Art of 'Patience'

'29 Faces', the Challenge

2012-01-28T11:50:00.000-08:00

Ayala, of Ayala's Art has initiated a terrific art blog challenge for the coming month. Being as that we're in a leap year, with 29 days in February instead of the usual 28, she is instigating a challenge called '29 Faces'. Faces of any kind, size, medium or dimension will be acceptable -- the point being that it works out to a 'face a day' for artists to conceive, create and blog about. And it begins on the 1st.

Well, anyone even remotely familiar with my art can surely infer that I love me some painted Faces, so as it was it certainly felt right up my alley. But also, being as that I have any NUMBER (dozens?) of half-finished projects involving Faces taking up precious studio space around here, I figured I could use this challenge as a springboard for getting back to all those pesky abandoned pieces I started with such enthusiasm, and fiddled with over these years, only to find so bloody difficult buckling down and actually completing already. Therefore I think this will be a great motivator and opportunity for me to tie up what feels like a bunch of mildly annoying loose ends (in addition to creating some new work for February's 'Nibblefest', etc etc).

I shall be tagging my Challenge posts "29 Faces" -- so if you are interested in following my own progress, or jumping into the Challenge yourself, please do...! All are welcome!

More January Nibblefest Art Contest: 'Letters, Symbols, Numbers' Theme....

2012-01-27T07:58:00.000-08:00

ACEO: "The Scarlet Letter" (click for auction link. Please also click here to see all NFAC entries -- art starting at just .99 cents)...

My second entry for this month's Nibblefest Art Contest is based on the old novel, 'The Scarlet Letter' (probably a pretty straightforward take on the 'Letters' theme, eh?). My listing description:

~"The Scarlet Letter"~

One of two ACEO original entries by me for this month's Nibblefest Art Contest (NFAC) (--the theme for January being 'Letters, Symbols, Numbers') features that much maligned, but ever steadfast, female protagonist of early American fiction, the infamous Hester Prynne of "The Scarlet Letter"..... Here we see Hester, her baby swaddled in her arms and her back against the wall....

Harken back to your high school literature class and that classic tome by the novelist, Nathaniel Hawthorn -- poor Hester has had the misfortune of giving birth to an illegitimate child while her estranged husband is well out of the picture. Her suspicious neighbours in her tight-knit puritan community turn upon her and punish severely, with public humiliation and shunning, as well as forcing her to permanently sport a large letter "A" (for "Adultery") upon her dress. Adding insult to injury is the fact that her seducer, the village pastor, is actually going along with the leading this vengeful pack, too spineless and cowardly to confess his own part in the wrongdoing. And yet, despite mounting pressure to give up the name of her partner in crime, she remains silent, all the while trying to maintain a life for herself and her daughter with as much decency and dignity as possible....

January Nibblefest Art Contest: 'Letters, Symbols, Numbers' Theme....

2012-01-25T23:11:00.000-08:00

My NFAC ACEO entry, entitled "Ophelia: Rosemary, that's for Remembrance" (click for auction link. Note the image above looks so much better than the photo I had to use for my listing).

With the holidays behind us and things settling down a little around here, I was really motivated to enter this month's Nibblefest Art Contest. For December's I'd "cheated", so to speak, by entering an older piece that fit the theme with only a little stretching, and November's Nibblefest I'd missed entirely, nada. And so it was that I was anticipating getting something together this time around. While I wasn't necessarily mad about the theme, "Letters, Symbols, Numbers", it seemed likely enough. Still, as the 20th of the month quickly approached I found myself without any real direction of where I wanted to go with this -- just what was my take on "Letters, Symbols, Numbers" anyway? Usually something-or-other pops into my head pretty quickly, but here I was just drawing (pun intended) a total blank. A few false starts in the studio revealed nothing and wasted my time. The 20th came and went, and I was ready to just talk myself into letting it go this month (again). That is until two ideas finally came to mind that I actually liked and felt I could work with. Not to mention that it still wasn't too late to get in on a 5-day auction (never mind that I forgot to actually set my "5-day auctions" for 5-days, so they'll be running a little past the official end of the contest. Oops!)....

This first idea came to mind when I was pondering the concept of 'Symbols'. I was thinking of things around us that have symbolic natures to them, when flowers. with all their various meanings in olde folklore, came to mind. Which in turn lead me of course to 'Hamlet' (my favourite Shakespeare) and Ophelia and how in her highly confused and disturbed mental state she begins spouting off to anyone who will listen various flora and the concepts they represent. I thought about simply portraying Ophelia with all her pretty flowers and herbs -- but that seemed a little obtuse. In the end I chose to write her memorable "Rosemary, that's for Remembrance" line in script on the ACEO, and so we have 'Letters'...

Here is my auction description:

One of two ACEO original entries by me for this month's Nibblefest Art Contest (NFAC) (--the theme for January being 'Letters, Symbols, Numbers') features a character from what must be my personal favourite Shakespearean tale, the story of "Hamlet". Here we see Ophelia, Hamlet's girlfriend, climbing a willow tree that overhangs a small brook, shortly after she has recited one of her most memorable lines in the play....

Ophelia is very much in love with Hamlet, but his recent disturbingly bizarre behaviour has upset everyone at Elsinore's court, and she's no exception. Then he went on to seemingly abandon her, and that after (kind of accidentally) murdering her own dear father. Sheesh, with so much heartbreak is it any wonder she's become unhinged? She's been wandering about singing, playing with her flowers and not making a whole lot of sense -- telling the king and queen, "there's Rosemary, that's for remembrance". And now sadly, it wont be long before the branch breaks in her little tree, and she herself will become but a Memory, much to Hamlet's despair.....

By Especial Request: "Blue Phoenix" Painting....

2012-01-19T06:40:00.000-08:00

I'm very proud of my son.....

A creative soul, his 18-year-old self is in his second year of living across the country far away from us, studying classical ballet at a renown studio in a big city on the coast, in hopes of making professional dance his career of choice.

(photography credit: Dan Merlo)

He's an excellent student, and is working hard out there.

In addition to ballet he also enjoys music, in particular the Techno and Trance genre, and has fun tinkering with and composing his own techno/trance inspired songs.

And so it was with special interest and motivation that, when my son requested a painting from me of a 'Blue Phoenix', as something he might use as an icon/logo/emblem as part of his DJ persona and online musical presence, I was only too happy to oblige. It took a little time to design, execute and complete, but I love doing art for family and friends so it was a particularly fun and enjoyable challenge for me. And I managed to finish it up in time to give to him at Christmas time when he was home briefly (too brief!) for a visit.

"Blue Phoenix", as requested by my son.

A Vegetarian "Boar's Head"....

2012-01-14T12:59:00.000-08:00

"Roasted and Basted" Table Centerpiece (Made entirely of Papier Mache)

Actually, it's probably technically-speaking more of a 'pig head' than a 'boar's head' ('boar's head' just sounding better), but however you want to slice it, I am happy to report no critters were harmed in its creation (unless you count trees)....

I confess it had been some time since I'd taken on a paper mache project. As much as I adore the medium and champion all it's glories, it's probably safe to say the toil on my 10' tall Statue of Liberty Project may well indeed have burned me out for a wee bit there. Not that I'd ceased loving the craft or anything -- it's just that after such an ambitious endeavor it appears I needed a break, and an extended one at that, while I concentrated instead on painting and other pursuits. And so it was that I was able to tackle this recent project with a refreshed mindset after my little hiatus. Created upon request as a stage prop for a December 2011 theatrical production, I was really pleased with how my 'Pig Head' turned out -- roasted and basted and succulent in appearance (I'm vegetarian mind...so yeah. Gross.), it made for a very festive, show-stopping centerpiece dish suitable for any banquet table. And I approached this project in such a way that I can easily make more of them, should I receive any additional Pig Head requests (as I repeatedly have for 'Horse Heads' all these many years) down the line (Medieval Feasts, anyone???)....

Nibblefest Art Contest: 'Still Life'....

2011-10-21T13:29:00.000-07:00

"Green Pear" for this month's Nibblefest Art Contest (click for auction link)....

My entry for the October 2011 Nibblefest Art Contest (the theme this month being 'Still Life') features a single green pear rendered upon an 'upcycled', 3.5 x 4.5 wooden plaque. In addition to the vintage second-hand frames I tend to hoard (as mentioned in my previous blog entry), I also possess a collection of small wooden plaques that I've acquired second-hand through various means. To prepare these old plaques for painting I sand them and then cover them with overlapping scraps of paper in order to build up and create a new and textured surface upon which to paint (the textured surface lending depth and dimension to my paintings)...

I feel good about giving these old, unwanted items, typically headed for the landfill by the time they cross my path, second life in the creation of original art....

RedWood - by Patience from Ripped Off 11 art exhibit

2011-10-17T10:54:00.000-07:00

'RedWood', my 2nd entry into EBSQ's 'Ripped Off' exhibit

I was able to finish and upload this 'Ripped Off" EBSQ show entry this past weekend -- a fun project and very enjoyable for the opportunity to partner up with my buddy, Tina Calderin. (Thanks, Tina!)...

RedWood - by Patience from Ripped Off 11 art exhibit (click link for more info)....

Side View, demonstrating the painted frame....

My accompanying artist's statement:

My partner for my second entry into this year's RIPPED-OFF exhibit was the wonderful pastel artist and painter, Tina Calderin of GalleryT....

So many lovely pieces to choose from in Tina's EBSQ portfolio, but I finally decided upon her painting, 'Wood Nymph', to RIP, attracted as I was to her flowing, flaming hair and captivating blue eyes, but also to the intriguing way in which Tina painted a floral arched 'frame' as part of her painting's background...

I have recently begun painting almost exclusively on supports I create myself utilizing the old, salvaged wooden picture frames that cross my path from time to time (usually for free). I feel good about giving these unwanted homeless items a second life, not only because trees were cut down at some point to produce them, but also because by the time I get my hands on them they are usually destined for the landfill. The process of recycling these vintage frames into painting supports/canvases is a lengthy one, typically involving stabilizing the frames (which can be quite rickety), cutting thick paperboard to fit, securing it all and pasting and building up a painting surface with layers of overlapping scraps of paper. The end effect is a highly textured surface that adds dimension and depth to my paintings, complete with a built-in frame (onto which I often extend my painted images, incorporating the frames into the overall piece) into one cohesive, ready-to-hang whole....

Interpreting Tina's 'Wood Nymph', I used one of these hand-constructed, repuposed framed painting supports as my canvas, concentrating on her subject's beautiful hair color, cascading waves and serene expression, while including my own version of a painted floral frame using the same hues as Tina's (including her bold red background).....

EBSQ's 'Art of the Day'.....

2011-10-14T18:27:00.000-07:00

Happy to say that EBSQ is back online and in working order, and...happy also to say that my piece, 'Sunny Scrimmage', was selected for today's EBSQ 'Art of the day'....! Thanks, EBSQ!

This is a fun piece because it was actually something I did many moons (suns?) ago. I had refurbished an old dresser I'd found free for the taking on the side of the road in our neighborhood -- we had just bought our new (to us) old house, and were in need of some bedroom furniture for my son. So I grabbed the freebie dresser, and immediately set about Upcycling-- fixing it up and painting it. My son was 8 at the time, and quite the soccer fan (still is), so I painted cheery bright soccer scenes all over it -- this being one of them. He loved it!

