Sew Much Art

Thinking About Birthdays

2011-11-19T15:58:00.001-05:00

I was thinking about birthdays while I was in spinning class this morning. As children, we can hardly wait for each birthday to arrive. Early on, we are never old enough....not old enough to ride that amusementt park ride, not old enough to get into that exciting looking bar, or not old enough to vote.

Then comes the day that we turn 21, and are finally old enough! The fun and celebrating lasts until we hit the ripe old age of 22.

Time creeps on and we find ourselves almost dreading each birthday as we get slowly older. I thought I was old at 30....then really old at 40....now I am 55 and trying not to feel old. I am working on my "self talk". I'm thinking we become old because we think we are. Remember..."you're as young as you feel"?

I gave myself the "gift" of health by attending the above mentioned spinning class. (I thought about just staying in bed for my birthday). I am also trying to view my age as just another year...just a number. I have a few aches and pains, but I don't feel really old. I still do most everything I want to do...and I am grateful.

I think I will celebrate this next year with gratitude. I have a great life, a great family and lots of wonderful friends. I have more than enough and I am enough.

Time

2011-11-05T14:53:00.000-04:00

Time.Such a simple word, yet such a huge concept. Time. Do we ever have enough of it? Have you ever found yourself wishing for a few extra hours in the day? I recently asked my husband upon rising, what he had going on....he replied, "I have 8 hours of work to get done in 4 hours". As the days are getting shorter, I personally long for more daylight hours.

This brings me to my next question: tomorrow, as we change from Daylight Savings Time to Eastern Standard Time, what will you do with your extra hour of time? Each one of us will be "gifted" with 60 extra minutes....how shall we use them?

My intention is to do something productive, as opposed to sleeping it away.By that I mean, create some art work or enjoy a hike in the woods.

We aren't guaranteed anytime in this brief life time, so maybe it is more important to be present and be aware in this very moment. By practicing mindfulness, perhaps I won't miss out on one second of that extra hour.

What do you think? How will you spend your gift of time? I'd love to here your thoughts.....

2011-05-23T08:05:00.000-04:00

If you are interested in superlative art quilts and enjoy historical tapestries and textiles, then...RUN, don't walk to these shows!!
I recently enjoyed this amazing exhibition showing at the Zanesville Museum of Art, in Zanesville, Ohio.
SUPERLATIVES Ccontemporary Ohio Quilts opened Saturday May 14 and will run until July 14, 2011. The show " is unique in the history of Ohio quilt exhibitions as it includes six quilts by seven Ohio artists. Each artist works in different directions, creating a broad sampler of textile artistry."
Such a wide variety of technique and style you won't find in one place together very often. Linda French displays a more traditional style, yet her minute machine stitching could only be 21st century! ( Although it is so perfect that you might think it was all done by hand.) Then there are the two artists using shibori dying in their work, yet they have very different results. Rebecca Cross uses silks and creates light, airy pieces and installations, while Sue Cavanaugh works on large cotton sateen. Deborah Melton Anderson's work is pieced using fabrics that she has manipulated and printed using heat transfers. The machine work of Sandra Palmer Ciolino bring another beautiful dimension to this show. June O'Neils use of raw edge applique will leave you amazed, and of course, Nancy Crow never disappoints. I especially enjoyed seeing her screen printed pieces.
I was lucky enough to enjoy some of the lectures given by the artists on opening day. Nancy Crow, in particular, left me with a few things to think about. She really is an icon in the art-quilt movement. She was one of the original organizers of Quilt National, the Quilt/Surface Design Symposium and the Art Quilt Network. I was thrilled to get to hear her speak. What I took away from her lecture was the importance of going after what you want, being persistent and not taking "no" for an answer; being professional and disciplined and above all, " do the work". It was a reminder to really know yourself.

"In Stitches" is another, smaller exhibition displayed next to, and con-currently with "SUPERLATIVES". This show highlights some of the wonderful textiles from the collection of the ZMA. It provides a very satisfying contrast to the contemporary show.
I particularly enjoyed the "Man's Vest", 19th century from Turkey, that looked more child-sized, the "Kalarga Tapestry", late 19th century, made of linen, silk, velvet and cotton, and covered with beads and sequins. Also intriguing was the"Bark Cloth" piece which is not woven at all, but made of tree bark.

These are but a few of the interesting and inspiring pieces to view in this "bonus' show. Who knew the ZMA held such treasures?! Don't miss these shows!!

Plunging Ahead

2011-05-17T21:50:00.001-04:00

I was recently "blog-surfing" and came upon Kathleen Loomis' blog, " Art With A Needle" . She has been sharing her recent cruise experience, where she took a class on writing. She is a seasoned writer, having taught classes herself. She was curious to see how someone else might teach.
The concept she shared that totally resonated with me was " Planners vs Plungers." According to her teacher, " a planner figures out what they want to say and writes it down, while a plunger writes in order to figure out what they want to say."

I always struggled with writing an outline, then a paper from that....I usually managed to do it the other way around! AH-HA!! I am a plunger!! This, some how, is so freeing for me to know that it is an acceptable way of writing. And, here is the best part: I am a plunging artist as well. No, I do NOT draw out ahead of time what I am about to create. I fly by the seat of my pants; working intuitively, following my instincts, letting the work take me where it may. No outline, no graph paper, no computer program...just a sketchbook/journal and all my stash.
Thanks to Kathleen for sharing this information! I am a plunger and proud of it!

How do you write/work? Is it just me or did this categorization help someone else as well? And why do we need labels anyway?

Springtime Explosion

2011-04-25T21:46:00.000-04:00

If you've never been thrilled to the very edges of your soul by a flower in spring bloom, maybe your soul has never been in bloom. ~Terri Guillemets

chickweed and self heal

An early morning walk along the Dresden Bike Trail left me with enough inspiration to last a long time. My hubby and I were looking for the elusive morel mushroom and found much, much more to satisfy the senses. Please enjoy the simple beauty of these beautiful flowers....some wild, some domestic...all amazing.

weird stalks of either trillium or may apple nipped off by an animal and curled

yellow violet

trillium and may apple

Christmas fern fiddle heads unfurling

blue bells

red trillium

crab apple

The Speed Bumps of Life

2011-04-17T15:18:00.000-04:00

Little did I know, as I took this photograph, that I would, indeed, have some speed bumps coming my way......

Having just returned from 10 days on beautiful St John US VI (where I took this photo), I found my dear 94 year old uncle sick and dying and my father in law admitted to ICU, fighting for his life. Two weeks later, my uncle has passed away and my father in law is home recuperating and I find myself at complete "loose ends".

Unable to focus, I feel as though I am "spinning my wheels". Inspiration and motivation have flown out the window. Why is it a surprise to me that the stress involved in being witness to a loved one dying could deliver such a powerful punch? Silly me.

As I have trudged through the last few days I can feel myself slowly healing. I trust that my heart will mend and I will be able to return to "normal" life...whatever that may be.

In the meantime I would like to share a verse sent to me by a special friend in response to Uncle KK's death. I think it captures his sweet, gentle, loving spirit.
Legend say that hummingbirds float free of time, carrying our hopes for love, joy and celebration. The hummingbird's delicate grace reminds us that life is rich, beauty is everywhere, every personal connection has meaning and laughter is life's sweetest creation.

RIP Kenneth H Warthman 1-28-17 to 4-9-11

To Gallery Or Not To Gallery???

2011-03-06T13:09:00.000-05:00

I have been trying to spend a lot more time on the business/marketing aspect of the art world. ( when I would really rather be creating artwork)
This article arrived in my email in box recently, and I found it so interesting I thought I would share it here. One goal I had set for myself this year was to seek and find gallery representation. After reading this article, I will be rethinking this. Perhaps I would be better served to spend my time elsewhere.

Thanks to Fine Art Views for allowing me to share this here. I highly recommend their newsletter.
PS: I would be very interested in hearing your thoughts on this?? Please feel free to leave a comment. Let me know what you think!

