and a beach-inspired scene with flags from different countries waving above it.\" class=\"slider-1524 slide-1705\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n        \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-6\"> <p>A friend he knew from high school approached Abel at the show. \u201cHe wanted me to do the artwork for the Reef Hawaiian Pro,\u201d one of the most prestigious surfing competitions in the world, recalled Abel. \u201cThat\u2019s kind of when I really started to get serious about doing more commercial stuff.\u201d<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>Abel went on to design skateboards for Sector 9; T-shirts for Billabong, REI and Patagonia; and a special-edition bottle for Blue Moon beer. \u201cIt\u2019s cool to work in an industry that I\u2019ve grown up around,\u201d said Abel. \u201cIt was a full-circle, grateful period.\u201d<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div><!--block-empty--> <!--graybar--><div class=\"ltGrayBkgd-md\"><\/div><!--\/graybar--><!--block-empty--> <!--block: 50-50-image --><div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-bottom-sm\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-10\"><div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 no-pad blockOffset-top-sm blockOffset-right-sm raisedLeft\"><figure class=\"figureContainer\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_sketchbooks.jpg\" alt=\"A stack of used notebooks with spiral bindings and perfect bindings.\"   \/><figcaption style=\"width: 100%;\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><p class=\"wp-caption-text\">&#8220;Sketchbooks,&#8221; says Abel, &#8220;are the most valuable things in my life.&#8221;<\/p><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>  <p><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 no-pad blockOffset-bottom-md\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_portrait-studio.jpg\" alt=\"A man painting custom artwork next to a laptop on a table and more artwork hanging on the wall.\" \/><\/div><\/p> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--><!--block-empty--> <div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-top-sm\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10\"> <h2>Iterative Process<\/h2> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div><!--block-empty--> <!--block: 50-50 --><div class=\"row center-xs\" ><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"><div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p>Despite success as a commercial designer, original paintings are Abel\u2019s passion. \u201cThat\u2019s what I love to do, just be in the studio and paint,\u201d he said. Working primarily from memories of his travels and experiences, Abel also draws on reference photos of animals and fish to get the details right.<\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p>\u201cIt all starts just in the sketchbook,\u201d he said. \u201cThese are the most valuable things in my life.\u201d Returning to his sketchbooks time and again for ideas, Abel hones his work by hand, preferring paper over digital. He also dislikes the texture of canvas, preferring primed wood as the substrate of choice for his colored pencils, markers, and acrylic paint. \u201cI want to see a little brush stroke in there,\u201d he said.<\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--><!--block-empty--> <!--block: 50-50-image --><div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-bottom-sm\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-10\"><div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 no-pad blockOffset-top-sm blockOffset-right-sm raisedLeft\"><figure class=\"figureContainer\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_process-paint-2.jpg\" alt=\"A hand holding a paintbrush and painting an abstract design.\"   \/><figcaption style=\"width: 100%;\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><p class=\"wp-caption-text\">Abel dislikes the texture of canvas, preferring instead the smooth finish of wood.<\/p><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>  <p><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 no-pad blockOffset-bottom-md\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_painting.jpg\" alt=\"A hand holding a colored pencil and drawing a bear in gray, blue and yellow color.\"   \/><\/div><\/p> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--><!--block-empty--> <!--graybar--><div class=\"ltGrayBkgd-md\"><\/div><!--\/graybar--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row end-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-6\"> <p>Color, too, is an iterative process for Abel. \u201cAny given color you see in my paintings, it\u2019s been painted over three to five times,\u201d he said. \u201cMost of the time it\u2019s just making color decisions on the fly,\u201d until he arrives at what he calls, \u201cThe good stuff.\u201d<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<div id=\"metaslider-id-1713\" style=\"width: 100%;\" class=\"ml-slider-3-62-0 metaslider metaslider-flex metaslider-1713 ml-slider ml-slider-lightbox-1-12-0 ari-fancy-lightbox-1-3-8 ms-theme-default nav-hidden nav-hidden nav-hidden\" role=\"region\" aria-roledescription=\"Slideshow\" aria-label=\"Erik Abel Online Store\">\n    <div id=\"metaslider_container_1713\">\n        <div id=\"metaslider_1713\">\n            <ul aria-live=\"polite\" class=\"slides\">\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1721 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1721\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/tim_0015-2018-06-SP-Bamboo-Groove-High-Res.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=ed4dc0787c11ee730b6e7d38e7050997\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/tim_0015-2018-06-SP-Bamboo-Groove-High-Res.