Well, needless to say, the dresser that was so cool when he was 8 ceased to be quite so much when he entered his teen years -- but what were we going to do? Paint over all my hard work??? Nahhhh. Happily my son is pretty good natured, and managed to put up with it in his room these 10 years....and who knows? Perhaps it can be something to pass along to his own kiddos in years (many long years!) to come....

EBSQ Servers Down....

2011-09-28T12:31:00.000-07:00

Just a note to any who might be wondering, it seems that the online art community/site, EBSQ, is currently down due to server issues. The problem is temporary, but my portfolio there (along with those of all other EBSQ artists) is inaccessible at the moment while EBSQ conducts data recovery. In any case I'm sure all will be back to business as usual soon....

September Nibblefest Art Contest: "Ode To Blue"

2011-09-22T12:13:00.000-07:00

"Blue Moon Guardian", my 9" x 12' original entry for this month's Nibblefest Art Contest

What a week! We've had contractors crawling around here for days doing extensive and much-needed insulation work on our ramshackle, century-old home. Lots of noise, fuss and muss, inside AND out -- though all of it should prove very worthwhile once we start seeing what we hope will be significantly lower energy/heating bills this winter, brrrrr. It's always been so bone-chillingly frigid in here during the cold months that I suppose I'll only truly believe it when I actually see it (and FEEL it!). Which ought not be too long now, hard as it is to believe that we are actually at the official first day of Autumn....

Something else that we are currently at right now, is yet another round of the fun and fabulous Nibblefest Art Contest...! The theme for September is 'Ode to Blue'. Well, needless to say, I adore the color blue, so in spite of all the commotion around here I did manage to come up with a NFAC entry. I was in the mood to do something whimsical and fun -- plus for once I actually entered a larger painting this time around, as opposed to my customary ACEO's (click for link to my entry auction)...

My auction description:

A tribute to one of my favorite colors, this unframed ORIGINAL was painted in acrylics on 9" x 12" canvas sheet, and features a lovely whimsical creature, perched on a branch and cuddling her infant under the watchful, trustworthy gaze of a friendly and smiling, blue crescent Moon....

For further information regarding the Nibblefest Art Contest (NFAC), I highly recommend reading this really good blog post about it, hot off the Wordpress press as written by my friend and fellow artist/blogger/Nibbler, Sherry Skey (check it out here)....

Happy Nibbling, Everyone...!

.

EBSQ's "Ripped Off' Exhbit

2011-09-12T12:40:00.000-07:00

ACEO: "Blue Blaze" by Patience

I participated in a fun annual, themed EBSQ exhibit last month, known as the 'Ripped Off' show. To participate, members partner up with one another, choosing from amongst each other's portfolios a piece with which to use as inspiration to create a new, original work of art -- or in other words, a piece to 'rip off', but with express permission of course! (read the prospectus of the show here). I was invited to pair up with the wonderful nature artist, Amanda Makepeace. Agreeing to create ACEO's, the above is what I came up with, based on her painting of a blue bird entitled 'Resplendent Blue'). The following is my artist statement;

.....My partner for this year's EBSQ 'Ripped Off' show challenge was the wonderful nature artist, Amanda Makepeace. It wasn't easy choosing among her many lovely portfolio pieces, but finally I settled upon her watercolor painting, 'Resplendent Blue'.....

As a bird lover, having my own little pet cockatiel for over half my life now, I was attracted to the avian subject matter, in addition to the striking color. I also admired Amanda's simple, understated, and elegant composition, as anyone familiar with my artistic style knows I myself tend toward detail (and often lots of it). Thus I thought it a good personal exercise to attempt her more subtle approach with a simple, unadorned background. Unlike Amanda's bluebird, painted with watercolors in mid-flight with outstretched wings, mine is painted in acrylics looking over its shoulder in a relaxed, perched position -- the same posture that regularly greets me within my own pet cockatiel, every single day.....

All very much fun, and a big thanks to Amanda for teaming up with me! To see her own take on one of my pieces, go here -- she 'ripped off' my 'DragonFly Moon'. I love what she came up with, and because we traded, I am now privileged to possess a beautiful, original work of art by Amanda Makepeace...!

Nibblefest!

2011-08-20T22:33:00.000-07:00

"ACEO, Pear Share" (click for auction link)

We are in the month of August. Really??? Seriously how can it already be August, much less the 20th of August? And yet so it is, which can mean only one thing (besides my Mother-in-law's birthday today)...Nibblefest Art Contest!

The contest theme for this month was 'Farm'. Well for whatever reason I didn't think I was particularly inspired by the theme, and consequently stalled and stalled -- and yet when I finally did settle down to work (at the 11th hour), it all came together quite nicely and quickly in spite of myself, and I ended up liking and enjoying what I came up with (will I never learn?). In any case, here is my entry/auction description:

"....A family friend has a wee hobby farm, complete with a small orchard. Every autumn I am invited to head out to the farmstead to pick as many fresh apples and pears as I can manage. With the bounty I prepare homemade sauce and pie filling, canning and freezing up a storm, as well as filling up my dehydrator with batch upon batch of sliced apples, all to enjoy throughout the rest of the year. And so I brace myself -- the harvest season is nearly upon us once again...."

Next month's (September) Nibblefest Art Contest theme is to be 'Ode to Blue'. Interesting enough (-- and perhaps for once I could actually attempt to get my entry done ahead of time...?).....

The Nibblefest Art Contest Rolls Around Again....

2011-07-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

An ACEO entitled, 'Catch a Falling Star', the theme for July being "Imaginary Creatures' (click for auction link)...

Nibblefest Time! For those not in the know, the Nibblefest Art Contest (or, NFAC) is a fun and friendly, themed monthly art competition, hosted via ebay. All entries must pertain to the theme somehow, AND be listed with a starting bid of .99 cents. My entry for this month is an ACEO featuring a young woman who, to her surprise and delight, has been lucky enough to catch a fallen star.... (To see all of this month's lovely themed Nibblefest entries, click here)...

EBSQ's 'Art of the Day'.....

2011-06-30T08:14:00.000-07:00

Screenshot of my 'Pottery Wheel' as EBSQ's 'Art of the Day'.....

What a nice surprise! I woke up this morning to see that my recent little ACEO, 'The Pottery Wheel' was selected to be featured on the front page of the artist community, EBSQ, as their 'Art of the Day' today -- how lovely! (Apparently the theme for this week's 'Art of the Day' is the nouveau classic quote by Forest Gump: "Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna to get.") Well, it always makes me feel a little like a 'Queen for the Day' to be featured as the 'Art of the Day'. Thanks, EBSQ...!

Nibblefest Art Contest for June: 'Things WIth Wheels'

2011-06-25T15:58:00.000-07:00

My ACEO entry, entitled 'The Pottery Wheel'....(click for auction link)

I had fun with this month's Nibblefest Art Contest* theme, 'Things With Wheels'. One of the first things to pop into my head upon thinking of 'Wheels', was the art of pottery and the pottery wheel. I've had limited experience with the technique myself -- but my daughter will be taking a pottery class later this summer, and I'm looking very much forward to seeing what treasures she brings home....

(*Nibblefest is a monthly themed Ebay art contest that begins on the 20th of each month, with all entries starting at a mere .99 cents).....

'Frida Bohemia'

2011-06-14T20:54:00.000-07:00

'Longings from Beyond', my entry into the Bohemia Beer 'Kahlo Challenge'....

Yet another art contest!

Guess I've been on a bit of a contest roll lately, but I can't help it -- I do so adore participating in these things. I just find the deadlines and the general structure of competitions and shows so personally helpful and inspiring. Well, provided that there is at least a somewhat motivating theme or prospectus to work off of that is. But even still I'm really not that fussy, and am usually willing to try my hand at just about anything. Thus you can imagine my excitement when I stumbled across the 'Kahlo Challenge' as sponsored by Bohemia Beer, what with its particularly personally appealing theme (I mean Frida! Kahlo!). From the moment I heard about it, it felt like something that I could really sink my teeth into -- so how could I possibly resist?

The point of this challenge was to take inspiration from the artwork by the great Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo (without violating copyright!), all while incorporating positive reflections and imagery of the Bohemian Beer brand. Yes, very commercial in nature -- but all just part o' the fun....

My accompanying artist statement:

For my entry, I found myself inspired by Frida Kahlo's many iconic and enigmatic self-portraits. Painted on an 18" x 24" salvaged vintage canvas panel I prepared and hand-embellished with layers of paper for maximum texture and effect, I set about to create a personal tribute portrait of the Lady herself. One of Mexico's most esteemed daughters, she wears the colors of the Mexican flag. Her jewelery reflects the rich amber tones of the brewed beverage. The offering of fruit below the portrait is a nod to Frida's work in the still life genre -- I included watermelon, as well as a lemon, to reflect both the sweet and bitter nature of Frida's troubled yet full and passionate life. Included is an opulent rendering of a bottle of delectable Bohemia Beer, so appealing and refreshing in appearance it has caught even Frida's eye...!

"Little Blue Dress" for EBSQ's 'Mid-Century Modern Chic' Show

2011-06-06T07:32:00.000-07:00

My Entry for the "Mid Century Modern Chic" Show (click for link to the show)

As per my personal moratorium against buying any new art supplies for as long as I can hold out, I've been creating/constructing my own painting supports recently, in lieu of retail purchasing of pre-stretched/wrapped canvas or canvas panels, et al. In some of these instances I've been able to incorporate a frame into the piece as an overall 'element' -- which serves two purposes really...., that being (1.) to make the painting ready-to-hang and 'finished' in appearance, But also... (2.) to utilize an old. salvaged, homeless frame, that no one actually wants, but at some point a tree was cut down for, and which would likely only add to our present national waste-stream if a use for it weren't somehow fandangled. Such was the case for this little piece I recently conjured up....:

My accompanying artist statement:

"Little Blue Dress".....

Back in the day, in the '80's when I was in high school, my girlfriends and I developed a penchant for vintage clothing. We would often comb thrift stores and garage sales, searching for particularly good specimens, and showing off our precious scores. I can well recall one dress in particular, that I estimated to be from the late 50's/early 60's, which I felt incredibly lucky to have stumbled across by chance at a rummage sale, and dearly loved. Baby blue, with a sweetheart neckline, a full skirt and wide white sash -- this is my homage to an elegant Mid-Century dress I once thrifted, wore, and adored...., and which has long since been lost.....

Painted in acrylics on a hand-fashioned canvas-panel I constructed myself with salvaged materials, and with a built-in frame incorporated into the painting as part of the overall piece......

EBSQ May Show Entry: "The Salt in Sugar: A Portrait of Shug Avery".....

2011-06-02T10:54:00.001-07:00

'The Salt in Sugar', My Entry for the EBSQ "Alice Walker" Exhibit.

I recently entered the 'Alice Walker' show on EBSQ.com, with a piece I painted and titled 'The Salt in Sugar: A Portrait of Shug Avery' (click here for a link to the show, and here for a link to my entry)....

The following is my my artist statement:

When I first learned the theme for this particular exhibit, I knew immediately from which Alice Walker's renown and respected works I wanted to draw my inspiration....

