Okay, perhaps that title applies to me at times…I most certainly would rather be in the studio (or pretty much anywhere) creating art than doing domestic chores! But this post is about some animal art I’ve been creating lately. I’ve had a blast with the Digital Pet Portraits but it’s also fun just to branch out and make artwork just for the sake of making it. Pure pleasure, if you will. These are some of the new “wildlife” images I’ve created during the winter months:
If they aren’t on the website yet, they will be soon. I’ve got a list of other animals I’d like to do soon but it seems like there are always more ideas than time to execute them! We will see what happens!
Due to the ever-present Covid-19 virus I have (again!) updated the way I offer classes.
Instead of individual participant pricing there is now a “class for two” and “class for three” option listed on the website. Round up a person or two that are in your “Covid Circle” (family or friends that you trust and see on a regular basis) and sign up as a group. Three participants will be the max until further notice, giving us adequate room for social distancing in the studio.
I’ve also left the time options flexible for each date so that you can select whatever start time works best for your group, you’ll be prompted to add that information when you sign up. Once the date & topic are set I will remove the option from the website so that date is reserved just for you and your circle! A listing of current classes can be found by clicking HERE.
These revised class listings include discounted pricing for multiple participants – SAFETY & SAVINGS!!
(Prefer to take one of these classes without your buddies? We can make that happen! Click below and sign up via the “One-on-One” Instruction option listed below the group class listings.)
I’ve been featuring different classes that are available in my newsletters, here are a few that I’ve shared so far:
Speaking of my newsletters….have you signed up for them yet? Subscribers always get a 20% website discount on classes, art and services! There is a link to sign up on the bottom of each page on my website, maybe you should go do that now!
I’ll post again soon and share some new art I’ve been creating. Until then, stay safe!
Earlier in the year I created some of my favorite recent batik artwork, using verses from the Psalms as my inspiration. I had been working my way through the Psalms and writing scripture that spoke to me in my journal along the way, making the selection process easy!
Each piece began by writing the verse in some sort of circular form on Unryu paper that had pieces of gold thread imbedded in it. As always I used my trusty Sharpie for that, knowing it can withstand the rest of the batik process without fading.
Beginning of “Psalm 32:7”
I took a wide brush and dipped it into melted wax and blocked off streaks of the pieces so they would remain white and then added light strokes of color with a feathery brush and India inks. Next all the pieces were entirely covered with the wax, crumpled to create cracks for more color to seep in randomly and then sprayed with liquid watercolors.
Covered with wax, crumpled and ready for liquid watercolors
After that application the pieces dried and then the wax was removed to reveal the final outcome of each. All four have been framed in 12×12″ barn wood frames. Here they are:
I wanted to share some changes I’ve implemented regarding class offerings. I’m not going to re-invent the wheel here so this is an excerpt from a newsletter that goes out to those interested in my classes and workshops:
I’ve been, especially this year, less than successful with the class offerings I’ve promoted. I’ve spoken with other teaching artists and know that I am not the only one struggling in this area. Trying to discover the right combination of topic, date and location is frequently like pulling the handle on a slot machine…. …NOT a winner!
Although I adore sharing my love of art and techniques with others, I have reached a point where my outlook has shifted. Instead of putting things out there and hoping for the best and I am going to rely more on you, and others like you, to determine the dates, topics & locations! As I make this shift you will see changes to my website making it easier for you to do the choosing. You can visit THIS PAGE to see how the new system looks and works. (You’ll notice one scheduled event listed too…that’s because someone has already taken advantage of both the new system and the discount offered below!)
Another change you will see is that for classes here at my home studio there will be NO minimum attendance required. If you are the only one that registers, congratulations – you’ll get one-on-one instruction! Want to have a special date night with a family member or friend? Here’s the perfect opportunity. If you’d like me to bring a project to you for a gathering, party or shower – can do! You’ll find all the offerings listed HERE.
If you’ve been thinking you’d like to take a class, now might just be the perfect time! As an incentive to try out this new approach, I’m including a coupon code for $10 off any(all) class(es) you register for during the months of October or November. You are welcome to share this code “NEWshift” (with no quote marks) with those you feel might be interested. I’d also love some feedback on the changes, I’d appreciate it if you’d share your thoughts!