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=f556afa3decc52414990c5edbc0eb20d\"   alt=\"Two hands holding fanned-out art prints with a beach sunset design in shades of orange, blue and brown.\" class=\"slider-1713 slide-1721\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1720 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1720\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_prints-3.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=d96b88b427fec48ddf02710a9a3f47ca\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_prints-3.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=c7fcc12566823a8c549543c8b1f7368f\"   alt=\"Custom art prints fanned out in rows with beach-inspired scenes in shades of blue, yellow and orange.\" class=\"slider-1713 slide-1720\" title=\"instagram_prints-3\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1725 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1725\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Screen-Shot-2019-10-30-at-3.54.42-PM.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=a141be39999a3414cc5880668ba0d38d\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Screen-Shot-2019-10-30-at-3.54.42-PM.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=6a6aabde2ca0cc5affe2dd6093e97117\"   alt=\"Custom artwork on a laptop with an ocean and beach design in shapes of blue, green and yellow.\" class=\"slider-1713 slide-1725\" title=\"Working principally in Illustrator and Photoshop, he has a select set of digital brushes and shapes that yield the analog feel he loves.\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1719 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1719\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_prints-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=f8482a7d003952ae9ca0aee0c04cb26a\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_prints-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=d59ed576f0b37f3dabf915a9cfebb95a\"   alt=\"Custom art prints laid out in rows on a table with abstract ocean-inspired designs in shades of teal, black, red and orange.\" class=\"slider-1713 slide-1719\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1722 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1722\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_painting-humpy.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=5c0bf7215c1b2d49b2f7aefc6a13d71c\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_painting-humpy.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=044379da550d2c28cf4f89f1dbe0f5f5\"   alt=\"A hand holding an art print with a whale design in shades of blue, green, yellow and orange.\" class=\"slider-1713 slide-1722\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n        \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-top-sm allowclickthru\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h2 id=\"artist-as-entrepreneur\">Artist as Entrepreneur<\/h2> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div><!--block-empty--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-6\"> <p>Even this consummate fine artist can find himself drawn to digital workflows and online printing. \u201cWhen I was 19, a good friend encouraged me to get a computer and learn the <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/support\/file-preparation\/editing-files-with-photoshop-indesign-more\">Adobe design programs<\/a>,\u201d Abel said. \u201cThat opened up a whole new realm for my art.\u201d And planted the first seeds of what it&#8217;s like to print your own artwork, no doubt. Working principally in Illustrator and Photoshop, he has a select set of digital brushes and shapes that yield the analog feel he loves.<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>His digital workflow (and collaboration with an online printer like Smartpress) also opened Abel up to the possibilities of selling his work online. \u201cOnline sales are a significant portion of our business,\u201d he said. His streamlined website features 9\u02ddx 12\u02dd digital prints of his work, promoted through social media and email campaigns. He finds there\u2019s really only one issue when you print your own artwork: \u201cYou&#8217;re not really just an artist anymore. You\u2019re an entrepreneur.\u201d<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>Taking advantage of Smartpress&#8217; online printing services, Abel customized <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/offering\/small-poster-printing#c=581&amp;cp=1\">Small Posters<\/a> with options like <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/support\/stocks-substrates\/small-format-paper-stocks\">paper stock<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/support\/stocks-substrates\/text-weight-vs-cover-weight\">text and cover weights<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/support\/color-ink\/black-vs-full-color-printing\">black and full-color ink<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/support\/specialty-features\/uv-coating\">UV coatings<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/support\/specialty-features\/soft-touch-laminate\">Soft Touch laminate<\/a>, even <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/support\/specialty-features\/shrink-wrapping\">shrink wrapping<\/a> for retail.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <!--block: 50-50-image --><div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-bottom-sm\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-10\"><div class=\"row center-xs\"> <p><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 no-pad blockOffset-top-sm blockOffset-left-sm\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/instagram_portrait-dad.jpg\" alt=\"A man in an artist studio holding a baby with a paintbrush painting yellow color on a wall.