Becky Kemble's Art Quilt Blog

Blog is moving!

2010-10-27T11:25:00.001-05:00

My blog has moved. Please visit me at http://rebeccakemble.com/blog-2

My Latest Commission

2010-10-27T09:36:00.000-05:00

When I attended Spring Quilt Market last May, I was commissioned to create a new quilt for Rockland Industries for their booth at Fall Quilt Market. Rockland makes muslin, or what is called calico in England. Muslin is cotton fabric. It comes in both unbleached, or natural, color and bleached, or white. It also comes in many different thread counts from very loose to very heavy. This quilt used approximately 20 yards of varying thread count fabrics.

The goal was to manipulate and create texture and interest. I hand dyed some of the bleached muslin to create the color gradation. Then worked on the blocks.

I will not be going to Fall Market in Houston this time, so if anyone else is going, please stop into the Rockland Industries booth to see the quilt.

By the way, I absolutely love this fabric. The quality is wonderful and it takes dye beautifully.

On Becoming a "Geek"

2010-09-13T11:52:00.000-05:00

For several years I've been asked if I have a web site. I would reply, apologetically, that I did not. After wishing, exploring, and number crunching, I decided to try building one myself. I was going to join my husband in the "computer geek" world. Thank goodness it has become "easier" for someone without lots of training to build a site. That said, I couldn't have done it without SOME lessons. I signed up for an on-line class from Nicolette Tallmage of The Crafted Webmaster . I especially enjoyed her style of teaching using the webinar format. She teaches live so questions can be asked and answered in real time. For me, that worked well and the cost was reasonable.

I was pretty naive when the class began. I knew the learning curve would be high, but there are times when I think my brain hurts! Nicolette is a very patient teacher, however, and has created videos that students can go back and view as many times as needed. This has been a tremendous help as I've worked on my site. My website is a work in progress and I believe always will be as I add new works to the galleries. There are still a few things I haven't figured out yet, like how to turn off some of the default effects, but I'm getting there. In fact, I love a challenge whether it's problem solving in the creation of an art piece or trying to figure out how to make something work the way I want it to in a computer program.

So take a peek at my efforts so far at rebeccakemble.com. I'd love to hear what you think, and please let me know if something doesn't work!

When it Rains, It Pours - Inspiration

2010-07-30T10:10:00.004-05:00

As I type, there is another thunderstorm outside with rain so heavy it's difficult to see across the street. This seems to have become the norm this summer. Lots of precipitation this year. Record snowfall last winter, now record rains. This past winter, when my environment was nothing but gray and white, I spent the time creating with that in mind.

North Wind is one in a series of work from my winter contemplation. Matted and framed to 8 x 10, it is made of silk from Japanese wedding kimonos, hand dyed silk, hand dyed cotton, rayon threads, beads and pearls.

When surrounded by snow, my creative spirit took it in. Water, in it's frozen state. Now that I'm surrounded by water in it's liquid form, what might my creative spirit do with it?

International Spring Quilt Market

2010-05-25T11:06:00.002-05:00

I was fortunate to be able to accompany a friend of mine, Ilene Bartos, to market. She was there to promote her new book, Spectacular Rectangles published by Martingale. They were kind enough to give me a badge which was my ticket to enter. Market isn't like a show where you can pay to go view the quilts and visit the vendors. It's the wholesale part of the business.

I had gone with the intention of supporting Ilene and not really thinking about opportunities I might have. This was a very exciting experience for me. I was asked to "try" some new products and let the manufacturers know what I think of it and I have some things to design. The people I met were wonderful and the possibilities are countless.

Creative Lulls and Cycles

2010-05-03T14:06:00.004-05:00

It's been quiet here on my blog, and quiet in my studio of late. I used to think there must be something wrong with me if I wasn't producing art work on a daily basis. While I do think it's important to be in the studio with my hands in "something", I have come to recognize that my creative energy comes in cycles. There are times when production is fast and furious and the ideas are coming so quickly I can't always get them in my sketch book in order to remember them.

Then there are the other times when nothing seems to work, and even the inspiration for things escapes me. I can only clean the studio so many times in a week, so what then? What is one to do when creative energy is at an all time low and everything that worked before, isn't now?

The past couple of months has been the longest uninspired time I've spent in many years. It's been excruciatingly frustrating and a bit depressing to just sit and stare at the unfinished work on the design wall. What was it asking for? Why doesn't it seem to be working? Where do I need to tweak the composition? - Nothing. Nada. Zip. No answer. I was staring at it, and it was staring back at me. So I left. I left the studio and headed out.

I began a drawing class at the art center. I thought perhaps this might kick me back into gear. At least it would keep my hands in something and take me back to my roots. Drawing in pencil and charcoal. The class is over for now and I found it quite enjoyable. Even have a drawing or two that turned out fairly well and will keep my hands in the charcoal and pencil for awhile.

At the same time, I began painting a house. Every wall of every room and closet. Every baseboard, door and piece of trim. Methodical. Quiet. Dip the brush and stroke. Push the roller, back and forth. Mindful. Meditative. Five weeks later, finished. Job accomplished. But something else happened. While moving that roller and brush, I began to focus on my unfinished art on the wall. Not really thinking about what it needs, just seeing it in my mind. Nothing concrete occurred, but, with the house painting finished, I am back in the studio filled with creative energy. The work on the design wall has been taken down, stitches ripped and sewn back in different configurations. It's working. I like where I think it's going, at least for now. Ideas are flowing again and I'm struggling with the sketch book and making lists.

I know there will be other non-creative and/or low energy times. I hope they don't last as long this one did. I don't want to have to paint another entire house, but . . . . .

Looking Back, Looking Forward in a new year

2010-01-21T08:49:00.008-06:00

Here it is the end of January and I have so neglected my blog. Where does the time go? Holiday hustle and bustle, finishing year-end work, commissions and paper work. Now is the time to look back and revisit what occurred in 2009 in order to look forward to 2010.

I traveled a great deal this past year. I actually drove, or rode as the case may be, from coast to coast beginning in the Spring, with a great trip to Hudson Valley, NY for an art workshop, ending with a visit to family in California for the holidays. In between were several trips to Wyoming to visit family and a niece's wedding in Texas. This year could find me traveling just as often, with two babysitting weekends in Wyoming for our granddaughter and a nephew's wedding in Texas already scheduled.

In spite of all the travel, I've also had a good deal of time in the studio. I sold enough work to make a small profit this year. I participated in several local and regional textile shows in Des Moines and Fairfield, IA. You will also find several of my works at the Perfect Setting in Marshalltown, IA. It's a wonderful gallery filled with a great variety of art.

In the Beginning
Sierpinski's Triangle Interpreted

Two of my art quilts, In The Beginning and Sierpinski's Triangle Interpreted, were juried into a show called "Art Meets Science", through the Studio Art Quilt Association (SAQA) that will travel for two years. The first venue is Birmingham, England in August 2010 at the Quilt Symposium. I would love to be able to go visit them in England. I may travel frequently, but I think my work travels further than I do.

Currently in the studio, I am working to finish some things left undone in 2009, while sketching and thinking about new works. The visionings project through SAQA is still on my mind although my subject matter seems to be shifting. Let's see where this will take me by the end of the year. Show opportunities abound. It's time to make a list of those in which I think my work will fit, while the purchase of a new camera has me snapping away and viewing the world through a smaller, more focused, lens.

The Changing of Season

2009-10-26T09:22:00.008-05:00

The fall colors are wonderful and I'm spending time trying to drink in their beauty, to breathe the crisp fall air and soak up the little warmth the sun holds as it moves further South. That said, I have been productive in the studio.

October has been busy with local and regional shows, as well as a deadline for a juried, international show and work on several commissions. I made the deadline for the show, barely, but don't know if my work has been accepted or not yet.