I read 'The Color Purple' in college, and can still well recall, even now decades later, the strong impressions it made upon me at the time. The tale, with its sweeping narrative, rich characterization and intimate portrayal of African American womanhood in the Depression-era rural south, truly made me appreciative of the insights into a world so very different from my own, and within a few pages I found myself absorbed. Particularly engrossing to me was the fiery character of Shug Avery, a passionate free-spirit and non-conformist who refused to submit to the social conventions, limitations and rules set upon her sex and race by the culture into which she was born. A sassy, sultry blues singer, Shug, with her confidence, glamor, pride and unwillingness to suffer fools gladly, represents freedom and empowerment to her friend, Celie -- Shug's shy, insecure and long-suffering counterpoint. Though Celie and Shug's relationship gets off to an initial rocky start thanks to Shug's jealousy, with Shug eventually offering Celie the excuse of "That's just the salt in Sugar..." for her previously rude behavior, in time the two become inextricably linked together, and create a bond so long-lasting and strong it builds Celie's self-worth, giving her a precious sense of identity, and in turn allowing her to liberate herself from an unhappy existence of chronic mistreatment, oppression and pain.

For my entry, I wished to create a portrait of Shug Avery to truly express the many complexities of her most extraordinary character. Celie is first introduced to Shug via a photograph advertising an upcoming blues gig -- a portrait of Shug that both compels and fascinates Celie long before they actually meet. I imagine a creased, vintage, hand-colored, black-and-white publicity still, tattered and torn but chock-full of the jazz-age glamor of the time, complete with an expression and style for the fictional Shug to boldly reflect her complicated nature and conflicting personality traits. This is my attempt to represent her in all her glory of confidence, pride, beauty, strength, sexuality, temper, humor, intelligence, irreverence, compassion, and loving selfishness.....

--Painted in acrylics on an 8 x 10 Paper Canvas-Panel I constructed myself, with built-up overlapping layers of paper for a highly textured and dimensional effect....

Nibblefest Art Contest (NFAC): 'City Music'

2011-05-21T06:29:00.000-07:00

My NFAC aceo entry, 'City Music'....(clicky)

The 20th of the month was several days ago, and that can only mean one thing...: The Nibblefest Art Contest!

It's amazing just how quickly this monthly event can roll around, and May was no exception. Although I can't really say the contest sneaked (snuck?) up on me this time (as usually happens), since I was fully aware of the loooooming deadline. It wasn't so much 'sneaky' this time around, as much as it was 'tricksy'. The theme for this month, 'Village or Townscape', really had me dragging my feet for the longest time. I just didn't think I was particularly inspired (blah), and in fact was rather tempted to possibly just sit this one out. That is, until I finally forced myself to settle down at the 11th hour and come up with Something, when to my surprise an idea just sort of painted itself as I reflected upon town/city life.....

The following is my listing description:

"This ACEO entry for May's Nibblefest Art Contest (NFAC) (the theme being 'Village or Townscape') features a busker on a bridge, with the view of a cityscape behind her.....

Having lived in the megalopolis of Chicago for several years, one of the things I remember fondly about city life were the snatches of music I would encounter in the subway or on the sidewalks by the buskers -- those street musicians known for setting up little corners for themselves and performing for donations by passersby. The music was always something I could appreciate, especially upon negotiating my way home from a long day of work downtown -- and I always tried to give a little something in return, if even only a few pieces of change from deep within my pockets....".

ACEO, "Bossy Blossom", Nomination for 'Most Unique' Award

2011-05-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

"Bossy Blossom"

It was a nice surprise to learn that the second of my two ACEO entries into this month's ACEO Group 'Theme Week' art contest, the theme for May being 'Flowers', has been nominated by my peers for the 'Most Unique' award! Good luck to all my fellow nominees...voting is happening now -- Fingers crossed!

ACEO Group Theme Week Contest, for May

2011-05-05T08:22:00.000-07:00

My ACEO painting, "Frida's Flora' (click for auction listing)

Here we have my ACEO entry for the monthly ACEO Group 'Theme Week' Art Contest, the theme for May being 'Flowers'. With a theme such as that (and so suitable for this time of year --- ahhhh, Spring! Finally!), I had to think of a person who surely adored flowers in all their forms and glory just as much as I do. "Frida's Flora' features that ever-inspiring and passionately iconic artist, with flowers in her trademark uniquely-dressed hair....

New 'Nibblefest Art Contest' Facebook Page

2011-05-04T17:34:00.000-07:00

Finally! The Nibblefest Art Contest now has its very own Facebook fan page! We're hoping it can become a wee little, centralized Nibblefest 'hub', for artists, fans and spectators alike -- so please consider stopping on over and giving it a 'Like' (the link can be found here...).

Pencil Portraits

2011-05-01T21:35:00.000-07:00

Sketchbook Pencil Portrait

I teach a small art class for middle-grade children, and have a fun and entertaining deal going on with my students right now. If they each bring me their sketchbooks, and a photograph of themselves, I will take their sketchbooks home with me, and return them with a completed, personalized pencil portrait of their photos. It's a fun exercise and good practice for me, plus it always goes over really well with the kids. My main aim is to provide an example, and to encourage them in the ongoing use of their sketchbooks -- but in doing so I'm hoping also to create a nice lasting keepsake for them.....

Nibblefest Art Contest: 'Carnivale'

2011-04-20T20:25:00.001-07:00

My ACEO entry, 'Carnivale' (click for link)....

Yet another bout of the Nibblefest Art Contest rolls around! It does have a way of doing that. And yet somehow, despite the fact it always begins on the 20th each and every month, and I participate on a regular basis, the deadline for this thing STILL has a pesky way of sneaking up on me. Every. Single. Time. Nevertheless, I did manage to get all my entries completed and entered in a timely manner this evening for this month's contest (the theme for April being 'Dragon'), including the above ACEO, entitled 'Carnivale'....(and as you can see, I took a more liberal/less literal approach to the Theme with my entries this time around)...

ACEO Theme Week Art Contest for April

2011-04-02T08:59:00.001-07:00

ACEO: 'Welcome to Narnia' (click for auction link)

My entry for this month's ACEO Theme Week Art Contest, the theme for April being 'Doorways'. It's titled 'Welcome to Narnia', and features that magical old Wardrobe, with wee, little 'doors' that actually 'open' to reveal the white, wintry world of Narnia beyond...!:

Behold, Narnia -- Complete With Beckoning Lamppost...!

I was a hopeless bookworm as a child. There was little I adored more than devouring tall stacks of books checked out from the library, reading for hours at a strestch in pleasant, peaceful solitude (often in my own treehouse). As such I can well recall plowing through the "Chronicles of Narnia" series, by C.S. Lewis, in pretty short order, somewhere around the 6th grade. 'The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe' was my favorite -- with the idea of the old cupboard in the big rambling house offering a portal into a fantastical land of talking animals, a wicked ice queen, and perpetual Winter (and yes, I have seen the films -- but still prefer the books!) piquing my youthful imagination. I suppose that's why the idea for this entry popped into my head as it did, and turned out to be so effortless to execute (even though ACEO's can be pretty small to work with ;-). In any case, I was very glad I managed to participate in the ACEO Theme Week contest this time around -- since I got busy and missed last month's TW deadline (Theme Week always beginning the first of every month)....

Another Treasury!

2011-03-31T12:51:00.000-07:00

ACEO Portrait of Edgar Allen Poe, as featured in this EBSQ Team Sampler Treasury (click for link)

Yet another pleasant surprise today! Delighted to find my wee little Poe portrait being included in this fine Etsy Treasury featuring fellow EBSQ artists as created by Theodora Demetriades.

It feels especially timely for me too, as it was only two days ago that I was coincidentally reading what must be my most favorite E. Allen Poe short story aloud to a small group of high school-age literature students. I adore reading aloud anyway, but being able to interpret my favorite Poe tale, 'The Cask of Amontillado', all while adding my own personal touches of light drama and pregnant pauses, to a receptive and accommodating audience was especially fun! There's just something about that particular potboiler, clever and moody character study that it is, complete with foreshadowing, foreboding, macabre humor, reverse psychology, suspense, irony, treachery, and of course the requisite creepily gothy and angst-ridden Poe ending, that has stuck with me all these long years after first reading it when I must have been around their age. In any case, just my little homage to that masterful, classic American poet and storyteller, and honored to have it featured in this way -- thank you, Theodora.....!

"Spring"

2011-03-28T06:36:00.001-07:00

Ahhhhh, Spring....

And indeed yes, it truly IS Spring, though the recent chilly temps we've been enduring currently here in Illinois would surely have ANYONE believing otherwise (teeth chattering as I type). Regardless, I was delightfully surprised this morning to discover my little "Spring" ACEO above was featured in today's 'Must Have Monday" collection via the EBSQ blog -- thanks EBSQ...! (click for link) (My ONLY regret is not having a more accurate picture of it -- it's not at all as washed out in person as it appears here. Why oh why is it just SO difficult to get accurate/decent images for the web??? Oy...!).

March 2011 Nibblefest Art Contest: "Cube-y Ruby"

2011-03-27T07:28:00.000-07:00

ACEO: "Cube-y Ruby" (click for auction link)

Yet another Nibblefest Art Contest rolls around (and ending today actually -- need to be more timely in my blog updates!)..., the theme for this month being 'Abstract'.

As much as I look forward to participating in this contest (every single) month, I do have to admit the theme of this one in particular had me dragging my feet ever just a little wee bit. It's not that I don't like abstract art -- I do, highly. Still, while I've personally dabbled in the genre over the years I guess it had been awhile, because I just wasn't sure at first exactly how I wanted to approach this theme. Ultimately I decided to try taking a stab at a few historic styles in Abstractionism, including Cubism -- and lo! In spite of myself I ended up enjoying my projects this time around far more than I was initially anticipating. So much so in fact I'm tempted to try my hand at more like this -- overall a good challenge for me and I do appreciate the mental exercise of breaking down a subject into its basic components of line, color and shape....

At any rate, here's my auction description (and I do wish you could see her in person -- this flat scan just really doesn't do her justice):

"Cube-y Ruby"

One of my ACEO entries for this month's Nibblefest Art Contest (NFAC), the theme for March being 'Abstract'.

Anyone even remotely familiar with my artwork will recognize this is a radical departure from my usual style...! When reflecting upon this month's theme, I thought about the various historical styles of Abstract art, and decided for fun to try my hand at a few of them. Using a portrait format (of a woman named 'Ruby'), this is my own personal interpretation of Cubism (the style often associated with the classic master, Picasso). It was very much an experiment for me, but I liked it...! (note the original is much more colorful and defined in person than demonstrated in this flat scan).....

Unique and one-of-a-kind, 'Life 'Cubey Ruby' would make a lovely addition to any ACEO art collection ....

ACEO's (or Art Cards, Editions and Originals) are small works of art that always come in 2.5" x 3.5" size (the same size as standard sports trading cards). ACEO's are fun to trade and make lovely gifts. They allow for the collecting of original artwork to be accessible by anyone.

....Nibblest is a monthly, themed art contest which begins on the 20th of each month. To see more fabulous art entries starting at a mere .99 cents, please search NFAC....