Selling Without Galleries

by Lori Woodward

Today's Post is by Lori Woodward, Regular contributing writer for FineArtViews. She also writes "The Artist's Life" blog on American Artists' Forum. Lori is a member of The Putney Painters, an invitational group that paints under the direction of Richard Schmid and Nancy Guzik. Find out how you can be a guest author.

While in Tucson this month, I attended several galleries and two opening receptions at high-class galleries. I'm noticing some new trends for art sales: While gallery sales seem like they are flattening, self-sales by artists are flourishing... especially for those artists who sell their works for under $1000.

Several, previously successful, galleries on Main Street in Old Town Scottsdale have closed. The artists they carried are now looking for new venues, but existing galleries are not taking on artists - as they're working hard to sell the works of those artists they currently represent.

While conversing with avid collectors, I'm hearing that some of them are in the process of moving to a smaller home or condo - and they're looking to downsize their collection by consigning paintings with galleries. While this works well for the gallery and the collector, the living artists get no revenue from these sales.

Artists at the very top of popularity with collectors are still selling very well, but mid-career artists - who sell in the $5000 to $25,000 price range are not doing as well as even two years ago. Some are hunkering down and improving their work, others are teaching, even a few are taking on second jobs while waiting for sales to pick up.

Here's the way I see it. If you're already working with a good gallery, stay with them and ride out the slow down. Be open to reducing your prices by a certain percentage. Collectors are looking for bargains and they're getting them... even from galleries. On the other hand, if you're not working with a gallery, it might be a waste of time to pursue that route at this time.

Instead, consider entering competitions to get some press. Winning national competitions often leads to magazine articles. Build your resume as well as your skill. In the current market, you are competing with other artists for sales and the better your work is, the easier it will be to sell it.

Now for the good news: I'm hearing from artists selling work from local shows, their websites and email newsletters - that they're having their best year ever. What does this tell us? That perhaps we'd be better off spending our time growing our own following than vying for space in a commercial gallery. However, this doesn't mean avoiding entering invitational salon shows at galleries because these days, that's where galleries find their new artists. As far as I know (and you can correct me if I'm wrong), but galleries are not even taking the time to look at portfolios.

I'm convinced that artists must promote their work whether they work with or without a gallery or agent. Galleries do not spend as much time on artists who are "emerging" as they do on their stars who sell for "big bucks". It all comes down to revenue - what will keep them in business. They do a great service for artists, but right now, they need to put their effort into what will keep their door open.

We artists can no longer avoid building our own career. The days of having someone else do all the leg work for us are over. We must build our collector base through relationships, showing at a variety of venues and building our email newsletter subscribers. This is Permission Marketing at its best. It's not done overnight, but artists are proving it can be done!

Renee Lammers and Esther Williams are selling on their own without galleries - and it just keeps getting better for them. Esther Williams will be the subject of an interview for FineArtViews in mid-March, when her show schedule eases up. Today, she mentioned on facebook that she sold 5 paintings from her email newsletter. It doesn't get much better than that!

I am taking notice of these new self-sales trends. I'm excited for, and about, these artists. I have been selling on my own for the past 5 years, and I enjoy working directly with those who buy my work. My prices are generally under $1000, so it wouldn't make sense for either me or the gallery to split the profit 50-50.

A couple of weeks ago, I sold a painting from my website's email newsletter to a couple who bought their first painting from me several years ago, at a B&B in Tucson. Here's a fun fact that I read in an art marketing book: Past collectors are 6 times more likely to buy again than someone who has never purchased your work. Keeping those relationships active by getting them to subscribe to your blog or newsletter is "key". Our loyal collectors are like gold.

If any of you are selling well in this current economy, please feel free to share what's working for you. We can all benefit by your experience. Esther, please save your best advice for the upcoming interview!

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Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T17:31:00.000-05:00

I spent the day with a very dynamic group: The Innovative Art Alliance. We are a diverse group of artists that come from all over south eastern Ohio and northern West Virginia. Our monthly meetings are all about networking and sharing. One of our members, Diane, has ALS, (also known as Lou Gerhig's disease). We have slowly been witness to the loss of use of her legs, then her arms. She is an amazing creative woman, who despite her ever increasing limitations, continues to not only lead us, but inspire us with her ever present courage and wisdom. It has been quite a while since she has been able to put a needle to fabric, but that does not stop her indominable spirit. Her creative outlet has become her thoughts and her words. She shared a few of her poems with us today. One poem in particular resonated with me. It talked about how we spend our lives trying to be "good enough", and that, at some point we need to realize we are, what we are...and that is perfect for us! It reminded me of the old Amish quote, that we are " too soon old, too late smart."
On this day of hearts and love, I am sending out all the love and healing energy I can muster to you, Diane. And thank you for giving me permission to be who I am.

Have Art: Will Travel

2011-02-08T15:44:00.001-05:00

I have found that when I travel, I feel completely "naked" if I don't carry along some art projects on which to work. Most of the time this is easy, because I usually have a few pieces in process that are laying about the studio. At other times I find myself frantically pulling something together to take along.
The easiest thing to bring is hand work, because, usually I don't have a sewing machine at vacation destinations. (Although I have been known to pack one) Handwork is never a problem, as I love to do it.
Below is an example of a piece I just took along on a recent trip. It was a quilt sandwich that I created to practice thread tension and various stitches on the machine. I liked the looks of it, and decided to do a little beading and will perhaps add some hand stitching as well. At any rate, this is what it looks like so far.

click on picture for a close up view

I also try to never be without my camera or my sketchbook/journal. This is true on a daily basis as well as while traveling.
What about you? Do you have certain things that you feel at loose ends without on a daily basis? If so, what are they?

Painting On Location: Who Knew??

2011-02-01T11:24:00.001-05:00

The on-location class I am taking is really a lot of fun! Who knew I would feel comfortable sketching and painting in the middle of a restaurant? That was our assignment this week: Go to a coffee shop and draw and paint what you see. I chose my local Starbucks. I love the atmosphere there anyway, and they have my favorite tea, Tazo Zen, so I was golden! The oatmeal got a little cold while I was doing my thing, but I ate it anyway. This could actually turn into a weight loss study. By the time I finished painting the muffin, I was no longer interested in eating it! The only real problem I had was that I attempted to drink my paint water a few times! Ha! Fortunately I caught myself.
I plan on hitting a few more coffee shops/eating establishments for more inspiration. ( There goes the weight loss theory ). And I am looking forward to the next prompt. Stay tuned for more sketching adventures!

Media Stretch

2011-01-30T09:12:00.000-05:00

While my first artistic love is stitching and embellishing art quilts, I am trying to stretch and grow in other creative endeavors.
An online class I signed up for this January is Jane Lafazio's "Sketchbook Watercolor on Location" class. Our first assignment was to just stay at home and find some objects to paint. She suggested keys. As I have a collection of old keys, that was exactly what I painted.

"Antique Keys" by Susan Nash

I am loving the "on location" concept of this class. This week we are on location in a coffee shop! I can't wait. I only wish my friend Vivian ( who is also taking this class) lived closer so that we could hang out at a coffee shop together. At any rate, stay tuned for more on-location artwork. I'll be posting more in the near future, in between finishing up some quilt-y projects. It has been a good season to stay inside and make art! What have you been creating?

Sketchbook Project 2010: Part 2

2011-01-19T20:14:00.000-05:00

the front and back covers

In an earlier post I introduced my sketchbook for the Sketchbook Project 2010. The deadline has come and gone, and my book was mailed off to its new home last week joining all the others in the Brooklyn Museum of Art. They will travel to different destinations and be handled by a lot of people.

Since the paper was very thin, I glued the pages together; back-to-back, and even added gesso to a few to allow for water media. Along with the glue and gesso, I used some matte medium, markers, and watercolors, not to mention soaking wet tea bags. These are some of the reasons my book looks as if I dropped it in the river.