This is a piece that is currently hanging at the Polk County Heritage Gallery in downtown Des Moines, IA. The title is Tide Pool. It shows the many stages of silk from cocoon to silk rod, silk hankie, and the woven background.

"In The Wild" currently hangs at the Fairfield, IA Art Center. This piece was done by painting with dye, then "thread painting", a free-motion technique with the sewing machine. It's an interesting process which I could blog about when I begin the next dye painted works I have in the schedule.

Then there are the small pieces. Exercises in composition, but also with a purpose. These, 4x6" pieces make great postcards. A first class stamp sends them anywhere in the USA. What better way to give someone an original piece of art?

As October moves into November with shorter days and longer periods of darkness, the shadows become stronger even in mid-day. While the stronger light of summer brings warmth and brightness, the longer shadows of these months seem to bring a clarity to the environment. There is so much to see; so much to wonder at.

Balancing Act - Part 2: Visioning

2009-09-29T11:39:00.004-05:00

I'm not balancing very well yet. I am spending a good deal of time in the studio, which is good. But not enough time focusing on writing. Why is this a problem? Because writing my thoughts adds a great deal to my creative process. As I think through the possibilities, they become more concrete in writing. Once ideas are on the page (or the computer), I can't forget them, therefore they become more of a reality. If I am to create a more consistent body of work, then I need to focus and balance both of these creative aspects.

The Visioning Project officially kicks off on October 1st. I have made my list of goals, which need to be refined, and made a choice on the theme. I have become fascinated with quantum physics, quantum mechanics and particle physics. Do I understand it? Absolutely NOT! (Math was never my strong suit, either, but I have a great appreciation for it.) But there's a challenge in there that leaves me breathless and excited at attempting to understand - and filled with awe at the complexity of the universe. Because this subject matter is so wide, I have decided to narrow things a bit, at least to begin with, and explore the aspects of space/time. There are so many questions and really very few answers. The sketch book is new, but has words written now, so making other marks in it won't seem so intimidating.

Not sure where this will take me - but it certainly will be interesting. Stay tuned . . .

Balancing Act

2009-08-20T10:35:00.004-05:00

It boggles my mind that I haven't written in more than a month. Where has the time gone? It's not that I haven't been busy, or that I haven't been working. I have. I've just ignored some of my networking responsibilities in order to take care of other things. It's time to get back to work here.

I have committed the next year to focusing on building a consistent body of work. In other words, I'm going to attempt to actually focus on one theme throughout the year. The Studio Art Quilters Association will begin "The Visioning Project" this fall. I have committed to this one goal and the group of artists who are also taking part, will, hopefully, be able to hold me accountable for getting the work done.

This means I will need to create balance between my daily life and my art studio, as well as create a balance in working on my art. I am interested in so many different things, there are times I feel scattered and unfocused as I work - jumping from one technique to another, from one project to another.

It's going to be interesting to see what happens as I actually attempt to focus myself and work intentionally in a different manner than I'm used to. I will be blogging on my experiences as I work. Because a year long focus is new for me, as well as the type of work I'm contemplating, I have no idea what will happen other than, I know I will learn much about myself.

Vacation's over - time to get to work and create my balancing act.

Why So Difficult to Write an Artist Statement and Bio?

2009-06-27T15:39:00.003-05:00

What goes into an Artist Statement or Biography? And why is it so difficult to actually write them? I need to write one of each for an upcoming show. It sounds so simple when others say, "tell why you do what you do, and how you do it". Finding words for these things isn't always easy. Why do I do it? I have to, I'm compelled. How does one write about a compulsion and have it sound romantic? I guess it's a more positive compulsion than some others I can think of, so why not romanticize it? I'm working on that.

The biography is another story (literally). What does one say about oneself in two or three paragraphs that lets the viewer know who you are as an artist? What if I don't know myself? What if I just like making stuff and sending it out into the world? I guess the difficult part is pulling it together into something that makes sense to someone else. When it comes to my creative self, she's a little bit skittish. She doesn't like being tied down with words. She likes her hands in the "stuff"! So I'm attempting to reign her in enough to get a sentence or two out of her. Wish me luck!

A 60 Year Celebration

2009-06-24T12:18:00.003-05:00

Today is my parents 60th wedding anniversary. We celebrated last Saturday with a reception. Family came from all over. It was the first time in many years that all four of their grandchildren and both of their great grandchildren were present at the same time.

I keep thinking about the longevity of this relationship and the partnership they have formed over these many years. There's an interdependence that exists between these two, who have complete trust and reliance on each other. They make a good pair. Not many can celebrate this milestone. (Perhaps that's why I could find nothing in the stores to say congratulations on 60 years. No cards, no napkins, no invitations.)

Aging is not for the weak, they tell me, and I laugh at the irony of that statement. But as I watch them move through their daily lives, and experience the many losses that come with age, I also witness a grace that has come upon them. One that gives thanks for the abilities that remain, and the gift of still having one another in this life.

For all this, I am very thankful.

Inspiration

2009-06-09T15:48:00.005-05:00

What inspires each of us to create? It's probably different for each person. For me, it's usually something found in nature, but it can also be an emotional experience, a cause that I believe in, or the plight of others.

Lately, it's about texture. A camping trip to a friend's ranch in Eastern Wyoming has provided much to think about. The first photo is looking up from the bottom of a slot canyon where the water has carved the rock. The visible swirl patterns mark the path of rushing water over the centuries. It's hard to imagine as this is a fairly dry climate - high plains, but when it runs, it runs quickly. The canyon is only about 50 yards in length, and tells a long ago story.

The smooth texture of the rock as it's been carved is wonderful to feel while walking in. It narrows to about 12 inches in some spots, even narrower at the ground forcing one to "walk" on the sides pushing against the rock with feet and hands to move forward.

Then there's pine bark. What wonderful pattern and shifts in color! Different pines have different bark. I found this one to be most interesting.

Now I just need to see what happens when I start playing with art stuff.

The Blank Page

2009-05-29T10:36:00.003-05:00

It's a frightening thing - the blank page, the blank canvas, the blank anything, if one is expected to fill it with something. As a mixed media artist who sometimes writes, I have been intimidated more than once by the blank, white canvas/page. What is there to do when you stare and nothing comes? I suppose it's a common thing for those who compose, whether using musical notes, images or words. It's nice to know I'm in good company, but it's not a comfortable place to be.

There are discussions about when to stop - how do you know when a piece is finished? But what about how to begin? Sometimes, if I can just make the first mark, or cut a piece of fabric, or put one sentence on the paper, I have a place to begin. The first mark can be quite intimidating, however, especially if I let that old inner critic have a say; or if the fabric was pricey, it can be anxiety producing to make the first cut.

Make a mark, then another. Write a word, then another. Make a cut, then another. Off we go. Still, I'd like to know how others deal with the beginning.

What's in a Name? (more on titling art)

2009-05-23T11:52:00.004-05:00

In posing the question of whether all art needs a title, I was hoping to generate conversation. It did just that and I'm appreciative of everyone's thoughtful responses. They were somewhat varied, but most agree that art should have something that identifies it, whether it's a full title or an identifier such as "color study: blue and orange". I also read several articles I found on the internet regarding the subject.

According to Robert Genn, author of The Painters Keys, http://www.painterskeys.com " . . . titles serve to confirm what's seen but also to add knowledge, insight, and a glimpse into the author's mind set." In keeping with Genn, Holly Huffstutler's article at http://www.helium.com/items/1422709-titling-an-art-work-for-greater-meaning stated "art can be imbued with greater meaning with the addition of a title" and discusses how a title can capture the viewer and draw them into conversation about the work instead of dismissing it. She sites the example of Marcel Duchamp who took a urinal and placed it in a different context and titled it "Fountain". Both authors are worth the read.