'Statue of Liberty' Commission Revisited , Part II: Adventures in Crating and Shipping....

2011-03-12T15:41:00.000-08:00

Lady Liberty Hits the Road....

So the day I finally wrapped up my big Statue of Liberty project last summer was a giddy one indeed -- except that it was actually as of yet only PART of the whole story. She still needed to somehow make her merry way across the country, safely and intact, on an epic journey of 2,000 miles in order to be united with her new owner on the west coast. Being 8 feet tall (minus her two-feet of ever-practical detachable arm) this was going to be no minor feat....

Calling around, I'd already established connections with a suitable shipping company I wanted to work with. Once a few logistics were worked out, I needed to think about contructing for her a strong, sturdy container in which to travel. I was warned multiple times by my shipping rep that she needed to be as carefully packaged as possible, for the long trip was bound to be a rough one. Not wanting any 'mishaps', I took that to heart. Thankfully my teenage son was home at the time, and willing and able to help, designing and putting together for me a large, sturdy, handy-dandy and highly serviceable wooden crate.....

(Wooden Crate: 8'-6" x 4' x 4'-6". And heavy as heck!)

Once everything was all set up and ready to go, it was time to schedule a delivery date. I admit the day of her pick-up from our house by the shipping company last October was a nerve-wracking one, for it was a matter of getting her well situated within her crate as securely as possible (and all the while just sort of figuring out exactly how to go about that as we went along)...

I'd begun by wrapping her up like a mummy in packing material that I'd been saving/hoarding, as well as any number of old sheets and plastic tarps, and taping it all securely in place. Then, with the help of my husband and daughter, we were able to schlep her outside and position her within the box, tying her snugly in with taut clothesline so that there would be little risk of her rattling around in there, while at the same time bolting her base to one the end of the crate with wood screws. With these measures in place, there was no way she would be flopping about very easily, regardless of how roughly or carelessly she might be handled along the way:

Well, needless to say the whole shebang was REALLY quite heavy -- between the Statue and her weighty wooden sarcophagus, the entire kitn'kaboodle had to be well over 400 pounds....:

But, finally she was ready, all properly tucked in and secure within her big box, so we could attach the remaining side of the crate on with a network of wood screws:

She was ready to hit the road, and in fine style. By now it was only a matter of waiting for the truck to show up at our house, which it did, eventually, much later in the afternoon (as in, MUCH later -- all I can say is, thank goodness it was a dry, sunshiny day!)....

Once the truck pulled up, and the trucker and I exchanged our various paperwork, we found wheeling the thing down my (gravel) driveway toward the semi not the easiest task -- but between the trucker, his little power-dolly thingie, and myself, we managed to roll her (if awkwardly) out into the street:

(Mister poor trucking guy is behind there somewhere).......

With the trucker then getting her up into the truck bed:

(Thank goodness for the hydraulic lift on the back!)

And with that? Away she went, on to her new west coast home, and much to my extreme relief....!

So while the whole entire project may have taken a few years off my life, heh, I'm so glad and grateful to have had the opportunity to be involved in such a fun challenge, and very much appreciate the experience. So long, my Lady...!

Breast Cancer Series: "Plumage".....

2011-03-07T08:50:00.001-08:00

Breast Cancer Series: "Plumage"....

Yesterday my family received the extremely unhappy news that my husband's aunt, who has battled breast cancer in the last few years, is now to be receiving hospice care. The last time I saw her, a little over a year ago perhaps, was when her family was visiting from several states away, and she was ostensibly in remission, while I myself was still actively in treatment, somewhere between chemo and radiation. I recall how we compared notes, in that way that cancer patients/'survivors' (not crazy about this term personally -- wish there was any other..., but what to use?) when they meet up are apt to do. She was glad at the time to have it all seemingly behind her. It's quite terrible sometimes how quickly things can change. Her teenage son is exactly one month younger than my own....

It all serves to remind me how I have had occasion and privilege to meet so many women living with cancer by now (and so many of them young and relatively young), along the way in my own cancer journey -- and each and every one of them with their own stories to tell. In this piece, the third in my Breast Cancer Series, I think I tried in a way to symbolize them all.....

The title, "Plumage", as per my ongoing 'bird' theme, refers to the often colorful, patterned, and artfully tied headscarves worn by women during active treatment. Although I myself frequently preferred personally to just go 'au naturelle' in my chemo-induced hairlessness (it was summer at the time, and hot), I still wore my share of hats and scarves, amassing quite a collection of them (many made and given to me by friends). I always admired the women who could manage to sport theirs with real style and flair. As for myself, the pretty-but-silky scarves often slipped around on my naked scalp, or were tight, or uncomfortably hot -- so sometimes just going without anything at all seemed the easiest and most comfortable and practical solution to me. Thus, during my bald phase, I ran around 'natural' in large cities and small towns and everywhere in between, yet never with any undue attention. In fact barely anyone even batted an eye -- I do believe everyone's seen it all these days (or at least has had enough friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, etc, go through cancer treatment to understand what's going on). However, while I myself felt practically liberated by my own state of baldness, I certainly can empathize with my fellow cancer patients who choose instead to remain covered up, with their very own manner of 'plumage'......

'Statue of Liberty' Commission, Revisited...(Part I)....

2011-03-06T06:29:00.000-08:00

My 'Statue of Liberty' replica, in all her 10 feet of meticulous (and near-insanity producing) papier-mache Glory...

Ya know....? Looking over my blog archives here, I realized I never did post the very final-FINAL, finished photos of my epic 'Statue of Liberty' papier mache commission from last fall. To be honest, I think once it was finally completed and out of my hair, I might have been a little PTSD about the whole thing, despite how much I really did enjoy both the project, as well as the challenge (because I always ALWAYS do love me a Challenge). Now that several months have passed however, giving me some distance, I think I can safely revisit those last several weeks of the project, the finishing of her and the shipping of her (an adventure of epic proportions in and of itself) without seeing spots swim before my eyes, heh....

So, onward to some pics (from 10/2010). Behold, 'Miss Liberty':

Side View (noting the ever-practical Detachable Arm):

Back View (Plus does not my October yard look here like the most verdant of green jungles? Oh Spring, we're a'waitin' on ya...!):

And, for Size Reference: (thanks here to our good buddy, Alexandra, for modeling):

Indeed, m'lady came quite a long way from THIS, eh? Pretty humble beginnings I must say -- not to mention I surely had my moments of frustration and doubt along the way, but whew, it all came together in the end....

(And please stay tuned for Part II, '(Harrowing) Adventures in Crating and Shipping', coming soon....!)

Etsy Treasury

2011-02-25T12:30:00.000-08:00

"Think Spring...."(clicky)

Yay! Thrilled to be included in the above Etsy Treasury...! Thanks, Windi!

Nibblefest Art Contest: "Life On Mars (Sunken Dream)"

2011-02-25T05:49:00.000-08:00

Nibblefest Art Contest on eBay: ACEO "Life on Mars (Sunken Dream)" (clicky for link)

One of three ACEO entries by me for this month's Nibblefest Art Contest (NFAC), the theme for February being 'Dreams'.....

When reflecting upon this month's theme, the first things that came to mind were favorite songs of mine that happen to have the word 'Dream' in their lyrics. I thought long and hard about all the tunes I know and cherish from a lifetime of listening that feature the word 'dream' -- a surprising number to choose from as song after song popped into my head. So many in fact that I found it very difficult to narrow them down to a mere three -- though in the end, after much deliberation, I finally managed to whittle the list. As such, one song that I have always loved, but also been a little haunted by, with its intriguing poetic lyricism, soaring vocals and swirling orchestral, is David Bowie's 'Life on Mars', about a lonely, unhappy girl who attempts (unsuccessfully) to find solace and escape from her difficult life through the watching of films (and I know I had to have spent many long HOURS listening (and pondering) this classic tune as a pensive and moody middle-teen):

".....But a friend is nowhere to be seen.
Now she walks through her sunken dream
to the seat with the clearest view,
and she's hooked to the silver screen...... "

So here we see her, 'the girl with the mousy hair', as she sits alone in the darkened theatre, enduring yet another nonsensical movie that says nothing to her about her life....

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Breast Cancer Series: "A Little Bird Told Me...."

2011-02-13T15:21:00.000-08:00

A Little Bird Told Me....

This piece, the 2nd in my Breast Cancer Series (as painted for the art show of a local breast cancer symposium in which I was invited to participate a few months ago) reflects upon the rumor circle that reverberates through one's community, and even beyond, on the news and collective realization of one's cancer diagnosis. While typically the old saying "A little bird told me' traditionally suggests tidings of positive circumstances to celebrate, this little bird brings news of a decidedly different nature....

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Breast Cancer Series: "Early Bird"

2010-11-19T16:14:00.000-08:00

"Early Bird"

A few weeks ago I had the good fortune to attend a day-long, local breast cancer symposium, wherein we pampered registrants were treated to speakers and presenters, plus a nice lunch. Also part of the day's events was a small, themed art show, for which I felt very privileged to be asked to participate. Exploring my personal experience with breast cancer through art has been something I've wanted to do for some time now, and I was glad and grateful for the opportunity and invitation to put something together.

The above piece (one of four), entitled 'Early Bird', addresses the conundrum typically faced when diagnosed with breast cancer (or any cancer) -- that being just how early our malignancies may, or may not, have been detected. It's a clear and simple fact in cancer prognosis that earlier is better. But how early is 'early' enough...? We all understand being diagnosed at Stage 0 is preferable to Stage 1, and Stage 1 preferable to Stage 2, and so on. In my own case, my lump was discovered before it had spread too terribly far (thankfully) -- yet not before its pesky malignant cells had indeed invaded, if only microscopically, one sole sentinel lymph node, automatically pushing me into the Stage 2 category, and catapulting me upon the medical path of aggressive chemotherapy protocol.

Now with it all behind me, and my current status what's known in the biz as 'NED' (No Evidence of Disease), I do believe and trust that the many decisions made regarding my treatment and care were the right ones. And yet, I will still probably always be questioning, in the back of my mind, whether my 'early' was 'early enough'....

Dali's Mustache

2010-10-28T15:31:00.000-07:00

ACEO: Mustache of Salvadore Dali
(click for auction)

One of three ACEO entries by me for this week's ACEO Enthusiasts Challenge on ebay, the theme for the week being 'Mustache'.....

When reflecting upon the concept of 'Mustache' for this challenge, three particularly famous mustaches of three particularly famous creatives immediately sprang to mind. This particular ACEO features the mustache of the indomitable surrealist Salvador Dali......

Nibblefest Art Contest: "Owl Moon"

2010-10-25T06:20:00.000-07:00

ACEO: 'Owl Moon'
(click for auction linky)

Yes, it's that time of the month again -- for the Nibblefest Art Contest on Ebay that is. This month's theme was, suitably, 'Owls'.....

Having always been rather partial to owls (and our feathered friends in general), with their appealing features and mysterious nocturnal habits, I was looking forward to participating this month, and was pleased when these wee entries just sort of painted themselves. Here I tried to channel the owl I think I occasionally hear in my neighborhood somewhere nearby in the evenings (this despite living in an urban area smack in the middle of town)....