My "theme" was: I am a Scavenger.

made from cut out photos retrieved from the trash

bio pages...a vellum pocket with business card and post cards

tea staining

I found some pressed leaves, and a quote saved from a calendar

traced around my hand...just for fun

inside the front cover

Some thoughts:

This was a fun project to do
A blank sketchbook is very intimidating
It became WAY more fun, when I gave up perfection, and ownership
I would do it again, but start on time ( I joined up in the middle of the project)

New Dawn, New Day, New Year

2011-01-16T18:43:00.000-05:00

My new year did not start out as I had planned. Instead, I was in bed shivering with the flu. Life does not always go as planned.
Today I awoke to a beautiful sunrise over a crisp, frosty landscape. It inspired me to think about what all I want to accomplish this year. I prefer to think about setting goals, instead of resolutions.

So, I have a wide open path ahead of me at the start of this year. There is the usual weight loss goal, but I've been thinking that it probably won't matter that I was 10 pounds over weight in 2011, as long as I can do the things I want to do, right? I will continue to try to eat healthy meals and to exercise every day.

The goals I am most concerned with are my art related ones. I would love for this to be the year that I supported myself completely at the studio. By that, I mean, that I sell enough artwork, and teach enough classes , so that I cover my expenses. It would be wonderful to make a profit, but I am trying to keep to reality here. (smile)
Another goal would be that I put together a professional portfolio. I would then use this to seek out gallery representation. I am getting help with this by joining the SAQA Visioning program that is offered through SAQA University.

One fun thing I am doing is taking the "One Little Word" class over at Big Picture Classes. Taught by Ali Edwards, it uses the concept that you choose ( or it may choose you ), one word to focus on for the year. My word is trust. Ali will be giving the class members a prompt every month...something to do or think about. I will be sharing my progress with you here.

Hopefully by verbalizing some of my goals for the year here, I will feel more accountable. At any rate, it's a new day and a new year, and I'm ready to step out and get going! What kinds of goals have you set forth?

Let's step out together!

Reverb10: Party...."COZ Art Matters"

2010-12-11T18:17:00.000-05:00

The prompt for Reverb10 yesterday was : Party. What social event for 2010 rocked your socks off ?
I immediately thought of the fundraiser I participated in for our local artist colony, ARTCOZ ( Artist Colony of Zanesville), "COZ ART MATTERS".
We worked on this starting back in February and it became a huge big deal. Each participating artist needed to sell 11 tickets each. We wanted an "elegant" evening of music, wine and desserts along with viewing the artworks of 10 artists and meeting said artists.
This was something new for our small, but supportive town, and the response was amazing! We sold out of tickets and rocked the house!

Me standing in front of my artwork

ARTCOZ President and artist, James Warren

It was a great example of a small group coming together and realizing a dream, of sorts.
Thank you Zanesville!

Reverb 10: Wonder

2010-12-04T18:18:00.000-05:00

Lake Ontario Sunset

Autumn Leaf

Queen Ann's Lace

I am participating in an annual online initiative called "Reverb 10". The idea being, that for the 31 days of December I will write in response to a daily prompt. This will allow me ( in theory ), to slow down and take the time to reflect on my year, and manifest the next one. I am 3 days late, so I will just start here, with today's prompt : Wonder. How did you cultivate a sense of wonder in your life this year?

Nature in all her complexity, and beauty, absolutely come to mind. From the colors and grandeur of a sunset, to the delicate lace-like appearance of a wild flower, nature does it for me. Being outside feeds my soul and fills me with wonder. It is just as simple as that.
I make an effort to spend time outside everyday. The sunrise and sunsets are a particular draw to me. Besides bookending the day, there is something very alluring about that brief time surrounding both. It always feels as if I have stolen some sacred time, when the world is so quiet and peaceful, just waking for the day.....and their is a solemn reverence as the sun slips below the horizon. A moment to reflect on that day and how my time was spent, and to be ever grateful.
If we take the time to stop and appreciate the simple beauty surrounding us, we are gifted with a sense of peace and calm. And we are reminded that we are but a very small part of this miraculous universe. We are filled with wonder and awe.

What gave you a sense of wonder in this year just past?

The Sketchbook Project Tour 2011

2010-12-01T17:03:00.000-05:00

These are a few of the pages I have completed for the Sketchbook Project. What is this project, you ask? Well, it is a large endeavor put together by Art House Co-op. Anyone can participate. You only have to order a small sketchbook from them, with a theme...either chosen by you or assigned by them. I read about it in a magazine and decided to check it out. The plan is that all these participating sketchbooks will tour the country, and will ultimately reside in the Brooklyn Art Library, 201 Richards St #16, Brooklyn, NY.

The theme for my sketchbook is " I'm a scavenger". This suites me perfectly, as I am truly a scavenger. I collect "things" where ever I go. They may be man-made or of nature, but like a crow, I snatch them up and bring them with me to the studio. The only problem I have encountered is that right after I received my sketchbook in the mail, I promptly "lost" it. And, as the saying goes..."out of sight, out of mind." That was way back in July. I managed to "uncover" it in September, and have been occasionally working on it since. I decided to use acrylic medium to "glue" pages together, so that I would have half as many to do, since time became a factor. I also tried some gesso on a few pages, and that really has helped with any water media I have chosen. The paper in the book is rather thin.

This has been a fun and learning experience for me. It was hard at first, to look at this BLANK book and not freeze-up, so I decided to just dive in there, right or wrong. A scary prospect. It was also difficult knowing that I will not be the ultimate owner of this book. So, I decided to forget about that, knowing that I can take pictures, and document my work.

Are any of you involved in this project? I would love to hear what you are doing with your little book. In the meantime, stay tuned for more updates. It needs to be postmarked by January 15th, so things will be happening quickly here in Studio 202.

"Four Word Self Help" by Patti Digh

2010-09-28T14:04:00.000-04:00

I am very excited to share with you, my blogging friends, that, I have a piece of artwork in Patti Digh's latest book "Four Word Self Help", just released this month!!! I have so admired Patti's writings and her wisdom, that this is extra special. So, how do you know her, you ask?? Well, let me start at the beginning....

Patti Digh and Abby Nash @ Authors Club

Patti's bag

Patti and myself

A couple of years ago I stumbled upon Patti's book "Life is a Verb". It is another wonderful book based on the premise: how would you live your life if you knew you only had 37 days left to live. It is full of great stories and thought provoking writing prompts, not to mention the beautiful and inspiring artwork. I immediately checked out her website http://www.pattidigh.com and discovered that she was speaking in Canton, Ohio, so I took a few friends and we drove up to see her speak. Long story short, I invited her to come back that spring and speak here in Zanesville to a local book group, and she accepted!! She was so happy with all the original artwork in "Life is a Verb", that she opened up the opportunity to anyone interested to leave an email address so that she/her publisher could contact us at a later date.

So now, I am so pleased to have a teeny-tiny part in her newest book. My artwork was to represent the 4 word phrase "show someone you care".

"Show someone you care"

Another very exciting thing is that my daughter Abby (pictured above with Patti) also got a piece of artwork in this very same book! I am so proud of her!! When I finally get a picture of her with her artwork, I will post here.
Okay, so enough with the shameless bragging. I would just encourage you to check out any of Patti's books as they are so meaningful and fulfilling. "Enough said!!

More Spirals

2010-09-21T15:09:00.001-04:00

spiral found on a door of a city building in Pittsburgh, PA

If you have followed my blog at all, you will remember that there are symbols that show up in my work repeatedly. I talked about the Ginkgo leaf in my last post. Competing for the number one spot in my personal symbology is the spiral. I literally "collect" them both in nature and man made. They are something that I truly enjoy looking for where ever I go.
So, I will share the latest in my collection of spirals, all found in downtown Pittsburgh, PA.

There is a lot of inspiration to be found here for me. The thing is, that, I don't really know why the spiral speaks to me. I know that it represents growth and continual change. Perhaps it is the fact that I am in the process of growth myself,( growth in my art work and in my career), that I am attracted to them. Just as with the ginkgo leaf, I will continue to dig deeper to uncover the roots of what the attraction is all about.

Do you have a personal list of favorite symbols? Do you know other meanings for what a spiral represents? I'd love to hear what they are.

PS: below is my reward for a "hard" day walking and biking around Pittsburgh. We were lucky enough to find an Oktoberfest!