The conversations are convincing. One should have some type of identification for each work of art. How else will you know which is which, after all? One wouldn't want a list of works with "Untitled #1", "Untitled #2" etc. That would be boring.

The title of the work in the photo is "Blooming". The title of the piece from yesterday's post is "Stormy Seas".

Does Art Always Need a Title?

2009-05-22T14:16:00.005-05:00

I've been thinking about titles and art work, and wondering if it's necessary to title everything. I know there are many untitled works hanging in galleries world wide, but the majority of my work is titled, and today, I'm wondering why I find it necessary. The meaning of every work of art is decided by the viewer. I suppose if the artist wants to lead the viewer, a title might be helpful, but I wonder if even then, a title really makes a difference.

This is a piece I just completed, with full view and detailed. It's hand-dyed cotton with thread, paint, iridescent gel medium, and dyed cheese cloth. I have not titled it. I'm wondering what others see in it, what thoughts and/or emotions are evoked in the viewer. I look forward to comments, and think I'll leave it untitled. At least for now.

Nature's textures

2009-05-16T12:07:00.003-05:00

Isn't this grand? Birch bark has such wonderful irregularities. The textures of bark fascinate me. I'm gathering a library of photos of textures so I can begin to explore different textures with my art. The woods and trails around Greenville provide excellent subjects for photography.

Walking through the woods here has been wonderful. Yesterday as I walked the path, along with the wonderful textures, I noticed the steady hum of bees all around. The honeysuckle is just beginning to bloom. It wasn't a soft humming either, it was as if I was in the middle of the hive. To stand still and listen, while breathing in the sweet scent was magnificent. A treat for the senses.

Today is the final studio day. I will use the time to explore some new materials.

Greenville Arms, Greenville, NY

2009-05-13T06:55:00.005-05:00

The confusing part is that there are three Greenville, NY's, each in a different county. For someone from the Midwest where spaces are fairly open and distances between things are spread out, it's a different experience. The Greenville Arms was originally built by William Vanderbilt as a summer home.

It's a beautiful place, which served as a private home until 1952 when it became an inn. The hospitality is top notch and the setting wonderful. There are hiking trails nearby, which I have taken advantage of, and will again later in the week.

The studio is in the carriage house, where there is plenty of light, room and electrical outlets. An important piece for an artist who uses a sewing machine to draw.

It is now the beginning of the second day of the workshop, and the sun is shining beautifully. I am anxious to get to work.

Catskills

2009-05-11T07:32:00.003-05:00

The drive to Greenville was beautiful and virtually no traffic. We arrived at the Greenville Arms around 3:30 pm. Wonderful place with lots of character.

Today we will finish setting up the studio and preparing for the workshop. Studio space is great. It's set up for any type of media and lots of electrical outlets.

I plan to walk some today and see the town and surrounding area.

On the way to Jamestown

2009-05-09T20:47:00.004-05:00

Today we decided to change our route and get off the toll road and heavy traffic. Left I90 at Erie, PA and finished the day in Jamestown, NY. I saw this flowering bush at a rest stop. I'm not familiar with it. Perhaps a mountain laurel, my traveling companion said. Not sure, but it's quite beautiful. So much inspirational countryside and visual stimulation.

Jamestown is a wonderful place. The downtown is fun. This is Lucille Ball's birthplace. The photo at left is painted on the side of one of the buildings. Many references and business names connected to Lucy and Desi here. We took a little drive through most of the downtown area. Would like to spend a little more time here one day.

Tomorrow we will reach our destination, the Greenville Arms, in Greenville, NY.

Looking forward to more beautiful countryside. So many shades of green, so many different types of trees and plants. A visual feast along the way.

Travel day

2009-05-09T07:02:00.002-05:00

Our first stop is South Bend, Indiana. There really isn't an alternative route to I80 through the Chicago corridor, and our timing wasn't that great. We hit it right at the beginning of rush hour in the middle of construction season. Sigh. Stop and go for many miles. At least they've widened this corridor in the past few years. It used to be worse.

South Bend is an interesting town. Several colleges and universities clustered together. Beautiful campuses and the downtown area was fairly easy to navigate. I know this because we missed our first exit to get tothe motel and took the scenic route through town. One of the highlights was spying the "Cat Nap Inn". I presume it is a "Kittie B&B". Large silhouettes of cats all over the outside of the house-turned-business. We got a good chuckle out of that one, and wished it wasn't so late so we could stop and get a picture.

Today we shuffle off to Buffalo. More later.

The Road Less Traveled

2009-05-07T08:52:00.003-05:00

I love road trips. Not only do I enjoy driving, but I love being able to see the countryside along the way. I'll take interstate highways when I have to, but I prefer roads less traveled. They take you through the heart of the country. Passing through towns and cities, one is forced to slow down. Watching people as they do their daily work in their environment, while I remain somewhat invisible - just a passing car, from out of state no less - gives me a glimpse of life in that place. While it is only a glimpse, I can learn much. Does the town seem to be thriving, or does it look a little dilapidated and in need of more commerce? What might be the main industry here? In smaller towns, one can usually surmise that it's the agriculture surrounding it, that keeps the businesses afloat. But what of the midsized towns? I look for clues as I drive through.

Tasting my way across country is always fun, too. I prefer locally owned establishments to chain restaurants. I'll eat at the chains if there's nothing else, but I like asking someone who lives there, where they like to eat. I've found some gems in unlikely places.

I'm heading out for a road trip. In the next two weeks, I'll be blogging about where I am and what I'm doing. My destination is Hudson Valley, NY for a week long fiber art workshop. I'll be blogging about that, too. The entire experience is food for creativity. My camera will be busy. So check back frequently. Find out what little gems I may discover along the way.

Ground Hog Day

2009-05-05T15:01:00.002-05:00

This little guy came to visit yesterday. I knew there was a ground hog that lived behind our fence along the railroad track and next to the creek, but I never expected to make his acquaintance. I'm glad I keep the camera right next to the deck doors. If I didn't, I would miss some good photo ops!

It's been an exciting week at our house. The orioles have returned! Bright orange and black arrive at the feeder and feast on grape jelly and oranges. So far we've seen two males which means there are probably two females around as well. Then the cat bird made his/her appearance. He/she eats the parts of the orange the orioles leave. I'm sure the hummingbirds are right around the corner. Must get the feeders up.

April is the Cruelest Month - T.S. Eliot

2009-04-26T09:26:00.004-05:00

I'm looking out my window at a gray and rainy landscape. Two days ago is was sunny and actually hot. I relished the sun and worked in the garden for the first time. Felt so good to have my hands in the dirt, dividing and transplanting. Then it all changed and we're back to cold and gray. I am glad for rain instead of snow, however. The grass is green and the trees are budding. Daffodils and tulips are in bloom. T.S. Eliot called April the cruelest month, and it can be pretty fickle. Snow, rain, sun; warmth and back to cold. But April also marks the beginning of the new cycle of life and hope. Gray and rain will change to sun and warmth. Birds are gathering nesting materials and the trees will leaf out quickly. Winter birds have gone and summer birds will soon be here, if they're not already. I've been listening for the orioles, but I haven't heard them yet. Only another few weeks before the first ruby throat humming bird will arrive. In the meantime, I'll enjoy the unfolding of Spring.

After the Rush

2009-04-22T15:32:00.003-05:00

After delivering the vestments on April 10th, I spent a week focusing intensely on the final preparations for my daughter's wedding, which was Saturday, April 18. It was a beautiful wedding, made more beautiful by the sheer joy reflected in both faces of this young couple. They've waited seven years to make it "official". I am thrilled for them.