\" \/><\/div><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 no-pad blockOffset-bottom-md raisedRight\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Screen-Shot-2019-10-30-at-3.55.10-PM.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div><\/p> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--><!--block-empty--> <!--graybar--><div class=\"ltGrayBkgd-md\"><\/div><!--\/graybar--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-6\"> <p>Aided by assistants\u2014his two children\u2014and his wife, who keeps the books and manages the business, Abel now works out of his Oregon garage. He finds motivation in his family and recognizes that it takes discipline to focus on his work and business. \u201cI\u2019ve said no to a lot of fun parties,\u201d he recalled. \u201cIt takes being able to say no to those experiences in order to focus on your work.\u201d<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<div id=\"metaslider-id-1800\" style=\"width: 100%;\" class=\"ml-slider-3-62-0 metaslider metaslider-flex metaslider-1800 ml-slider ml-slider-lightbox-1-12-0 ari-fancy-lightbox-1-3-8 ms-theme-default nav-hidden nav-hidden nav-hidden nav-hidden\" role=\"region\" aria-roledescription=\"Slideshow\" aria-label=\"Erik Abel - Abstract Pursuits\">\n    <div id=\"metaslider_container_1800\">\n        <div id=\"metaslider_1800\">\n            <ul aria-live=\"polite\" class=\"slides\">\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1807 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1807\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/unnamed.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=7cb3e575cc646641b4e09bf01565680a\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/unnamed.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=c0d7d153e64fd19999bc80df3beae6bc\"   alt=\"A man standing in front of a building with wooden siding holding a custom art print with an abstract design.\" class=\"slider-1800 slide-1807\" title=\"unnamed\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1803 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1803\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Screen-Shot-2019-10-30-at-4.12.24-PM.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=8467b2ff916f4c6537adff4bdcf684cc\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Screen-Shot-2019-10-30-at-4.12.24-PM.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=59d7eda8d0932eec15028a38829f4c14\"   alt=\"An artist sketchbook laying open to abstract drawings and geometric shapes.\" class=\"slider-1800 slide-1803\" title=\"Screen Shot 2019-10-30 at 4.12.24 PM\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1806 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1806\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Screen-Shot-2019-11-05-at-10.58.03-AM.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=6f7608c3852ae10c7ca075ca96a5aab8\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Screen-Shot-2019-11-05-at-10.58.03-AM.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=5d4c604c876ced0cc14950e437ef9c7b\"   alt=\"\" class=\"slider-1800 slide-1806\" title=\"Screen Shot 2019-11-05 at 10.58.03 AM\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1801 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1801\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_abstract-pursuits-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=556252d1a1ac9903928971ac8289161c\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_abstract-pursuits-2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=85c6b8dc229844b35822e7b419c955bd\"   alt=\"A custom art print with a Hawaiian-inspired design laying on top of a wooden slab with paint on it.\" class=\"slider-1800 slide-1801\" title=\"instagram_abstract-pursuits-2\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1809 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1809\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Screen-Shot-2019-10-30-at-4.12.24-PM.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=8467b2ff916f4c6537adff4bdcf684cc\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Screen-Shot-2019-10-30-at-4.12.24-PM.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=59d7eda8d0932eec15028a38829f4c14\"   alt=\"An artist sketchbook laying open to abstract drawings and geometric shapes.\" class=\"slider-1800 slide-1809\" title=\"Screen Shot 2019-10-30 at 4.12.24 PM\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1802 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1802\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_abstract-pursuits.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=87953a779f593184bb8c64356f42a035\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_abstract-pursuits.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=3c191cc37936cb6e5fe0830a75fe6f49\"   alt=\"A custom art print with an abstract design in teal, gray, black and red.\" class=\"slider-1800 slide-1802\" title=\"instagram_abstract-pursuits\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1808 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1808\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_portrait-painting.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=3401e7cc9c5f8eb1502ae889a74589de\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_portrait-painting.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=24b7ffbe090b099d51e4b776ae0cec6d\"   alt=\"A man wearing a hoodie and a stocking cap standing in front of a custom art print with a design in black and blue.\" class=\"slider-1800 slide-1808\" title=\"instagram_portrait-painting\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n        \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-top-sm allowclickthru\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h2 id=\"constant-motion\">Constant Motion<\/h2> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div><!--block-empty--> <!