Ginkgo Anyone?

2010-09-16T14:33:00.000-04:00

I have been asked numerous times as to why I frequently choose to use the ginkgo leaf in my work. Having spent some time exploring this question, I first thought about how I work intuitively....sometimes the work just needs a ginkgo leaf! Right?? But WHY? It goes much deeper than that.
The picture above shows a very large ginkgo tree located on the campus of Ohio University. Back in the early 19060's, the course of the Hocking River was changed, for purposes of flood control. My Uncle Art Blickle, a botany professor, was instrumental in saving the above tree from destruction. Apparently it was an extremely old tree already.As a young person, this "fight" to save the tree captured my imagination. From that time on I became very aware of any ginkgo trees.

Fast forward 40 some years and I am living in a house with a very large.....you guessed it.....ginkgo tree, in the front yard. I am an avid "season-er" and so, I pay a lot of attention to the changing of the seasons and how it effects the plant and animals around me. This tree usually is completely bright yellow around the 22-23 of October. When it decides to drop it's leaves, it does so all at once! These leaves are very beautiful and leathery and heavy to rake.
Considered a living fossil, the ginkgo tree has been around for many millions of years. The ginkgo is used as a symbol of longevity and strength over time. One can even find it in pill form to help the memory.

I will continue to attempt to figure out the significance of this special tree in my life. I do know that have have not grown tired of it's beauty and versatility. Rest assured you will see more ginkgo art from me.

Ginkgo biloba

First Fridays Celebration of the Arts

2010-09-07T14:35:00.000-04:00

This past Friday was our local artist colony's First Fridays Art Walk. The studio/gallery that I work from is Studio 202, as seen in the picture above. I share this amazing space with another artist and dear friend, Susan Stubbins. Here we work alone and together, sharing ideas and dreams and even critiques. It is an amazing space with wonderful energy. We manage to get quite a bit accomplished when we are not procrastinating. But that is a subject for another blog post!
We are fortunate here in Zanesville, Ohio to have such a vibrant artist colony. I believe it is so important to be able to network with other artists. We have a regular colony meeting once a month, but there is a standing lunch date every Thursday at noon for any artists in the area. The air is hot and heavy as we discuss many issues and events near and dear to our hearts.

This month for the art walk, we had beautiful weather and much going on downtown. Susan Stubbins and I had a lot of new work to share, but we also sponsored photographer Mike Wisecarver in our downstairs space. Below are a few pictures taken during the evening. If you are ever in the area, please stop by and check us out. We have regular hours 10:30 to 5 through out the week, and by appointments any other time.
I feel very blessed to have a place away from home within which to create, but also, to have a group of like-minded friends to "hang out" with!

What I Did On My Summer Vacation

2010-09-02T11:04:00.000-04:00

September has always been a month for new beginnings. It used to be the back-to-school ritual, but now, with my children out of the house, it is a time for me to reflect upon what goals, dreams and aspirations I have achieved or not achieved, for the year. We start out in January with "resolutions" and by now, we pretty much know whether or not we are on track. SO, with summer winding down, and a new season approaching, I am feeling quite contemplative. I will look back and see if I am indeed on track.

This summer was a busy one for me with both work and fun. Mike and I managed to sneak away to spend time on one or another of the Great Lakes. I am also, now an official "volunteer" for the state of Ohio. My "job" is to walk the trails at Black Hand Gorge State Nature Preserve, picking up trash and cutting back trees. Such a tough job, huh?

I have a few art shows to share with you as well. I had 3 pieces accepted into the Dawes Arboretum show which ran most of August. The theme for this show was "Leaf It To Mother Nature". It was a collaboration of the members of Dawes and of the Licking County Arts group.

The picture to the right is me beside "Leaf Study", at the Dawes show.

I also have 2 pieces in the show "Post Expressions" which is a show containing all post card sized pieces. That show is going on now until September 17, and can be viewed at the LeFevre Hall Art Gallery, on the Ohio State/Newark Campus, Newark, Ohio.

I had one piece, "Perseverance" juried into the professional division of the Ohio State Fair Fine Arts Expo....and it sold!!

My intention here is not to be tooting my own horn, but rather, reflecting upon my summer, and yes, perhaps reveling in some of my achievements.

A Bittersweet Memory

2010-06-29T21:13:00.000-04:00

My show at the Zanesville Museum of Art came down yesterday, and I picked all the work up today. It was a wonderful, exciting ride...one I am extremely proud of. I am very grateful to the ZMA for the opportunity, and to all my friends and family who supported me in this endeavor.

Now, back at Studio 202, I am ready to get back to the business of creating more artwork. I am currently working on 2 commission pieces, so they are keeping me busy for the moment. But, I am feeling the pull to perhaps stretch in a new direction. It usually takes awhile for me to incubate an idea. Stay tuned for more to come.

For now, I will bask in the memory of my first solo show.

Confessions of an Embarrassed Fool or Lessons Learned

2010-06-08T18:36:00.000-04:00

Venus Flytrap copyright Susan Nash 2010

Have you ever received the prospectus for an upcoming show, and thought to yourself, " this is the perfect venue for my work", but, not had any work available to submit??

This happened to me very recently. The show was totally based around a botanical theme, and was to be held at a conservatory. My work of late has been very much organic and botanical in nature. It would be, in my estimation, a perfect fit. The problem ( if you want to call it a problem), was that all my work was being displayed in other shows! Specifically, my solo show at the Zanesville Museum of Art, and The Best of 2010.

What would you do??

Well, here is what I did, and I do not recommend it. I had maybe 2 weeks to create a piece for submission. So, I got to work, and very quickly put together a piece in time to take photos and submit it.

The good news is that I realized it was a hurry-up job...it was done to fit the theme, not created from that place inside me that wants to create. In plain English, it did not feel authentic. So, I did not enter it. The decision felt right.

The bad news is that I decided to keep working on the piece and try tweaking it into something that felt right. I thought I got it to that point. But when I saw it hanging recently in another show, it jumped out at me as not being good. It still didn't feel right. So now, I feel a little embarrassed, even stupid for allowing this piece to have been sent out into the world depicting my work. Yuck.

The lesson I am taking from this is that I should ALWAYS make work that comes from my heart; that is totally authentic to me. NOT try to fit a theme, or catch a specific jurors eye. Just make the work that is my personal soul work.

Have any of YOU, dear friends and bloggers, felt this silly and annoyed? I am somehow deeply embarrassed that my name is hanging by this piece for the world to see.
I did create it, but I am not overly proud of it.
Lesson Learned.

Quilt Surface Design Symposium

2010-06-06T21:30:00.000-04:00

I am newly returned from my classes at QSDS, and thought I would share a bit of the experience.
This symposium has been around now for 21 years and is going strong. It attracts people from all over the world. In their words, it is for anyone interested in working with fabric and ready to challenge the boundaries between what is considered craft and fine art.

My first class was with book artist Pam Sussman. We had a choice between making 3 different books. For me, the best part was that we learned how to screen print! We used our own text and/or images and screened them to fabrics of our choosing. Then, the idea was to create a book in fabric using some of the material we had just created. I am hooked! Pam was an awesome teacher with infinite patience. I highly recommend her.
Here is a picture of the book I chose to create. It is called a "concertina " book. I only used a small piece of the fabric I created. You can almost see it on the second panel from the left. This book was not yet completed in this picture.

The second class was with Rosalie Dace, who is from Durbin, South Africa. She was an amazing person and teacher, with so much to share in life experiences alone! The class was all about texture and the ways to create it. Here is a picture of Rosalie working with my dear friend Vivian. ( Rosalie is on the right)

Above is the work I have, still in process from this class. It has a lot of work left.

QSDS is an amazing learning experience, but one must also recognize the fact that there are many friendships created and nurtured throughout the years at this event. I am very grateful to have been able to attend. I was able to "catch up" with people I haven't seen in years, and also to share the time with special friends like Vivian.