It is a strange feeling as I write this, however. With my large project mostly finished and delivered, and my daughter's wedding over, I have time to reflect. Both of my children are young women. Both are married and I am the grandmother of a four-year-old granddaughter. I am content in my life, my relationships, and am pursuing the artist' life I've always dreamed of having. So where has the time gone?! I swear I've been aware of every part of my life as I've lived it, yet looking back, it seems as if it's gone so quickly. Weren't they just little girls yesterday? Wasn't it only a week ago that I was taking pictures of their first steps, first day of school, first date? There's art in the making here. Time . . . an intangible that there's never enough of.

The Satisfaction of Completion

2009-04-10T10:14:00.006-05:00

I have finished the major portion of the commission I have been working on. The chasuble is the piece I had the mishap with the lining!! Thank goodness for reputable fabric stores who keep good fabrics in stock and will send things quickly.

There are two pieces remaining to be completed, and I will finish them in the next week. These pieces and three others were delivered yesterday. They will be used this weekend for the Easter services, beginning Saturday night.

Each time I accept a commission, I wonder if I've lost my sanity while I'm working on it. The deadlines do help me buckle down and get things finished, but when I mess up, it creates more anxiety than I like. And yet, when the piece is completed, and I see that the "client" likes it, I am ecstatic! It's all worth it, and I will continue to accept commissions. I find them challenging and great learning experiences.

I wonder about other artists and commission work. Even though it can be anxiety producing to accept them, the reward is so great when I see their face as the work is unveiled. I'd be interested to hear what other artists think or feel about accepting commissions.

Breathing Deeply

2009-04-03T13:09:00.004-05:00

I know that in the world of creative endeavors, there is a great possibility that what I've created or attempted to create from the vision in my head, won't work, and I'll need to start over. Many projects have ended up in the waste basket, but I have learned from the mistakes. That's why I try to give myself extra time to work on things when there is a deadline involved. Even so, I've lived the past few years with the horrible fantasy of mis-cutting something right before a deadline, and having to order fabric to finish the commission. I just kept telling myself that if I were very careful, it wouldn't happen.

Well, it's happened! I miscalculated, my pattern slipped, and I don't have enough fabric to re-cut the pieces. I have one week to deliver this work. I have ordered more fabric and am hoping upon hope it arrives within 2 days. It was either that or pay as much as the fabric is worth to have it sent over night. I'm just thankful it isn't the night before, and also thankful that it's the lining rather than the top, which is where all the fancy stuff has been completed. I'm trying to look at the bright side. I'm also trying not to panick. That wouldn't be helpful.

So, I'll focus my energy on the companion pieces until the new fabric arrives, and breathe deeply, in and out.

It's Officially Spring!

2009-03-23T09:55:00.003-05:00

It's finally here! The season of unpredictability! Unstable weather conditions prevail. One day it's 70 degrees F, and the next, 35! Rain may give way to snow, or even thunder snow, while flowers begin to bloom. I have a small patch of daffodils in bloom close to the house. The iris is pushing out of the ground and the cuckoo pint is tall and green.

The bird population is beginning to shift. The junkos have gone and the dreaded grackles are back. In a couple of weeks I'll be listening for the distinctive sound of the Orioles. We will fill the feeders with oranges and grape jelly and watch for flashes of brilliant orange as they come to partake of the sweet treats. Much to look forward to in the next few weeks as the light continues to increase and the landscape changes from brown to green.

Warmer weather, more hours of sunlight, and new growth always energize me, both physically and creatively. Sometimes it's difficult to corral the ideas floating around. I try to travel with my camera and/or a small sketch book, but don't always manage. Sometimes, the tiniest little thing will inspire a thought process that takes me on a journey I never would have imagined. I can't wait to see where this Spring takes me.

Do others find the Spring season more energizing? Is there an increase in your creativity?

Why is it Difficult to Claim the title of Artist?

2009-03-07T07:47:00.008-06:00

As I've been reading blogs and tweets and articles, and talking with other artist friends, I have noticed that it's difficult for some creative people to refer to themselves as artists. There's a tendency to apologize for being creative, and spending time in creative endeavors. This strikes a chord with me, because I, too, still fight feelings of inadequacy and insecurity.

I remember having a conversation quite a few years ago with another artist friend, about whether we were artists with a capital "A" or a lower case "a". I'll give us credit for the fact that we were even talking about being artists, as I felt that just referring to myself that way was somehow unthinkable. Years later, it seems somewhat sad that we even contemplated a difference. Which brings me to the question, what is the mystique of calling oneself an artist? Why is it so difficult to claim the title?

David Bayles and Ted Orland, in their book "Art and Fear" talk about the "view of artmaking today - namely, that art rests fundamentally upon talent, and that talent is a gift randomly built into some people and not into others." In other words, the artist has been given a gift and is able to create great works of art because of this alone. Prodigies are rare, but as a culture we've all bought into the image. Speaking for myself, it leaves me with feelings of insecurity, and wondering if I'm "talented" enough.

Intellectually, I know, art is made by ordinary people. People who work hard to learn the basics; who produce a lot of work that ends up in the waste basket. While talent might be a step in the proverbial direction, it's really an issue of passion. When the desire to create overcomes the fear of not being perfect, one can make marks on the paper, or put brush to canvas or cut the fabric. When I'm not thinking about the end result, but focusing on the process, I learn something. What I'm producing in that moment may not be the best work of art I've ever done, but the knowledge gained from creating it will be put to use on the next piece. It's the passion that makes me want to go the next step, create the next piece. It may end up as part of the trash tomorrow, but today, it's what I do.

So, what about others? Is it difficult for you to call yourself an artist? And if not, have you always been able to? I welcome your comments.

How Do We Balance Social Networking and the Business of Work?

2009-03-04T10:16:00.003-06:00

I've just entered the social networking system with Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Information moves almost instantaneously. I can "instant message" with any one of my "friends" who happen to be online through Facebook, or through my computer's camera on other networks with family and friends anywhere in the world. I can find and network with those who might have mutual business interests and I don't even need to leave my house. The world at my fingertips!

While all of this is wonderful, and somewhat miraculous to my baby boomer mind, I also feel a little bit like my "network" is beginning to sweep me off my feet and carry me down stream. I'm having difficulty keeping up and wondering when some people who post often to Twitter, etc. get their work done. Finding people around the world to network with is great and offers unlimited possibilities to build a business, but how do others balance the actual work production of art for sale (which is why one networks, isn't it?) with marketing and connecting?

I'd certainly be open to suggestions as I'm finding it a difficult balance. How about it . . . how do YOU find the balance?

What's an art quilt?

2009-02-25T17:11:00.006-06:00

I was asked by a fellow artist the other day, why so many different names for art made from fiber, i.e. art quilt, fiber art, textile art, mixed media, etc. She also made a statement that as she has perused other artists blogs and websites, what she often sees that is referred to as quilt art, has nothing to do with quilts. She was somewhat confused. I attempted to explain how I see the differences and why different people might want to refer to what they do differently. That attempt follows:

What is an art quilt? According to several organizations, the definition of a quilt is, 2 or more layers held together by stitching. Most will have a fabric sleeve on the back for hanging with a rod. An art quilt is intended for the wall, and may or may not have, any number of surface design treatments, using applique' and/or other media, such as paint, ink, photo transfer, beads, yarns, and found objects attached in one way or another to create the image.

Most quilt shows now have a category for art quilts. As a matter of fact the International Quilt Association show in Houston every year is really dedicated to the art quilt as well as "the art of quilting", offering thousands of dollars in awards for the most outstanding work. The American Quilters Society is another large association that has large shows offering awards, and has a quilt museum in Paducah, KY.

Contemporary quilting is very different from the quilts our foremothers made. The majority are no longer only utilitarian pieces made from clothing scraps. The patterns are well thought out, drafted and executed using a sense of color and design to enhance the pattern. The quilting, or stitching, patterns themselves have evolved into being more and more complex. The majority of quilts are quilted by machine rather than hand. Even if a quilt is intended for the bed, coordinating and contrasting colors and fabrics forming the design, present a contemporary way of creating quilts.