--block: 50-50 --><div class=\"row center-xs\" ><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"><div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p>Abel\u2019s self-discipline has resulted in prolific output, \u201cProbably 700 originals and lots of illustration graphic stuff,\u201d he says. \u201cYou just kinda keep moving.\u201d He recognizes, however, that the graphic techniques he has developed into a signature style can be limiting. \u201cIt\u2019s a tough thing because I built it up to where my career depends on it and my fan base and collectors expect this ocean-related art,\u201d he said. \u201cI definitely need to explore a new direction.\u201d<\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p>Recently, Abel began a new passion project he calls <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/abstractpursuits\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Abstract Pursuits<\/a> and which, naturally, came from a return to sketchbooks. \u201cI was doing these little drawings that just showed up in my sketchbooks,\u201d he said. \u201cIt was pouring out and I was so thrilled with it. I just couldn\u2019t stop throwing up sketchbooks.\u201d<\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--><!--block-empty--> <!--block: 50-50-image --><div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-bottom-sm\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-10\"><div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 no-pad blockOffset-top-sm blockOffset-right-sm raisedLeft\"><figure class=\"figureContainer\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_good_heal-the-bay.jpg\" alt=\"A man standing in a vendor booth with branded water bottles, custom prints and more laid out on a table.\"   \/><figcaption style=\"width: 100%;\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><p class=\"wp-caption-text\">Heal the Bay works to protect coastline, revitalize urban waterways, and speak out for smart water use.<\/p><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>  <p><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 no-pad blockOffset-bottom-md\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/instagram_good_nicaragua-water-filters.jpg\" alt=\"Four boxes filled with art supplies with more supplies next to them.\"   \/><\/div><\/p> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--><!--block-empty--> <!--graybar--><div class=\"ltGrayBkgd-md\"><\/div><!--\/graybar--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <!--block: 50-50 --><div class=\"row center-xs\" ><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"><div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p>Along with his established fine and commercial art businesses, his online store and his passion projects, Abel also works with ocean-related nonprofit organizations like Save the Waves and Heal the Bay. \u201cI\u2019ve always thought being an artist was a rather selfish endeavor, because you get to spend more time than most indulging in your passion,\u201d he said. \u201cCreating programs with [nonprofits], I was able to make art that would help them fundraise.\u201d<\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p>Asked what\u2019s over the horizon for this surf artist-turned-traveler-turned-entrepreneur, Abel pauses before responding. \u201cI\u2019m just trying to keep the tribe together and keep the boat above water,\u201d he said. \u201cTrying to stay relevant with my work, and at the same time, explore new things.\u201d<\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--><!--block-empty--> <div class=\"row center-xs blockOffset-bottom-sm\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10\"> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/art_print_mountains_and_waves_hand.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=900&s=5be4f2b14cd74a50654799ab7244163e\" alt=\"A man standing in profile holding a custom art print with a beach, mountain and sunset scene.\"   data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<div id=\"metaslider-id-1736\" style=\"width: 100%;\" class=\"ml-slider-3-62-0 metaslider metaslider-flex metaslider-1736 ml-slider ml-slider-lightbox-1-12-0 ari-fancy-lightbox-1-3-8 ms-theme-default nav-hidden nav-hidden nav-hidden nav-hidden nav-hidden\" role=\"region\" aria-roledescription=\"Slideshow\" aria-label=\"Erik Able BTP Event\">\n    <div id=\"metaslider_container_1736\">\n        <div id=\"metaslider_1736\">\n            <ul aria-live=\"polite\" class=\"slides\">\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1747 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1747\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_01.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=5defbcb23f38acc61741c79afa7146ea\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_01.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=b3f363d85477529051fc484072e58ea0\"   alt=\"Two men sitting on stools giving a presentation, with one man holding a microphone and wearing a hat.\" class=\"slider-1736 slide-1747\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1755 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1755\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_03.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=7738eb5bc348db0fc92478e7090efb7e\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_03.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=85bc382b859165ebcc2610d81e11e962\"   alt=\"Two men sitting on stools talking during a presentation with rows of people sitting in front of them.\" class=\"slider-1736 slide-1755\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1753 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1753\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_05.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=00378837eaf8822a8eedd41387a66a75\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_05.