Month End Review

2010-06-01T22:17:00.000-04:00

After taking Alyson Stanfield's "Blast Off" class back in January, I have been trying to take her advice to "check in" with myself and my artistic endeavors. I thought I would do an end of the month review here: what have I accomplished in the month of May...did I meet any goals?....and what are my aspirations for June?

May was a busy, art-full month. I have my solo show continuing at The Zanesville Museum of Art. Some of the work has sold, and I have a commission request.
The opening of "Best of 2101" at the Ohio Craft Museum has come and gone, along with receiving my award there. I completed 3 new pieces that had been in process and sent them along to "FABRICations" at the High Road Gallery. The show runs May 26 to June 26. I also somehow managed with the help of an artist-friend, Mike Seiler ( thanks Mike) to get a cd and application sent off to the Ohio State Fair Fine Arts Expo. I won't know the results of that until early June. Finally, I created a piece for consideration to be in Patti Digh's newest book.

On a down note, the deadline for the Aullwood Nature Center show came and went. Unfortunately, I had nothing to send along.

With June unfolding quickly before me, I am excited about the opportunity to take classes at the Quilt Surface Design Symposium in Columbus. I will be studying with Pam Sussman and Rosalie Dace. This event is great for re-connecting and networking with friends, old and new.

My goal for June would be to create more artwork. QSDS will offer much inspiration, I am sure. I will also await the acceptance or rejection notice from the state fair expo. ( keeping my fingers crossed ). There are several more deadlines for other shows looming in the future. My intention is to create, and hope that something will be appropriate to enter.

I am well pleased with the month of May, and hope to keep the momentum going in the months ahead. this is helpful to state my goals, not only to remind myself, but also to make me accountable.

Walk Much??

2010-05-28T16:25:00.000-04:00

" An early morning walk is a blessing for the whole day. "
~ Henry David Thoreau

We all know that walking is good for us....good for the heart and lungs, bones and muscles. But, the benefit I enjoy the most is what walking does for my mind. All of my senses are engaged and I am totally aware of all that is going on around me. I notice the birds and the wildflowers, the scent of honeysuckle and the warm breeze. I am completely "present" and "mindful". This gift of being mindful, of living in the moment, allows me to feel passion for life. I am grateful for just being alive and appreciating each moment.

And here is the good news: that passion for life just naturally carries over to my passion for creating art! What is that saying...."art is life"?

My walks are indeed inspirational for me. The pieces I create using the inspiration I receive while being mindful, while living my life, are the pieces that seem to resonate with others.

" I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in."
~ John Muir

From Paper To Fabric

2010-05-16T09:15:00.000-04:00

Here is a new piece I just dropped off to my framer last week. The photo on the bottom shows an up-close of one of the pages from my journal, where the idea for this project was "concieved". The almost final work is pictured at the top. ( I added yet a few more buttons on the left side...seemed to balance a bit better.) Leaf Study copyright Susan Nash

I have been keeping journals for many years now. They provide me with a wealth of ideas and quotes and just plain inspiration. Isn't it interesting how a doodle created many months earlier, will spark the idea for a new work? Whenever I am feeling "stuck" I go to my journals, and usually find something to get excited about.

How about you? Do you journal? I'd love to hear about it....

Cap City Half Marathon

2010-05-09T10:35:00.000-04:00

At the starting line...me, Molly and Abby.After the race; bookended by Mike and Ben.

Last weekend was a fun-filled and busy one. My entire family and I spent it together. It was "mother's day" a week early. We walked the half marathon Saturday morning. The day started out dry, but ended in a drizzle. At least it was warm, and our spirits were not dampened in the least.

"Best of 2010" Opening Reception and Awards Ceremony

2010-05-09T10:32:00.000-04:00

The opening for the Best of 2010 occurred last weekend, at The Ohio Craft Museum, in Columbus, Ohio. (http://www.ohiocraft.org )My family and I attended and enjoyed a fantastic show. I am pictured below with my piece Cross Country Flight, which was awarded the "Quilt Surface Design Foundation LTD Award. I am very pleased and proud to be a part of this show, and to have received this award.

A Sign of Things to Come

2010-04-29T18:25:00.000-04:00

My brother recently converted over 1000 35mm slides to a cd. These are old family pictures dating back to the 1950's. While going through them, which was an amazing trip down memory lane, I came upon the photo shown above. That is 8 year old me, standing under a painting of my absolute favorite subject at the time: horses.
The medium has changed and so has the subject matter, but the passion still exists. I really think I always wanted to be an artist, but was encouraged to pursue a course of study that would result in a "paying" job. As it turns out, I never used my Bachelor of Science in Zoology, and here I am a full time artist. Isn't it funny how life happens?
I will say that I am very blessed and grateful to be able to spend my days creating.

Art Quilts and Textiles by Susan Nash: Opening Reception

2010-04-26T21:50:00.000-04:00

The big night has come and gone, and I lived through it. In fact, it was amazing! By all accounts, the opening reception for my first solo show at the Zanesville Museum of Art, was a success. It was so much fun to share my work in this way. I found the gallery space to be wonderful...very intimate, and perfect for my work. The director and staff were fantastic as well. And the food and drink were superb.

In the process of working on my "gallery talk", I sat alone in the space for awhile. What I discovered, and what has been pointed out to me lately, is the repeated use of several symbols and images in my work. I shared this in my talk, and thought I would share it here with you, dear readers.

What popped out at me, as I sat surrounded by my work, was the use of hearts, spirals, circles, and leaves. The symbolism behind hearts is fairly self-explanatory: love, compassion, and caring. Spirals symbolize evolution, and change. I use these alot, even in the fabrics I choose. Why?? I'm not sure. I work intuitively, and they just seem appropriate. My work is definately evolving, so maybe that is it. Then there are all the circles, which symbolize unity and wholeness. So why do they appear over and over in my pieces? Again, I'm not sure. I will continue to dig deeper on this subject. In the meantime, my biggest inspiration is nature, hence, the leaves. I especially admire the Gingko leaf, so it is no surprise ( to me ) to see it in my work.

While my show will hang until June 19th, I will be back in studio working and playing on new pieces. I find it almost cathartic to have my space empty of my work... freeing, in some way. It leaves me open to try new techniques; to follow a new path. Where this path will take me, I havn't a clue, but I look forward with anticipation. Perhaps you will come along on the ride with me? Hang on and stay tuned!

Fear of Flying...Solo

2010-04-14T09:09:00.008-04:00

In my last post I mentioned my up-coming solo show. I am extremely proud and excited about: "Art Quilts and Textiles by Susan Nash". It will run from April 24, 2010 to June 19, 2010 at the Zanesville Museum of Art. ( http://www.zanesvilleart.org/ ) The opening reception and gallery talk, should you happen to be in the area, is Saturday April 24, 5 -7pm.

I am grateful for this opportunity on so many levels. A solo show was on my list of things to achieve in the future. The fact that the museum director, Susan Talbot-Stanaway, saw something in my work worthy of a show, humbles me deeply. The publicity has been amazing as well.

May I let you in on a wee little secret? There is a huge part of all this that terrifies me. I mean, I am preparing to hang my heart and soul out there for of the world to see, and judge. That ugly little "ego" dude is on my shoulder asking me, am I really worthy of this?? Who do I think I am?? Okay, so I'm thinking this is probably a normal reaction? Or am I alone in feeling a little bit inadequate?

Springtime: New Beginnings

2010-04-11T11:14:00.002-04:00

Does spring stir-up your soul?? With trees budding and flowers popping and the world greening; aren't you compelled to start a-new as well? It does seem like the perfect time to jump on the band wagon and start something fresh, or re-commit to something already in place.
I'm thinking: new artwork, new series, new color scheme, new approach...OR how about: finish, re-do, perhaps start over.
Health wise I have already made a commitment to re-commit for better fitness this spring. (http://schimmelfitness.com ) Art-wise, I have a solo show coming up this month, so the work for that is all completed. I feel as if I have the above mentioned "new-beginning" because I am free to create without a goal insight.
Isn't it nice that we can create opportunities to free ourselves of guilt or worries, and have a new opportunity for fresh starts? Just because it's spring?
How about you?? Do you have any new plans or fresh starts inspired by the season?