I believe there is a bit of politics involved as well when referring to ones art as art quilt, fiber/textile or mixed media art. In my experience, as soon as someone hears the word "quilt", grandma's bed quilt/blanket tend to be the associations. For some, to call themselves fiber or textile artists, or mixed media artists, gets away from that perception, and they feel their work won't be prejudged by the term quilt. These artists may want to become involved in gallery shows as well as, or instead of, quilt shows.

Not all fiber art meets the definition of a quilt. Some artists frame their work, or put it on stretchers to hang. In these cases, the work may not consist of layers held together by stitch, but instead may be any treatment of fabric or use of fibers in a surface design. My own work consists of both art forms, the art quilt, and fiber art that is intended to be framed or stretched as a canvas. Therefore, I refer to myself as a mixed media and/or fiber or textile artist.

For more information on textile art go to: Studio Art Quilters Assocation and/or the Surface Design Association

American Gothic

2009-02-20T11:08:00.007-06:00

A friend sent me a quote this morning via email that I've been thinking about all morning.

"Masterpieces are not single and solitary births; they are the outcome of many years of thinking in common, of thinking by the body of the people, so that the experience of the mass is behind the single voice. This experience of the mass is what gives art its healing power, its prophetic strength and durability." Virginia Woolf

I had the opportunity to view Grant Woods' painting, American Gothic last week in person. Our art museum has it on loan as part of an exhibit called "After Many Springs: Regionalism, Modernism & the Midwest". It's a wonderful exhibit with some great photographs, and paintings by Wood, Thomas Hart Benton, John Steuart Curry, Jackson Pollock, Ben Shahn, Dorthea Lange and others. But I went to see the masterpiece: American Gothic.

What is it about this painting that separates it from the rest? Why is this one a masterpiece? American Gothic was painted in 1930 in Iowa. The images of the man and woman, are iconic and somewhat mysterious. He looks straight ahead, while the woman looks off to the side. It makes one wonder what she's seeing, what she's thinking. Wood didn't say much about his painting, other than the woman is the man's daughter, when asked about their relationship. Their facial expressions are such that the viewer must decide what they are feeling.

I could stand close enough to the painting to see the brush strokes and how the paint was applied. But to stand a short distance away and take in the image in it's entirety is a wonder. As I thought about the quote above and American Gothic, I began to think about the story the painting tells. I thought about what I know about 1930 and the rural landscape of Iowa. About the Great Depression and what life on the land was like. I took in the facial expressions of the figures, this man and his daughter, and wondered. I was drawn in, caught up in the story, transported to another place, another time. Masterpiece.

It's Melting (or what a difference a week makes)

2009-02-06T13:54:00.005-06:00

The sun is out and it's almost 50 degrees today! The snow and ice is melting. So I went and chopped away some of the ice and shoveled some snow off the storm drain in front of the house or else I was afraid the water would start to come up the driveway rather than go down the drain. I think it's about 3 ft. high on top and I could only get about 10 inches of the drain cleared. Made a huge difference though.

Then I went for a walk along the bike path behind our house which follows the creek.

I got some pictures of the creek and some weeds in the snow.

In my exploration of textures, I find the weeds quite interesting. I may need to enlarge this one and study it more.

I liked how the squirrel's next seems to have weighed the branch down so it hangs above the water.

Ramblings and new work

2009-02-05T11:26:00.006-06:00

If you look closely, you can see the thermometer on my back deck is reading -20F. The sun is shining, but it was cold that day. That was about 2 weeks ago. Today is 20 above. A vast difference, and a little break in winter. I think I've written before about how watching the weather in Iowa is a pasttime, but also a necessity. This is why. It gets dangerous. This is really not unusual for these parts.

It's probably because this winter has been so blasted cold that my mind is traveling to warm places. This is a new work in progress, called Tide Pool. I intend to build a shadow box frame around it and perhaps tone down the green background a bit.

It's made of silk and cotton fibers: silk hankies, rods and cocoons, thread ends from hand dyed cottons, shells, beads and stones. I have a second piece in progress as well. Just looking at these colors helps me feel a little warmer.

I've been trying to explore textures as well. The soft "hairy-ness" of the silk hankie to the stiffness of the rods and cocoons. Soft threads in contrast with hard stones, beads and shells as well as the irregular surface of the silk background all stitched to painted canvas. I think its an interesting mix and I'm enjoying this exploration.

Dreaming of Spring

2009-01-14T11:29:00.003-06:00

Snow, snow and more snow. I usually like winter, but something has happened to me this year, I guess. I'm tired of it.

I must admit, however, as I look out my window with the sun shining on the new stuff, I take note of the colors that appear. Someone suggested I find a hand lens, a little magnifying lens that botanists use. I think looking at snow through one might be quite interesting. I may have to go on a search for one locally. Surely the university store would have one? Might even open up an entirely new world! Sort of like looking at things through microscopes. I don't have one of those either, but that could be interesting subject matter for art work as well.

Today I start a new project. I have two in "sketch" stages. I may start both in fabric today. We'll see how far I get.

I'll post photos of sketches later for one of them.

New Year

2009-01-02T11:37:00.004-06:00

A new year brings new ideas, new goals, new projects. For this year, I resolve to make more art. To play with it more rather than get caught up in trying to do show quality work. I'm going to give myself permission to NOT try and enter shows. I want to experiment with new techniques and get really wild and see what happens if I combine some "old style" painting with fabric on stretchers, while continuing to play with dye painting and stitching. There may be nothing to show this year but failures. So be it.

Let's see what happens in the next few weeks.

Endings, Beginnings and Creative Freedom

2008-12-29T13:42:00.004-06:00

Calendars are a way of marking time. It's the end of another year, which means it's the beginning of the next. Nothing ends without something else beginning. Seasons move from one to the next, rhythms and cycles of nature, day and night, and so forth.

So as this year comes to an end, I'm trying to look back at what I've accomplished this past year, and look forward to what I would like to do in the next. I didn't get some things done that I had hoped to in 2008, but I went in a different direction. After all, nothing in my plans is carved in stone. That's the beauty of setting my own goals. If I get distracted along the way, as I so frequently am, I just find myself moving in a different direction. Sometimes it's simply a distraction and I will eventually turn and find my way back, but other times, it's something new and exciting that I wasn't aware existed until I stumbled across it.

Creative freedom - to be able to move from one thing to another when the interest is there, or when something new is discovered, is such bliss.

I have an idea where I'd like to go in 2009, and I will head in that direction. There is no guarantee, I won't deviate from the path, however. I love that part of being an artist. There's always a surprise waiting.

The Darkness and Quiet of Winter

2008-12-23T10:14:00.006-06:00

Projects for Christmas are finished. Gifts are purchased, wrapped and shipped. I can finally relax and reflect.

There are more hours of darkness than light at this time of year. Snow blankets the ground and serves as an insulation for sound. In other words, it's dark and quiet. A good time for thinking, meditating, wondering. I think about the animals that hibernate through the winter months and at times, I wish I could do the same - when I'm cold and tired. Then I wonder about the order of nature - it's rhythm - pulse - cycles. Winter, in the dark and quiet, also holds the hope and expectation of warmth and growing things to come. Winter is a time to rest, to regain strength and build strong roots in order to emerge again in the light and warmth of Spring.

I would wish, with this holiday season upon us, that all of us could rest in the dark and quiet of winter. To reflect on the state of the world and all that has transpired in this last year. To find our own part in it, and to seek to be better persons in all that we do with hope for new opportunity and growth in the light of Spring.

Deep peace to all this holiday, with hopes for a brighter 2009.

Sharks on the Wall

2008-12-18T16:21:00.005-06:00

The sharks are finished and delivered. My customer was quite pleased, and so I am as well. I enjoyed this process. I will probably do more dye painting in the future.