ACEO SEHA October Theme: 'Witch Girl'

2010-10-23T06:55:00.000-07:00

ACEO: 'Witch Girl'
(click for auction link)

Another of my three entries into this month's SEHA (Society of Eclectic Halloween Artists) Monthly Theme, the theme being 'Trick-or-Treat'. Growing up, without a doubt my favorite costume of all was 'witch'. I remember the chewed up old black and flowing choir robe we'd somehow acquired that made the most wonderful 'witch dress' -- that, combined with a hopelessly ratty and ancient long-haired wig, a broom, and a green rubber mask that I'd picked at the dime store up along the way (a little nod to that green mask with the skin tone here -- never mind it was seriously hot and sweaty under there and difficult to breath), I felt perfectly and fabulously Witchy-Poo, and ready to Trick-or-Treat with the best of 'em. Ah, the memories!

A Little Halloween Cheer....

2010-10-19T22:30:00.000-07:00

ACEO: "Black Cat"
(click for auction link)

I have always adored this time of year. The month of October with its crisp weather and seasonal transitions never fails to perk me up. Never mind that it also means frosty mornings and shorter days and that old man Winter is right around the corner -- nah, never mind that! Instead, I prefer to focus on the apples, the pumpkins, the leaves, the colors, the cider, the glittery, blue-sky sunlight PLUS that indescribable Autumny 'feeling' in the air that makes this season so special....

Not to mention the annual festive fun that is Halloween to look forward to (and in already less than two weeks!). It's often easy, amid the general busy-ness that is Fall around here, for it to sneak up on me, Halloween -- happily there are groups like SEHA (Society of Eclectic Halloween Artists) to add to the inspiration. The SEHA Theme Challenge this month (the most fitting month of all of course) was 'Trick or Treat', and as such I was able to come up with and list several ACEO entries, the above included. Happy Halloween!

So it's Been Awhile....

2010-10-06T17:57:00.000-07:00

...but I'm still here...!

In any case, as usual, much going on Chez Patience -- still however I did manage to find the chance to squeeze in a little painting for the ACEO Group's monthly Theme Week contest on Ebay, the theme for October being 'Autumn Leaves'. Well, what with Autumn being my favorite season and all I could hardly let this one pass me by -- so the following is my contest entry:

"Autumn Sprite ACEO"
(click here for auction link)

For those not in the know: Aceo's (or Art Cards, Editions and Originals) are small works of art that always come 2.5" x 3.5" (the same size as standard sports trading cards). Aceo's are fun to gather and trade and make lovely gifts. They allow for the collecting of original artwork to be accessible and affordable to anyone......

It's suppose it is kind of funny that my art lately seems to be running the gamut anywhere from 10 foot tall sculptures, to wee paintings a mere few inches by a few inches -- but there you go. Can't say I don't care for variety at any rate...! ;-)

Meet Miss Liberty....

2010-07-14T17:14:00.000-07:00

Finished!

She nearly hijacked my life there for a bit, but, I am happy to report she's done! All I have left to do is to gesso and varnish her according to her future owner's request (he wants to actually paint her himself) -- but soon she will make her merry way to her new home a thousand+ miles away. In any case, she is exactly 10 feet to the top of her torch flames, though note that, for easier shipping and storage (plus my 8 foot ceilings), she has been made with a detachable right arm (seen in front posing next to her)... Practical, no?

Latest WIP Update...

2010-06-03T12:42:00.000-07:00

'Statue of Liberty'

As demonstrated in this photo, my big 'Statute of Liberty' recreation commission is coming right along (if taking up most of my free time right at the moment). She's fully fleshed-out now, sturdy and strong, with her 'dressing' of four complete, all-over paper mache layers. And yes, she WILL have a head (not to mention an arm and torch) -- working on it....!

Big WIP...

2010-05-17T14:32:00.000-07:00

Large-Scale Paper Mache Commission (top half still wet from today's paper layering)

My Mystery Project in progress -- been quite busy with it lately, and, as you can compare from the last progress photo I posted a few weeks ago, it's coming right along.....

ACEO May TW Nomination

2010-05-16T10:49:00.001-07:00

ACEO Theme Week: "Jack-in-the-Pulpit"

Another of my entries into this month's Ebay ACEO Group's Theme Week art contest, that began back on May 1st, the theme being 'Wildflowers'. Jack in the Pulpit are among my most favorite of the woodland wildflowers, and here we see the supercilious 'Jack' as he assembles his forest congregation, and they all give him their full attention while he addresses them from his lofty 'bully-pulpit'...

I was most delighted to have found out this morning that 'Jack-in-the-Pulpit' has been nominated for this month's "People's Choice" Award (linked here for any who may be members) -- fun times indeed, and many thanks to any and all who may have nominated me...!

Art Chicago

2010-05-06T16:47:00.000-07:00

Sculpture (in paper) by Kirstin Hassenfeld

Mixed Media on Cigar Boxes by Ed Masante

I'm a little late in reporting this, but last Sunday found me back again in Chicago for the day -- this time to take in the big annual international art fair hosted there, Art Chicago . It was my second time attending, and what a fabulous show -- it must be one of the most extensive and comprehensive gatherings featuring contemporary paintings and sculpture around. It seemed especially good this year to me -- such variety and diversity in the collections. I went with two friends, and we saw and learned so much. I took the above two photos during the show -- working with paper as I do myself, I was attracted to the paper sculpture of Kirsten Hassenfeld. And being recycling-minded as I am, I also appreciated the alternative canvas used by Ed Masante -- clever use of cigar boxes I thought (not to mention I love the bird paintings rendered upon them)...

In any case, attending the show was so much fun -- I'd recommend it to anyone. And here's looking very much forward to going again next year...

ACEO May 'Theme Week': "Wildflowers"

2010-05-03T12:46:00.000-07:00

"A Trio of Trillium"
(click for auction)

It's been busy around here, but I managed to squeeze in a few entries into this month's ACEO Theme Week (starting on May 1). Well, with a theme like "Wildflowers", how could I possibly resist....?

I've always adored all flowers, but have a particular soft spot for the wild and native ones. I've planted a number of native varieties in my yard, both sun and shade loving -- including Prairie Trillium, which I have nurtured in my shaded, 'woodland' style garden for many years. A real Beauty, it's blooming for me finally -- a true achievement, for as I understand, it takes a full seven years of maturity before setting it's first blossom!

Still Working....

2010-05-01T18:05:00.001-07:00

EBSQ's 'Blogger of the Week'

2010-04-27T10:04:00.000-07:00

EBSQ: 'Art Meets Blog': Blogger of the Week

I am thrilled and feel very privileged indeed to have been invited to participate in the EBSQ blog's 'Blogger of the Week' interview. Thanks so much, EBSQ...!

Mystery Project Continues....

2010-04-27T10:01:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to create and shape folds. Lots and lots of long, draping, rippling folds. With chicken wire, metal hardware cloth, and wire screening. Not easy...!

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Mystery Project Taking Shape

2010-04-26T10:30:00.000-07:00

After working on it most of the weekend, it's coming along (this photo was snapped last week or so)...

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Mystery Project of the Now....

2010-04-24T06:44:00.000-07:00

Well, that title isn't so accurate perhaps -- this photo was actually taken a little while ago now, and it's currently all a bit farther along than this picture suggests (will catch up here soon!). But, as one can still (sort of) see...:

(1) the whole shebang has been moved indoors,
(2) is getting the dread chicken wire treatment,
(3) has tin foil boobs, AND...
(4) is taking up ALL kinds of room in my house...(!)

I regret the photo is not the best, but it has been a little tricky trying to step back and get a good angle for documentation purposes, what with size and clutter, etc. Still hopefully this will lend at least some idea of its continuing state, The Project, with more photos forthcoming as I go along.

So today, my agenda on this rainy overcast Saturday (thank goodness no sunny/warm temptations) is simply to work on it, throughout the day....

Zibbet.com

2010-04-23T17:43:00.000-07:00

My New Banner for Zibbet.com (clicky)

After reading around and about the Internets recently some buzz regarding the new(ish?) Zibbet.com, and checking it all out, I thought I would go ahead and set up a wee little shop there myself....

As I understand, it's all free with the Basic Account option (premium Zibbet accounts, with more bells/whistles and custom features, are available for a monthly charge) -- indeed, all free to list (up to 25 items) plus no additional seller's fees. Okay then -- kind of hard to beat that..! So this afternoon I spent some time creating a new banner, and setting up the beginnings of a little shop....

'People's Choice'

2010-04-22T08:06:00.000-07:00

Hooray! I just found out my little ACEO, 'Foretold' (image below), that I entered into the ACEO Art group's monthly Theme Week contest for April (April's theme being 'Cards'), was voted by my peers as the "People's Choice" winner! As my especial prize, I get to use my fancy little jpeg award above in future contest entry/auction descriptions. What a lovely surprise -- I am thrilled!

ACEO: "Foretold" (for 'Cards' Theme Week)

April's Nibblefest Art Contest: "Cat Nap"

2010-04-20T19:54:00.001-07:00

NFAC: 'Cat Nap"
A slothful, table-top lounging cat glares in annoyance at the hapless human who has innocently entered the room and dared interrupt his nap time....

(auction link here)

Whew. It was a close call -- but still, I managed it, to pull together a little entry this afternoon JUST under the wire for the start of the monthly Nibblefest Art Contest ("Fabulous Felines"), which begins today on Ebay (for more fun, themed art, all starting at just .99 cents, simply search "NFAC" on ebay)....

So happily I was able to set all that up in a timely manner -- but not only for NFAC... as it happens, this little item can actually do 'double-duty' for me, since for fun I was able to also enter it into EBSQ's 'Flower of the Month' show, the flower theme for April being... what else? Tulips! (clicky)

What's that old adage -- 'kill two birds with one stone'...? (though note as a the owner/mom of a much-beloved pet bird, I'm not particularly partial to that saying!)

Windy City

2010-04-19T15:25:00.000-07:00

I've been quite busy lately with my ongoing Project (with some progress made), but it hasn't been ALL work. No indeed -- yesterday I took my two kids and two friends to Chicago, where we all had a fine time galavanting around the big city for the day, and from whence I snapped the above photograph ( Crown Fountain at Millennium Park, in downtown Chi-Town)....

I do love public fountains, both large and small, traditional and contemporary, with the Crown Fountain installation by far unlike any I've ever experienced (note that the 1,000 various faces intermittently projected on the glass brick wall (which constantly cascades with splashing water) occasionally and randomly 'spit' every now and then ;-) -- a really fun example of interactive, urban art. And I think perhaps we may have been quite lucky to catch it running and spewing this early in the season -- I suppose we have our pleasant Midwestern Spring weather of the last few weeks to thank for that...

However now that I'm back home, and it is yet another Monday, I realize I have some catching up to do. Back to The Project (pictures coming soon) for one thing -- but also it's dawning on me that today is the 19th of the month. Which means tomorrow is the 20th (yes I can count!), which means.... the start of Nibblefest, the monthly ebay art contest that I like to partake in so much (and which begins the 20th of every month). The date totally sneaked (snuck?) up on me this time around, and as of yet I haven't started anything for it -- but perhaps it's not too late. April's theme is to be "Fabulous Felines"-- so, 'cats' essentially. Ought not be too hard, really. And I do so like entering the NFAC -- it's just plain fun after all, and if I miss this round, it will be another long month until the next (with May's theme being "Monochromatic"). So, I'll see what I manage to come up between now and then (and of course I'm hoping mentioning it here In Print for all to see will provide a little extra incentive too)....