All Systems: GO

2010-04-08T13:55:00.004-04:00

I have given myself the "green light" to start work improving and building a better, more vibrant blog. How will this happen, you ask?? I recently signed up for the 4-week Blog Triage class offered by Cynthia Morris ( http://originalimpulseblog.com/ and http://journeyjuju.com/) and Alyson Stanfield ( http://artbizblog.com/ ). You will be following along with my progress, as I blog my homework right here.
The most recent assignment is to describe the people I would like to have visit and read my blog. Since I am an artist, and I blog mostly about my work and what inspires me; I would like to attract other artists. Specifically, I am a textile/fiber artist making mostly art quilts. This may narrow or open the field even more, and could include not only other art quilters, but also anyone who sews. I am inspired by nature, so that could be another audience as well: nature lovers. It would also be my hope that I could possibly attract book publishers, art dealers, critics, museum curators, and gallery owners.
So why do I blog to begin with? I think I started blogging for myself. I was impressed by other blogs and felt that it was something I wanted to do as well. However, when it came to physically starting a blog, along with the commitment to continue blogging...that is where I froze up. I didn't want to start and not continue. So, I put it in the category of "doing something that scares me", and finally jumped in and tried my hand at it. In other words, I blog to force myself to stretch and grow. Since starting though, I have seen the value in networking with other like-minded people, and the self-promotion and self marketing uses are endless.
I look forward to the Blog Triage, and the push it is already giving me.
What are your reasons for blogging? Do you look forward to each blog post, or do you need a nudge?

Outside-Inside

2010-02-07T10:53:00.002-05:00

While this is happening outside.....

This is happening inside. I am loving the weather we have been having. It just feels good to be inside stitching away, while the snow is falling, falling, falling. When it is beautiful and sunny outside, I am drawn away from the studio to be out in it...so gray skies and too cold keep me where I should be: in studio. Although, I must admit that I will soon break away and do a little cross country skiing. Nature calls....

More messages from the Universe

2010-02-03T17:42:00.002-05:00

In my last post I talked about my daily affirmation cards, and the one I chose to highlight was about talking less and listening more.....sooo, once again, synchronicity hits! The calendar page for the next day is shown above. Great advice, I'm thinking....

Daily Affirmation Cards

2010-01-31T20:45:00.002-05:00

I just finished up the "Blast Off" class by Alyson Stanfield of www.artbizcoach.com. It was an awesome course. I learned so many things to help me be more organized and "on top" of my art career. In short, I am inspired.

Early in the class Alyson talked about being specific toward what you want for yourself, and also, to not be afraid to ask for it. One of our projects was to create our own positive affirmation
cards. I created a deck of 12 cards that I read aloud to myself every day. The idea is that I will bring these things into my life by simply asking for them. Some of them involve what I want for my art career, while others are ways to personally improve myself. For example, in the card above I am reminding myeslf to be a better listener, which is something I felt I needed to work on. I'll be sharing other cards from time to time.

Creative Clutter and Messages From the Universe

2010-01-27T18:16:00.006-05:00

In the past few days I have experienced the "serendipity" of having the Universe send me messages in different places.

While leafing through the Sunday local paper I came upon the horoscope page, which I occasionally read. Scorpio's horoscope for that day was: "You will succeed after a period of experimentation. So don't be too afraid about making the wrong choice. Wrong choices will inform you and make your work complex and wonderful."

Two days later, I tear off my daily calendar page and uncover the following advice: "So we made a mistake. That's what humans do--make mistakes so we have the opportunity to learn. So?"

SO: this is something I have been working on for awhile....being fearless...going with my gut instincts while working on my art, and doing my best to not worry about whether it is "right" or "wrong". Just creating intuitively and seeing what happens. Not everything is wonderful, but I am really enjoying the freedom and process.

I read somewhere once, that when you have a serendipitous moment you should go beyond thinking "oh, that was a coincidence", and go deeper...it happened for a reason, and you should not just blow it off. So, I like to think of these moments as the Universe trying to tell me something. And I try to listen.

Resistance

2010-01-25T21:11:00.002-05:00

Here is the point at which I seem to freeze up....right here at the source. I am talking about my lack of blog posts. One of my New Years resolutions was to post more frequently here...like in every other day. But for some reason I find myself resisting. I'm hoping that with this post, I will have broken the pattern. Time will tell, I guess. Maybe saying it "out loud" right here, will make me more accountable.
Anyone else have trouble with this? Any advice??
Signed,
Stuck in Resistance Land

New Year: New Work

2010-01-07T19:58:00.002-05:00

Each new year gives us a chance for "new beginnings". I have looked back over 2009 and am rather pleased with what I accomplished. But there is always more to be done. Looking forward to 2010, I too have my list of "resolutions". I have some art marketing and art making goals, plus some personal goals, such as being a better listener, and eating less/no meat. We'll see how it all goes.
In the mean time I have some new artwork to share. The piece to my right has a wool embellished applique of my hand in the middle. The piece over my left shoulder was actually a "test" piece I used to practice stitches and tension on. I added a few intentional things and voila:
a happy little "extra".

Christmas Commission

2009-12-14T19:21:00.004-05:00

These are meant to be framed and hung in a row, like in the picture below.

The guidelines I was given for this commission were 3 wreaths with red bows that will be framed and hung together. I used fusible web and raw-edge applique, then embellished with all sorts and styles of red buttons. I finished up with free-motion quilting.

A message to you

2009-12-02T22:11:00.000-05:00

To all my dear friends and loving family....this message is for you.

New Work: Dandelion

2009-11-24T20:47:00.002-05:00

Real life photograph

Art quilt

I took the photograph of the dandelion last summer to be used as a source of future inspiration. So, here is the result. Let me know what you think. You can click on the quilt for a closer look...there are beads all over the light green fabric. Thanks to Vivian (http://www.studiothreads.blogspot.com/) for the perfect color of thread used in machine quilting.

More Signs of the Season

2009-11-22T11:29:00.002-05:00

I recently spent a few days in Holmes County, Ohio...home to a large population of Amish folk. I was struck by the beauty and coloration of all the produce at a market there...thus the pictures for art inspiration. Hmmm, not to mention cooking inspiration. I'm thinking pumpkin and apple pies....cider.....ok, turkey, mashed potatoes and stuffing too.

Inspiration

2009-10-29T22:15:00.003-04:00

This has been an amazing fall here in south eastern Ohio. The colors on the trees are beyond belief, and ever so inspirational. I cannot go for a walk anywhere without returning with a collection of colorful leaves. You can pick up almost any book in our house and find leaves pressing. You can be sure to see these showing up in my work.

Art Quilt Network fall retreat

2009-10-18T20:15:00.002-04:00

Pictured below are Sue, Jo Ann, Melani, Sue and Sharon

I just returned form the Art Quilt Network retreat. As always, it was a very positive experience. It's great to be surrounded by a group of people who are very serious about their art. The presentation by Gordon Lee, from the Columbus College of Art and Design was incredible. I am ready to do more image transfers starting tomorrow...in the studio.

Signs of the Season

2009-10-11T22:34:00.002-04:00

Busy squirrel

Colorful maple

Long shadows

Football

Yes, Fall is upon us here in southeastern Ohio. I love this time of year. The air is crisp, the skies are blue, and the trees are beautifully colorful. There is an urgency in the air. The days are shorter and winter is just around the corner. I feel like the busy squirrel....all hurry-scurry, trying to capture and enjoy the last few days of warmth and sunshine.

Current Project

2009-10-07T21:09:00.005-04:00

I am currently working on a beaded crow. It is made up of black wool and bugle beads. Where this crow will wind up...I'm not sure. But I do know that the crow has been coming to me a lot lately. I need to do some research on animal totems and see what this might mean. Anyone thoughts?? Oh, and if you click on the photo you can get a closer look. The wool will be trimmed away right to the edges of the beading.