It was a good learning experience to work with the thickening paste and the dyes, then to hoop it and work with the threads in the machine.

Now to focus on finishing other projects before Christmas. I do realize I'm running out of time, so I must get on with it.

Does the Universe Breathe?

2008-12-08T10:43:00.005-06:00

Watching the weather in Iowa is somewhat of a pasttime, but it's also necessary. Here in the heart of the US, we get weather extremes. It's also important for agriculture to know what's coming. Today, we're waiting for freezing rain and then snow, which is to begin this evening probably right around rush hour. We already have about four inches of snow left from the last one a week or so ago. Looks like this winter is going to be a bit like last year, where we had so much snow our driveway got narrower and narrower and the sides got higher and higher. In the heart of Iowa, winters aren't always the same. As a child I remember ice storms and skating down the middle of the streets. Then lots of snow. Then a period of relatively mild winters, some even warm days of 50 degrees (F) or more.

It's the sun spots, according to some scientists. When there is a great deal of solar activity, the earth gets warmer. The solar activity has been a great deal less this past year, according to these scientists, thus making winters more harsh. So what about global warming being caused by human pollution? I believe we have a hand in it, but I'm also coming to believe the universe has its seasons as well. Perhaps it's a little like breathing. On the inhale, fewer solar bursts. We may just want to watch out for the next exhale.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T10:47:00.003-06:00

Today I'm preparing to host Thanksgiving dinner. As I bake pies, make cranberry sauce, and generally organize how things will run in the kitchen tomorrow, I am also thinking about all the things for which I am so thankful.

Tomorrow I will feed others, while giving thanks for all the ways they "feed" me. It's the least I can do.

A wonderful day to stop, take note, and give thanks for the wonders of this life and the gifts we have in each other.

First Snow

2008-11-22T16:46:00.003-06:00

It snowed today and left some on the ground. Not much, just a trace. The flakes were big and wet, and beautiful. I'm really not ready for winter yet, but I just couldn't help enjoying nature's beauty. The little unexpected surprises that come our way, especially on a day where we really didn't need to leave the house.

It's not yet 5:00 pm and the light is mostly gone. The darkness grows longer and the temperatures colder. Nature settles in to rest, and wait for spring.

Progress with Dye Painting

2008-11-16T16:38:00.007-06:00

I'm making progress on this piece of the coleus leaves. If you scroll back a few posts, you'll see this piece in process. I have finished the thread painting and have added some borders, a little fabric paint (not dye) to the background to enhance it some and am considering whether I want to put any quilting in the border or not. At this point I'm leaning toward not doing any.

I was asked if I had cut the leaves out and appliqued them onto another background because they come over the borders. The answer to that question is yes and no. I slit the fabric around the bottom of the leaves, put some fusible on the back of the tips and after I had sewn the borders and squared everything, I fused the tips down and stitched around the raw edges. The rest of the background is the same fabric as the leaves.

This is the dye painting of the first shark. I have been commissioned to do two fabric paintings of great white sharks for someone. They will be painted with dye, then with thread, then stretched on stretchers like a regular painting. I was practicing with the coleus leaves because I'd never painted with dye before. I think it's really fun. We'll see how well the sharks turn out.

Questions about the process are welcome. I feel as if I'm learning so much just by doing them.

Acceptance and Rejection for Shows

2008-11-11T13:42:00.006-06:00

My collage, Wings II, has been accepted to a show in my city, called Greater Des Moines Exhibited 15. This is not a fiber or quilt show, so I'm feeling pretty excited. I really didn't know what to expect, as this is the first time I've ever tried entering. I thought it might have a chance as this is a framed piece and not "quilty". I love quilty, but fine arts shows apparently, don't.

It will be fun to see the variety of art and meet other local artists who work in other mediums.

My work called Mother of Us All, however, has been rejected from a show in Pidgeon Ford because of its content. I had been invited to be part of the Special Exhibit of Sacred Threads at the Mountain Quilt Festival in March of 2009. I received a very nice email yesterday saying they were unable to accept this quilt because Pigeon Ford is a very conservative and family friendly town and they weren't sure how it would be received. I really do understand their concerns. It's also a little exciting to think my work is really that controversial.

More Painting with Dye

2008-11-11T13:28:00.004-06:00

I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the International Quilt Festival in Houston a couple of weeks ago. I took a class from Hollis Chatelain on painting with dyes. The only thing I was doing differently was that I was mixing my dye with water first, then adding it to the print paste solution. I learned I can simply add the dye powder to the print paste and mix well. Works beautifully. The print paste solution should be about the consistency of maple syrup. It's nice because it keeps for awhile so I don't need to keep mixing it every time. The dye's in the print paste will keep for a few days as well as long as there's no soda ash in them. I dip my fabric in the soda ash solution, hang it up to dry and press with a cool iron. Then I can draw my image on the fabric lightly and begin to paint.

Back to the studio!

Fall Has Fallen

2008-11-08T10:18:00.004-06:00

Fall has fallen and winter's here! We went from 75 degrees on Tuesday to 39 degrees on Friday with lots of wind and rain and yes, snow! It's difficult to get my blood thickened when it changes so rapidly! But I do like winter. It's time to "hibernate" and find time to sew, cook warming foods, and enjoy the surprises of the weather. Might as well enjoy those surprises, because they're going to happen anyway.

It does seem like it was only yesterday that I was chipping ice from the bottom of the driveway, for weeks on end. Where did summer go?

Painting With Dye

2008-11-04T15:15:00.005-06:00

I've been experimenting with painting with dye on fabric. This is a piece that is in process. I had a beautiful coleus plant this summer and decided to play with images of the leaves.

I mixed my print paste solution and then my dye. It was a little too runny, but it wasn't bleeding on the fabric, so I continued. When I had painted three leaves, I let it "cure" for 24 hours and then rinsed out the extra dye and washed in synthrapol. I was surprised that so much of the color had disappeared. I did go back in and paint more and it seemed to hold more of the dye.

The leaf that is in the embroidery hoop has been stitched with free motion on my machine. I intend to add more thread to create more depth and pattern on it. It's rather fun. We'll see how this finishes. I want to try painting some great white sharks with this technique for a commission I have so I hope it comes out the way I want.

Waiting for Harvest

2008-11-04T14:44:00.003-06:00

Stalks of corn drying in the field are mostly broken, and the ears bend toward the earth rather than look toward the sky. They stand, waiting for harvest. The end of the growing cycle in the midwest. Autumn has arrived with the expectation of winter to come.

For me, Autumn is a time to reflect on the growth that has occurred during the spring and summer. Not just in my garden, but in my studio as well. How did I grow and change as an artist? What new ideas grew to maturity by my hands? What seeds might have been planted through the harvest of this year's crop that fell to the ground and will live under the snow until Spring? What ideas have yet to be brought to maturity through the cold and dark of Winter to emerge in the Spring with new growth? This time of gathering and storing is only fuel for the fire. I can't wait to see what the next season brings.

Creation!

2008-09-17T09:12:00.006-05:00

This is one of my new pieces, called A Star is Born. I am fascinated with the infinite idea of space and stars and the constant creation of new stars, as well as the death of old ones. From the Hubbell telescope have come the most beautiful and awe-inspiring photos. It's from those that I have taken my inspiration for this piece.

"Skip" is my latest and has taken the longest to do. I have never done this type of applique before. I made this for my husband, who is the subject of the photo. As a boy and teen, he would cowboy on a ranch in Wyoming every summer. I think he's about 15 here. I painted some of the background, but most of it is applique' and the entire figure and truck are applique'. It was a great deal of fun, and I may try some other things with this method.

What is this Compulsion to Create Art?