Project of Mystery

2010-04-09T14:33:00.000-07:00

Whatever could it be?

'Mystery Project' of the Now....: a large-scale (9.5 feet to the top of the metal projection sticking up) 3D commission in progress (currently a bit further along than the beginning armature demonstrated in this pic), of which I will reveal more details as I go along (and no, it's not a fancy-schmancy, high-falutin' dog bed, as my nosy poodle in the photo might potentially suggest)....

Ebay ACEO April Theme Week: "Cards"

2010-04-08T08:15:00.000-07:00

ACEO: "Foretold"
Adorned in her most colorful, bejeweled silk finery, and holding the tools of her trade, her cherished Tarot, she sizes up her next customer. Will it be YOU...?
(click for auction link)

Today marks the final one for this month's Ebay ACEO Group "Theme Week" contest, with most auctions ending throughout the course of the day. April's theme was "Cards" -- a particularly open-ended subject, as can be demonstrated by the wide diversity of entries this month and all the many interpretations and conceptualizations of the 'Cards' theme, as can be seen here ( --though note, many of the entries/auctions have already ended). I confess I had to think on it for awhile myself -- I mean just what does the word 'Cards' conjure up for folks? Children's games...greetings...fortune telling...gambling...? Whatever the case it's all fascinating, and a lot of fun to participate this month...

The theme for next month's ebay ACEO 'Theme Week' (beginning May 1st) is to be 'Wildflowers'. And with all the many gorgeous and very much welcomed spring blossoms popping up in my yard at the moment (a goodly portion of which are native to our local area), inspiration certainly ought not be lacking....

Happy April Fool's

2010-04-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

"ACEO: Frown of a Clown" on Ebay

Here we are, at the 1st of April. The day finds me with several creative irons in the fire (and hopefully not too Foolish for doing so) -- one of them a large (literally!) commission I recently received, which has been taking up much of my time and thought and energy recently (and which I will discuss here in more detail at a later juncture). In contrast, I've also created three very small pieces, ACEOs, in time for ebay's ACEO Theme Week, a monthly themed art contest that begins on the 1st of every month (as in, Today!)....

I do so enjoy participating in these little challenges, Nibblefest and ACEO Theme Week -- I appreciate that there is already a format all in place in which to dabble and 'play', and it's always a hoot coming up with concepts relating to the various themes. Decent brain exercise. And while I'm still relatively new to the whole ACEO scene, I think I'm catching on....

I'm a Winner...!

2010-03-17T09:21:00.000-07:00

Hooray! So very excited -- I've been privileged to win, by random selection, a prize in the new Ehag's Emporium recent blog giveaway....!

I will be sent a little Halloween Box, in the shape of a sculpted black cat, by the artist Candy, of Howling Moon Designs. It can be seen here.

Thanks so much, Candy...!

Nutcracker '09 Projects

2010-03-10T08:10:00.000-08:00

Nutcracker Ballet 'Soldier' and 'Rat' Stick Masks

I did still manage to take on a few fun commissions during the course of my treatments -- here we have my completed projects for this past year's local Nutcracker Ballet production: 5 papier mache Stick Masks (2 Solider and 3 Rat) ...

My Cancer Year.....

2010-03-06T07:42:00.000-08:00

So..., a long overdue update....

It's been over a year since I've last posted in this, my lonely, near-abandoned art journal. And indeed, what a year it's been too. It was almost just about this time last year when I first received my personally startling diagnosis of Stage II Breast Cancer.

Well, suffice it to say, while I can't exactly claim it's necessarily been the easiest thing in the world to deal with, I haven't been devastated by it either, not by a long stretch -- willing as I've been to simply take each and every day and its challenges as they come, one at a time. And always along with the love and encouragement of my super network of ever-supportive family and friends, plus a wonderful team of health care professionals, backing me up. I may have had Cancer, but it never had me....

Still, a lot of my typical activities, pursuits and interests were put aside these last many months, simmering on the back burner as it were, as I focused on my health. However now with several surgeries and aggressive chemotherapy under my belt, plus the nearing of the end of a few months of radiation treatments, I'm happy to report my overall prognosis is quite good and I am at peace -- here as I find myself ready and willing to soon kiss my Cancer Year goodbye, and get back to my regularly scheduled Life* and good health....

(*...which naturally includes my artistic life as well -- Huzzah...! :-)

Jumping on the Bandwagon.....

2010-03-04T15:22:00.000-08:00

Just for fun... a new 'Art of Patience' Facebook page:

here

Sabbatical

2009-03-05T14:23:00.000-08:00

Horse Head Mask commission, for an Arizona ballet production of 'The Nutcracker'....

Just a little blogging hiatus... (be back soon)....

Horse Heads

2009-02-19T08:02:00.000-08:00

Funny how these horse head commissions keep coming down the pike. I have yet another pair to make for our local ballet company's production of Cinderella in May. To date I have made well over a dozen of these by now, and the requests still dribble in....

"First Snow", 9 x 12

2009-01-21T01:07:00.000-08:00

Third of my three entries into the January '09 Nibblfest Art Contest, as mentioned in my two previous journal posts -- this month's theme being 'Winter Wonderland'....

http://cgi.ebay.com/NFAC-First-Snow-Original-Painting-by-PATIENCE_W0QQitemZ150322313539QQcmdZViewItemQQptZArt_Paintings?hash=item150322313539&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205|66%3A2|65%3A12|39%3A1|240%3A1318|301%3A0|293%3A1|294%3A50

Born and raised in the Midwest, I feel a real connection with our four dynamic seasons. Very much affected by them (for better or worse), my internal bio-rhythms seem to hum right along with our seasonal transitions. As such I always anticipate and appreciate the unique changes each presents -- in weather, landscape, lifestyle, activities, etc. Personally, I believe it takes the extremes of one season to fully appreciate the extremes of another. For me, life would be likely deadly dull without this recurring dramatic Cycle....

Needless to say, it probably goes without saying that always without fail do I look forward to that very first snow of the season (as well as that LAST one, because by then? I'm usually feeling, "Enough already!"). Because please, what could be more magical than the First Snow...?

"Lost Cockatiel"

2009-01-21T00:45:00.000-08:00

As stated in my previous journal entry, I entered three pieces into this month's Nibblefest Art Contest, the theme being 'Winter Wonderland'. This is the second one of the three....

http://cgi.ebay.com/NFAC-Lost-Cockatiel-Original-Painting-by-PATIENCE_W0QQitemZ150322310333QQcmdZViewItemQQptZArt_Paintings?hash=item150322310333&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205|66%3A2|65%3A12|39%3A1|240%3A1318|301%3A0|293%3A1|294%3A50

A little background information here...

I have a much adored pet cockatiel, that I'm very attached to. He's been my faithful and loyal companion for the better part of 20 years, and is utterly devoted to me. Plus he's never been a lick of trouble, except twice, when he managed to escape. On two separate occasions the little stinker got out and actually flew around town for nearly a week before I was lucky enough to have him returned. The second time was during the month of January no less -- needless to say what a disaster that could have potentially turned out to be. It goes without saying that little Australian desert birds were not intended for the subzero conditions of a typical Midwestern January. Fortunately, by the capricious nature of fate, the weather that week was relatively mild -- above freezing temps, and no snow (thank goodness). Little bird came home safe and sound. Still, I can't help but think sometimes how different things might have turned out if the weather had decided to be more 'normal' that week (like it is now, brrrr)....

As such, this little painting is a tribute to my little guy and his most excellent adventure (and to happy endings)....

'The Weather Within'

2009-01-21T00:24:00.000-08:00

It's that time of the month again. No, not THAT time of the month (blushing)-- no indeed, I'm talking about the monthly The Nibblefest Art Contest, that begins on the 20th of each month. The theme for January is 'Winter Wonderland'. One new aspect this time, as the rules were recently changed, is that participants are now allowed to upload up to three entries. While it's only my third month participating in the contest, having enjoyed it so much so far, I made special effort to complete three entries in time.

This 6 x 8 entry is titled 'The Weather Within'. I set out to do something different from the obvious winter landscape scene (of which my other two 'Winter Wonderland' entries already featured), and this is what I must say rather painted itself when I sat down to work without a direct plan or any preparatory sketching -- a female, gazing into a turbulent snow globe, with a small, indistinct figure apparently trapped inside. Indeed, I'm sure this can be open to any manner of interpretation:

http://cgi.ebay.com/NFAC-The-Weather-Within-Original-by-PATIENCE_W0QQitemZ150322315912QQcmdZViewItemQQptZArt_Paintings?hash=item150322315912&_trksid=p3911.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205|66%3A2|65%3A12|39%3A1|240%3A1318

Nibblefest Redux

2008-12-20T19:49:00.000-08:00

"...an overworked, wistful young farm girl, caught in a rare moment's reflection, ponders her life's role as a Keeper of Chickens...."

Busy doesn't even begin to describe what this past month has been like in my household. NEVERTHELESS, I had fun with my first entry ever in the monthly Nibblefest art contest last month -- so much so that I decided to participate again (even this close to the holidays, when things are threatening to nearly unhinge around here). This month's Nibblefest theme is 'Chickens', and below is my entry, entitled, "Chicken Keeper"....

My 2nd ever Nibblefest Art Contest Entry

My art on ebay for .99...!

2008-11-22T12:33:00.001-08:00

The link to my very first ebay art auction, and Nibblefest entry: http://tinyurl.com/5fkq5k

I've been intending to mention the Nibblefest Art Contest in my journal here for a long while -- and I suppose since I have actually finally entered it for the very first time, ...ever..., (though I've been meaning to for years) I figure now is as good occasion as any....

http://groups.ebay.com/forum/Nibblefest-Art-Contest/Welcome/7913

Nibblefest (or NFAC, for NibbleFest Art Contest) is a monthly themed contest, whereby artists are invited to submit art auctions, pertaining to the theme, via ebay. All the Nibblest auctions must have starting bids of .99 cents, with no reserve. So, many a bargain to be had there...!

The Nibblefest theme for this month is 'Christmas Trees', so I whipped up this little number as my entry -- a patchwork and folksy 'Evergreen Dreams', painted in acrylics on a 6' x 8' sheet of canvas paper.

The Art of Baking

2008-11-10T19:59:00.000-08:00

Baking day today: fresh homemade Pumpkin Biscotti and a savory loaf of Olive Tomato Bread.

(Yeah. Stretching the topic a bit again here perhaps -- but these turned out so nicely I couldn't resist sharing...)

EBSQ Permanent Account

2008-11-09T17:50:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited!

After being a member of the EBSQ online artist community for some time now (6 or so years I'm thinking?), the other day, as part of a Voter's Documentation Photography Challenge hosted by the site (and involving the photograph in my previous entry), I won a permanent EBSQ lifetime account: http://tinyurl.com/5rrvpx . This means a personal savings in membership fees, especially over the long term (and note that the lifetime membership account option normally costs $650!). It's been a few days now, but just thinking about it still puts a grin on my face...!