New Work: "Namaste"

2009-10-07T20:54:00.003-04:00

This is one of my newest pieces. I actually completed it and had it hanging in time for the September First Friday Art Celebration. It still amazes me when I find myself able to work quickly and intuitively and suddenly have a piece I am content with. Effortlessly. "Namaste" is the result of such flow. And why is this flow so fleeting? Sometimes you have it and sometimes you don't. I do know that when I am experiencing it, it is wonderful feeling. I am grateful.

New show at Schimmel Fitness

2009-09-16T18:03:00.002-04:00

I recently hung a new show at Schimmel Fitness, in downtown Zanesville, OH. The owner, Bill, asked me if I would display some of my work there. I didn't have to think too hard about it. It is a win-win situation. I get my work shown in another venue where a lot of people go in and out...and he gets artwork on his walls. I have even sold a few pieces. I try to change the display about every 2 months or so. I really appreciate the opportunity.

More spirals, and a surprise

2009-09-13T20:15:00.002-04:00

Here are a few more spirals; these taken on Upper Captiva Island, Florida. The last picture is a commercial break of sorts. There seems to be a common theme here, in this post and the last. Yes, I am a Corona beer fan. I just thought the two bottle caps in the sand were cute and could be a nice advertisement.

Spiral Hunting

2009-09-09T18:16:00.002-04:00

manhole cover

wild grape vine

Corona Beer advertisement...shot while sipping one

bench...above and below

These are a few of the spirals I have been "collecting". I use them in my artwork a lot...as a design element, and also in the print of the fabrics I use, not to mention in bead and button form. It has been fun to be on the watch for these visually. I am a collector by nature and this has given me another venue. Look for more soon!

New Work

2009-09-07T13:49:00.002-04:00

I just picked up my latest piece from the framer last Friday... in time for the First Fridays Celebration of the Arts. Yes, I have a "thing" for ginkgo trees. There is something about the shape, color and texture of their leaves that I cannot resist. Plus, I am enchanted by the fact that they are a prehistoric tree. I hope you enjoy this piece.

Celebrating 31 Years Together

2009-09-07T13:35:00.002-04:00

squinting into the sun

Beautiful fields

more beautiful Amish-tended fields

As of a few days ago, Mike and I have been married for 31 years...a milestone we are both proud of. We were fortunate enough to be able to "sneak" away in the middle of the week to Holmes County Ohio, where we stayed at The Inn At Honey Run. The weather has been amazing here in Ohio---clear, dry blue-sky days followed by crisp, clear cool nights. I found lots of inspiration in the colors of nature. NATURE: my greatest inspiration.

Where-oh-where have I been?

2009-08-30T08:41:00.002-04:00

I have been "MIA" from this blog for most of August...but, you see that I have been to a place to re-group and re-charge! We visit this island, Sunset Island, in Lake Ontario every summer for the past 20 years. It is such an inspirational, and beautiful spot. Just 20 minutes east of Niagara Falls, and 20 minutes north of Buffalo...it is a well kept secret. (shhhh, don't tell). I even spent 2 days doing nothing bit reading and eating. Such a treat! So, now I am back home and ready to hit the studio running. Look for more work soon!

Y-Bridge Arts Festival

2009-08-27T18:08:00.003-04:00

The first annual Y-Bridge Arts Festival was held August 7-8, 2009 right smack-dab in the middle of the historic Y-Bridge in downtown Zanesville, Ohio. This was my first time in a long time to participate in an arts fair. It was a wonderful experience. I felt very successful in the sales department, and it was also wonderful to hear praise and comments for my work. All in all, a very positive experience. Would I do it again?? " You betcha!!"

Best of Show in Mixed Media

2009-08-27T18:02:00.004-04:00

It was a great experience, and I was very excited to recieve the award for Best of Show in the Mixed Media division. Happy and humble am I!!

Creative Clutter

2009-07-19T14:09:00.002-04:00

Sometimes all it takes is to just show up at the studio to get into the mood to create. I am happily surrounded by a lot of stuff. That would be the things that I have collected over time...inspirational items such as leaves, rocks, shell, feathers...and so on. Oh, not to mention the fabric, threads, yarns, buttons and found objects. All of this stuff, collectively, charges my creativity. I just need to channel it into one thing at a time. I am currently working on 3 panels that will hang together. You can see the start of one of these panels. Soon I will post the finished items. Stay tuned!

Offerings

2009-07-10T09:35:00.002-04:00

"Koi Pond"

2009-07-07T11:15:00.002-04:00

Here is the finished product that was previewed earlier in this blog. I call it "Koi Pond". I found this amazing, sparkly green lace as a remnant, and loved the color and everything about it. The only problem was how would I ever use it. Anyway, I bought it because I had to have it. So, it turned out to be perfect duck weed! I could cut out sections and it didn't ravel apart.
Below is a close-up. I was inspired by a small water garden that my friends Bill and Lou Ann have in their yard. Their koi are actually trained to eat out of their hands.

Close up of "Koi Pond"

2009-07-07T11:12:00.001-04:00

QSDS

2009-06-29T21:29:00.002-04:00

Elizabeth Busch

me hard at work... I just got back from an awesome week in Columbus, OH at QSDS. I took a master class from Elizabeth Busch. There were 20 of us in the classroom, so there was lots of networking, critiquing, and learning...not to mention FUN! We stayed busy most of the time. It's an intense experience.

QSDS

2009-06-29T21:16:00.003-04:00

So at the end of the week we each had an opportunity to talk about our work...what we saw, what we felt, do we work "inside" or "outside", and has our work shifted during the week. I brought several pieces that I wanted to complete while there, and did so....but there was no "shift" in my work. It turned out as I had already planned. But, after a weeks-worth of studying with Elizabeth, I do, indeed, feel a "shift" coming. I have learned to ask myself many questions. Each time I finish a piece I need to look at it and decide, objectively, if it was successful. I am learning to stretch and grow in my work. It was a very valuable experience.

Quilt Surface Design Symposium

2009-06-21T10:05:00.005-04:00

I leave today for an entire week studying with Elizabeth Busch, in her Master Class, at the Quilt Surface Design Symposium in Columbus, OH. I'm really looking forward to it. Last year I took Dorothy Caldwell's master class and really got a lot out of it. It was such a nurturing environment with lots of networking and critiquing and learning. I'm going for 2 more days this year....can't wait. The other fun thing is that my roommate for the week is my dear friend Vivian Milholen, whom I used to work with at "Patchwork Dreams". She moved to Virginia a few years ago, so we will have a great time catching up and stitching together! Above is a picture of Vivian and her quilt at Sacred Threads. You can view more of her work at her website Thread In The Studio , or on her blog, Studio Threads.

Sacred Threads Quilt Show

2009-06-21T09:26:00.002-04:00

My family and I went to the Sacred Threads "meet and greet the artists" and opening reception yesterday. This is a picture of me and my piece "Frozen In Time". It was hanging in the "grief" section. It explores the theme of addiction. A theme I, unfortunately, am learning about.
This is such a wonderful venue, because each piece has a lengthy artist statement that really allows the viewers to relate to the artists experience. So many are very touching and heartfelt. You can look around and see viewers in tears....that is how profound this show is. I am always proud to be juried into this one!

Inspiration From Nature

2009-06-16T07:40:00.002-04:00

Most of the inspiration for my artwork comes from nature. I love nothing better than being outside observing and sketching. I do not have an art background...my degree from Ohio University is actually a BS in Zoology. And I started out in botany, so I really do have a broad scope. All I ever wanted to be "when I grew up" was a park naturalist. I never got paid to do it...I just do it on my own. Nature makes my soul sing. I know, that sounds "cheesy", but it's true.
I totally have a quilt planned in my mind using the different coleus color patterns. I mean....just look at that acid green against the ruby red!? It just cries to be put into fabric!!

More Inspiration

2009-06-16T07:37:00.003-04:00

How about that orange?? Against the green??