March brings a feature of eleven select Indiana Artisan works at Art on Main Gallery & Gifts in Carmel, Indiana. They have filled their walls and shelves with an assortment of amazing work. I’m proud to have my batik artwork included.
Art on Main is featuring an exhibit/ sale by Indiana Artisans. Indiana Artisan is the state’s official organization that recognizes the work of Indiana’s highest-quality art and food artisans. Art on Main will be presenting art and food items from 12 Indiana Artisans. Julie Bolejack- Chocolate for the Spirit Pam Hurst Designs- jewelry Amy Greely Studio- Jewelry Lynne Medkser – batik Art Marie Reamer- photography Otis Harville- photography Marl Lisota- jewelry Nancy Keating-mosaics Peter Falk- woodworking Kathy Blankenheim- painting Sylvia Gray- wearbale art Monte Young- stoneware pottery
I delivered several new (and one classic) pieces of artwork for this feature, including these three pieces below that are fresh out of the studio! If you’re looking for a great night out the gallery is going to have a special hours this Saturday, March 9th from 5-9 pm during the “Meet Me on Main” monthly gallery walk. Be sure to visit!
Limitless
Spontaneous Song
Catalyst
The feature at Art on Main opened today, March 5th and will continue through the end of the month – which leads up to the annual Artisan Marketplace on Sat, April 6 from 10am – 6pm and Sun, April 7 from 10am – 5pm in the Expo Hall Building at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.
Only once a year, the state’s highest-quality Artisans come together — at the Indiana Artisan Marketplace. Talk with artisans at the top of their craft, recognized by the state for their exceptional art and food. Taste their wines and foods, see what makes them the best, and take advantage of the opportunity to take home some of their outstanding work made in studios, workshops and kitchens here in the Hoosier State.
I won’t have a booth at the Marketplace this year but will have artwork featured in the “All IN” exhibit which runs parallel to the Marketplace and features a display of products and art from Artisans who want to participate. As you enter the Marketplace you’ll be able to enjoy “All IN” as you make your way to visit the Artisan booths. I’m also on the “All IN” committee this year so you might well see me there when you visit the Marketplace.
I have several other new batik pieces finished and in process right now, I’ll share them in my next post! Till then….
“Soul Searching #3″ 12×12” mixed media painting on canvas
After neglecting my blog for the better part of a year it’s more than a bit intimidating trying to figure out what to jump back in with! I’m fairly prolific so the choices are numerous and with several shows and exhibits last year that is probably an understatement. I finally decided to just start writing about what is currently dear to my heart, a series I titled “Intuitive Abandon”. Then, within that body of work, I found these pieces, aptly titled and begging to be shared. Perfect!
Something that’s been on my heart for several years is the desire to merge both my art and my faith, to feel like my work is more inspired and led than just merely decorative. I can kind of put it in “auto-drive” and make art that is pleasing to look at but when asked what it means, well, nothing really. I tried just referring to it as “Happy Art” (which it is) because so many people commented on the colorful and happy content. That, in and of itself, isn’t a terrible thing – I am a fan of happiness and if I can give others joy with my art that’s pretty darn cool. But I wasn’t satisfied with just that anymore.
“Soul Searching #2″ 12×12” mixed media painting on canvas
Enter my favorite, most “mountain top” experience each year called “Gathering of Artisans“. 2018 was my third year in a row to attend/participate in this event and I cannot recommend it highly enough! And, yes, although I’d classify it as a mountain-top experience no matter where it is held, it happens to actually be held in Black Mountain, North Carolina. Each year I’ve attended I’ve grown and deepened my life in ways I couldn’t imagine. In addition to the most powerful worship I have ever experienced, 2018 led me to classes by two different instructors, Aeron Brown & Amy Smith, both of whom had an amazing influence on my artistic and spiritual path. I finally feel like I am stepping into my desire of combining my faith with my artistic expression.
These newest explorations are full of freedom, mark making and lively conversation. After some prayerful quiet & meditation these pieces start with mark making – my thoughts, prayers, song lyrics, text randomly scribbled with charcoal/pencil/graphite on the canvas/paper/wood substrate. In the case of these pieces, 12×12″ canvas. From that place I try to listen quietly until I get a feel for the initial colors. Once the painting, scraping, stamping and marking begins I try to not think at all! Often I get so lost in the process that, unless I stop to take progress pictures, I have no idea how I got from point A to point B. The freedom to create this way is so very freeing.