Thanks EBSQ....

Liberty: Use it or Lose it....

2008-11-04T08:15:00.000-08:00

I took this shot this morning as I exited my neighborhood precinct upon performing my civic duty....

Power to the People!

Garden Bounty...

2008-11-02T19:24:00.000-08:00

I know this is supposed to be an art journal -- still, if one considers gardening an art, as I do, perhaps with a little stretching this may still be considered relevant...?

My kitchen table, displaying the very last of my garden's haul, picked clean and bare, before putting it to bed for the season. Loving all the colors (not to mention the flavors)....

EBSQ Halloween Doll Challenge

2008-10-25T15:28:00.001-07:00

Whew, it's been a busy fall around here....

But, I was able to squeeze in a small, but fun, project. The 'Art Doll' message board on the EBSQ forums hosted a Halloween Doll Challenge this past month. Despite my bestest intentions, I put if off for ages yet still managed to pull something together rather quickly at the last minute, at least enough to squeak by and enter a piece just under the wire: http://tinyurl.com/5qfwv6

Behold, the 'Halloween Witch Cat'.... standing tall and erect (at a petite 6 inches), with her witchy hat tucked under her arm....

She was sculpted with papier mache and paper pulp. It's a little funny how it all came about actually. While I had wanted to participate in the challenge, and adore anything Halloween and always have, I just couldn't put my mind into exactly what I wanted to do. Naturally, my 'solution' was to stall and stall (plus, like I said, it's been pretty busy around here as of late).

Finally, scouring my studio for inspiration the other day, I came across three wee 'eggs' I'd made with leftover Celluclay pulp several months ago. I had about a third cup of pulp left after completing a project back then. Pulp doesn't keep obviously, and since I hate wasting anything, I simply fashioned three little balls. Which then dried. Pretty useless as is -- however, when I ran across them, I got the bright idea to use them as starts for little sculpted 'heads' of some kind. Adding more pulp to one of the balls, on impulse I fashioned a little cat's head. A reasonable start, cute little head-- but, I still had to come up with a body/a pose/a theme. And I was running out of time. Rifling through a bag of toys I'd sorted this past summer, I found a small odd-and-end plastic figure thingie (likely from a Happy Meal or some such? Though we are veg and have never in our lives purchased a Happy Meal) which was likely destined eventually for the landfill, and decided to use it as my internal structural armature. I attached my cat head (not he easiest thing to do, actually), and further fleshed out the figure and pose with papier mache, enclosing her neck (the neck being the head of the plastic toy figure), adding her witch hat (which was a little projection on the plastic toy figure), shaping and filling out her right arm, adding/attaching her left arm, and just overall going for a 'folksy' sort of look.

All in all? Not too shabby, I dont' think....

Burgh Baby: Remember 9/11

2008-09-30T14:31:00.000-07:00

A fellow blogger (Burgh Baby) in Pittsburgh is raising money in order to contribute to the 9/11 'Flight 93' tribute fund -- the crash site for which has yet to have constructed a permanent memorial:

Burgh Baby: Remember 9/11

In order to help raise money, she's sponsoring a fun contest with oodles of prizes (one of which I've entered for myself -- a lifetime membership to EBSQ) .

"Welcome to the Theatre" Online Art Show

2008-09-08T18:28:00.000-07:00

Pleasant surprise -- my painting, 'From the Wings' won "Patron's Mention" in EBSQ's themed online art show for August, "Welcome to the Theatre"...:

http://tinyurl.com/6rvy5d

M n' M TLC

2008-08-24T17:34:00.000-07:00

Pray tell, what is this ... thing?

Why, just an utterly useless piece of plastic junk.

Or rather, it would be -- except that I have every intention of giving it second life as ... yet another F.A.P. (Future Art Project).

I had written about this M n' M candy dispenser thingy in a previous post (http://tinyurl.com/66rddz). From whence it came and why we would even have such a thing in our possession I can no longer recall (though I'm certain it involves the kiddos). In any case, it was one of the numerous objects of zero worth taking up more than their fair share of space upon which I came across cleaning our basement earlier this summer.

Given it's shape and rigidity, I think it will make a wonderfully lightweight and sturdy internal armature for a future papier mache project. Rather 'head, neck and shoulders-ish' already in design, or so it seems to me. Furthermore, the perfectly rounded shape of the globe top brings to my mind a pumpkin, or perhaps the moon or some such -- hmmm, might a Halloween theme be in order here?

Mirror, Mirror (Someday) on the Wall....

2008-08-15T10:59:00.000-07:00

Yet another future project....

I recently found this mirror put out upon a neighborhood curbside, free for the taking..., and... take it I did (indeed, I've been known to dumpster dive, as well as curb crawl. Scavenger!)....

The mirror is actually a door -- I believe it was part of a medicine cabinet or some such? I really liked the wide wood framing around the mirrored part of the door when I saw it-- immediately I had the idea in mind for adding some sort of 3 dimensional sculptural elements. The actual door framing may have potential as well. In any case I've removed the door from the door framing -- and it's my intention to use both the mirror, as well as the door framing (more shadowbox action?), in separate future projects....

ShadowBoxing...

2008-08-11T12:54:00.000-07:00

This resembles a whole lotta nothin', doesn't it?

Definitely not much to look at this point -- although it's actually the framing (9" x 5" x 13") from the dead radio found in my basement when cleaning (as aforementioned in a previous post), and from which I'm hoping to give second life as some sort of cool and utterly fascinating shadowbox-ish thingie, mmm-hmmm (crosses fingers)....

A few weeks ago I finished cleaning up the framing and fleshing out all sides a bit with leftover thin shavings of wood (salvaged from a recent wood working project of my husband's). Currently it's getting the preliminary papier mache treatment. Wish I could have taken a photo prior to all the prep work (talk about 'making something from nothing' -s- doesn't get much more 'nothing' than what it was to start with), but my camera was broken until recently so this has to do as the 'before' picture....

Beetlebird.com

2008-08-06T15:05:00.000-07:00

http://www.beetlebird.com/

I stumbled across the above site recently (I believe it was through the Wet Canvas (http://www.wetcanvas.com/) message boards). As far as I can tell it seems to be free to both list and sell art through the site. And while it doesn't appear to be radically active so far? I suppose there is always the potential for it to grow,develop and prosper. Still checking the site out -- but if anything, the name "Beetlebird" makes me smile, so I went ahead and registered for an account: http://www.beetlebird.com/artistgallery.php?name_usr=ArtofPatience

A View 'From the Wings'

2008-08-04T06:54:00.000-07:00

I've just entered this painting into EBSQ's August show 'Welcome to the Theatre' (
http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_690_profile_shows__1_1_G.htm). It's an existing, older painting from a number of years ago -- and while I do make the effort to try to create new pieces for these monthly shows whenever I can, I felt this particular one just really fit the show's prospectus (http://www.ebsqart.com/ArtShows/sh_180.htm) ....

"Naughty" Nude (or, "Art UNwanted")...

2008-08-02T21:53:00.000-07:00

A number of years ago when it was still relatively new, I signed on for a free account with Artwanted.com, an online art community (http://www.artwanted.com/artist.cfm?ArtID=14973) like so many others that have popped up on the 'net. Though I never did get terribly involved over there, I have maintained a bio/portfolio hosted through the site, updating it from time to time (albeit very sporadically).

The other day however, I uploaded my new little bas-relief nude to my portfolio, without thinking much about it -- only to be informed within a few hours by the site moderators that they were removing it due to its 'unsuitable content' (rolls eyes). Please. I personally think the human body is beautiful in all its forms and guess I just take nudity in art for granted, because I was surprised, if not a little irked, by the reaction. What legitimate and credible art establishment worth its salt cannot tolerate a little nudity within the context of art? I forget that people can be so easily offended I guess. As if nudity equates pornography -- a total non-issue for me, and an attitude I really can't personally abide. In fact the whole matter strikes me as so very Bourgeois I'm now reconsidering even bothering to keep my portfolio open over there. Eh....

At any rate, this experience does remind me to be grateful and appreciative that EBSQ and Papier Mache Resource do not share the same arcane and prudish attitude/policies....

RIP's Entered...

2008-07-31T20:29:00.001-07:00

http://www.ebsqart.com/ArtShows/cmd_176_Exhibition_Entries_9_3_G.htm

http://www.ebsqart.com/ArtShows/cmd_176_Exhibition_Entries_9_4_G.htm

Woah, I made it! Perhaps a little close for comfort, but at least I did manage to finish and upload my entries by the EBSQ "Ripped Off' show deadline. Unfortunately, I was forced to rush the finishing of my pieces a bit in order to get them completed -- let's just say, I MUCH prefer to take the more leisurely approach when it comes to painting, but time was very much of the essence in this case. Likely I will feel compelled to go back and tweak/embellish both pieces a bit for my satisfaction -- at least I properly participated in this fun show though, and got everything entered just in the nick of time....

'RIP' WIP's

2008-07-31T13:26:00.001-07:00

(bas relief sculpture, approximately 9 x 12, frame incorporated) My take on Loredana Mariotto's 'Robin Bird in the Snow": www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_19996_profile_portfolio__1_1_G.htm
(small bas relief sculpture, approximately 6 x 8, frame incorporated) My take on Muriel Areno's 'Kris Jean's Girls': http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_8256_profile_portfolio__9_4_G.htm

Yay! As you can see, my little camera is home again, and back in working order...!

The above are WIP photos of my entries for EBSQ's' 'Ripped Off' show. They need to be uploaded by tonight's deadline, and they are still not yet painted (eek!). Been a bit busy around here (even these photos were taken in a rush)....

At the VERY least, in a pinch, if I don't get them 'officially' done in the next few hours? They could still be technically uploaded as is (even if they aren't actually 'completed').....

Camera Surgery

2008-07-25T19:27:00.001-07:00

What a nuisance to have my camera out of commission. On the other hand, after a little online research, we found out that apparently the problem is due to a defect in Canon Powershot cameras -- with Canon issuing a recall and offering to fix the cameras, at no charge (and reasonably so). Shipping included. I sent my camera off to Canon yesterday. Who knows when I'll get it back -- whenever it is, I'm sure hoping the problem is all remedied....

Weather Bound

2008-07-24T07:16:00.000-07:00

Sheesh, such a dramatic turn in the weather. After the sweaty steam-bath inferno earlier this week, the dew point plunged overnight -- it truly couldn't possibly be more pleasant at the moment summer-wise. Needless to say, these are perfect papier mache conditions (as well as hanging laundry-on-the-line conditions, both of which I fully intend to do today)....

I woke up this morning with all sort of extremely vivid concepts in my head for altering those ridiculous broken barbies I found when cleaning as mentioned in a previous post -- ideas including, but not limited to: bas relief/paper clay/tons of texture/vignettes/and a reinterpretation of late 18th century costume (???). Whatever the case, the pictures in my barely-conscious mind were really fabulous -- yet already this morning the images are fading dangerously. Perhaps I ought to sketch out a few before I lose the images entirely (or my enthusiasm, for that matter).

At least my entries for EBSQ's 'Ripped Off' are humming along -- I'm actually hoping to have them mostly completed by today (that is unless we decided to drop everything and spend the whole day outside somewhere enjoying the Weather. Not such a bad idea either....).