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=2a396a71c9d926b3584c1c362dc41ea0\"   alt=\"People sitting in an audience listening to presenters and holding custom artwork in their laps.\" class=\"slider-1736 slide-1753\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1749 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1749\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_09.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=d88045d77ee10f8c1048b39a00a4b2ee\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_09.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=23371e473ed76846a69fe922e1dc1cd5\"   alt=\"Two men sitting on stools and holding microphones giving a presentation to an audience.\" class=\"slider-1736 slide-1749\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1750 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1750\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_08.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=8d274cd8a52733527b27edf1403aa76b\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_08.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=0b122424eeecd27a26589f2525f35306\"   alt=\"An audience of smiling people sitting and listening to a presentation.\" class=\"slider-1736 slide-1750\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1751 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1751\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_07.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=1da7fbb83e9d252b886ab010d66c1ec5\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_07.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=aa530a0165e128514d2e73fcf9c51d2e\"   alt=\"Two men speaking to an audience during presentation, with one holding a microphone.\" class=\"slider-1736 slide-1751\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1748 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1748\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_10.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=0878b413f5292b478da0498b241345df\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_10.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=e1efdc7f4969775bcb13bd8825850ef7\"   alt=\"A man wearing a navy blue jacket and black scarf holding an art print wrapped in cellophane by his side.\" class=\"slider-1736 slide-1748\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1754 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1754\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_04.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=8182e1bfb0b5683f3dc5bcf239f3bb5d\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_04.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=08dd138de5997abaf03d8fa1c0d20fb6\"   alt=\"A man in an audience wearing a white shirt and glasses speaking into a microphone at an event.\" class=\"slider-1736 slide-1754\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1752 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1752\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_06.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=aebf884d421c72149bbcdcf3e7b26853\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_06.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=342b0e7e3d701d266e4398b9404fa5c0\"   alt=\"Two men sitting on stools during a presentation, smiling and speaking in front of an audience.\" class=\"slider-1736 slide-1752\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-1756 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"slide-1756\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_02.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&s=217318aac01539c2760baa9408bd72c6\" target=\"_self\" class=\"fb-link ari-fancybox\" data-fancybox-group=\"gallery\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/btp_erik-abel_02.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=500&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=500&s=65219723277b2dd767f4d378a7a59678\"   alt=\"Wooden chairs lined up in rows with a custom art print laying on the seat of each one.\" class=\"slider-1736 slide-1756\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n        \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row end-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p><em><strong>Hint:<\/strong> <\/em>Want more ways to print your own artwork? Here you go:<\/p> <ul> <li><a href=\"\/blog\/features\/custom-art-why-professional-artists-print-with-smartpress\">Custom Art: Why Professional Artists Print with Smartpress<\/a><\/li> <li><a href=\"\/blog\/printspiration\/creative-entrepreneurs-how-to-profit-from-print-online\">Creative Entrepreneurs: How to Profit from Print Online<\/a><\/li> <\/ul> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p style=\"text-align: right;\"><strong>SURFER, ARTIST, AND DESIGNER ERIK ABEL BRAVED WINTER WEATHER TO JOIN SMARTPRESS FOR <\/strong><strong>AN EXTENDED LIVE INTERVIEW IN DOWNTOWN MINNEAPOLIS.<\/strong><\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div><!--block-empty--><!--\/the_content-->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Surfer, artist, and designer Erik Abel on finding inspiration, managing a business, and staying fresh. \u201cYou can kind of choose your own path and do what you want.\u201d","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":531,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"sfsi_plus_gutenberg_text_before_share":"","sfsi_plus_gutenberg_show_text_before_share":"","sfsi_plus_gutenberg_icon_type":"","sfsi_plus_gutenberg_icon_alignemt":"","sfsi_plus_gutenburg_max_per_row":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1518","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-behind-the-print"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Artist &amp; 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