Progress of “Soul Searching, L to R
Currently I have close to 40 pieces created in this manner – on canvas, wood and paper. They even inspired another artistic endeavor! I’ll be sharing more as I continue to blog but if you just can’t wait to see them you can CLICK HERE to visit the web page where they are featured.
Yesterday my buddy Krista and I spent several hours browsing around and chatting with other artists at the first annual Indiana Artisan Marketplace. It was held over the weekend at the Indiana State Fairground in Indianapolis. What a cool show! All the participants have been juried into the Indiana Artisan program (there were some additional participants from the neighboring Kentucky Crafted/Kentucky Proud group too). Artisan may just bring to mind art related products but there was quite a variety of other items to be seen & sampled throughout the show. Musical instruments, soaps, bath & body products, handmade papers & yarns, several different Hoosier vineyards (with free samples!) and many, many food products (with even MORE free samples!). There were also arts organizations from around the state promoting the cultural venues in their areas. Future road trips perhaps?!
After we had wandered a while I thought it would be fun to take some photos of a few of the items we saw. Naturally I took photos of some artists I knew, in addition to a few whose wares I just admired. So here is a mini-tour for you, via photographs, in case you weren’t able to attend!
blown glass ornaments, Lisa-Pelo McNiece
A close-up image of some blown glass ornaments from artist Lisa Pelo-McNiece at Hot Blown Glass, located in Clayton, Indiana. Lisa makes some gorgeous creations with glass…I’m happy to have a few of her pieces in my personal collection of art!
woven scarves by Suzanne Halverson
I love the colors of her scarves! Suzanne designs/weaves apparel and home furnishings and also gives weaving instruction. She is from Bloomington, Indiana. If anyone wants to buy me a really early Christmas gift I love the white scarf with the turquoise design! 🙂 Suzanne’s website www.suzanneehalvorson.com if you want more info.
shoppers/samplers in the food aisle!
marshmallows!!
Ahhh, the food/wine aisle! There were treats to be had of all varieties – and lot of people willing to sample them! This photo is from a shop that sold delicious flavored marshmallows, they even had a small burner that they would toast them over before you sampled them! Located in Columbus, Indiana you can read more about them at www.240sweet.com. This was the closest shop to photograph when I was taking pictures, so as not to play favorites I also enjoyed sampling “Simply Divine Bakery” cookies, baked in the monastery by the Sisters of St. Benedict in Ferdinand, Indiana, toffee by Brookes’ Candy Company in Dana, Indiana, beef & noodles made with hand-made style noodles by Coe’s Noodles in Lynn, Indiana, pretzels by Tell City Pretzel in (you guessed it!) Tell City, Indiana. We also sampled wines from a two wineries we hadn’t tried before (it’s kind of a become a hobby the last few years so a new winery is a a fun treat!) – French Link Winery from French Link, Indiana and also Winzerwald Winery from Bristow, Indiana. I know we also snuck in a bite of fudge, some hot salsa, and a couple of other treats but I wasn’t paying close enough attention to give credit to the right companies!
art by (pictured) artist Teri Barnett
Here’s my artist-friend Teri, in her booth with some of her awesome art! Teri lives in Indianapolis, Indiana. Want to see more? Visit her website at www.teribarnett.com for lots of other images and info. 🙂 Teri is also the co-owner of Broad Ripple Art & Design who represent Mark & I!
bright & beautiful ceramics by Kris Busch
Wow! Did these grab my attention! Let alone the lovely colors there were fountains too. These are made by Kris Busch of Bloomington, Indiana, check out her website at www.functionalceramics.com for more of her work.
artwork by Susan Kline
Last, but by no means least, was the fun, bright artwork of Susan Kline Designs from Peru, Indiana! Her Etsy shop sign says “funky art to make you smile” and it’s right! Check out the selection of fun things she makes by visiting www.sptddog.etsy.com
So that’s the end of your mini-tour…just think how long this post would be if I’d had my camera out from the beginning of the show!! You can find out more about the Indiana Artisan program by visiting their website at www.indianaartisan.org. You can also find listings for all the artisans that weren’t mentioned in today’s blog. Enjoy!
A Randomly Creative Blog 