I've also been preparing a lot of 'supports' for future bas relief-style projects -- once these are finished I'll have quite the pile of them ready and waiting to work with.

Crockpot Plot

2008-07-21T08:42:00.003-07:00

After several days, my pieces for the 'Ripped Off' show are STILL not dry. Not surprising really, since I've learned through painful experience just how our typical Midwest summer weather can have its affects on papier mache. In winter, when it's a deep freeze out there and the furnace is running nonstop and the air is so parched, things can often cure thoroughly within hours. But summer? It's a whole n'other story (le sigh)....

Turning on our air conditioner would likely help, but I'm such a stickler about that (much to my kids' consternation). I just can't personally stand A.C. -- can't abide the cost nor the emissions nor especially how it makes me feel so cooped up indoors, almost claustrophobic. I miss the open windows --miss hearing the birds outside, and the summer breezes gently blowing the curtains, the barking dogs and the neighborhood kids whooping and hollering, plus just stepping in and out of the house at will all day long, because it's no hotter outdoors than it is indoors. I mean, what's the point of being stuck inside a dim, quiet, shut-up house while summer passes by just beyond the window pane? Guess I'd rather sweat to death (if that makes any sense). Therefore, we run the a.c. as little as possible around here-- firing it up only once a summer, just to maintain its working order. And no, it's just not that time yet (bound to be even hotter next month)....

Getting back to my projects however, I really can't move on to the next step until these dry a bit more thoroughly. So I'm trying an experiment --to see if my kitchen crockpot, of all things, will help evaporate some of the moisture. I've heard of this before somewhere -- let's see if it actually works**. One of my pieces is small and fits right inside, while the other is able to hang over the top. Perhaps in a few hours they'll be cured enough for me to continue work on them (and if not I'll just throw in some dinner and that will be that)....

(**Edited to add: Indeed. It works!)

Dry Try

2008-07-18T20:53:00.000-07:00

I worked on my projects for the EBSQ 'Ripped Off' show today and actually made some progress. Very glad to finally have a solid start on them -- so far so good. Now, I need only for what I've completed to this point to dry -- no small order though with the super-saturated humid summer weather at the moment around here. Papier Mache dries so excruciatingly slowly under these conditions -- if at all (twiddling thumbs). Quite painful at times, but in any case, as mentioned, the approach I'm taking for the ripping of both projects is ...(drum roll)... papier mache (surprise, suprise) . Specifically bas relief style, as it's something I've been experimenting with for about a year now and am still wanting to work through. As for the artists I'm ripping, one is Loredana Mariotto (http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_19996_profile.htm) and the other Muriel Areno (http://www.ebsqart.com/Artists/cmd_8256_profile.htm) .

If my camera were working I'd post WIP photos -- but it starting gradually going whack ever since our return from vacation over a month ago, to the point that it's completely unusable now. Very inconvenient, that....

Ripped Off '08

2008-07-15T23:33:00.000-07:00

Well, well. One of the EBSQ artists I'm paired up with, Loredana Mariotto, has *already* completed a 'rip' of mine for the July online show (and here while I've barely started on my own, oops). Actually, she managed to copy several pieces of mine (my painting, 'From the Wings', in addition to 3 papier mache masks) incorporating them all into one very lovely painting with a new spin she's titled, 'Whispers Only'. I adore the concept and the painting she's produced, am very flattered --and hope only that I might give as much grace to one of her pieces as she has mine (thanks, Loredana):

http://www.ebsqart.com/ArtShows/cmd_176_Exhibition_Entries_4_4_G.htm

EBSQ July Art Challenge

2008-07-14T07:53:00.000-07:00

As mentioned in posts previously, I'm a member of the online artist community, EBSQ. As such I'm privy to the participation in member's only monthly art shows sponsored through the site. The themes differs ever month -- for this particular month (July), EBSQ is hosting the theme known as 'Ripped Off': (http://www.ebsqart.com/ArtShows/sh_176.htm).

I've taken part in this show (offered annually) before, and it's really quite fun. Participating members partner up with one another, selecting a piece within the fellow artist's portfolio from which to copy -- or in other words, 'rip off'. Typically copyright infringement is a monumental no-no in the art world (or any other for that matter) for reasons obvious to everyone -- yet within this particular challenge it's sanctioned and even encouraged, by all involved. And all part of the fun. The actual act of the 'rip off' however, is completely open to individual interpretation. The copying may be blatant and literal, or subtle and loose. It may be one artist attempting to copy only the general 'style' of the other, or perhaps the favored subject matter. Or an artist may choose one particular piece in a portfolio, mimicking it within his or her own personal artistic parameters. Or even a combo of all these approaches -- really, the opportunities are endless with no right or wrong way to go about it.....

Though I stepped in a little late, I'm now officially paired up with two other EBSQ artists -- and have selected the two pieces, one from each portfolio, that I personally intend to 'rip' and how (as they will be doing with mine). I mean to be working on these in the next several days and hope to report progress details here (though photos may unfortunately have to wait until my ailing camera is fixed, or replaced)....

Papier Mache To The Rescue

2008-06-27T22:51:00.000-07:00

This little lass (12" x 10") was a project I completed last year for an EBSQ forum artist's challenge. She's very sweet in person -- I don't believe the photo above entirely does her justice (I'd take another, though unfortunately? Since this one was taken, she found her way upon the floor 'somehow', by a certain two offspring (who shall remain nameless), becoming the hapless casualty of our very mischievous, free range, paper-chewing crazed house bunny, and is now awaiting major surgical repairs). Her form is hollow and was originally cast (along with two fellow WIP figurative busts, currently sitting around here unfinished) from an armature I built up and shaped, her features and details added after casting....

Which all brings me to another junk item I found in our basement yesterday - a desktop M 'n M dispenser (sort of like a smaller cheap version of a bubble gum dispenser), entirely plastic, cracked, missing it's top, and utterly useless as is. From whence it came from I have no idea. Though I think I might know where it's going, having had a stroke of inspiration when pondering how to possibly salvage such a thing (because it's such a big hunk of the dreaded plastic to scrap otherwise). It dawned on me it does have a general bust-like shape to it, rather like my lass above, if one uses one's imagination -- the round top reminiscent of a 'head', the base of it 'neck' and 'shoulders'. I think it may soon find a utilitarian second life as part of the internal armature of a future papier mache project. Of course the proportions are very wonky and would need to be somehow corrected -- but hey, nothing a little p.m. can't rectify, right? (Hmmm, perhaps something even Halloween related -- an event that will be coming up fast before we know it I'm sure....)....

Clean Scene

2008-06-20T21:19:00.000-07:00

In the past few weeks, my family and I (emphasis on the 'I', ahem) have been attempting to clear out our basement. We own a century+ year old home, a fixer upper (putting it mildly), complete with your typical 'old-house' basement --really, more of a cellar than anything.

Living in the tornado-prone Midwest, we are certainly very grateful to have anything underground-- not to mention the extra space a basement can afford (albeit spidery and damp) for the laundry, freezer, tools and such. In the past few years however, it was well on it's way to becoming primarily a dumping ground -- the least of which for waves of toys and playthings my two kids (almost 15, and almost 12) kept gradually growing out of, but also small, dead appliances, items in need of repair in addition to other misfit odds and ends (-- exactly what you might expect to occur when one packrat marries a fellow packrat and sets up housekeeping for nigh on 17 years). Add to that a spring flood or two (or three), and you can probably imagine the state of Disorder we managed to achieve down there. Something had to be done.

So, little by little I've been heading down to sort and straighten up. And true to my previous post awhile back regarding Waste, I am making the effort to practice disposal responsibility. Fortunately, a big portion of the lot is recyclable -- plus another chunk slated for donation to Salvation Army and that ilk. But I'm afraid a number of items may be destined for the trash unless I manage to find inspiration to repurpose them in some intriguing way.

One example of this would be the bag of mangled barbies now taking up space in my studio -- so beyond the pale they would be rejected even from the Land of Misfit Toys. I know there is an entire genre dedicated to altering dolls in general (with a sub-niche specifically Barbie) though until now it's never been something I've personally attempted, or even considered. I think I may have to give it a go though, to see if I can avoid these things from taking up permanent housekeeping in the local dump with their evil non-biodegradable selves (note that we rarely if ever actually purchased Barbies for my daughter -- I think they procreated down there). It will be an interesting challenge at any rate.

I found several other scrap objects down there that I'm intending to incorporate into projects, at one capacity or another. One is an gutless radio -- probably from the 70's or 80's, I'm guessing? I think my kids dissected it once it was broken -- at any rate, all that's left of it is essentially it's particle-board and plastic framing. I have the vague notion of making a shadowbox thingie from it, among other ideas -- we'll see...

'Trashion'

2008-05-13T22:32:00.000-07:00

Wow, it appears my little 'Scheherazade' won 'Patron's Mention' in EBSQ's '1001 Nights' art show -- with my entry above, for the EBSQ show "Trashion" (read the prospectus/details of my entry here: http://www.ebsqart.com/ArtShows/cmd_166_Exhibition_Entries_1_2_G.htm), modeled in the photo by my ever-thrilled son, receiving 'Member's Mention' -- fun times...!

Garden Hostas

2008-05-10T21:21:00.000-07:00

A little photographic evidence that Spring has indeed sprung around here....

'Scheherazade'

2008-04-30T22:27:00.000-07:00

My entry in this months' EBSQ online art show, '1001 Nights: The Stories of Scheherazade':

http://www.ebsqart.com/ArtShows/cmd_165_Exhibition_Entries_2_2_G.htm

She's a wee painted rock (a mere 4 inches high), and you can read about her history in the link above....

Portraits....

2008-04-28T21:19:00.000-07:00

Black and white photographic portraits of my two fantabulous offspring....

"Bird"

2008-03-31T21:26:00.000-07:00

Just take a look at this little interloper. I don't know exactly how she got into the house, but it sure gave us a surprise. Here she perches atop a framed photo of my children on a hutch in my dining room.

Nor was she easy to catch either -- but happily after several false starts and attempts we did finally manage to get her back outdoors where sparrows belong.

She did bring back a lot of fond memories for me though. Years and years ago I had a dear little sparrow I'd raised as a naked abandoned chick, found tiny and injured in my uncle's barn. She survived her rocky beginnings, though she ended up with a permanently disfigured wing from her long fall, and was physically unable to fly. Since I couldn't release her, she became a very treasured pet. Very Treasured. I named her 'Bird' -- and she had a wonderfully sweet personality. She even imprinted on me (thinking I was her 'mom') and would follow me all over the house. One could never imagine just what an endearing little sweetheart she became -- hunkering down into my hand regularly for cuddles and allowing me to stroke the length of her tiny back gently with the tip of my finger. And give her lots of kisses -- indeed, and this a Sparrow of all things. Sigh, my little 'Bird' -- I still think of her, and miss her lots.

And still love birds to this day....

'Daisy'

2008-03-05T23:26:00.000-08:00

Just a little reminder that Spring is coming soon... (please)?

Papier Mache Masks....

2008-02-27T17:00:00.000-08:00

A Painted Rock....

2008-02-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

"The Sculptor"...