2008-08-15T08:53:00.005-05:00

I've often wondered what it is that compels some of us to create art. I know I share this feeling of the need to make art with other artists because I've discussed it with some of them. Some artists have written entire books about it, and I've read them.

It isn't just a desire. I find myself irritable and anxious when I go too long without sketching, stitching or painting. Sometimes just being in nature satisfies my need for creation, but eventually I need to put into visual form what so desperately wants to come out.

Sometimes its just to share what my mind's eye sees when it looks at nature. Sometimes it's a message that needs to be voiced, and sometimes it's simply a place to play and experiment with raw materials. But it is a need, a compulsion if you will, that calms an unexplained restlessness.

Do athletes feel a compulsion to run, or swim or throw? Is it the same with other fields of endeavor?

I'd love to hear from anyone on this.

Eddy

2008-08-11T10:55:00.003-05:00

I am so impressed with Apple. After spending approximately three weeks dealing with on again, off again problems, they just gave me a new computer! Brand new, out of the box. Took my old one back. "Old" because I only got it in December. Had no problems until just recently. I knew there was another reason I worked on a mac. So I am now able to upload photos and post to my blog again!

The photo is of a small piece titled, "Eddy". I began experimenting by stitching on paper. It's a rather heavy, rag paper with lots of plant matter still in it. It took stitch well, so I thought I'd add paint. Took that well, too. Then I stitched it to fabric and added a little more paint. Now I think I'll mat and frame it.

As The Crow Flies

2008-08-04T15:35:00.006-05:00

Here it is! I finally am able to post a photo. I hope it's not a fluke. After two weeks of fighting with this stuff, it just worked. Now I'm thinking it wasn't my computer at all! Sigh. Well, here's the finished piece. I decided not to put a border on it and faced it instead. The gray around it is what I put behind it to photograph it. I'll probably put it on a black background for more formal photos.

Currently, I'm working on a pictorial quilt that is taken from a photo of my husband when he was a teenager and spending the summer as a cowboy on a ranch in Wyoming. I'll post some photos of it in progress as soon as there's something more visual to photograph. I'm also learning (experimenting) with discharge and thickening paste with dyes as I have two commission pieces to do that require my painting them before I stitch them.

Computer problems solved?

2008-08-03T15:00:00.002-05:00

I have now rebuilt my computer twice. After doing an erase and install, I apparently re-imported the problem I was having when I imported my data. So, I erased the hard drive again and have been reinstalling all my programs. It appears to be working now. I still have to bring back most of my data, and I'll hope I don't bring the problem back with me again!

I'll post the photo of the work I have been trying to post, once I import it back onto my computer. Hours and hours of time. Sigh, life was simpler before this technology, and now we can't live without it, I guess. Oh well, back to work!

2008-07-28T17:21:00.002-05:00

I'm having problems uploading photos to my blog. I've been on the phone with tech support for my computer a couple of times, but still don't know what the problem is. I like blogs with PICTURES!

Still, I've been working on sketches and drawings and thoughts about fabric and quilts. Sometimes I there's so much in my head, I can't get it down on paper fast enough. Then, the issue is trying to get it into fabric! Sometimes that's a problem. I don't always know how to translate what I see in my head to fabric. For some pieces takes years before I can create a piece, because I don't know the technique yet. I keep playing, however, and one day it happens. So off I go to my studio to sketch, draw, and touch fabric.

I'll continue to work on the photo problem as well.

Summer Thoughts

2008-07-14T15:25:00.003-05:00

In Iowa, this has been a difficult summer. Too much rain and violent weather. The largest natural disaster ever experienced by the state. Several towns and cities were devastated by flood waters. 4000 people in Cedar Rapids alone, suffered moderate to severe damage to their homes. FEMA is in the process of moving in about 2000 trailer homes for "temporary shelter" for those who's homes were destroyed. The University of Iowa in Iowa City with more than $275,000,000 worth of damage at last tally and they're not finished yet. The entire town of Oakville is trying to decide whether to try to rebuild or move the town. Some will leave and try to start over elsewhere. The cleanup has just begun. Iowans are a strong and resilient people. When knocked down, we get back up and begin again. This time it's just going to take a little longer to put the pieces back together, and with a few more tears.

If anyone wants to help, they can donote to the National Red Cross Disaster Relief. They're here with many temporary shelters set up around the State, even though they ran out of money weeks ago. Click on the link http://american.redcross.org/site/PageServer?pagename=ntld_main

Rewards of Summer

2008-07-01T11:45:00.004-05:00

In amongst the weeds that seem to make up my gardens, are the rewards for hanging in there through the winter. The Cuckoo-pint has bloomed. It's white flowers giving way to the green berries (very poisonous) which will become red later in the summer.

The daylilies are blooming with their golden heads and deep green foliage. I'm intrigued with the berries of the Cuckoo-pint and fascinated by the rich yellow of the petals of the lilies. There are other wonders in my garden as well, that brighten the landscape with pure color.

And even better, the hummingbirds are back! My favorite little friends that come to visit the feeders placed around the yard and deck. So much energy. So much excitement.

AsThe Crow Flies

2008-06-26T10:44:00.004-05:00

An old saying, as the crow flies. Implies a shorter distance from someplace to someplace, up and over. To take the road might mean a longer journey, but as human beings without wings, a necessary one. Besides, there's so much more to be seen and experienced when the road is taken. Isn't the journey the best part anyway?

My guild had a challenge in which we were to use two squares of fabric given to us along with a "named" traditional block. The block I was to use was "flying geese". I was given a piece of green and a piece of white. The only rule was to use the fabric on the front of the piece. It didn't have to be a large piece, but it had to be used. The dimensions couldn't be any larger than 20" on any side. Here is my unquilted and unbound top in answer to this challenge.

I pieced the curved seams from the top. I've combined techniques from folks like Laura Cater-Woods and Vikki Pignatelli and added a twist of my own, I believe. We learn things from others, and then at some point, we no longer look at our notes, and our samples from classes, but instead just do what seems to work for ourselves.

Now to finish this piece with stitch and binding.

Where Does the Time Go?

2008-06-20T13:56:00.002-05:00

Wow, it's late June already! The focus has been on weather - so much water. Mostly in the Eastern part of the state, but some here. The flooding is devastating. Damage as bad as Hurricane Katrina - only here there's no name for the storm. Or better yet, the many severe storms that dumped anywhere from 2" to 10" at a time.

I've not been in my studio for several weeks now. I'm really anxious to get back there, but other needs have superseded my creative ones. For me, mostly family needs. We were spared from the flood waters. I think I will be able to get back to work in another week.

In the meantime, I continue to look for ways to help those who've lost everything in whatever small way I can.

Small Works

2008-05-01T15:54:00.011-05:00

Spring is finally here. The daffodils are in bloom and so are the grape hyacinth. Butterflies are about and the weeds are growing rapidly! Lots of raking and pulling yet to do. Feels so good to have my hands in the earth. The cycle of life begins anew.

Birds are active and singing in the early morning hours. Calling out to one another in their spring mating dance. All but the cardinals, who have partners for life. I think there might be a few others that do, but I can't recall them right now. The winter birds have gone and most of the summer birds have arrived. Soon the Orioles and humming birds will be here. They're my favorites. The birds let me know when the seasons change much more than the weather. They seem to know just when to show up and when to leave.

I've been focusing on doing small works right now. I've begun a series of birds in a 4x6 size format. I've included the first two here, a cardinal and a chickadee. Watch my blog for more. The goldfinch is currently on the drawing board.

Is Spring Finally Here?

2008-04-03T10:16:00.002-05:00

The snow has finally left the ground. The mounds of ice have melted and today we have rain. The daffodils are peeking through the mulch that has yet to be raked. Buds are on the trees and bushes. Winter birds are leaving or have left, and the summer crew is arriving. I don't expect any humming birds for another month yet, though. They seem to wait until there's enough foliage on the trees for camouflage. They are my favorite, so I am anxiously awaiting their arrival.