Relaxing @ Studio 202

2009-06-14T11:00:00.002-04:00

Here in the loft of my studio, Studio 202, I find myself contemplating the day ahead. What is my plan for the day? Which project do I want to get into first? Am I the only artist who has 5 or 6 different projects I'm working on at once? I doubt it. I'm thinking that it is just part of the "creative mindset". I have at least 3 pieces in process that I actively move back and forth between...plus I have many sketches in my art journal, just waiting to be tweaked into the next project ( or 2 )....then there are the ones I am "incubating" ( you could read that as procrastinating) in my mind. Oh, and don't forget the ones that have been set aside ( for months) that are waiting for the muse to strike again.
Focus is what I need....just focus....

Work in Process

2009-06-12T07:47:00.003-04:00

This is one piece I have currently in process. I was inspired by the top overlay fabric---a remnant I found at Hobby Lobby. Also, by a friends fish pond. The overlay is lacy and sparkly and that acid green color which I am drawn to. I loved it , but had no idea how I would ever use it. Then I was visiting my friend Bill who has an awesome garden and goldfish pond...the rest is history! Inspiration struck and I am gladly off and running on this quilt idea. Hint: the green overlay reminds me of duckweed.

This piece will travel with me to QSDS where I am taking a master class with Elizabeth Busch.

Zanesville Art Center's "The Ohio Show"

2009-06-06T17:41:00.003-04:00

This Ohio Annual is a competitive, juried exhibition open to all Ohio artists. Charlotte Gordon, Museum Curator, The Springfield Museum of Art, was juror for acceptance and awards...she selected 51 pieces from 43 artists from 22 Ohio cities/towns. I am honored to have 2 pieces accepted.
In the picture above you see my piece "Main Street Mandala #3 Peace", myself and my big brother Bill, who happens to be one of my greatest supporters. Thanks Bill!!

"The Ohio Show"

2009-06-06T17:33:00.002-04:00

This piece is "Primordial Sea". It was actually made from the "left-overs" of the piece below, "Main Street Mandala".

Zanesville Art Center "The Ohio Show"

2009-06-06T17:19:00.006-04:00

I am learning this blogging thing and I didn't mean to have 2 of the same pictures, so you'll have to bear with me on this one. ARRRGGGHHH.

Anyway, this is the other piece that made it into the show. The center is a reverse sun print of a water man-hole cover done with Seta color paints.

Quilt National

2009-06-04T16:20:00.003-04:00

So here is a picture of my friend and room-mate for the conference; Sue Cavanaugh. She is pictured here with her quilt " Ori-kume #1". It won the award for best surface design!! You rock Sue!! Check out her website for more work. www.suecavanaughart.com

SAQA Convention and Quilt National

2009-06-04T16:06:00.003-04:00

A few weeks ago I attended the Studio Art Quilt Associates conference in Athens, Ohio. It was set up to coincide with the opening of Quilt National at The Dairy Barn. I think it was a very enjoyable and enriching conference. I learned much and did alot of networking with other artists. Plus, it was awesome to get into see Quilt National while most of the artists were there.

Nature Treasures

2009-05-21T22:05:00.002-04:00

Here are a few of my nature finds. I love to collect as I go. The big turkey feather is one of my latest discoveries. Nature is the biggest source of inspiration to me in my art work. I like to be able to look at these little goodies and get ideas for color or texture or even for composition. They also bring back many memories of trips taken.

Found Objects

2009-05-21T21:52:00.003-04:00

The magical thing about "found" objects is that when you find them it is totally by accident. You are walking along and, "hey", there it is! I have found myself actually scouring the ground for more. It just doesn't work that way. Thus the name found.
Isn't it a treat to discover a special treasure now and then? It does tend to make one more observant. Here is a picture of a little metal treasure box with one small collection of found objects. Someday these will find their way onto one of my art quilts.

Altered Book

2009-05-15T08:12:00.003-04:00

As promised in an earlier post; here is a picture of the altered book I did as the result of a class at Artescape, in Columbus, OH last month. I think my favorite thing is the really cool book stand I bought at one of those home parties. It is actually a cookbook holder. I think I need more of these, because I could really get caught up in this book altering thing.
The photos I used are vintage ones that I "saved" from a local antique store. I like giving a home to these "homeless" people. ( click on photo for a close-up )

Good Morning

2009-05-14T10:26:00.002-04:00

This is the view I was greeted with 2 mornings ago....actually, it might have been the last day we saw the sun OR the moon in these parts! Anyway, the sun was just barely rising and here is the almost full moon setting. Such a treat!! I really feel like I've " grabbed" a sacred piece of time when I get up early, ( 5:30-ish) and have the world seemingly to myself...just me and the birds and the sun and moon and the gentle breeze. Ahhhhh. Mother Earth really is a great place to be. Thank you.....

What Am I Afraid Of?

2009-05-11T14:35:00.004-04:00

While on my morning walk this morning I saw so many things that I wanted to "capture", but of course I didn't have my sketchbook/journal OR my camera....both of which I keep telling myself to never leave home without! GRRRR. So what is up with that?? How many times have I told myself "draw something everyday" or "take the camera with you everywhere". It really is not that hard to do...so why don't I? What am I afraid of??
Maybe it is the old ego thing of being worried that I'm not good enough...or maybe I am just lazy.
At any rate, (and here I go again), I will renew my commitment to myself to have those items with me all the time. There...it is now in print for the entire Universe to witness.

Follow your heart

2009-04-29T18:26:00.003-04:00

Last summer I made a decision of sorts, to make whatever I wanted to...to go with my instincts and just create. For some reason, I used to create with the idea that there were "judges" out there; that I needed to work towards their "approval", or for a certain exhibition in mind.

It has been so freeing for me to just create...to follow my heart and intuition. And, it has paid off in numerous sales and acceptances into shows. It is very gratifying to know that something I create and love has "rung true" for someone else. It has been an important lesson learned: Follow Your Heart!

ArtEscape 2009

2009-04-24T17:55:00.000-04:00

I have been sooo busy the last few weeks, but have lots to share. Last weekend I attended ArtEscape in Columbus, OH. It is put on by "European Papers" and Lisa Ohmer. It is always an amazing experience chock full of mixed media art making.

I took this class, "Stories From the Heart" from Sharon Andrews of Westerville, OH. What an amazing talented lady she is, and SO sharing. She truly showed us how to create a work of "heArt".

I will post a picture of my heart book as soon as I complete it!

Save Our Stories Interview

2009-04-10T14:57:00.000-04:00

I am pleased to announce that my interview with Karen Musgrave, chair of "Quilter's SOS-Save Our Stories" for "The Alliance for American Quilts", is now online. My interview is about a piece called "Token of Love" that was in the "Sacred Threads" quilt show in Reynoldsburg, OH in 2007. "Sacred Threads" is a biennial show of quilts exploring the themes of joy, inspiration, spirituality, healing, grief, and peace.

This year, the show will be held June 17-28 at the Reynoldsburg High School, 6699 E. Livingston Ave. The direct link for my interview is

http://www.alliance foramericanquilts.org/qsos/interview.php?pjd=qsos-a0b0j9-a

2009-04-06T20:28:00.000-04:00

I just sent a commission piece off to Texas. It was a very fun project. The only restristions I had were color, and theme.(it had to be a goddess). Here is the resulting quilt. I call it Moon Goddess II.

Elusive time

2009-04-01T09:16:00.000-04:00

It's early....I have the entire day stretching before me....what will I do with it??
As I get older, time seems so fleeting. There is just never enough of it, and yet, here I sit at the computer (it's been at least half an hour now ) seemingly wasting "time".
It helps me to make lists if there are things I really need to accomplish. For example, I got ALOT done on Monday because I had a list and checked things off. But so many times I find myself putting things off....It sort of goes back to the idea about just "diving in" and not being afraid. So what is it I am afraid of? Not sure...however, this day is getting away from me and if I'm going to create any art, I'd better "dive in".

2009-03-29T18:32:00.000-04:00

Here I go....finally diving head first into the world of blogging. I've been procrastinating about it for a long time...didn't want to start one if I wasn't absolutely sure I would be committed to keeping it going.
I'm trying to do something; one thing a week that really scares me. I think this is it for the week. My hope, my intention, is to post every other day. So, here I goooooooooooo.