My quilt, African Dreams went for a respectable sum for the fund raiser. I am pleased with the outcome.

The show that was up for the past six weeks, has come down, and my art work is now back home. It seems some things have drawn to a close, and new things are not yet completed. I am working on several pieces, but they are not in any state to photograph yet.

Perhaps in the next week or so.

New Work!

2008-03-01T14:48:00.004-06:00

Here is a new one, just completed! It's called African Dreams.

This quilt will be donated for a fundraiser for an organization that assists our refugee population.

Our city, Des Moines, IA, has been bringing people here since the Vietnam war ended. Our refugee resettlement began with those who left Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, and has continued through today resettling people from Bosnia, the Sudan and several other African countries. It's a wonderful mix of people and makes for an exceptionally nice experience in the summer at our downtown farmer's market where people sell all kinds of things, not just produce. The only rule, is that it has to be made or grown in Iowa!

Inspiration

2008-02-28T11:46:00.003-06:00

Where does inspiration come from? For each person it's different, but I would venture to guess there isn't a person who's truly alive that isn't moved at some level by the natural beauty of the landscape at times. Especially if they're in a place other than their usual surrounds. I think we tend to take what we see on a daily basis, for granted, or lose sight of the beauty close at hand.

This is/has been a long winter for those of us in the Northern Midwest and Northeastern US. It's been cold and snowy. More so than the last few years. After awhile it's difficult to see the beauty in yet again, more snow. But as I type this, that's exactly what I see outside my window. More snow. It's light today, not the heavy wet snow we've had the last couple of snows. It's not supposed to amount to much. Even so, another inch on the ice already on the walk and driveway isn't a pleasant thought. It makes spring seem so much further away.

The good news is, warmer weather will eventually come, and the ice will transform and become water. Water that flows down the streets and into the fields. Water that soaks into the ground with necessary moisture to feed the flowers and plants that will shoot through the last bits of snow and ice with the hope of more to come. Living in the Midwest offers a literal vision of the cycles of life: birth, death and rebirth, in the transformation of the landscape from one season to the next.

It's still pretty, the snow and frozen landscape. It's nature, doing what it does. Offering the hope of transformation. I find that very inspiring.

Art Show Hung

2008-02-20T08:03:00.008-06:00

My daughter, a jeweler, and I hung a show yesterday at Scottish Rite Park, a retirement center in the heart of the city. I've uploaded some photos of how it looks. It's the first time I've seen many of my works all in one place on the walls. I included some drawings and paintings here. It wasn't until I had it hung and looked around that I could see my cross over from pastel and paint only, to fiber and paint. It was very interesting to see my "themes" as well. See what you think.

I seem to work on black often. I like the way color seems to pop on it.

Beaches and glaciers - water and ice.

Some of my daughter's work. Wish I had gotten some close ups. I might need to go back and take some.

Prismacolor and collage.

More Art Work

2008-02-18T16:11:00.006-06:00

I'm working on some new pieces, but these are finished, so thought I'd post some photos of them. (While images of ice and water continue to float in my head.)

This one is called "In The Beginning". It is pieced and applique'd, painted and beaded. The detail shot is below this one. It's 34" x 39".

I guess I've been in the mood for hand work, as the next one is heavily beaded. It's called "Jeweled Garden". Both full and detail shots are below. This is a small one. It's only 11" x 9".

Courage and Imagination

2008-02-15T13:06:00.005-06:00

I took this photo of the female Ruby Throated Hummingbird last fall. It was late in the season and it was cold. She had come to the feeder to start her morning and it just proved too much. She had to shut down, go into torpor to preserve her energy. I have become accustomed to seeing hummingbirds in torpor over the past many years. We've fed them every year for about 10 years now. I've seen them hang upside down on the feeders, eventually fall off and land on the ground. It makes them extremely vulnerable to predators. They are literally helpless. They also look very lifeless. To hold a hummingbird in your hands until they warm up is a wonder. They weigh nothing and then the wings begin to move and their eyes open and they are ready to go!

I am so much in awe of these small creatures. They swoop and chatter and dive at one another to "own" a feeder. One bird book describes them as "fearless and pugnacious". They must be. I wish I could allow myself to be as vulnerable as a hummingbird. Fearless, trusting enough in my own abilities to allow my imagination to soar.

Sometimes creativity comes in waves in small, rhythmic movements toward land from a vastness of ocean depths, and other times it comes crashing in on top of the rocks with a loud roar. The first is easy to become lulled into peaceful complacency. Rather like listening to the hum of the wings of my Ruby Throated friends when they come to the feeder one at a time. This is nice, but it's the wild crashing into and on top of, that's impossible to ignore. I need to be able to make enough noise to "own" my own feeder. There is no creativity without imagination. Imagination can have no reigns. It needs to be able to move into the unknown.

More on Ice

2008-02-11T12:25:00.000-06:00

No sun to play off the snow today, and the clouds portend more snow.

I've been reading a book called The Hidden Messages in Water by Masaru Emoto. He developed a way to photograph ice crystals as they form. He photographed them in different situations, such as with negative words and positive words. With the positive words, the crystals are beautifully formed, but with the negative ones, sometimes they are deformed and sometimes they don't form crystals at all. Love and gratitude form the most beautiful crystals.

This makes me wonder what effect anger and negativity have on the human body as we are 90% water when we are born and 70% water by the time we are adults.

It seems ice has much to tell us.

Colors of Snow

2008-02-08T10:12:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, I said I liked the snow, but was ready for some color outside. Today the sun is shining on all the snow. As I look out my window, the shadows that stretch across the landscape appear gray/blue. There are different nuances to the whites, subtle differences in the way the light reflects and bounces off the surface. Mostly blues, but occasionally a slightly pink caste can be seen. The wonder and beauty is that it will shift and change as the day goes on and the sun moves from east to west. Shadows will deepen, colors will shift. Cameras don't always capture the tiny nuances of subtle change, but imagination can.

Today, I will watch the light on the snow and let my imagination go, as I finish other works that have deadlines attached, and finish the paper work. This evening will be time for sketching what I imagined today.

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." - Romans 12:2

February 7, 2008

2008-02-07T23:37:00.000-06:00

It's been a very snowy winter so far. Just has a foot of snow yesterday. I don't care, I really like the stuff. I think it's pretty. That doesn't mean I'm not about ready for spring to enter. I'm ready to have some color outside again.

I've been working on a number of things. See if I can upload the photo of the one I just finished. It's called "Ice" until I can come up with a better title. I've been to Alaska six times. I've fallen in love with the landscape, icescape, lighting, wildlife, you name it. This was inspired by the glaciers. I think there are many more icy pieces to come.

Snow!

2007-01-21T09:44:00.000-06:00

What a beautiful morning! It has been snowing since about 8:00 last night and it's almost 10:00 am on Sunday morning. It's still coming down. It's so beautiful. We already had about 4" on the ground from last weekend and it looks like another 4 or 5" on top so far.

It's going to be a very quiet day. I wish I didn't have to go to work this afternoon and could just stay home in my warm and comfy house and sew. Oh well. All for now.

Wow, this was Easy

2007-01-19T16:33:00.000-06:00

Who would have thought creating a blog would be this easy? I think the most difficult part was choosing the template I wanted to use!

I'm so excited because my picture appeared in the newspaper in front of my art quilt in an article about the show I'm in at the Ankeny Art Center. I'm part of a group of textile artists here in Iowa and this is our first gallery show! The artist's reception was last night and we had a pretty good turn out. I am very pleased.

I haven't been "quilting" that long. Only since 2000. So to be included in a show at this point in my fabric medium is really exciting.

As soon as I figure out how to post photos, I will.